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Tue, 11 November 2014
South Korea Sewol ferry trial: Relatives angry at verdict
Timeline Refresh
23:38 Iraq: Suicide bomber hits army post, kills 7
Iraqi police and hospital officials say a suicide bomber has rammed his explosives-laden car into a military outpost north of the capital, Baghdad, killing seven soldiers and wounding 13 others.
The officials say those killed in the today afternoon attack in the northern Baghdad district of Tarmiyah included the post's commander, a major, and two other officers, a captain and lieutenant.
23:37 Iran's Internet police warn govt of Instagram ban
A body tasked with policing the Internet laid down a two-month deadline today for Iran's government to regularise the use of Instagram or access to the site would be blocked.
Iranian authorities regularly block Twitter, Facebook and other social networking sites considered damaging to the values of the Islamic republic.
22:57 Israeli army kills West Bank protester as clashes rage
Israeli troops shot dead a Palestinian during clashes in the West Bank today as a wave of unrest gripped the country, raising fears of a new Palestinian uprising.
The death of the 22-year-old near Hebron came as troops tried to disperse about 150 Palestinians who were hurling rocks and Molotov cocktails at passing cars close to the settlement of Kiryat Arba, the army said.
22:53 'Airstrikes against IS group not enough '
Qatar's ruling emir said today that US-led coalition airstrikes are not enough to defeat "terrorism and extremism" in Iraq and Syria as he urged the world to take action against factors fueling radicalism there a suggestion that also took aim at the Syrian regime.
Speaking to the Gulf nation's legislative advisory council, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani said the policies of Syrian President Bashar Assad's government and "some militias in Iraq" a reference to Iranian-backed Shiite militias are the most important factors contributing to extremism in the two countries.
22:52
South Korea Sewol ferry trial: Relatives angry at verdict: A verdict of negligence rather than homicide on three senior officers of a South Korean ferry that sank in April killing more than 300 has angered many victims' relatives as too lenient.
"Do you know how many children are dead?" one shouted during sentencing.The Sewol's captain, Lee Joon-seok, was jailed for 36 years. The other senior officers were given 15 and 20 years.The chief engineer was convicted of homicide - for abandoning two injured colleagues - and given 30 years.
22:21 US drone in northwest Pak kills 6 militants
At least six militants, including foreigners, were killed and three others injured today in a US drone attack in Pakistan's restive North Waziristan tribal region.
CIA-operated drone fired two missiles at a vehicle believed to be of the militants, killing six of them in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan this evening. Some foreign militants were also among the dead and the injured. The region has long been used as shelter by the Taliban and al-Qaeda-linked militants and has frequently been targeted by US drones.
The Pakistani military launched a major offensive in North Waziristan in June and say they have killed more than 1,000 militants so far, with 86 soldiers losing their lives in the operation. For almost a decade, American drone strikes in Pakistan's tribal belt have been deeply unpopular with the public. Pakistani officials have publicly condemned the drone strikes, saying they violate sovereignty.
CIA-operated drone fired two missiles at a vehicle believed to be of the militants, killing six of them in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan this evening. Some foreign militants were also among the dead and the injured. The region has long been used as shelter by the Taliban and al-Qaeda-linked militants and has frequently been targeted by US drones.
The Pakistani military launched a major offensive in North Waziristan in June and say they have killed more than 1,000 militants so far, with 86 soldiers losing their lives in the operation. For almost a decade, American drone strikes in Pakistan's tribal belt have been deeply unpopular with the public. Pakistani officials have publicly condemned the drone strikes, saying they violate sovereignty.
22:04 NIA searches house of Burdwan blast case prime accused
NIA sleuths today searched the house of absconding accused of Burdwan blast, Sahanur Alam, in Barpeta district, police said.
A team of NIA officials led by Superintendent of Police Debajit Hazarika searched the house of Sahanur alias doctor for clues at Chatala village, police said. The team also questioned Sahanur's father Majibar Rahman and brother Aajijur Rahman about the accused, though the NIA officials declined to divulge the details of their probe to journalists.
The NIA officials also visited one Anowar Mallik's house, where a controversial prayer meeting was held on the day before Eid in July, besides meeting the gaon burha (village headman) of Chatala about some missing youths of the village.
A team of NIA officials led by Superintendent of Police Debajit Hazarika searched the house of Sahanur alias doctor for clues at Chatala village, police said. The team also questioned Sahanur's father Majibar Rahman and brother Aajijur Rahman about the accused, though the NIA officials declined to divulge the details of their probe to journalists.
The NIA officials also visited one Anowar Mallik's house, where a controversial prayer meeting was held on the day before Eid in July, besides meeting the gaon burha (village headman) of Chatala about some missing youths of the village.
21:25
Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray today addressed a meeting of Sena legislators ahead of BJP's Devendra Fadnavis-led Maharashtra government's trust vote tomorrow.
However, Uddhav left the venue without speaking to waiting reporters after the meeting which lasted for more than an hour. Shiv Sena sources said that the party's MLAs have been asked to remain present at the Vidhan Bhawan at 9 am tomorrow.
Incidentally, the speaker's election is scheduled to take place at 11 am tomorrow. With 63 members in the 288-member House, the Shiv Sena has fielded a candidate for the Speaker's election. The BJP with 121 members and Congress with 42 MLAs have also put up candidates for the Speaker's election.
