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Wed, 09 July 2014
Bokaro: 10-yr-old girl raped on panchayat chief's directive
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23:16 Bokaro: 10-yr-old girl raped on panchayat chief's directive
A ten-year-old girl was allegedly raped by her neighbour on the diktat of a Panchayat chief in Bokaro district, the police today said.
The 25-year-old rape accused allegedly dragged the girl to a nearby bush and raped her on the directive of Bhopal Pasi, the Panchayat chief of Swang Gulgulia Dhoura village in Bokaro district's Gomia police station area, at a panchayat meeting on Tuesday evening.
Both the rape accused and Bhopal were arrested today on the basis of the girl's statement, Bokaro SP Jitendra Kumar Singh said.
The police also arrested the victim's brother after the accused's wife lodged a counter-complaint accusing him of molesting and assaulting her.
The police said that the rape accused had allegedly entered the victim's house in an inebriated state on Monday night and tried to molest her mother. But, her father beat him up and drove him out of the house, police said.
The next morning the accused went to the panchayat and complained to Bhopal of being assaulted by the father, they said, adding that a meeting of the panchayat was convened.
In the meeting, where both the families were present, Bhopal allegedly directed the accused to rape the 10-year-old girl to avenge his assault, police said.
20:40 Prithviraj Chavan discusses poll strategy with Sonia
Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan met with Congress president Sonia Gandhi. Sources say the CM discussed strategy ahead of the upcoming state elections.
20:09 Edward Snowden asks Russia to extend asylum
Former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden has applied to extend his stay in Russia. Anatoly Kucherena, a lawyer for Snowden, said that he has applied to the country's migration authorities because his one-year permit is expiring at the end of this month.
19:52 Greenpeace India received Rs 22 cr foreign funds in 3 years
Greenpeace India, which has been in the eye of a storm after an Intelligence Bureau report against it, has received Rs 22.26 crore from abroad as donations in last three years.
The IB report had suggested that the NGO was one of the voluntary groups working for stalling development projects with agitations.
"Inputs have been received against Greenpeace India Society, Chennai. As per available records, Greenpeace India Society received Rs 5.52 crore, Rs 6.74 crore and Rs 10 crore during 2010-11, 2011-12, 2012-13 respectively," Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju told Rajya Sabha.
Rijiju said adverse reports were received from intelligence agencies against NGOs such as Tuticorin Diocesan Association, East Coast Research and Development Trust, Thoothukudi, Centre for Promotion and Social Concern, Madurai and Greenpeace India Society, Chennai.
"Based on inspections/ investigations, the registration of Tuticorin Diocesan Association and Centre for Promotion and Social Concern under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) were suspended and their bank accounts frozen," he said, adding FCRA registration of East Coast Research and Development Trust was cancelled.
19:21 No hint from Centre to quit: Sheila Dikshit
Kerala Governor Sheila Dikshit today denied receiving any hint from the Centre to quit and said she was not aware of any move to transfer her out of Thiruvananthapuram Rajbhavan.
"No", she said here when asked whether she was sounded by anyone in the Central government to put in papers after the NDA government assumed power last month.
Dikshit, a former Chief Minister of Delhi, today met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Rajnath Singh and described them as "courtesy call" and "good meetings".
Asked whether she was aware of any move by the Centre to transfer her from Kerala to a state in Northeast, Dikshit said she did not know what would happen in future.
"I do not know what will happen in next 10 days or 10 months," she told reporters after meeting the Home Minister.
18:47
Syed Akbaruddin @MEAIndia: Return continues! Special Iraqi Airways flight departing tonight from Najaf will bring back 202 Indians to Delhi early tomorrow.
18:46
President of India @RashtrapatiBhvn: Listen to speeches of Gandhiji, Nehruji, Mountbatten, Rajaji, and former Presidents. Listen in.
18:30 KBC ad makes a powerful point about racism in India
This ad, a part of KBC's broader push for inclusivity in its upcoming season, incisively comments on the racism and alienation dealt to residents of India's North Eastern states (including Nagaland of which Kohima is the capital). In particular, North East Indians are often labelled Chinese or Nepali and not considered "real Indians." Read
18:26 'Banks can't insist on minimum 60% marks to extend educational loans'
Banks cannot fix 60% of marks as minimum required percentage for extending education loan to students, Madras high court has ruled. Read
18:16
President of India @RashtrapatiBhvn Finance Minister, MOS and officers will, as customary, brief #President on main features of #Budget tomorrow 0915 hours.
Here's what else is on Arun Jaitley's plate tomorrow ahead of the budget presentation. Read
Here's what else is on Arun Jaitley's plate tomorrow ahead of the budget presentation. Read
18:14
Syed Akbaruddin '@MEAIndia India sends consular official to Arusha from Dar-es-Salam to assist nationals injured in bomb blast incident.
18:09 LIVE! Rahul's eyes were shut, doesn't mean he was sleeping: NCP
Congress, allies spring to Rahul Gandhi's support. Congress spokesperson Rajiv Shukla says, "This is low level journalism, these are not issues for debates.
NCP senior leader Praful Patel said just because someone has closed his eyes, doesn't mean he his sleeping.
NCP senior leader Praful Patel said just because someone has closed his eyes, doesn't mean he his sleeping.
18:06
On Rahul sleeping in Parliament...
Congress: Rahulji is innocent.
BJP : No he is sleeping. Innocent is sitting behind Rahul.
Congress: Rahulji is innocent.
BJP : No he is sleeping. Innocent is sitting behind Rahul.
18:03 Concern in RS over deficient monsoon
Here's what happened in the Rajya Sabha before it was adjourned. Expressing concern over the possibility of deficient monsoon, members of various political parties in Rajya Sabha today urged the government to take appropriate steps to ensure that people, especially farmers do not suffer.
During a short duration discussion on deficient rainfall, Congress member and former Union Minister Jairam Ramesh said the all-India figures till July 7 showed that monsoon has been deficient by nearly 42 per cent this year.
He said if rainfall did not improve, the situation would become very serious. A similar situation prevailed in 2012, when an EGoM was constituted by the UPA government then.
During a short duration discussion on deficient rainfall, Congress member and former Union Minister Jairam Ramesh said the all-India figures till July 7 showed that monsoon has been deficient by nearly 42 per cent this year.
He said if rainfall did not improve, the situation would become very serious. A similar situation prevailed in 2012, when an EGoM was constituted by the UPA government then.
17:44 How the world reacted to Brazil v Germany
'World Cup massacre ' 'historic humiliation': Front-page reaction around the world to Brazil v Germany. See
17:41
Kerala governor Sheila Dikshit with home minister Rajnath Singh.
17:40
Congress senior leader Digvijaya Singh who has been on mute ever since the party's poll debacle, has this to say today: Desh mein do hi logon ke acche din aaye hain, Modi ji aur Amit Shah ji ke.
17:34
MEA spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin tweets some good news: 4 more Indian nurses from strife torn areas of Iraq on way home.
