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Mon, 20 July 2015
Initial findings show IS carried out bomb attack: Turkey PM
Timeline Refresh
23:59 Essar gave iPads as Diwali gifts to politicians, bureaucrats and journos
On 1 November 2010, Alok Chauhan, a corporate affairs executive at Essar Services India Limited sent an email to Sunil Bajaj, director and head of the corporate relations group at ESIL.
Attached to this email was a list, in possession of The Caravan, that contained the names of 222 people, including some of Indias top politicians, bureaucrats and journalists.
The list indicates that those mentioned on it had been sent iPads ahead of Diwali -- which fell on 5 November that year -- by Essar.
This document is the latest in a long string of revelations often termed as the Essar leaks. At the end of last year, a person with access to Essars internal communications approached the Delhi-based lawyer and activist Prashant Bhushan. This whistle-blower was privy to details of the companys attempts at managing the government and the media. Bhushans team went through hundreds of pages of the whistle-blowers trove, and found proof that the company provided favours to numerous journalists and political leaders such as Pranab Mukherjee and Nitin Gadkari.
Read more HERE.
23:54 Initial findings show IS carried out bomb attack: Turkey PM
Initial investigations indicate that Islamic State militants were responsible for a suicide bomb which killed 30 people in a town near the Syrian border today, Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said.
"Preliminary findings point to it being a suicide attack carried out by Daesh," Davutoglu told a news conference in Ankara, using an Arabic name for IS. "But we are not at a point to make a final judgement."
Davutoglu said the bomber had not yet been identified.
The bomb attack ripped through a cultural centre in Suruc, a townopposite the Syrian flashpoint of Kobane, leaving 30 people dead and 104 wounded.
Davutoglu denounced it as a "clearly terrorist attack" which targeted Turkey's peace, democracy and public order.
"This attack targets us all," he said, urging all political parties and people to demonstrate unity.
The pro-Kurdish HDP party blamed the Davutoglu government for a security and intelligence vacuum in relation to the bombing.
23:34 Chinese Navy's missile destroyer docked at Mumbai
Jinan, a Luyang II-class missile destroyer of Chinese Navy, today docked at Mumbai harbour on a stopover while on an anti-piracy mission on the Gulf of Aden.
Defence sources said the destroyer reached the Mumbai harbour earlier in the day.
The PLA Navy vessel will be leaving for Salalah in Oman on July 24.
The arrival of the Chinese vessel comes at a time when India is keeping a keen eye on the Chinese naval movement in the Indian Ocean Region.
Earlier this month, a Chinese submarine had docked in Karachi, Pakistan, raising the eyebrows of the Indian security establishment.
23:28 'Be broad-minded to accept Chinese subs in Indian Ocean'
Justifying the docking of Chinese submarines in Karachi and Colombo, a Chinese think tank today questioned criticism in India of the presence of Chinese naval ships in the Indian Ocean, saying China has a right to protect its interests and India should be "broad-minded" to accept it.
"But even if Chinese naval ships and submarines appear regularly in the Indian Ocean, so what?," an article in the state-run China Daily questioning the criticism of Chinese vessels in the Indian Ocean said.
Written by Zhou Do, an honorary fellow with Centre for China American Defence Relations of Beijing-based Academy of Military Science, the article said, "India, like China, is growing with strength. If growth of strength indeed brings confidence, a stronger India should be broad-minded. The Chinese naval vessels in the international waters of the Indian Ocean should not be taken as a threat."
"If the Pacific Ocean is big enough to accommodate China and the US, so is the Indian Ocean to accommodate India and China," it said.
Earlier this month, senior Chinese defence experts said that China recognises India's special role in stabilising the strategic Indian Ocean region but the perception that it is India's "backyard" may result in clashes.
"The word backyard is not very appropriate to use for an open sea and international areas of sea," Senior Captain Zhao Yi, Associate Professor of the Institute of Strategy in China's National Defence University, said.
Zhao said though he did not agree with an American scholar who had predicted that Indian Ocean could be the focus of 21st century and as a result severe clashes could breakout, he said such a possibility cannot be "eliminated" if the Indian Ocean is continued to be perceived as India's backyard.
23:18 MEA questions in Delhi HC Devyani Khobragade's integrity
Government has told the Delhi High
Court that Devyani Khobragade, an IFS officer and former Deputy Consul-General of India in New York, obtained US and Indian passports for her two daughters in violation of law and without informing the External Affairs Ministry, which raises serious questions about her "trustworthiness and integrity".