However, Uddhav left the venue without speaking to waiting reporters after the meeting which lasted for more than an hour. Shiv Sena sources said that the party's MLAs have been asked to remain present at the Vidhan Bhawan at 9 am tomorrow.
Incidentally, the speaker's election is scheduled to take place at 11 am tomorrow. With 63 members in the 288-member House, the Shiv Sena has fielded a candidate for the Speaker's election. The BJP with 121 members and Congress with 42 MLAs have also put up candidates for the Speaker's election.
21:18 37 militants, 6 soldiers killed in Pakistan
At least 37 militants, including some foreign fighters believed to be involved in the deadly Wagah Border attack, were killed today by Pakistani military which also lost six soldiers in the restive northwestern tribal region.
Pakistan jets pounded militant hideouts in Daras area of Khyber along the Pak-Afghan border killing at least 13 militants, including some foreigners believed to be involved in the November 2 suicide blast at the Wagah Border with India in which 63 people died.
A suicide bomber blew himself up at the Wagah Border when a large number of people were returning after watching the popular flag-lowering ceremony.
Pakistan jets pounded militant hideouts in Daras area of Khyber along the Pak-Afghan border killing at least 13 militants, including some foreigners believed to be involved in the November 2 suicide blast at the Wagah Border with India in which 63 people died.
A suicide bomber blew himself up at the Wagah Border when a large number of people were returning after watching the popular flag-lowering ceremony.
21:10 No invite to Modi for Nehru event: BJP slams Cong
Congress' decision not to invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to an international conference to mark Jawaharlal Nehru's 125th birth anniversary reflects the party's narrow-mindedness and is a disrespect to the nation, the government and BJP said today.
"I think they (Congress) are very narrow minded. There is no politics in being narrow minded. Politics means it should include everybody," Minority Affairs Minister Najma Heptullah told reporters on the sidelines of an event.
"Modi is so large-hearted that he is supporting Nehru's birth anniversary (celebrations) despite the change of government. He is continuing to do that.
"I think they (Congress) are very narrow minded. There is no politics in being narrow minded. Politics means it should include everybody," Minority Affairs Minister Najma Heptullah told reporters on the sidelines of an event.
"Modi is so large-hearted that he is supporting Nehru's birth anniversary (celebrations) despite the change of government. He is continuing to do that.
21:07
Five-time World championViswanathan Anand returned with vengeance after losing the previous game to beat defending champion Magnus Carlsen in Round 3 of the World Chess Championship in Sochi on Tuesday and level the match score 1.5-1.5.
Playing while, the five-time World champion from India won in 34 moves.
Playing while, the five-time World champion from India won in 34 moves.
20:20 Court jails captain of capsized South Korean ferry to 36 years
From the BBC: The captain of the South Korean ferry which sank in April has been found guilty of gross negligence and sentenced to 36 years in prison.
Read the full story here
Read the full story here
20:18 Is ISIS leader dead or wounded?
From CNN: He's enemy No. 1 in the fight against ISIS. But after waves of airstrikes by both Iraq and U.S.-led coalition forces, questions abound over whether the terror group's leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, was hit.
Read the full story here
Read the full story here
19:58 Brother of Burdwan blast mastermind arrested in Bangladesh port town
The brother of the suspected kingpin of the Burdwan blast, Sheikh Sadiq alias Sajid, has been arrested in Bangladesh's Narayanganj port town, officials said.
"We have arrested Sadiq's brother Mohammad Monayem from Farazikanda in Narayanganj early this morning," an official said.
The elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion arrested Monayem in an overnight raid three days after the West Bengal police nabbed Sajid, a member of Bangladesh's banned militant outfit Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen, whom the National Investigation Agency earlier described him as the "chief of the Burdwan module".
19:03 Bird hits Ahmedabad-Mumbai flight carrying 116 passengers
A Mumbai-bound GoAir plane, carrying 116 passengers, landed under emergency conditions at the Ahmedabad airport today, after a bird hit it minutes after its take-off, an airport official said.
The incident occurred after the flight took off at 9.15 am when it was at a height of around 300 feet, officials said.
18:52 SC refuses to direct EC to expedite Delhi poll schedule
The Supreme Court today refused to direct the Election Commission to announce Delhi assembly poll schedule at the earliest.
18:48 India files appeal in Lanka SC against fishermen death penalty
India today filed an appeal in the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka against a verdict of the high court awarding death sentence to five Indian fishermen in the island nation for alleged drug smuggling.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin while giving this information expressed confidence that justice will be done to the five Indians who are on death row.
The spokesperson was speaking to journalists accompanying Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Myanmar for the India-ASEAN and East Asia summits.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin while giving this information expressed confidence that justice will be done to the five Indians who are on death row.
The spokesperson was speaking to journalists accompanying Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Myanmar for the India-ASEAN and East Asia summits.
18:39 Maharashtra legislature winter session to begin on December 8
The winter session of the Maharashtra legislature is all set to begin from December 8 for three weeks in Nagpur. The decision was taken at today's cabinet meeting chaired by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. It would also be the first session of the Fadnavis-led BJP government after taking charge on October 31.
18:32
Rajdeep Sardesai tweets: Ex AMU students tell me women are allowed in the library. Then, why did the VC make the statement he did? And why has HRD min jumped in?