17:30
Amitabh Bachchan is in Brazil. @SrBachchan tweeted: Most people I spoke to in Brazil wish for Germany v Holland final. Then for 3rd place Brazil v Argentina ..they would love that !!
17:28
"It was just a courtesy call," Kerala Governor Sheila Dikshit says after meeting the PM and the HM.
17:20 Rahul Gandhi caught sleeping in Parliament today
This couldn't come at a worse time for the Congress. Amid continued questioning of Rahul Gandhi's ability to handle elections by several party leaders, the Congress vice president was today found sleeping soundly in Parliament, oblivious to speeches or camera lights shining on him.
A picture of him with his head bowing on right while his eyes were seemingly shut has gone viral on social media.
Taking a potshot at Rahul Gandhi, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain tweeted:Rahul Gandhi was seen sleeping in Parliament during a debate on price rise. That's what the Congress was doing during their 10 yr rule.
Shahnawaz Hussain (@ShahnawazBJP) .
Read more
The picture was tweeted by Shiv Aroor of Headlines Today.
A picture of him with his head bowing on right while his eyes were seemingly shut has gone viral on social media.
Taking a potshot at Rahul Gandhi, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain tweeted:Rahul Gandhi was seen sleeping in Parliament during a debate on price rise. That's what the Congress was doing during their 10 yr rule.
Shahnawaz Hussain (@ShahnawazBJP) .
Read more
The picture was tweeted by Shiv Aroor of Headlines Today.
17:13
Kerala Governor Sheila Dixit called on PM Narendra Modi today. If only we could read their thoughts!
She also met the home minister today.
She also met the home minister today.
17:10 Psst! Economy did well under UPA, blogs Maken
While the NDA basks in the good reports it has received on the rail budget, Congress leader Ajay Maken points out in his blog, that the economy did well under the UPA. Read
Also read this story on Rediff.com: Growth in the time of UPA: Myths and Reality
Also read this story on Rediff.com: Growth in the time of UPA: Myths and Reality
17:06 Brazilians begged World Cup jinx Mick Jagger not to support team
Mick Jagger's Brazilian ex-lover has told her country to stop 'cyber-bullying' him after he was branded a national curse for backing Brazil in the World Cup.
The Rolling Stones singer, 70, was spotted in a VIP box at the Mineirao stadium last night as the host nation was trounced 7-1 by Germany in one of the worst defeats of the tournament's history.
His support came to the dismay of fans who had already nicknamed Jagger 'pe frio' - the jinx - for lending his backing to a string of doomed sides earlier in the tournament. Read more
The Rolling Stones singer, 70, was spotted in a VIP box at the Mineirao stadium last night as the host nation was trounced 7-1 by Germany in one of the worst defeats of the tournament's history.
His support came to the dismay of fans who had already nicknamed Jagger 'pe frio' - the jinx - for lending his backing to a string of doomed sides earlier in the tournament. Read more
17:03 Analysts welcome rail budget, but frown at missing details
Rating agencies and analysts today welcomed Railway Minister Sadananda Gowda's maiden budget for not being populist, but raised some reservations on implementation and lack of clarity on funding side.
"While the Railway Budget talks about trying to be the largest freight carrier globally and identifies alternative funding requirements to achieve this target, it does not state a clear strategy to meet these requirements," India Ratings said in a note today. It is a budget "high on promises but low on design," the agency said.
It acknowledged that Gowda has presented alternative ways of financing like public private partnerships and allowing foreign direct investment in almost all the sectors of the railways, barring direct operations. Analysts at the brokerage firm Bank of America Merill Lynch said implementation holds the key to the promises made during the budget. Its peer, Nomura welcomed the budget, calling it "sensible" which "steered clear of unnecessary populism."
"While the Railway Budget talks about trying to be the largest freight carrier globally and identifies alternative funding requirements to achieve this target, it does not state a clear strategy to meet these requirements," India Ratings said in a note today. It is a budget "high on promises but low on design," the agency said.
It acknowledged that Gowda has presented alternative ways of financing like public private partnerships and allowing foreign direct investment in almost all the sectors of the railways, barring direct operations. Analysts at the brokerage firm Bank of America Merill Lynch said implementation holds the key to the promises made during the budget. Its peer, Nomura welcomed the budget, calling it "sensible" which "steered clear of unnecessary populism."
16:52 Amit Shah will strengthen BJP at national level: Raje
Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje today congratulated newly-appointed BJP President Amit Shah and exuded confidence that the party will be strengthened with him at the helm. Raje lauded the decision saying Shah displayed strong leadership qualities and carved his identity at the national level in a short span, especially by crafting BJP's unprecedented victory in Uttar Pradesh in Lok Sabha elections.
She said Shah has been elevated to the post of party president from a dedicated worker owing to his extraordinary leadership and organisational skills. The Rajasthan Chief Minister expressed hope that BJP would reach out to everyone in the country under his leadership.
She said Shah has been elevated to the post of party president from a dedicated worker owing to his extraordinary leadership and organisational skills. The Rajasthan Chief Minister expressed hope that BJP would reach out to everyone in the country under his leadership.
16:48
In which Ms Merkel rejoices
16:43 Why RK Singh will not be deputy chairman of NDMA
In other news: BJP MP and former Union Home Secretary RK Singh has been deprived of a pivotal position as the Deputy Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The deputy chairman gets the same status as a Union Cabinet Minister.
What has happened is that RK Singh is an MP and therefore the Office of Profit clause comes into play.
Much before Singh's name was considered, his "friends" alerted the BJP that he would be disqualified like Sonia Gandhi and Jaya Bachchan on the Office of profit clause. The government therefore is not keen on Singh.
Another piece of information is that commerce and industry minister Nirmala Sitharaman will join PM Narendra Modi attend the BRICS summit in Brazil. Modi leaves on July 13 for the summit.
For more updates follow Rediff News on Twitter
What has happened is that RK Singh is an MP and therefore the Office of Profit clause comes into play.
Much before Singh's name was considered, his "friends" alerted the BJP that he would be disqualified like Sonia Gandhi and Jaya Bachchan on the Office of profit clause. The government therefore is not keen on Singh.
Another piece of information is that commerce and industry minister Nirmala Sitharaman will join PM Narendra Modi attend the BRICS summit in Brazil. Modi leaves on July 13 for the summit.
For more updates follow Rediff News on Twitter
16:41 Economic Survey? What's that?
Finance minister Arun Jaitley tabled the Economic Survey today in Parliament. If it's all Latin and Greek to you, read this chapter, says economist Ajay Shah. Here you go.
16:33
Nalini has been in jail for the last 23 year and undergoing life imprisonment after her death sentence was commuted. She was sentenced to death penalty by the trial court in the case on January 28, 1998.
Nalini's death sentence was commuted to life term by the Tamil Nadu Governor on April 24, 2000.
"Though 2200 life convicts who had put in less than 10 years of imprisonment were prematurely released by the Tamil Nadu Government during the last about 15 years, she was excluded from consideration for premature release only on the ground that her offence was investigated by the CBI i.E. Her case was covered by Section 435(1)(a) CrPC. The said section is unconstitutional," the petition said.