"Devyani Khobragade's (DK) submission that the US passports were only used for travel to USA does not in any way dilute the gravity and seriousness of her misdemeanours and blatant violations of the Indian Passports Act...
"In case, DK had any difficulty in obtaining US visa for petitioner 1 and 2 (her daughters), she should have brought the matter immediately to her employer, MEA, rather than resorting to dubious acts, which raises serious doubts about her integrity," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said in an affidavit filed before the court.
MEA also said "DK cannot and should not escape from consequences of her illegal acts."
The affidavit has been filed in response to the court issuing a notice to MEA on Khobragade's daughters' pleas challenging revocation of their Indian passports.
Khobragade, on behalf of her daughters, had contended that the government revoked the passports without issuing them show cause notice or hearing them.
23:09 Satyarthi urges youth to join in campaign against child labour
Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi today called upon the youth to join him in his "ambitious campaign of protecting 100 bilion left out children".
"Youths have the power to bring about changes in the world and to free bonded child labourers from the clutches of traffickers", Satyarthi said while delivering the K K Handique Memorial lecture on 'Role of Youths in protecting world's left out children'.
He urged youths to make use of social media to fight for the rights of the bonded and left out children.
"Your anger must be ventilated in a constructive and positive manner for the protection of bonded child labour and left out children," he added.
He further called upon universities to bring in innovations to maintain excellence in education.
"Education must be qualitative, inclusive and ensure equity, besides bringing employability and entrepreneurship," he added.
22:32 Pakistani national held at Kutch border by BSF
A Pakistani national was held by Border Security Force at border in Kutch district, a BSF official said here today.
Himath Gul Hussain, who appears to be mentally unstable and could not even speak properly, was held yesterday, a BSF official said.
Except his name, he did not gave any specific details about his whereabouts in Pakistan or how he reached here, the official said.
Since he looked extremely weak, BSF officials took Himath, who is around 40 years old, for medical check up today.
Later in the evening, he was handed over to Nara police station for further investigations, the BSF official said.
22:05 Assam shocker: Woman branded witch, beheaded by mob of 200
Just in: In a shocking incident in Assam, a 63-year-old woman was labelled a witch and beheaded by a mob of 200, reports NDTV.
She was dragged out of her home, stripped and then killed. Seven people have been arrested in the case.
Details awaited.
She was dragged out of her home, stripped and then killed. Seven people have been arrested in the case.
Details awaited.
21:40 Mumbai-Goa highway at the cost of more than 44,500 trees
The Maharashtra government today informed the legislative council that 44,574 trees will be hacked to make way for its ambitious Mumbai-Goa 4-lane highway project spanning 600 km.
While speaking during the question hour, Leader of Opposition Dhananjay Munde questioned if 67,950 trees will be cut to make way for Mumbai-Goa highway project. He also asked if more than 90-year-old trees will be cut for the project.
"Can the government not make changes in the draft plan of the project to save trees here as it does in other projects?" he questioned. In response, Chandrakant Patil, the public works department minister said that the government cannot make changes in the project draft plan and a total of 44,574 trees will be affected by the project.
"The affected trees will be shifted to another place. None of them will be killed. As per the government's latest policy no trees will be cut but will be replanted at the other locations," Patil said.
He further said that 84 km long phase I of the project from Panvel-Indapur has been stuck due to problems of land acquisition.
While speaking during the question hour, Leader of Opposition Dhananjay Munde questioned if 67,950 trees will be cut to make way for Mumbai-Goa highway project. He also asked if more than 90-year-old trees will be cut for the project.
"Can the government not make changes in the draft plan of the project to save trees here as it does in other projects?" he questioned. In response, Chandrakant Patil, the public works department minister said that the government cannot make changes in the project draft plan and a total of 44,574 trees will be affected by the project.
"The affected trees will be shifted to another place. None of them will be killed. As per the government's latest policy no trees will be cut but will be replanted at the other locations," Patil said.
He further said that 84 km long phase I of the project from Panvel-Indapur has been stuck due to problems of land acquisition.
21:25 AAP MLA Manoj Kumar granted bail in land grabbing case
The Delhi court today granted bail to AAP MLA Manoj Kumar, arrested in a cheating and land-grabbing case.