18:08 Modi invites Kapil Dev, Gavaskar for tour to Australia
18:00 Join PM's hand for development of JK: BJP to separatists
A day after former separatist leader Sajjad Lone met Narendra Modi, BJP today said the doors of the Prime Minister were open for the secessionists if they join the national mainstream and the party would welcome all to join his efforts for the development of Jammu and Kashmir.
"We welcome all to join the efforts of the Prime Minister for the development of Jammu and Kashmir. You (separatists) give up separatism and come forward, the doors of the Prime Minister are open for you.
"Through separatism, you are meeting the Prime Minister of Pakistan or its High Commissioner here. Come into national mainstream, the doors of your own Prime Minister are open," BJP national general secretary Ram Madhav said.
"We welcome all to join the efforts of the Prime Minister for the development of Jammu and Kashmir. You (separatists) give up separatism and come forward, the doors of the Prime Minister are open for you.
"Through separatism, you are meeting the Prime Minister of Pakistan or its High Commissioner here. Come into national mainstream, the doors of your own Prime Minister are open," BJP national general secretary Ram Madhav said.
17:46 PM speaks to Raman Singh
PM spoke to Chhattisgarh CM Raman Singh on issue and expressed concern over the traged and has asked the CM to ensure a thorough investigation abd action in the entire issue.
17:45 PM steps in on sterilisation deaths: Asks for action, investigation
PM Modi steps in on sterilisation deaths. PMO India @PMOIndia tweets: The PM has asked @drramansingh to ensure a thorough investigation and action in the entire issue.
Eight women have died in India and dozens more are in a critical condition after a government-run sterilisation programme in Chhattisgarh designed to control the country's billion-plus population went badly wrong, officials said on Tuesday.
More than 64 women are in hospital in Bilaspur district after suffering complications from the surgery over the weekend and 24 of them are seriously ill, authorities in Chhattisgarh said.
Eight women have died in India and dozens more are in a critical condition after a government-run sterilisation programme in Chhattisgarh designed to control the country's billion-plus population went badly wrong, officials said on Tuesday.
More than 64 women are in hospital in Bilaspur district after suffering complications from the surgery over the weekend and 24 of them are seriously ill, authorities in Chhattisgarh said.
17:00
HRD ministry to seek explanation from AMU VC on girl students not allowed in varsity library; says it amounts to "disrespect to women".
16:56 Man spends 50,000 on iPhone 6s to propose to girlfriend - she says no
Chinese programmer spends two years' annual salary on iPhone 6s, arranges them in a heart and asks girlfriend to marry him - it doesn't go well. Read
16:34 Modi@Myanmar: After talks with president meet with Aung San Suu Kyi next
Myanmar President Thein Sein and PM Narendra Modi meet in Naypyitaw. The PM is on the first leg of his three-nation 10-day tour that will also take him to Australia and Fiji. Modi arrived in Myanmar by a special Air India plane. Upon landing in the Myanmarese capital, he was given the ceremonial Guard of Honour.
Soon after, PM Modi drove off to meet Myanmarese President Thein Sein. He is also scheduled to hold talks with opposition leader and Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.
PM Modi is in Nay Pyi Taw to attend the ASEAN and East Asia Summits
Soon after, PM Modi drove off to meet Myanmarese President Thein Sein. He is also scheduled to hold talks with opposition leader and Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.
PM Modi is in Nay Pyi Taw to attend the ASEAN and East Asia Summits
16:22 Provocative ads to revive Parsis' numbers
"Good advertising has to offend someone to work," said Sam Balsara, chairman and managing director of Madison World, at an event to elaborate on Jiyo Parsi, a Rs 10-crore scheme, funded by the ministry of minority affairs, to increase the Parsis' dwindling population.
A series of ads, designed by Madison, will be released under the scheme, which has a two-pronged approach of creating awareness and providing fertility treatments. The print ads, meant for Parsi publications, range from the self-deprecating to the politically incorrect. Read
A series of ads, designed by Madison, will be released under the scheme, which has a two-pronged approach of creating awareness and providing fertility treatments. The print ads, meant for Parsi publications, range from the self-deprecating to the politically incorrect. Read
16:13 Sterilisation deaths: Chhattisgarh CM says doc suspended
Amid sharp criticism over the death of eight women after mass sterilization at a camp organized by the state government in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Tuesday said the doctor who performed the operation has been suspended and a case of criminal offence has been filed against him.
16:00 AMU VC clarifies: I'm not sexist, don't want to segregate girls
Lt Gen Zameer Uddin Shah vice chancellor Aligarh Muslim University says reports that named him as saying that there would be "four times more boys" in the library if girls were allowed in, were false.
Attempting to clarify the report, he tells ANI, "We are not at all sexist, we want women empowerment, certainly dont want to segregate our girls.
These reports are completely wrong."
He added, "I said there is not space for even a single seat in that library. That library cannot accommodate more students, also all the books in that library are available online.
"Students also face trouble in travelling due to chain snatchers as library is far from college, we can't ignore this fact," he said.
Read what happened.
Attempting to clarify the report, he tells ANI, "We are not at all sexist, we want women empowerment, certainly dont want to segregate our girls.
These reports are completely wrong."
He added, "I said there is not space for even a single seat in that library. That library cannot accommodate more students, also all the books in that library are available online.
"Students also face trouble in travelling due to chain snatchers as library is far from college, we can't ignore this fact," he said.