A day after the apex court had commuted the death sentences of convicts Murugan, Santhan and Perarivalan, the Jayalalithaa government on February 19 had proposed to remit the sentences of all seven lifers, including the three, and release them.
The decision of the state government to release the convicts was challenged by the Centre before the Supreme Court which had stayed the decision and referred the matter to a Constitution bench.
Nalini's death sentence was commuted to life term by the Tamil Nadu Governor on April 24, 2000.
"Though 2200 life convicts who had put in less than 10 years of imprisonment were prematurely released by the Tamil Nadu Government during the last about 15 years, she was excluded from consideration for premature release only on the ground that her offence was investigated by the CBI i.E. Her case was covered by Section 435(1)(a) CrPC. The said section is unconstitutional," the petition said.
A day after the apex court had commuted the death sentences of convicts Murugan, Santhan and Perarivalan, the Jayalalithaa government on February 19 had proposed to remit the sentences of all seven lifers, including the three, and release them.
The decision of the state government to release the convicts was challenged by the Centre before the Supreme Court which had stayed the decision and referred the matter to a Constitution bench.
16:32 LIVE! SC stays release of Rajiv Gandhi assassins till July 22
Just in: The Supreme Court has issued notices to state governments staying the release of the convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination till July 22.
This comes in the wake of Nalini Sriharan, one of the convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, filing a plea with the apex court, seeking a verdict declaring Section 435(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code as "null and void'.
This provision makes it mandatory for the State Government to consult the Centre before pre-mature release of a convict if the case was investigated by the CBI.
Nalini has been sentenced to a life term in jail.
This comes in the wake of Nalini Sriharan, one of the convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, filing a plea with the apex court, seeking a verdict declaring Section 435(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code as "null and void'.
This provision makes it mandatory for the State Government to consult the Centre before pre-mature release of a convict if the case was investigated by the CBI.
Nalini has been sentenced to a life term in jail.
16:20 Wherever Amit bhai goes victory follows: Mumbai BJP
The Mumbai unit of the BJP today expressed confidence that the new BJP President Amit Shah, would be able to replicate the performance of the party in Maharashtra, as he did in Uttar Pradesh in the recent Lok Sabha elections.
50-year-old Shah had engineered a massive victory in Uttar Pradesh for BJP during the Lok sabha elections in May this year, where the party bagged 71 of the 80 parliamentary seats.
"The other name of Amit Shah is victory. Wherever Amit bhai goes, victory follows. We are confident that he will sweep Maharashtra in the upcoming assembly polls, the way he won states like UP and Gujarat during the Lok sabha elections. He is very well versed with the politics of Maharashtra as he himself was born in Mumbai," Ashish Shelar, President of Mumbai Unit of the BJP said.
50-year-old Shah had engineered a massive victory in Uttar Pradesh for BJP during the Lok sabha elections in May this year, where the party bagged 71 of the 80 parliamentary seats.
"The other name of Amit Shah is victory. Wherever Amit bhai goes, victory follows. We are confident that he will sweep Maharashtra in the upcoming assembly polls, the way he won states like UP and Gujarat during the Lok sabha elections. He is very well versed with the politics of Maharashtra as he himself was born in Mumbai," Ashish Shelar, President of Mumbai Unit of the BJP said.
16:19 Sensex falls ahead of Budget day
Sensex falls 137.30 points, or 0.54 per cent, to close at 25,444.81.
15:55 Amit Shah's appointment as BJP prez is sad day for democracy: AAP
Amit Shah's appointment as the new BJP President is a sad day for Indian democracy, says AAP. Amit Shah has serious criminal charges including murder, extortion n kidnapping and he is appointed as chief of a national political party, says the party.
Shah, who orchestrated the Bharatiya Janata Party's stellar performance in the Hindi heartland in the Lok Sabha elections, was on Wednesday named as the party's next president.
Shah's appointment as BJP president marks Gujarat's firm grip over the ruling dispensation after Narendra Modi's elevation as Prime Minister.
Shah, a close and controversial aide of Modi, was appointed to the top post in BJP at a meeting of Parliamentary Board where incumbent Rajnath Singh resigned after tenure of one-and-a-half years.
The former Minister of State for Home in Gujarat, who faces charges in the Sohrabuddin fake encounter case, is largely credited for BJP's stunning performance in UP where it got 71 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats.
Shah, who orchestrated the Bharatiya Janata Party's stellar performance in the Hindi heartland in the Lok Sabha elections, was on Wednesday named as the party's next president.
Shah's appointment as BJP president marks Gujarat's firm grip over the ruling dispensation after Narendra Modi's elevation as Prime Minister.
Shah, a close and controversial aide of Modi, was appointed to the top post in BJP at a meeting of Parliamentary Board where incumbent Rajnath Singh resigned after tenure of one-and-a-half years.
The former Minister of State for Home in Gujarat, who faces charges in the Sohrabuddin fake encounter case, is largely credited for BJP's stunning performance in UP where it got 71 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats.
15:41
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed Shipping Secretary Dr Viswapati Trivedi to brief Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on the Dugarajapatnam port. Dr Trivedi will hold a meeting with the Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh.
15:29 Shhhh, why is Sushma silent?
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has been busy focusing on foreign policy and of course the rescue and repatriation of Indians stuck in Iraq. But if you've noticed, the normally vocal Parliamentarian, has maintained a studied silence over all issues. Is the maun vrat self-imposed, we wonder?
For more updates follow Rediff News on Twitter
For more updates follow Rediff News on Twitter
15:17 Congress MPs want to read Rahul's mind
There's this one question that has been bothering Congress leaders -- why hasn't party vice-president Rahul Gandhi accepted blame for the party's terrible rout in the Lok Sabha polls? Senior Congress leaders says they feel disturbed at Rahul's continued silence and concerned about where the party is headed.
Congress leaders in the Central Hall of Parliament look unhappy and many MPs and say they are unable to read Rahul's mind. Some Rajya Sabha Congress MPs are now uncertain about their own future -- should they ditch the Congress and join other parties or get into business...
Congress leaders in the Central Hall of Parliament look unhappy and many MPs and say they are unable to read Rahul's mind. Some Rajya Sabha Congress MPs are now uncertain about their own future -- should they ditch the Congress and join other parties or get into business...
15:11 Venkaiah asks parties to maintain decorum in Parliament
Taking exception to the TMC disrupting the proceedings in the Lok Sabha over Rail budget, Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu today appealed to all political parties to maintain decency and decorum in the House.
"I appeal to all political parties to maintain decency and decorum in the House. You have the right to protest, but MPs should not deprive their fellow parliamentarians of the opportunity to express their views about their regions," Naidu told reporters outside Parliament House.
Terming "unfair" the attempt by TMC to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Rail Budget, he said that several railway projects are being executed in West Bengal.
"It is unfair to target the Prime Minister....There are many railway projects that are being executed in West Bengal," Naidu said underlining that the Government is ready to discuss issues including price rise.