Additional Sessions Judge Raghubir Singh released Kumar on bail on furnishing of a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and a surety of like amount. The court said the MLA has already stayed in police custody for four days and neither the investigators have sought his further custody nor they intend to do so.
Kumar had approached the sessions court after his bail plea was dismissed by a magisterial court on July 16.
Additional Sessions Judge Raghubir Singh released Kumar on bail on furnishing of a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and a surety of like amount. The court said the MLA has already stayed in police custody for four days and neither the investigators have sought his further custody nor they intend to do so.
Kumar had approached the sessions court after his bail plea was dismissed by a magisterial court on July 16.
21:22 Indian cartoonist wins World Press Cartoon award
Pamarthy Shankar, a cartoonist working with the prominent Telugu newspaper 'Sakshi', has won the Grand Prix World Press Cartoon 2014 Award for sketching Nelson Mandela.
Shankar, who has worked as a cartoonist in several Telugu newspapers since 1998, was presented the award at Cascais in Portugal on July 11, 2015, by World Press Cartoon Director Antonio Antunes.
A Nelson Mandela caricature drawn by Shankar after the death of the iconic South African anti-apartheid leader in December 2013, fetched him the award for the year 2014, according to the website of the Portugal-based organisation. The award ceremony was supposed to be held earlier this year but got delayed due to elections in Portugal, Shankar told PTI.
Shankar's caricature has been displayed at a World Press Cartoon exhibition at Cascais in Portugal along with the top 50 works by other cartoonists in 2014, according to the organisation's website. The World Press Cartoon awards are presented in three categories every year, namely general, caricature and political, according to the website.
Shankar, who has worked as a cartoonist in several Telugu newspapers since 1998, was presented the award at Cascais in Portugal on July 11, 2015, by World Press Cartoon Director Antonio Antunes.
A Nelson Mandela caricature drawn by Shankar after the death of the iconic South African anti-apartheid leader in December 2013, fetched him the award for the year 2014, according to the website of the Portugal-based organisation. The award ceremony was supposed to be held earlier this year but got delayed due to elections in Portugal, Shankar told PTI.
Shankar's caricature has been displayed at a World Press Cartoon exhibition at Cascais in Portugal along with the top 50 works by other cartoonists in 2014, according to the organisation's website. The World Press Cartoon awards are presented in three categories every year, namely general, caricature and political, according to the website.
21:04 'Parliament won't function till Sushma, Raje, Chouhan quit or are sacked'
Upping the ante, Congress today made it clear that Parliament will not function in monsoon session starting tomorrow unless Union Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chief Ministers Vasundhara Raje and Shivraj Singh Chouhan resign or are sacked.
In an interview to Karan Thapar in To The Point programme on India Today, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad said that unless the government can obtain the resignations of or sack External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan before Parliament starts tomorrow neither House will function.
Azad said that the decision to disrupt the House would be taken on a day to day basis, but dropped enough hints that the Congress would follow the example of the Bharatiya Janata Party whom he accused of "holding up" the functioning of the House over the 2G issue when UPA was in power.
"The BJP cannot have two yardsticks," he said adding that the "magnitude of Vyapam and Lalitgate is billion fold more". Asserting that the Congress was ready for a "battle", Azad called the Vyapam scam, "the grandmother of all scams" and asked "who is responsible for the 40 plus killings? Is it the Pakistan army? Is it the ISI? Or is it the Naxals?."
In an interview to Karan Thapar in To The Point programme on India Today, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad said that unless the government can obtain the resignations of or sack External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan before Parliament starts tomorrow neither House will function.
Azad said that the decision to disrupt the House would be taken on a day to day basis, but dropped enough hints that the Congress would follow the example of the Bharatiya Janata Party whom he accused of "holding up" the functioning of the House over the 2G issue when UPA was in power.
"The BJP cannot have two yardsticks," he said adding that the "magnitude of Vyapam and Lalitgate is billion fold more". Asserting that the Congress was ready for a "battle", Azad called the Vyapam scam, "the grandmother of all scams" and asked "who is responsible for the 40 plus killings? Is it the Pakistan army? Is it the ISI? Or is it the Naxals?."
20:59 Aide of former Chinese prez Hu Jintao expelled from CPC, to face trial
A close aide of former Chinese president Hu Jintao was today expelled from the ruling Communist Party and will face corruption charges, the latest official to get netted in President Xi Jinping's anti-graft campaign.