Read what happened.
15:12 MIM leader accused of raping minor girl
Just in: MIM leader accused of raping girl in Anantpur, Andhra Pradesh. Police have registered a case against the man, while investigations are still on.
14:52
And another picture of the PM as he lands at Naypyitaw.
14:51
Welcoming PM Narendra Modi as he lands in Myanmar.
14:23 Nitesh Rane: Sena is ready to sit anywhere
The NCP leader who thinks Gujarati should be shooed out of Mumbai as part of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, holds forth on the Shiv Sena's decision to sit in the opposition. "The Shiv Sena is ready to sit anywhere, opposition, floor, garden, will even become journalist if you ask them," says Nitesh Rane.
14:19 Congress won't invite PM Modi to international meet on Nehru
Congress snubs PM. Anand Sharma says Narendra Modi will not be invited for an international meet on Jawaharlal Nehru convened by the party.
The Congress has invited a galaxy of world leaders for a commemorative international conference it is organising to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, but has kept Prime Minister Narendra Modi out of the list.
The two-day international conference will be held from Nov 17 at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi.
The Congress has invited a galaxy of world leaders for a commemorative international conference it is organising to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, but has kept Prime Minister Narendra Modi out of the list.
The two-day international conference will be held from Nov 17 at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi.
14:10 Girls in AMU library will attract boys: VC
Turning down the demand of students of Women's College, Aligarh Muslim University, for access to the varsity's Maulana Azad Library, vice-chancellor Lt Gen Zameer Uddin Shah has said there would be "four times more boys" in the library if girls were allowed in."The issue is not of discipline, but of space. Our library is packed," the VC said, justifying why the girls were not allowed membership. Read
14:03
A clarification: The J&K Congress candidate has not listed the names of his daughters under the liabilities column in his affidavit while filing his nomination from Ganderbal. What he has written is -- "Unmaried daughters marriage" -- under the liabilities column.
Mohammed Yousuf Bhat was from the National Conference but joined the Congress recently.
Mohammed Yousuf Bhat was from the National Conference but joined the Congress recently.
13:56 It's Finance Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi now
Economic Affairs Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi designated as Finance Secretary. Mehrishi, 59, who was Rajasthan's chief secretary since December 2013 and spearheaded many reforms initiated by the Vasundhara Raje government, said, "What is obvious to thinking people is we are failing at delivering education and health to the people. Doing more of the same cannot help. You must do things differently."
Read more on one of the most important men in the PMO.
Read more on one of the most important men in the PMO.
13:48 When Putin flirted with China's First Lady
Was he just being a gentleman or was there more to it? Russian President Vladimir Putin has set the international media and Internet abuzz by putting his coat on the shoulders of China's First Lady Peng Liyuan.
As leaders of 21 Asia-Pacific nations, including Russia, converged upon Beijing for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit event, the Russian strongman was seated next to Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan, who in turn sat next to her husband, Chinese President Xi Jinping.
While Xi was engaged in conversation with US President Barack Obama, Putin after a brief exchange, abruptly stood up, grasped a tan coat in both hands, and wrapped it chivalrously around the First Lady's shoulders. Read more
As leaders of 21 Asia-Pacific nations, including Russia, converged upon Beijing for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit event, the Russian strongman was seated next to Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan, who in turn sat next to her husband, Chinese President Xi Jinping.
While Xi was engaged in conversation with US President Barack Obama, Putin after a brief exchange, abruptly stood up, grasped a tan coat in both hands, and wrapped it chivalrously around the First Lady's shoulders. Read more
13:26 Abhishek Singhvi's Rs 56 cr tax penalty: Officials reject claim that termites ate vouchers'
Multiplying Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi's Income Tax problems, the Settlement Commission has added over Rs 91.95 crore to his declared professional income over a three-year period and slapped a penalty of Rs 56.67 crore.
The order has since been stayed. He had moved the Commission on his own but a probe was launched subsequently, prompting him to describe the proceedings as a "cat and mouse game' which "trapped' him.
Read the full report here.
The order has since been stayed. He had moved the Commission on his own but a probe was launched subsequently, prompting him to describe the proceedings as a "cat and mouse game' which "trapped' him.
Read the full report here.
13:17 BJP's Bagde files nomination for Maha Assembly Speaker
BJP's Haribhau Bagde today filed his nomination for the post of Speaker of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.
Bagde, a legislator from Phulambari in Aurangabad was accompanied by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, his cabinet colleagues and Bahujan Vikas Agadhi MLA Hitendra Thakur, his two MLAs, 4 Independent MLAs. Varsha Gaikwad of Congress and Vijay Auti of Sena also filed their papers.
Gaikwad is MLA from Dharavi, while Auti is a legislator from Parner.
NCP has already said it will not contest the election.
Bagde, a legislator from Phulambari in Aurangabad was accompanied by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, his cabinet colleagues and Bahujan Vikas Agadhi MLA Hitendra Thakur, his two MLAs, 4 Independent MLAs. Varsha Gaikwad of Congress and Vijay Auti of Sena also filed their papers.
Gaikwad is MLA from Dharavi, while Auti is a legislator from Parner.
NCP has already said it will not contest the election.