"I appeal to all political parties to maintain decency and decorum in the House. You have the right to protest, but MPs should not deprive their fellow parliamentarians of the opportunity to express their views about their regions," Naidu told reporters outside Parliament House.
Terming "unfair" the attempt by TMC to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi over Rail Budget, he said that several railway projects are being executed in West Bengal.
"It is unfair to target the Prime Minister....There are many railway projects that are being executed in West Bengal," Naidu said underlining that the Government is ready to discuss issues including price rise.
15:03
Senior advocate Pinky Anand appointed Additional Solicitor General.
14:54
Just in: Kerala governor Sheila Dikshit to meet home minister Rajnath Singh at 3:30 pm today.
For more updates follow Rediff News on Twitter
For more updates follow Rediff News on Twitter
14:53 Remembering the other India
On the eve of the general budget tomorrow, here's a lovely picture from 26 November 1947, of Shanmukham Chetty, the first Finance Minister on his way to present the first Budget of independent India
14:46 Indian Navy puts stealth frigate through paces
The Indian Navy is showcasing the Shivalik (Project 17)-class guided-missile frigate INS Sahyadri in its debut at this year's US-hosted 'Rim of the Pacific' ('RIMPAC') maritime exercises. The vessel is participating in maritime drills, including live-firing exercises, alongside navies from 22 other nations in and around Hawaii from 26 June to 1 August. India previously took part as an observer at the exercises. Read
14:44 CM performs 'Ashadhi Ekadashi' puja; prays for good monsoon
Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan today prayed for a drought-free state and good monsoon this year while performing the traditional puja of 'Ashadhi Ekadashi' in Pandharpur.
"I sought peace and prosperity in the state. Similarly, I prayed for a good monsoon so that the state remains drought free," Chavan said after performing the puja of Lord Vitthal and Rukmini.
Chavan's wife Satvasheela also participated in the ritual which began early this morning. The Chief Minister said he got an opportunity to perform the rituals, as per the tradition which dates back to several years.
For more updates follow Rediff News on Twitter
"I sought peace and prosperity in the state. Similarly, I prayed for a good monsoon so that the state remains drought free," Chavan said after performing the puja of Lord Vitthal and Rukmini.
Chavan's wife Satvasheela also participated in the ritual which began early this morning. The Chief Minister said he got an opportunity to perform the rituals, as per the tradition which dates back to several years.
For more updates follow Rediff News on Twitter
14:24 National Herald case: Sonia calls income tax notice 'political vindictiveness'
Congress President Sonia Gandhi has called the Income Tax notice to her in the National Herald case 'political vindictiveness'. She said that the 'witch-hunt' will help the Congress come back to power.
"We have been issued notices by the Income Tax department, it's political vindictiveness. Such political witch-hunt will help us come back faster," Sonia said.
Sonia Gandhi and Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi have been summoned by a Delhi court on August 7 in the National Herald case.
A criminal complaint was lodged by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy for alleged cheating and misappropriation of funds in acquiring ownership of now-defunct daily National Herald.
Read more on the case
"We have been issued notices by the Income Tax department, it's political vindictiveness. Such political witch-hunt will help us come back faster," Sonia said.
Sonia Gandhi and Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi have been summoned by a Delhi court on August 7 in the National Herald case.
A criminal complaint was lodged by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy for alleged cheating and misappropriation of funds in acquiring ownership of now-defunct daily National Herald.
Read more on the case
14:17
The toll in Faizabad blast is two dead. A crude bomb exploded inside the court premises. Details awaited.
14:03 Blast at UP court, 1 dead, 3 injured
Just in: One dead, three hurt in blast followed by firing at the Faizabad court premises in UP. Clashes between police and lawyers also reported.
14:00 Modi aghast at repeated disruptions, unruly behaviour in Parliament
Narendra Modi, a first-time Parliamentarian, is a keen observer of behaviour of MPs and was disturbed to see newly-elected MPs across party lines troop into the well of the house and disrupt proceedings on the Day 1 of the budget session of Parliament.
Modi also took in the spectacle of Rahul Gandhi talking to RJD MP Pappu Yadav inside the Lok Sabha. BJP MPs are believed to have commented that if this is the kind of person Rahul Gandhi is courting, the party certainly needs help.
Modi also took in the spectacle of Rahul Gandhi talking to RJD MP Pappu Yadav inside the Lok Sabha. BJP MPs are believed to have commented that if this is the kind of person Rahul Gandhi is courting, the party certainly needs help.
13:39
Water resources minister Uma Bharti felicitates BJP president Amit Shah.
13:35 Remembering Sarojini Naidu
Despite the "cosmopolitan sympathies' of the poets, memorial events in the UK today are dominated by British writers. But there are many other literary voices from the battle for the trenches. One such, was Sarojini Naidu. Read
13:28 'My good wishes to Amit Shah'
Former BJP president and now home minister Rajnath Singh poses with the party's new president, Amit Shah. Singh said, "My good wishes to Amit Shah for his new innings. I'm confident that the BJP will continue moving forward in his stewardship."
13:19 Why do you keep Jaya's photos in your pockets, Modi asks AIADMK MPs
Our mole in Parliament tells us that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was curious when he spotted Tamil Nadu CM J Jayalalithaa's photographs peeping out of the pockets of 48 AIADMK MPs.
Modi was in the Central Hall of Parliament, on his way to the Rajya Sabha from the Lok Sabha. He asked an AIADMK MP about the pictures and it was Dr V Maitreyan, Leader of the Rajya Sabha, who stepped forward and answered Modi's question.
Maitreyan, who answered in Hindi, said the photograph was a token of the reverence and respect with which the MPs held their leader. They said it's their way of keeping 'Amma' close to their hearts.
The question is, will BJP MPs now take a page of this book of sycophancy and carry Modi's pictures? Wait and watch.
Modi was in the Central Hall of Parliament, on his way to the Rajya Sabha from the Lok Sabha. He asked an AIADMK MP about the pictures and it was Dr V Maitreyan, Leader of the Rajya Sabha, who stepped forward and answered Modi's question.
Maitreyan, who answered in Hindi, said the photograph was a token of the reverence and respect with which the MPs held their leader. They said it's their way of keeping 'Amma' close to their hearts.
The question is, will BJP MPs now take a page of this book of sycophancy and carry Modi's pictures? Wait and watch.
12:49 Rajnath: Amit Shah has skills required for strengthening BJP
Home minister Rajnath Singh on Amit Shah's elevation as the BJP president: "He (Amit shah) has all the capabilities and management skills required for the strengthening of organisation."
Pic: BJP workers celebrate Amit Shah's elevation as prez of the party
Pic: BJP workers celebrate Amit Shah's elevation as prez of the party
12:37 Giriraj Singh says Rs 1 crore cash in his house belongs to a cousin
So, this is Giriraj Singh's strategy to explain the Rs one crore cash stolen from his house and then recovered by the police. The senior BJP leader from Bihar said that the cash found at his home is not his.
"It belongs to a cousin. Giriraj Singh is clean, and will remain so," the politician said referring to himself in the third person.