Besides removing Ling Jihua from public office, the politburo of the CPC central committee at a meeting in Beijing has referred him for judicial prosecution, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.
Ling was also the former vice chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference national committee, an advisory legislative body. Ling's high profile world came down on the night of March 19, 2012 when his son Ling Gu died in a car accident when he was driving a $83,000 Ferrari sports car.
Two young women, who were in the car with him were seriously injured. While expelling him from the CPC, the party said that investigations found that Ling seriously violated the political discipline and rules of the party, as well as its organisational and confidentiality discipline. "He took advantage of his posts to seek profit for others and accepted huge bribes personally and through his family," the CPC said in a statement.
Ling also obtained a great deal of the Party and state's core secrets in violation of laws and discipline. Ling violated regulations on integrity and self-discipline, accepting others' money and belongings personally and through his wife and sought benefits for his wife's businesses, the statement said.
Besides removing Ling Jihua from public office, the politburo of the CPC central committee at a meeting in Beijing has referred him for judicial prosecution, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.
Ling was also the former vice chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference national committee, an advisory legislative body. Ling's high profile world came down on the night of March 19, 2012 when his son Ling Gu died in a car accident when he was driving a $83,000 Ferrari sports car.
Two young women, who were in the car with him were seriously injured. While expelling him from the CPC, the party said that investigations found that Ling seriously violated the political discipline and rules of the party, as well as its organisational and confidentiality discipline. "He took advantage of his posts to seek profit for others and accepted huge bribes personally and through his family," the CPC said in a statement.
Ling also obtained a great deal of the Party and state's core secrets in violation of laws and discipline. Ling violated regulations on integrity and self-discipline, accepting others' money and belongings personally and through his wife and sought benefits for his wife's businesses, the statement said.
20:25 US Secretary of State John Kerry to visit Cuba in August
JUST IN: US Secretary of State John Kerry will travel to Havana on August 14, to raise the American flag over the US embassy in Cuba, senior administration officials and diplomatic sources said. Kerry's historic trip will mark the first secretary of state to visit to the island since 1945.
20:16 Cuba flag raised at US state dept as ties resume
The United States and Cuba formally resumed diplomatic relations on Monday, as the Cuban flag was raised at the US state department in a historic gesture toward ending decades of hostility between the Cold War foes. The Cuban red, white and blue standard joined the flags of other US allies flying outside the building in the US capital.
20:09 Seeking OROP, ex-servicemen to carry out run on July 26
The ex-servicemen will carry out a run on Kargil Victory Day on July 26 seeking 'One Rank One Pension', an issue for which they have been protesting for over a month. The run will be led by Indian Army blade runner Maj D P Singh (retired).
20:03 Greece makes 2 billion euro payment to IMF
Greece has paid off its arrears of 2 billion (Rs 13,821 crore) to the International Monetary Fund after it became the proud recipient of a 7.16 billion emergency bridging loan from the European Union. In a statement, IMF director of communications Gerry Rice confirmed the payment. "As we have said, the fund stands ready to continue assisting Greece in its efforts to return to financial stability and growth," he said. The country must also pay 4.2 bn to the European Central Bank - as well as 600 million its government owes to the Greek central bank. The news comes after Greek banks reopened this morning.
19:47 Shiv Sena says monsoon session to be "maha-muqabala"
As the NDA projected a united face, the Shiv Sena declared that the monsoon session will be a 'maha-muqabla' between the ruling alliance and the opposition as it came out in strong support against the demands of resignations of top BJP leaders. "Their political character is bedag (spotless). In politics, sometimes you have to take certain decisions but it is not proper of muck raking against them," said senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut.
Raut, the party leader in the Rajya Sabha, hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to call the meeting of the NDA constituents, first of its kind ahead of a Parliament session. This, he said, will a go a long way to "restore" the communication in the ruling alliance.
19:45 Former Bihar CM Jitan Ram Manjhi gets Z+ security cover
Security cover for former Bihar chief minister has been increased. Ahead of the Bihar polls, the BJP-led government at the Centre has accorded Jitan Ram Manjhi Z+ security cover. Z+ is the highest level of security given with 36 personnel.
PM Narendra Modi, LK Advani, Union minister Kiren Rijiju and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat are some of the others who receive this security cover.
19:32 Blatter says he will not stand in new FIFA election
FIFA chief Sepp Blatter will not stand for the new elections, he announced during a press conference. Earlier, it was announced that elections for the post of FIFA president would be held on February 26, 2016 after Blatter step down earlier in June.