12:59 1st stop: PM arrives in Myanmar
PM Narendra Modi arrives in Myanmar capital Nay Pyi Taw to attend two international summits. During his 10-day foreign tour, Modi will hold bilateral talks with
Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott in Canberra after the annual
summit of the Group of 20 of the world's biggest developed and emerging
economies. The two-day G20 summit will be held in Brisbane from November
15. After Myanmar, Modi is headed to Fiji.
12:49 Aadhaar to be must for passports
Prior police verification for issue of fresh passports may soon be a thing of the past, with the ministry of external affairs (MEA) proposing to rely on aadhaar card for identification of the applicant and on the National Crime Records Bureau's database for validation of his/her criminal antecedents. Read
12:28
Jitendra Singh, MoS PMO says the BJP will contest elections on its own strength there will be no official alliance with anyone in Jammu and Kashmir. Singh was asked whether the BJP will align with Sajjad Lone after the former separatist met the PM yesterday.
12:02 'Welcome support of all parties EXCEPT Cong for development of Maharashtra'
Meanwhile, in Maharashtra, BJP senior leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy says he welcomes the support of all parties except the Congress for development of Maharashtra. Rudy is now MoS (Independent Charge) of Skill Development &
Entrepreneurship Ministry. He also gets the charge of Parliamentary
Affairs as MoS alongwith Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi.
11:53 26/11 attacks: US, Israeli victims demand compensation from Hafiz Saeed
Nine American and Israeli victims of the 2008 Mumbai attacks have demanded a compensation of USD 688 million from the Pakistan-based
perpetrators of the terror assault, including JuD chief Hafiz Saeed.
In a re-submission before a New York court on October 30 and 31, the nine victims of the Mumbai attacks -- from the US and Israel -- argued for a "trial by jury" and "default judgement" against Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD)/Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
perpetrators of the terror assault, including JuD chief Hafiz Saeed.
In a re-submission before a New York court on October 30 and 31, the nine victims of the Mumbai attacks -- from the US and Israel -- argued for a "trial by jury" and "default judgement" against Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD)/Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
11:49 J-K Cong candidate writes daughters names in 'liabilities' column in affidavit
Mohammad Yousuf Bhat, who is the Ganderbal Congress candidate in Jammu and Kashmir, writes his daughters names under the column for liabilities in his affidavit as he files his nomination.
Asked to explain, Bhat says unmarried daughters are a liability to their fathers. "They are a burden on me," he says.
Representational image.
Asked to explain, Bhat says unmarried daughters are a liability to their fathers. "They are a burden on me," he says.
Representational image.
11:30 'Robin Raphel not accused of espionage'
Christine Fair, assistant professor of the Centre for Peace and Security Studies in the United States defends former US diplomat, India-baiter/Pakistan lobbyist Robin Raphel.
Fair says that unlike other diplomats she (Robin Raphel) is not a bush beater, she says what she thinks. She has not been accused of espionage, Indian journalists saying this are mudslingers, says Fair.
Also see: Robin Raphel, the American Indian diplomats hated
Fair says that unlike other diplomats she (Robin Raphel) is not a bush beater, she says what she thinks. She has not been accused of espionage, Indian journalists saying this are mudslingers, says Fair.
Also see: Robin Raphel, the American Indian diplomats hated
11:19 'The way Modi is cleaning up India is wrong'
'Unless Modi uses his power to make people work, he will not succeed. He may cry hoarse, but he will not succeed. V Kalyanam, Mahatma Gandhi's personal secretary, tells Shobha Warrier/Rediff.com why the prime minister's Clean India campaign won't succeed easily. Read
11:14 The question of the sealed envelope
In the black money case, all our hopes are glued to a 'sealed envelope' submitted by the government to the Supreme Court. But will we ever question the political culture associated with it? Read
11:14 1st reaction from BJP: We have no problem if Sena wants to sit in opposition
If the Shiv Sena has decided to be in the opposition we have no problem with it, says GVL Narasimha Rao of the BJP.
The Shiv Sena on Monday staked claim to the leader of opposition post in the Maharashtra Assembly, but maintained that it was still open to talks with the BJP.
"While we are firm on staking claim to opposition leader role, we are not denying the possibility of holding talks with BJP. We are always ready for a dialogue with BJP,' Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray said.
The Shiv Sena on Monday staked claim to the leader of opposition post in the Maharashtra Assembly, but maintained that it was still open to talks with the BJP.
"While we are firm on staking claim to opposition leader role, we are not denying the possibility of holding talks with BJP. We are always ready for a dialogue with BJP,' Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray said.
11:05 Sensex up 95 points in early trade on global cues
The benchmark Sensex continued its upward journey by gaining 95.29 points in early trade today amid firm buying in key heavyweights on the back of sustained FII buying and higher Asian cues.
Shares from realty, banking, oil and gas sectors lifted the market along with mid-cap and small-cap companies.
The Sensex resumed higher at 27,911.25 and moved up further to a high of 27,994.76 and low of 27,909.62, before quoting at 27,970.02 at 1010 hours, showing a gain of 95.29 points or 9.34 per cent over its previous close.
Shares from realty, banking, oil and gas sectors lifted the market along with mid-cap and small-cap companies.
The Sensex resumed higher at 27,911.25 and moved up further to a high of 27,994.76 and low of 27,909.62, before quoting at 27,970.02 at 1010 hours, showing a gain of 95.29 points or 9.34 per cent over its previous close.