Singh (51), courted controversy ahead of the Lok Sabha polls when he declared that critics of Narendra Modi, who was then the BJP's PM candidate, should move to Pakistan.
Singh's apartment in Patna was robbed this week and four men were arrested. The police said that they had handed over a crore along with 600 dollars in cash, expensive wrist-watches and jewelry, all of which they claimed had been taken from Singh's house.
In his election affidavit in May, Singh said he owns about Rs 2 lakh in cash.
"It belongs to a cousin. Giriraj Singh is clean, and will remain so," the politician said referring to himself in the third person.
Singh (51), courted controversy ahead of the Lok Sabha polls when he declared that critics of Narendra Modi, who was then the BJP's PM candidate, should move to Pakistan.
Singh's apartment in Patna was robbed this week and four men were arrested. The police said that they had handed over a crore along with 600 dollars in cash, expensive wrist-watches and jewelry, all of which they claimed had been taken from Singh's house.
In his election affidavit in May, Singh said he owns about Rs 2 lakh in cash.
12:29 Black buck case returns to haunt Salman Khan
The Supreme court today issued a notice to Bollywood actor Salman Khan on Rajasthan government's plea challenging a High Court decision which had stayed his conviction in a black buck hunting case.
A bench headed by Justice S J Mukhopadhaya asked Khan, who was sentenced to undergo five-year jail term by a trial court, to file his response within four weeks.
The state government approached the apex court against the order of Rajasthan High Court which had, on November 12 last year, stayed his 2006 conviction in the case and paved way for him to apply for a British visa.
Under British immigration rules, any person convicted for more than four years is not eligible for a visa. Since the actor was convicted for five years, he was denied visa by the UK Embassy. The passports of Indian convicts are stamped with the word "convict." Black buck is a protected animal and its hunting is a punishable offence.
A bench headed by Justice S J Mukhopadhaya asked Khan, who was sentenced to undergo five-year jail term by a trial court, to file his response within four weeks.
The state government approached the apex court against the order of Rajasthan High Court which had, on November 12 last year, stayed his 2006 conviction in the case and paved way for him to apply for a British visa.
Under British immigration rules, any person convicted for more than four years is not eligible for a visa. Since the actor was convicted for five years, he was denied visa by the UK Embassy. The passports of Indian convicts are stamped with the word "convict." Black buck is a protected animal and its hunting is a punishable offence.
12:20 It's official: Amit Shah is BJP president
Home minister Rajnath Singh officially announces Amit Shah as the BJP president. Shah, the BJP general secretary, is credited with delivering the crucial state of Uttar Pradesh for the party in the recent general elections.
12:17
Finance minister Arun Jaitley tables the Economic Survey in both houses of Parliament.
12:12
Finance minister Arun Jaitley tables the economic survey tabled in the Lok Sabha.
12:10 Interview with Gowda: 'Railway budget not biased, it's for the common man'
There have been mixed reactions to the maiden Budget presented by Railway Minister Sadananda Gowda on Tuesday.
While Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Budget, the Opposition went berserk attacking what it called the 'pro-rich' Budget.
However, Gowda says, his focus will be to improve and revive the railways.
"There is a misconception that the private sector will not get their returns if they invest in railways. We are doing everything to change that perception so that the railways benefit,' says Gowda in an interview to Rediff.com. Read
While Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Budget, the Opposition went berserk attacking what it called the 'pro-rich' Budget.
However, Gowda says, his focus will be to improve and revive the railways.
"There is a misconception that the private sector will not get their returns if they invest in railways. We are doing everything to change that perception so that the railways benefit,' says Gowda in an interview to Rediff.com. Read
12:02 Over 200 more Indians stranded in Iraq to reach home today, 7500 left
A batch of over 200 Indians will be reaching New Delhi today from the conflict-hit Iraq, taking the total number of compatriots who have come back to nearly 2,300.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, the group of more than 200 Indians will arrive from Najaf at the Indira Gandhi International Airport this afternoon.
Those coming back include 200 Indian workers of an Iraqi firm in Karbala who were initially believed to have been kidnapped.
The spokesperson said it was a case of labour dispute. The workers had decided not to stay in the company premises after which the Embassy officials stepped in and arranged their travel to Najaf.
"They are with the Embassy and we hope to bring them back tomorrow (Wednesday) along with some others", the spokesperson said.There were about 10,000 Indians before the start of the serious strife between government troops and Sunni militants backed by al Qaida in Iraq.
With MEA facilitating the departures, it is estimated that there are about 7500 Indians in the non-conflict zones left.
Hundreds of thousands of Iraqis have been displaced in the fighting that broke out on June 10.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, the group of more than 200 Indians will arrive from Najaf at the Indira Gandhi International Airport this afternoon.
Those coming back include 200 Indian workers of an Iraqi firm in Karbala who were initially believed to have been kidnapped.
The spokesperson said it was a case of labour dispute. The workers had decided not to stay in the company premises after which the Embassy officials stepped in and arranged their travel to Najaf.
"They are with the Embassy and we hope to bring them back tomorrow (Wednesday) along with some others", the spokesperson said.There were about 10,000 Indians before the start of the serious strife between government troops and Sunni militants backed by al Qaida in Iraq.
With MEA facilitating the departures, it is estimated that there are about 7500 Indians in the non-conflict zones left.
Hundreds of thousands of Iraqis have been displaced in the fighting that broke out on June 10.
11:57 FIR over uploading Goa minister's photo in pink swimsuit
An FIR
has been filed for uploading a morphed photo of public works department
minister Sudin Dhavalikar in a pink swimsuit which went viral on
Facebook last week.
"The FIR has been filed and the case has been transferred to the Cyber Cell," Police official CL Patil told IANS on Tuesday.
The FIR, accusing Facebook users of uploading and circulating the morphed photo, was registered on Pradeep Bakhale's complaint.
Dhavalikar had attracted controversy when he recently said: "Young girls wearing short skirts in nightclubs are a threat to the Goan culture. This habit of young girls wearing short dresses everywhere does not fit the Goan culture. We should not allow this. It should be stopped."
He also advised that women should stop drinking too "because it is not good for their health".
"The FIR has been filed and the case has been transferred to the Cyber Cell," Police official CL Patil told IANS on Tuesday.
The FIR, accusing Facebook users of uploading and circulating the morphed photo, was registered on Pradeep Bakhale's complaint.
Dhavalikar had attracted controversy when he recently said: "Young girls wearing short skirts in nightclubs are a threat to the Goan culture. This habit of young girls wearing short dresses everywhere does not fit the Goan culture. We should not allow this. It should be stopped."
He also advised that women should stop drinking too "because it is not good for their health".
11:51
Congress spokesperson Rashid Alvi says of the war of words between the BJP and the TMC in Parliament yesterday: "It is unfortunate, members of parliament should maintain the dignity of the house."
On the LoP issue, Alvi said, "If the govt wants to weaken the democracy, then it's another thing or else LoP should be recognized."