18:59 High alert along LoC after twin terror threats
Security forces have intensified vigil along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir after reports that two batches of militants would try to infiltrate next week.
Acting on intelligence report, the government has directed the security forces to be on high alert as a batch of seven militants belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad would try to cross the LoC next week.
The terrorists have moved forward from Kel sector to Doga area, sources said quoting the report.
Another report suggested that a group of six LeT militants, along with a local guide, are also trying to sneak into Jammu and Kashmir through Thandapani/Kainthwali.
"All formations of the security forces were told about the information and they were asked to intensify vigil," sources said. Sources said that they were expecting firing from across the border towards Indian posts as this happens whenever there is an attempt of infiltration.
On July 13, Army foiled an infiltration bid and killed a militant along the LoC in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. Last week, one Indian woman was killed and nearly 10 others were injured when Pakistani forces fired upon in Akhnoor sector of Jammu, leading to strong protests by India.
Acting on intelligence report, the government has directed the security forces to be on high alert as a batch of seven militants belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad would try to cross the LoC next week.
The terrorists have moved forward from Kel sector to Doga area, sources said quoting the report.
Another report suggested that a group of six LeT militants, along with a local guide, are also trying to sneak into Jammu and Kashmir through Thandapani/Kainthwali.
"All formations of the security forces were told about the information and they were asked to intensify vigil," sources said. Sources said that they were expecting firing from across the border towards Indian posts as this happens whenever there is an attempt of infiltration.
On July 13, Army foiled an infiltration bid and killed a militant along the LoC in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. Last week, one Indian woman was killed and nearly 10 others were injured when Pakistani forces fired upon in Akhnoor sector of Jammu, leading to strong protests by India.
18:37 Even journalists eat in Parliament canteen, says Speaker
MPs alone do not eat in Parliament canteen, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said today amid controversy over heavy subsidy being enjoyed by the facility.
She said the issue of subsidy and quality of food and service are being addressed through a dialogue with all the stakeholders including parliament's Canteen Committee as also the Press Gallery Committee.
Noting that besides the MPs, the canteen is being utilised by journalists, Parliament staff of all levels, security personnel and guests, she said an individual alone cannot take a call on the issues involved.
"MPs alone don't eat in the (Parliament) canteen," she said. The Speaker said besides the Canteen committee, she will also speak to the journalists' committee on the issue of subsidy. She said quality is a concern and she is addressing it.
The Speaker made these remarks after chairing an all-party meeting convened ahead of the Monsoon session beginning tomorrow.
She said she was speaking on the subject as it had been an issue of public discourse for some time after an RTI query revealed that Parliament canteen facility got a total subsidy of Rs 60.7 crore during the last five years.
Mahajan said on the demands of MPs, it has been decided to invite experts in various fields to deliver lecture on issues of importance. Besides, the members who attend the lecture on specific subjects will be provided with short notes as part of the newly-launched Speaker's Research Initiative.
The long-pending GST Bill and Millennium Development Goals are two of the issues which will be part of the new initiative, she said. "After hearing the experts, it is up to the individual members to firm up their views," she said.
She said the issue of subsidy and quality of food and service are being addressed through a dialogue with all the stakeholders including parliament's Canteen Committee as also the Press Gallery Committee.
Noting that besides the MPs, the canteen is being utilised by journalists, Parliament staff of all levels, security personnel and guests, she said an individual alone cannot take a call on the issues involved.
"MPs alone don't eat in the (Parliament) canteen," she said. The Speaker said besides the Canteen committee, she will also speak to the journalists' committee on the issue of subsidy. She said quality is a concern and she is addressing it.
The Speaker made these remarks after chairing an all-party meeting convened ahead of the Monsoon session beginning tomorrow.
She said she was speaking on the subject as it had been an issue of public discourse for some time after an RTI query revealed that Parliament canteen facility got a total subsidy of Rs 60.7 crore during the last five years.
Mahajan said on the demands of MPs, it has been decided to invite experts in various fields to deliver lecture on issues of importance. Besides, the members who attend the lecture on specific subjects will be provided with short notes as part of the newly-launched Speaker's Research Initiative.
The long-pending GST Bill and Millennium Development Goals are two of the issues which will be part of the new initiative, she said. "After hearing the experts, it is up to the individual members to firm up their views," she said.