10:53
The Supreme Court disposes of AAP's plea for holding election in Delhi after Centre informs it that the assembly has been dissolved.
10:51 Life certificate for pensioners to go digital
The
government on Monday launched an Aadhaar-based digital life certificate
for pensioners, a move that could eventually benefit over one crore
pensioners.
The proposed digital certification will do away with the requirement of a pensioner to submit a physical life certificate in November each year, in order to ensure the continuity of pension being credited into his or her account. While the system is in its early stage, it is bound to ease life for pensioners once implemented. Read more
The proposed digital certification will do away with the requirement of a pensioner to submit a physical life certificate in November each year, in order to ensure the continuity of pension being credited into his or her account. While the system is in its early stage, it is bound to ease life for pensioners once implemented. Read more
10:35 Modi's three-nation trip starts; first stop Myanmar
With the issue of addressing the issue of unaccounted money having a prime place in political debate, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will highlight global cooperation in this regard at the coming G20 countries' summit in Brisbane, Australia.
He begins a 10-day and three-nation visit from Tuesday, to Myanmar, Australia and Fiji, in that order.
The tour will begin in the Myanmarese capital of Nay Pyi Taw, where Modi will attend the Asean-India summit and the East Asia Summit on Wednesday and Thursday.
"A key issue for me would be to highlight the importance of international cooperation against black money," Modi said in a pre-departure statement. He is expected to renew the country's commitment to a global response on cross-border tax evasion.
The tour will begin in the Myanmarese capital of Nay Pyi Taw, where Modi will attend the Asean-India summit and the East Asia Summit on Wednesday and Thursday.
"A key issue for me would be to highlight the importance of international cooperation against black money," Modi said in a pre-departure statement. He is expected to renew the country's commitment to a global response on cross-border tax evasion.
However, the country is still to sign a treaty on automatic exchange of information on tax issues, due to uncertainty over interpretation of confidential clauses in these by the judiciary.
Modi is likely to be asked questions on this at G-20 by other members.
Modi is likely to be asked questions on this at G-20 by other members.
Read more HERE
10:22 Sensex extends gains, up 76 points in early trade
The benchmark BSE Sensex gained over 76 points in early trade today on sustained buying by foreign funds and retail investors amid a firming trend at other Asian bourses and hopes of further push to economic reforms by the government after recent Cabinet expansion.
The 30-share index, which had gained 6.10 points in the previous session, rose by 76.16 points, or 0.27 per cent, to 27,950.89 with infrastructure, realty, oil & gas, healthcare, PSU and auto stocks leading the rise.
The NSE Nifty also edged higher by 20.35 points, or 0.24 per cent, to 8,364.60.
Brokers said sentiments remained upbeat as foreign funds and retail investors engaged in enlarging positions on expectations of acceleration in economic reforms by the government after the expansion of the Union Cabinet.
Besides, a firming trend at other Asian markets in line with overnight gains on the US markets and falling global crude oil prices, which eased to four-year lows, also bolstered trading sentiments here, they said.
Among other Asian markets, Japan's Nikkei rose 0.53 per cent, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng gained 0.27 per cent in early trade today.
The US Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at a new record-high by rising 0.23 per cent in yesterday's trade.
10:21 APEC Summit begins; key issues, FTA on agenda
The APEC Summit attended by 21 heads of states, including US President Barack Obama, began today with key issues like a free trade arrangement for the region to be discussed during the meeting.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is hosting the 22nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' meeting at the Yanqi Lake International Convention Center in northern suburb of Beijing.
The meeting is being attended by 21 heads of state including US President Barrack Obama, his Russian counterpart Vladamir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of APEC, which has been the top-level and most representative cooperation mechanism that covers wide range of areas in the Asia-Pacific.
Xi said the meeting is expected to make four achievements, including the launch of the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) process, issue a statement on the 25th anniversary of the APEC, promotion of innovation, reforms and growth to seek new momentum for long-term development of the Asia-Pacific and a blueprint to lay a solid foundation for all-round connectivity in the Asia-Pacific.
Xi also said China will donate $10 million for institutional development and capacity building of the APEC.
India is not a member of APEC, a bloc largely comprised of the countries of the Pacific region.
10:20 Rupee down 10 paise against dollar in early trade
The rupee weakened by 10 paise to 61.60 against the dollar in early trade today at the Interbank Foreign Exchange due to increased demand for the US currency from importers.
Forex dealers attributed the rupee's weakness to increased demand for the US currency from importers and its strength against some other currencies overseas but a higher opening in the domestic equity market limited the fall.
The rupee had gained 12 paise to close at 61.50 against the dollar in yesterday's trade on fresh selling of the US currency by banks and exporters on the back of strong capital inflows.
Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex rose by 76.16 points, or 0.27 per cent, to 27,950.89 in early trade today.
10:09 Apple iOS bug makes iPhones, iPads vulnerable to attacks
Researchers have warned that a bug in Apple's iOS operating system makes most iPhones and iPads vulnerable to cyber attacks by hackers seeking access to sensitive data and control of their devices.
Cybersecurity firm FireEye published details about the vulnerability on its blog on Monday, saying the bug enables hackers to access devices by persuading users to install malicious applications with tainted text messages, emails and Web links.
The malicious application can then be used to replace genuine, trusted apps that were installed through Apple's App Store, including email and banking programs, with malicious software through a technique that FireEye has dubbed "Masque Attack."