On the LoP issue, Alvi said, "If the govt wants to weaken the democracy, then it's another thing or else LoP should be recognized."
11:45 22-year-old woman gang-raped in moving car
A 22-year-old woman was allegedly kidnapped and raped by four men in a moving car in Ghaziabad, police said today.
"The woman was kidnapped by the four men on Monday night from Vasundhara Sector 16 in Ghaziabad, following which she was raped by them in a moving car. She was dumped near Noida Sector 62," Rashid Ali, Station House Officer (SHO), Indirapuram Police station said.
The accused fled from the spot, he said, adding that one of the accused, Akhil Tomar, was allegedly in a relationship with the victim.
A complaint was lodged at Noida Sector 58 police station, the SHO said, adding that investigations are on.
The woman had lodged a case of rape against one of the accused, Sunil Tomar and his friends at the Sahibabad police station on May 7, the SHO said.
The woman had also lodged a case of eve-teasing against Akhil Tomar at the Kalyanpur police station on April 3, he said.
"The woman was kidnapped by the four men on Monday night from Vasundhara Sector 16 in Ghaziabad, following which she was raped by them in a moving car. She was dumped near Noida Sector 62," Rashid Ali, Station House Officer (SHO), Indirapuram Police station said.
The accused fled from the spot, he said, adding that one of the accused, Akhil Tomar, was allegedly in a relationship with the victim.
A complaint was lodged at Noida Sector 58 police station, the SHO said, adding that investigations are on.
The woman had lodged a case of rape against one of the accused, Sunil Tomar and his friends at the Sahibabad police station on May 7, the SHO said.
The woman had also lodged a case of eve-teasing against Akhil Tomar at the Kalyanpur police station on April 3, he said.
11:41 A useful arbiter
"America has its own significance," argued Sushma Swaraj, the new Indian external affairs minister.
The first woman to have independent charge of this portfolio, her brief remark was made on her first day in office. From the outset, it would seem as though all was well in India's dealing with the United States of America.
To be sure, her counterpart -- the US secretary of state John Kerry -- was the first international diplomat to congratulate the minister. Read more
The first woman to have independent charge of this portfolio, her brief remark was made on her first day in office. From the outset, it would seem as though all was well in India's dealing with the United States of America.
To be sure, her counterpart -- the US secretary of state John Kerry -- was the first international diplomat to congratulate the minister. Read more
11:39
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Venkaiah Naidu meets Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. Details awaited.
11:37 Another 202 Indians stranded in Iraq return tomorrow: MEA
MEA spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin tweets: Return continues! Special Iraqi Airways flight departing tonight from Najaf will bring back 202 Indians to Delhi early tomorrow.
11:30 Rail budget: Full of ideas, short on substance
Having effected increases amounting to 14.2 per cent in passenger fares and 6.5 per cent in freight tariff last month, Railway Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda had very little to do in his maiden budget.
His presentation was full of ideas and policy formulations, but lacked concrete proposals or a vision or road map to take the Indian Railways forward.
What became clear even before the budget presentation was that the Railways was in poor financial health, and a course correction was imperative as the operating ratio was precarious.
In short, the Railways had to spend 94 paise for every rupee earned, leaving a surplus of just six paise. Read
His presentation was full of ideas and policy formulations, but lacked concrete proposals or a vision or road map to take the Indian Railways forward.
What became clear even before the budget presentation was that the Railways was in poor financial health, and a course correction was imperative as the operating ratio was precarious.
In short, the Railways had to spend 94 paise for every rupee earned, leaving a surplus of just six paise. Read
11:28 Stop tobacco product sale in defence canteens: Harsh Vardhan to Jaitley
Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has written to Defence Minister Arun Jaitley urging him to stop the sale of tobacco products in defence canteens, which puts "thousands of armed forces personnel at great risk'. Read more
11:22
Rajya Sabha has been adjourned for just 15 minutes, Lok Sabha adjourned till noon. Will give both BJP and TMC MPs time to cool off.
11:19 BJP MP Giriraj Singh mum on Rs 1.14 crore cash recovered from his house
In other news: Four persons were on Tuesday arrested in connection with a burglary in BJP MP Giriraj Singh's house in Patna and Rs 1.14 crore cash, US$ 600, gold and silver jewellery and six luxury watches purportedly stolen from there recovered, police said. The four accused including the Nawada MP's bodyguard, domestic servant, apartment security guard and another accomplice entered his flat yesterday when he was away in Delhi, they said. Singh, who is in Delhi for the Parliament Session, was not immediately available for comments.
11:11 TMC protests against BJP in Parl over alleged scuffle, RS adjourned
Day 3 of the budget session of Parliament begins. TMC MPs protest against the BJP following the alleged scuffle in Parliament yesterday. Rajya Sabha has been adjourned already. Derek O'Brien, TMC MP in the Rajya Sabha was was speaking when the chair adjourned the house.
Yesterday, after the rail minister Sadananda Gowda was presenting the budget, TMC and AAP members rushed to the Well of the House. They raised slogans against the Prime Minister and NDA government, which was greeted by counter-slogans. Two BJP members were seen going to the Well of the House and arguing with the TMC MPs. There was a heated exchange of words and both sides seemed ready for a physical clash, with marshals separating the members belonging to the warring parties.
Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, a TMC MP said unparliamentary words were used by BJP MPs and they were abused.
Yesterday, after the rail minister Sadananda Gowda was presenting the budget, TMC and AAP members rushed to the Well of the House. They raised slogans against the Prime Minister and NDA government, which was greeted by counter-slogans. Two BJP members were seen going to the Well of the House and arguing with the TMC MPs. There was a heated exchange of words and both sides seemed ready for a physical clash, with marshals separating the members belonging to the warring parties.
Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, a TMC MP said unparliamentary words were used by BJP MPs and they were abused.
11:03 No LoP yet: Kharge, Scindia, Amrendra Singh meet Speaker
Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Jyotiraditya Scindia and Amrendra Singh meet the Speaker Sumitra Mahajan with a memorandum signed by 60 MPS regarding the Leader of Opposition issue.
On Monday, Congress President Sonia Gandhi stepped into the political tug-of-war between the NDA government and her party over the post of the Leader of the Opposition by saying Congress has a rightful claim over the constitutional post.
Notwithstanding posturing, the government and Congress leaders understand there can't be an easy solution to the political dispute.
Despite Congress' projected readiness to take the dispute to court, the party brass understands the constitutional and political limitations in trying to make the court decide on an issue which is in the 'domain of the Lok Sabha Speaker'.
On Monday, Congress President Sonia Gandhi stepped into the political tug-of-war between the NDA government and her party over the post of the Leader of the Opposition by saying Congress has a rightful claim over the constitutional post.
Notwithstanding posturing, the government and Congress leaders understand there can't be an easy solution to the political dispute.
Despite Congress' projected readiness to take the dispute to court, the party brass understands the constitutional and political limitations in trying to make the court decide on an issue which is in the 'domain of the Lok Sabha Speaker'.