18:26
Never mind the Wimbledon loss, Roger Federer is always a winner. The consulate of Malawi tweets: "Thanks @rogerfederer for the amazing contribution you are making in the warm heart of Africa."
18:19 64 bills pending in Parliament, says research group
Sixty-four bills, including the controversial land acquisition legislation, are pending in the Parliament at various stages, a study group that tracks legislative developments in the country has said.
According to PRS Legislative Research, other important pending bills are GST Bill (122nd Amendment Bill); Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2013 and Whistleblowers Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2015. There are some bills like Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2014; Regional Rural Banks (Amendment) Bill, 2014 and Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Amendment Bill, 2014 which have been passed in Lok Sabha, but are waiting the approval of Rajya Sabha to become a law.
There are some bills like the Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority Bill, 2011 which were introduced by the then UPA government but are yet to be passed by the Parliament.
According to PRS Legislative Research, other important pending bills are GST Bill (122nd Amendment Bill); Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2013 and Whistleblowers Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2015. There are some bills like Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2014; Regional Rural Banks (Amendment) Bill, 2014 and Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Amendment Bill, 2014 which have been passed in Lok Sabha, but are waiting the approval of Rajya Sabha to become a law.
There are some bills like the Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority Bill, 2011 which were introduced by the then UPA government but are yet to be passed by the Parliament.
18:08 BJP bigwigs put their heads together at Parliamentary party meet
BJP bigwigs gather for the parliamentary party executive meeting. Party president Amit Shah, External Affairs minister Sushma Sushma Swaraj, LK Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi reach PM Modi's 7 RCR residence.
On the eve of the Monsoon session, the government and main opposition Congress today locked horns over the controversies surrounding Sushma Swaraj, Vasundhara Raje and Shivraj Singh Chouhan, setting the stage for confrontation in Parliament.
While Congress made it clear that it will not allow Parliament to function unless the BJP leaders facing allegations quit, the government asserted that there will be no resignations and that it will not give in to any ultimatum.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while seeking the cooperation of opposition, expressed willingness to discuss any issue as he said that running Parliament is a "shared responsibility".
Ahead of the Monsoon session, two all-party meetings were held -- one convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu and the other by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan -- but both ended in a deadlock, with the government and the main opposition sticking to their positions on the controversies, particularly over Lalit Modi and Vyapam scam.
On the eve of the Monsoon session, the government and main opposition Congress today locked horns over the controversies surrounding Sushma Swaraj, Vasundhara Raje and Shivraj Singh Chouhan, setting the stage for confrontation in Parliament.
While Congress made it clear that it will not allow Parliament to function unless the BJP leaders facing allegations quit, the government asserted that there will be no resignations and that it will not give in to any ultimatum.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while seeking the cooperation of opposition, expressed willingness to discuss any issue as he said that running Parliament is a "shared responsibility".
Ahead of the Monsoon session, two all-party meetings were held -- one convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu and the other by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan -- but both ended in a deadlock, with the government and the main opposition sticking to their positions on the controversies, particularly over Lalit Modi and Vyapam scam.
17:39 Did Doordarshan's Kisan channel ad FREE: Amitabh
Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan has issued a statement denying that he has entered into a contract with Doordarshan for the endorsement of their channel DD Kisan.
Reacting to a report published in The Hindu newspaper, Amitabh Bachchan said he has not received any money for the same.
His statement reads: I wish to state that I have not entered into any contract with Doordarshan, on the endorsement of their Channel DD Kisan, and neither have I received any money from them. I worked with the advertising agency Lowe Lintas on the campaign for DD Kisan, and have not entered into any contract with them either, nor have I received any money from Lintas, as being stated. My deliverables on this campaign have been executed by me many days ago, said Amitabh Bachchan.
I work pro bono on various issues and DD Kisan Channel is one of them. If there is any evidence or proof to the contrary, please forward them to me for verification, the statement from Amitabh Bachchan further read.
The report published in The Hindu had said that Amitabh Bachchan was roped in for Rs. 6.31 crore and was said to be the most expensive endorsement ever by the actor.
Doordarshans Kisan Channel was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May this year.
Reacting to a report published in The Hindu newspaper, Amitabh Bachchan said he has not received any money for the same.