These attacks can be used to steal banking and email login credentials or other sensitive data, according to FireEye, which is well-regarded in cybersecurity circles for its research.
"It is a very powerful vulnerability and it is easy to exploit," FireEye Senior Staff Research Scientist Tao Wei said in an interview.
Apple's iOS has robust security features that make it extremely difficult for attackers to install malware on devices using traditional techniques for infecting Windows machines and Android mobile devices with malicious emails and Web links.
The "Masque Attack" makes that possible by exploiting a system that Apple developed to allow large organizations to deploy custom-built software without going through Apple's App Store, according to David Richardson, iOS product manager at mobile security firm Lookout.
Those applications are not vetted by Apple for malicious software, unlike apps in its App Store, though users do receive pop-up notifications asking if they want to prevent the apps from installing on devices, he said.
09:22 8 women die, 15 critical after sterilisation camp in Chhattisgarh
NDTV reports: Eight women have died and 15 others are in serious condition after sterilization surgeries were conducted on them at a family planning camp organized by the Chhattisgarh government in Bilaspur three days ago.
More than 80 women underwent sterilization surgeries at the camp.
The camp was held in Pendari area of Takhatpur in Bilaspur, which the home district of Health Minister Amar Agarwal.
Bilaspur is about 110 km away from state capital Raipur.
Read more HERE
08:51 US: McDonald's recalls Happy Meal toy for choking risk
McDonald's is recalling a Hello Kitty-themed whistle given to children in Happy Meals, citing a chance they could choke on some of its parts.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission said on Monday that two children have reportedly coughed out pieces of the whistle that they had sucked into their mouths, including one child who received medical attention.
The safety agency said that parts of the three-inch-tall "Hello Kitty Birthday Lollipop" whistle can detach and be inhaled, posing a risk to small children.
McDonald's said about 2.5 million whistles were manufactured but the majority were not sent to restaurants.
The toys that were handed out in the US and Canada in October and November were in Happy Meals and Mighty Kids Meals.
The fast-food chain said it has recovered about 1.6 million whistles. Consumers should return the whistle to any McDonald's for a free replacement toy.
08:42 J&K: PDP MLA brandishes AK-47, claims he had it only for self defence
CNN-IBN reports: It is yet another social media embarrassment for politicians in Jammu and Kashmir. People's Democratic Party MLA Javed Mustafa Mir has been spotted brandishing an AK-47 openly.
An image has surfaced online showing Mir holding an AK-47 and standing casually next to an armed personnel.
The PDP leader has defended himself saying he was under threat and carried the weapon only for self defence.
The controversial pictures surfaced just a few days before the state will go to polls to elect 87-member Assembly.
Earlier this month, National Conference leader Nasir Aslam Wani's son was seen brandishing a gun, a photo of which was put up on a social networking site.
04:03 Sweden seeks ban on synthetic marijuana after two deaths
Sweden has asked the European Union for the right to speed up a ban on substances contained in a synthetic marijuana sold as "Spice" after two apparent fatal overdoses, the health ministry has said.
The ministry said it had asked Brussels to class the products as drugs, based on a recommendation from public health authorities which identified 24 cannabinoids and seven cathinones as dangerous substances.
04:02
Fears of all-out Ukraine war grow as MH17 families mourn: New columns of tanks, trucks and heavy artillery rumbled towards the pro-Moscow rebel stronghold of Donetsk as fears grew of a return to all-out fighting in war-torn eastern Ukraine.
The Netherlands meanwhile held an emotional ceremony for the 298 victims of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 which was shot down in July, focusing the world's eyes on the conflict in the ex-Soviet state.
04:01 CNN to suspend service in Russia
CNN has said it was suspending broadcasting in Russia "in light of recent changes in Russian media legislation," which aim to tighten control on independent news media.
A statement from CNN International parent Turner International, which is part of the Time Warner conglomerate, offered no specific timetable, but the Tass news agency reported earlier that broadcasts would cease as of December 31.
04:01 Kin of dead US soldiers sue 5 banks over Iran dealings
Families of US soldiers killed in Iraq and soldiers wounded there in attacks linked to Iran have sued five European banks, alleging their business with Iran helped finance the attacks.
HSBC, Credit Suisse, Standard Chartered, Royal Bank of Scotland, and Barclays Bank were sued in the federal district court in Brooklyn, New York, over their already admitted banking business with Iran in violation of US sanctions.
02:54 Pentagon can't confirm fate of IS leader
The US military can not confirm reports that the Islamic State group leader may have been struck in an airstrike, but a Pentagon official suggested today that lower-level figures may have been hit.
Speculation has swirled over the fate of jihadist leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi after local claims that he was killed or wounded in a strike by the US-led air armada targeting his group.
02:54 Google to boost Ebola donations
Google launched a campaign today to raise money to fight Ebola, tossing USD 10 million into the pot and saying it will match donations to the fund two to one. In addition, Google chief executive and co-founder Larry Page said his family's foundation is contributing USD 15 million to the cause.
02:35 UN chief sets up Gaza inquiry
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon today appointed a five-member panel to investigate Israeli attacks on UN shelters during the Gaza war and the discovery of Hamas weapons at UN sites.
Ban announced plans to set up a probe during his visit to Gaza last month after describing the three Israeli shellings of UN-run schools as a "moral outrage".