10:57 SpiceJet offers 10 lakh tickets for fares starting Rs 999
No-frills carrier SpiceJet today put 10 lakh seats on the block with base fares starting as low as Rs 999, for a one-way journey under a limited period offer.
The bookings for the three-day mega sale offer started today for travel between January 6 and October 24, 2015, according to SpiceJet website. "10,00,000 seats are up for grab at fares starting at Rs. 999. SpiceJet mega sale is here," the airline said.
However, all other statutory taxes would be applicable and the fares vary from sector to sector depending on the travel distance, according to the website.
SpiceJet is offering low/heavily discounted fares since January this year when it slashed ticket prices by almost half. This is the third such sale by SpiceJet in less than a month.
The bookings for the three-day mega sale offer started today for travel between January 6 and October 24, 2015, according to SpiceJet website. "10,00,000 seats are up for grab at fares starting at Rs. 999. SpiceJet mega sale is here," the airline said.
However, all other statutory taxes would be applicable and the fares vary from sector to sector depending on the travel distance, according to the website.
SpiceJet is offering low/heavily discounted fares since January this year when it slashed ticket prices by almost half. This is the third such sale by SpiceJet in less than a month.
10:52 The future of flying
Unhappy with the rail budget? Here's a look a the possible future of flying... Plans for standing-only flights, once mooted by Ryanair, have again resurfaced, with a study by the International Journal of Engineering and Technology suggesting the removal of seats could allow airlines to cut fares by up to 44 per cent. Here we look at other ways the flying experience could change over the next 40 years. Read
10:48 Sensex up over 78 pts in early trade ahead of Economic Survey
The benchmark BSE Sensex recovered over 78 points in opening trade today on emergence of buying by funds and retail investors at prevailing levels ahead of the release of Economic Survey later in the day.
The 30-share index, which had lost 518 points yesterday, its worst drop in 10 months, recovered by 78.30 points, or 0.31 per cent, to 25,660.41, with stocks of capital goods, oil & gas, consumer durables and PSUs, leading the recovery. On similar lines, the National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 11.35 points, or 0.15 per cent, to 7,634.55.
The 30-share index, which had lost 518 points yesterday, its worst drop in 10 months, recovered by 78.30 points, or 0.31 per cent, to 25,660.41, with stocks of capital goods, oil & gas, consumer durables and PSUs, leading the recovery. On similar lines, the National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 11.35 points, or 0.15 per cent, to 7,634.55.
10:46
According to media reports, onion prices may go up by October, owing to the fact that late monsoon in Madhya Pradesh may ruin.
10:45 Trinamool MPs protest outside Parliament
Trinamool MPs are gathered outside Parliament and are protesting alleged misbehaviour by BJP MPs.
TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh on Tuesday had said that they were simply raising slogans inside Parliament, inside the well of the house, because the budget has nothing for Bengal, when suddenly BJP MPs approached them and abused and threatened them.
She named BJP MP Hari Narayan Rajbhar as the man who led the group of BJP MPs. She said if MPs and women MPs in particular are not safe inside the Lok Sabha, where else can they be safe.
TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh on Tuesday had said that they were simply raising slogans inside Parliament, inside the well of the house, because the budget has nothing for Bengal, when suddenly BJP MPs approached them and abused and threatened them.
She named BJP MP Hari Narayan Rajbhar as the man who led the group of BJP MPs. She said if MPs and women MPs in particular are not safe inside the Lok Sabha, where else can they be safe.
10:22 Indian survives 7-day ordeal after falling from Cambodian peak
In an incident reminiscent of the Hollywood movie 127 Hours, an Indian-origin man from Singapore managed to beat all odds to remain alive after slipping from the highest mountain in Cambodia.
Sanjay Radakrishna, 26, survived seven days on water, confronted with a giant python, slept on wet ground and in caves after he lost his way while coming down Phnom Aural, Cambodia's highest mountain, in Kampong Speu. He took a tumble, tore his pant during the process and had a flat mobile battery, cutting him off from the GPS network.
Radakrishna trekked his way back to a village last Sunday. Clad in a T-shirt, sports shoes and underwear, he slept on wet ground, in caves and thought of inspiring stories such as the 127 Hours film about an American climber trapped in a canyon who had cut off his arm wedged between rocks to survive.
"There was no point panicking, crying or screaming because no one was there to help me," The Straits Times quoted Radakrishna as saying.
Sanjay Radakrishna, 26, survived seven days on water, confronted with a giant python, slept on wet ground and in caves after he lost his way while coming down Phnom Aural, Cambodia's highest mountain, in Kampong Speu. He took a tumble, tore his pant during the process and had a flat mobile battery, cutting him off from the GPS network.
Radakrishna trekked his way back to a village last Sunday. Clad in a T-shirt, sports shoes and underwear, he slept on wet ground, in caves and thought of inspiring stories such as the 127 Hours film about an American climber trapped in a canyon who had cut off his arm wedged between rocks to survive.
"There was no point panicking, crying or screaming because no one was there to help me," The Straits Times quoted Radakrishna as saying.
09:44 Jaitley to table Economic Survey today
CNN-IBN reports: Just a day to go for the Narendra Modi government's maiden Union Budget, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will table the Economic Survey 2013-2014 in Parliament on Wednesday.
The Survey gives a broad idea on the macro economic data of the country which will impact Budget decisions.Sources say the Finance Ministry will lay emphasis on a roadmap for revival of the economy in the Budget.
It is expected that the finance minister is going to talk about attracting foreign investment through FDI inflow and also talk about how caps for FDI across sectors could be increased.
The Survey gives a broad idea on the macro economic data of the country which will impact Budget decisions.Sources say the Finance Ministry will lay emphasis on a roadmap for revival of the economy in the Budget.
It is expected that the finance minister is going to talk about attracting foreign investment through FDI inflow and also talk about how caps for FDI across sectors could be increased.
09:33 Two injured in three bomb explosions near Indo-Myanmar border
Two persons were injured when three powerful bombs exploded in Kasom Khullen area near the Indo-Myanmar border in Ukhrul district of Manipur, officials said today.
The explosions occurred near the post of 44th battalion post of Assam Rifles yesterday. The bombs were allegedly planted by suspected militants to attack the security personnel. The victims were identified as S P Keneth, 41, a farmer, and Laishram Kiran, 45, a labourer, Both were admitted to a government hospital at Imphal where their condition was described as serious.
In another incident, suspected militants exploded a powerful grenade at the gate of the residence of an executive engineer of electricity department identified as L Dinesh Kumar at Uripok area here in Imphal West district last night, the police said.
The explosions occurred near the post of 44th battalion post of Assam Rifles yesterday. The bombs were allegedly planted by suspected militants to attack the security personnel. The victims were identified as S P Keneth, 41, a farmer, and Laishram Kiran, 45, a labourer, Both were admitted to a government hospital at Imphal where their condition was described as serious.
In another incident, suspected militants exploded a powerful grenade at the gate of the residence of an executive engineer of electricity department identified as L Dinesh Kumar at Uripok area here in Imphal West district last night, the police said.
09:29 Rowling writes new Harry Potter story
BBC reports: JK Rowling has written a new short story about Harry Potter on her Pottermore fan website, set during the Quidditch world cup final.The 1,500-word tale is written in the style of a newspaper column by Daily Prophet reporter, Rita Skeeter.
The article reports that Harry took his sons James and Albus to visit the world cup compound "where he introduced them to Bulgarian seeker Victor Krum".
The article reports that Harry took his sons James and Albus to visit the world cup compound "where he introduced them to Bulgarian seeker Victor Krum".
08:53 Rajaratnam's brother acquitted in insider trading case
A US court has acquitted the younger brother of jailed hedge fund manager Raj Rajaratnam of conspiring with him in an insider trading scheme, marking the first defeat in an impeccable track record of insider trading prosecutions for India-born federal prosecutor Preet Bharara.
Rengan Rajaratnam, 43, was found not guilty yesterday by the jury of eight women and four men judge after a three-week trial on the sole conspiracy count. Last year, Rengan was charged with conspiracy and securities fraud.
The jury cleared him of the single charge against him. The verdict came as a blow to Bharara and his team of federal prosecutors who have not lost a case in the years-long crackdown on insider trading on Wall Street.
Rengan Rajaratnam, 43, was found not guilty yesterday by the jury of eight women and four men judge after a three-week trial on the sole conspiracy count. Last year, Rengan was charged with conspiracy and securities fraud.
The jury cleared him of the single charge against him. The verdict came as a blow to Bharara and his team of federal prosecutors who have not lost a case in the years-long crackdown on insider trading on Wall Street.
08:49
Three bags were being checked by the bomb squad. The woman who claimed to own the bags was at the spot.She is now being questioned by the police.
08:16 Unclaimed bags found at BJP HQ
According to media reports, three unclaimed bags have been found at the BJP headquarters at Ashoka Road in New Delhi. The bomb squad of the Delhi police has reached the spot and are inspecting the bags.
More details are awaited.
More details are awaited.
03:51 Nasa equips space robots with smartphones
BBC: Nasa plans to send Google's 3D smartphones into space to function as the "eyes and brains" of free-flying robots inside the Space Station. The robots, known as Spheres (Synchronised Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental satellites), currently have limited capabilities. It is hoped the smartphones, powered by Google's Project Tango, will equip the robots with more functionality.
The robots have been described by experts as "incredibly clever". When Nasa's robots first arrived at the International Space Station in 2006, they were only capable of precise movements using small jets of CO2, which propelled the devices forwards at around an inch per second.
"We wanted to add communication, a camera, increase the processing capability, accelerometers and other sensors," Spheres project manager Chris Provencher told Reuters.
03:50 Militants storm Somalia presidential palace
CNN: Militants with the Islamist group al-Shabaab stormed Somalia's presidential palace in Mogadishu on Tuesday, firing their way onto the grounds after a car bomb blasted the gate, authorities said.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was not harmed, authorities said, but there were conflicting reports on whether the attackers held any part of the palace Tuesday night.
The militants fired their way onto the palace grounds after a car bomb blasted the gate, police officer Elmi Liban said. Somali and African Union troops exchanged heavy gunfire with the militants, a senior Somali security official said.
Al-Shabaab said it was behind the raid, one of several recent Mogadishu attacks for which the al Qaeda-linked group has claimed responsibility as it presses its campaign to turn Somalia into a fundamentalist Islamic state. Interior Minister Abdullah Godah Barre said all attackers eventually were killed.
Somali government spokesman Ridwaan Haji Abdiwali added Tuesday night that the attack was over. But an al-Shabaab spokesman, Abdulaziz Abu Musab, said the group's militants had captured the offices of the President and the prime minister. It wasn't immediately clear if the offices still were being held Tuesday night.
03:48 William Burns to visit India from July 10-11
US Deputy Secretary William Burns will travel to India from July 10-11 in advance of the US-India strategic dialogue, a statement department release said. He will discuss the full range of bilateral issues -- including economic, energy, and security cooperation -- with senior Indian officials.
The deputy secretary will be the highest-level Obama administration official to visit since the inauguration of the new Indian government, and this trip is an opportunity to further strengthen and deepen this important bilateral relationship, the release added.
02:07 LIVE! Germany makes Belo Horizonte Brazil's graveyard; Klose breaks record
Belo Horizonte has turned into a graveyard for the hosts Brazil as Germany has pumped in five without response before the half hour mark in the semi-final. Miroslav Klose scored the second to better the record set by Ronaldo.
It was the Lazio forward's 16th World Cup goal, and 71st international goal for Germany. It was Klose's second goal of the tournament. The 36-year-old, playing in a record fourth semi-final, also scored the equaliser against Ghana. Bayern Munich star Toni Kroos also racked up a brace with Thomas Mueller and Sani Khedira also getting their names on the scoresheet.
00:31 Israel 'ready for escalation' of Gaza conflict
At least 12 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip, Palestinian officials say, as the Israeli military prepares "all options" to stop rocket fire. Six people died in an air strike on a house in Khan Younis, while four were killed when a car was hit in Gaza City.
The Israeli military said 131 rockets had been fired from Gaza since Monday night. It said a rocket launched at Tel Aviv on Tuesday had been intercepted.
00:30 Earthquake jolts parts of Jammu and Kashmir
An earthquake measuring 4.9 on the Richter scale hit Pakistan-occupied-Gilgit late tonight and resultant mild tremors were felt in Doda and Kishtwar districts of Jammu and Kashmir.
The quake struck Gilgit at 21.06 hours, Indian Meteorological department said.
However, no report of any casualty or damage to property has been reported so far in Doda and Kishtwar where the quake was measured 2.3 on the Richter scale, according to local Meteorological department.
"An earthquake of magnitude of 4.9 was recorded on the Richter Scale at 9.05 pm in the Kashmir region with its latitude 36.2 North and Longitude 74.0 East with a depth of 97 km," said Shailesh Nayak, Secretary, and Ministry of Earth Sciences.
00:24 Top headlines at this hour
4 arrested for stealing from BJP leader's home
8 dead as factory roofs in Maharashtra collapse in heavy rain
91 more Punjabi youths return from Iraq
Sonia meets President on LS Leader of Opposition status
Govt likely to finalise list of new Governors on Wednesday
Special CBI court rejects closure report in DySP murder case
Over 200 more Indians to return from Iraq on Wednesday
Congress workers get violent over Rail Budget
Disclosure of Henderson Report on 1962 war not in national interest, says govt
Officers probing Coalgate not to be repatriated: SC to CBI
Jaya hands out Rs 98 lakh to building collapse victims' families
Ponty case: Police move HC against dropping of murder charge
Badaun rape: CBI to exhume bodies, carry out fresh autopsies on both victims
BJP, Trinamool members come on verge of clash in LS
CBI granted 3 months to furnish details on NGOs
It's Badaun AGAIN: 3 minors assaulted, gang-raped by 7 men
Another case lodged against BJP MLA for 'Bihar brides' remark
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