02:24
US, EU warn on sanctions as Russia says economy hurting: The US and the UK joined the European Union in threatening to tighten sanctions against Russia, which today said the measures enacted so far will help prevent its economy from growing next year.
Speaking minutes apart, U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron and US State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki blamed Russia for continuing to arm separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine, where a cease-fire has crumbled over the past week. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who briefly met his US
01:54 Black Tusk bassist dies after US crash
The bass player for the heavy metal band Black Tusk has died after being critically injured in a weekend motorcycle crash near his Georgia home. The death Jonathan Athon, 32, of Savannah was confirmed today by the band's record label, Relapse Records.
Black Tusk recently finished recording a follow-up to the band's 2011 album "Set The Dial" and the 2013 EP "Tend No Wounds," said Bob Lugowe, the label's marketing director.
01:53 Israel premier warns of bad nuclear deal with Iran
Israel's prime minister says Iran remains "unrepentant" and "unreformed," warning the West against rushing into a deal with it on its nuclear program.
Benjamin Netanyahu said today he will send a letter to world leaders warning them not to let Iran off the hook as the Nov. 24 deadline for nuclear talks approaches.
Netanyahu says Iran continues to call for the annihilation of Israel and should not be negotiated with or allowed to become a nuclear power.
01:35 Nadal to receive stem cell treatment for back pain
Rafael Nadal's doctor says the 14-time Grand Slam winner will receive stem cell treatment on his ailing back. Angel Ruiz-Cotorro told AP by phone today that "we are going to put cells in a joint in his spine" next week in Barcelona.
The Spanish tennis star was already sidelined for the rest of the season after having his appendix removed last week.
01:15 Bahamas small plane crash kills prominent pastor
Severe weather was likely a factor in the small plane crash that killed nine people, including a prominent Christian minister and his wife, on approach to the island of Grand Bahama, the foreign minister said Monday.
Heavy rain was buffeting the region when the Lear 36 Executive Jet struck a shipping container crane in Freeport as it tried to land, Foreign Minister Fred Mitchell said.
00:57 Canada former deputy PM says she was raped
A former Canadian deputy prime minister waded into a nationwide uproar over sexual violence today by revealing that she was twice assaulted when she was a budding politician years ago.
The shocking disclosure followed the suspension of two MPs by their party over allegations they harassed fellow lawmakers, and the firing of a top radio host over accusations of sexual violence.
00:36
The UN said today it has found no evidence Sudanese troops had raped 200 women and girls in the Darfur region, where insurgents have been battling government forces since 2003. Local media reported soldiers entered Tabit in North Darfur after one of their troops went missing last month and raped 200 women and girls. Sudanese troops denied peacekeepers access to the area last week, but the United Nations said a patrol reached Tabit on Sunday, spending several hours interviewing residents.
Peacekeepers find no evidence of Darfur 'mass rape': UN
00:34 US Postal Service says hackers got employee data
The US Postal Service today said hackers stole sensitive personal information from its employees in a large data breach this year, and got some customer data as well.
The postal service said in a statement it "recently learned of a cybersecurity intrusion into some of our information systems" and was cooperating with the FBI and other law enforcement agencies in an investigation.
00:34 PM condemns Nigeria school bombing
Prime Minister Narendra Modi tonight condemned the suicide bomber attack in a school in Nigeria which left 48 students dead, terming it as a cowardly act.
"The attack in Nigeria is cowardly and utterly condemnable," Modi tweeted. "Condolences to the kin of the deceased. My prayers (are) with the injured," he said.
00:33 Want to contest local polls in Guj? First install toilet at home
Aspirants for elections to local bodies, including municipal corporations in Gujarat, will now have to prove that they have toilet facility at their homes or they will not be able to contest. T
he Legislative Assembly today unanimously passed the Gujarat Local Authorities Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2014, making it mandatory for every aspirant who want to contest elections to district, taluka, village, panchayat, municipality and municipal corporations to first prove that he/she has a toilet facility at home as per the new amendment made in the existing law.
00:32 Top headlines in that last 24 hours
Shiv Sena may contest election to Assembly Speaker's post
Blowing hot and cold, Sena claims LoP's post but open to talks
Minor explosion outside NIA camp office in Kolkata
'Obvious that Sena will vote against the BJP-led govt'
Parrikar gets down to work, promises transparency in defence deals
Kolkata: Protesters storm school over alleged molestation of minor
J&K polls: BJP hopes to crack the Kashmir code
PM Modi's new ministers take charge
2G case: Court cancels non-bailiable warrant against Kanimozhi after apology
Maharastra assembly session begins; Sena sits on opposition benches
Modi Cabinet: Prabhu gets Railways, Parrikar gets Defence
Blowing hot and cold, Sena claims LoP's post but open to talks
Minor explosion outside NIA camp office in Kolkata
'Obvious that Sena will vote against the BJP-led govt'
Parrikar gets down to work, promises transparency in defence deals
Kolkata: Protesters storm school over alleged molestation of minor
J&K polls: BJP hopes to crack the Kashmir code
PM Modi's new ministers take charge
2G case: Court cancels non-bailiable warrant against Kanimozhi after apology
Maharastra assembly session begins; Sena sits on opposition benches
Modi Cabinet: Prabhu gets Railways, Parrikar gets Defence
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