His statement reads: I wish to state that I have not entered into any contract with Doordarshan, on the endorsement of their Channel DD Kisan, and neither have I received any money from them. I worked with the advertising agency Lowe Lintas on the campaign for DD Kisan, and have not entered into any contract with them either, nor have I received any money from Lintas, as being stated. My deliverables on this campaign have been executed by me many days ago, said Amitabh Bachchan.
I work pro bono on various issues and DD Kisan Channel is one of them. If there is any evidence or proof to the contrary, please forward them to me for verification, the statement from Amitabh Bachchan further read.
The report published in The Hindu had said that Amitabh Bachchan was roped in for Rs. 6.31 crore and was said to be the most expensive endorsement ever by the actor.
Doordarshans Kisan Channel was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May this year.
17:26 The Ashes and us
Watching the Ashes, live, makes you despair for Indian cricket. Here is the oldest rivalry in cricket, over-exposed to the point where one Ashes series seems to bleed into the next one without a break, and yet England and Australia manage to put on a show that has cricket fans without a dog in the fight, stalking the series. What are the odds on a third country fan watching India play Zimbabwe? Vanishingly small. Read more
17:25 'Van Ass NOT sacked as Hockey India coach'
Just in: "We have not sacked Paul van Ass from the post of Indian hockey team coach," say Narinder Batra, Hockey India President.
India's men's hockey team chief coach Paul van Ass on Monday claimed he was fired by Hockey India following his alleged public altercation with federation president Narinder Batra.
"As far I know I was fired one week after the Hockey World League semi-finals in Antwerp. Roelant Oltmans (High Performance Director) was asked to replace me," Van Ass said from the Netherlands.
"I have been told on January 13 that Dr Batra doesn't want me to be the coach any more. Roelant called me and informed me about this," he said today.
India's men's hockey team chief coach Paul van Ass on Monday claimed he was fired by Hockey India following his alleged public altercation with federation president Narinder Batra.
"As far I know I was fired one week after the Hockey World League semi-finals in Antwerp. Roelant Oltmans (High Performance Director) was asked to replace me," Van Ass said from the Netherlands.
"I have been told on January 13 that Dr Batra doesn't want me to be the coach any more. Roelant called me and informed me about this," he said today.
17:14 'Third rate actor' Bachchan responds to FB rant
Superstar Amitabh Bachchan has responded to a rather rude Facebook post telling him to shift his meet and greet fans at the beach as the crowd outside his home causes traffic jams.
Bachchan, 72, wrote on his blog that the motorist blamed his Sunday meeting ritual for traffic snarls and asked him to shift to Juhu Beach as there is a "lot of space" and called him a "third rate actor".
"I would entirely agree with this responder on FB. This celebrity actor is indeed an old aged man, and most certainly a third rate actor... "But... Mr Suffering Motorist... I am in no way going to leave my house to locations that you so generously suggest, to meet my well wishers... they are like family to me, and I shall meet my family at home not on the beach...," he wrote.
The "Piku" star also said that celebrities end up as a scapegoat for every problem. "It is a foregone conclusion in the minds of some - you cannot have the benefit of celebrity and be correct and good," he wrote.
Bachchan, 72, wrote on his blog that the motorist blamed his Sunday meeting ritual for traffic snarls and asked him to shift to Juhu Beach as there is a "lot of space" and called him a "third rate actor".
"I would entirely agree with this responder on FB. This celebrity actor is indeed an old aged man, and most certainly a third rate actor... "But... Mr Suffering Motorist... I am in no way going to leave my house to locations that you so generously suggest, to meet my well wishers... they are like family to me, and I shall meet my family at home not on the beach...," he wrote.
The "Piku" star also said that celebrities end up as a scapegoat for every problem. "It is a foregone conclusion in the minds of some - you cannot have the benefit of celebrity and be correct and good," he wrote.
17:07 Dozens dead after terror attack in Turkish border city
An explosion ripped through a rally in the Turkish border town of Suruc on Monday, leaving at least 27 people dead and wounding 100 others, the country's Interior Ministry said. CNN reported that the ministry blamed the explosion on a "terrorist attack" and said the death toll may rise.
17:02 Teesta records statement before CBI in FCRA violation case
Activist Teesta Setalvad today recorded her statement before the CBI in connection with a case against her firm for allegedly receiving around USD 2.9 lakh in foreign donations in violation of Foreign Contribution Regulation Act.
She had been asked by a local court to appear before the central agency by Tuesday as on Friday special CBI Judge Anis Khan had reserved an order on the anticipatory bail applications filed by Setalvad and her husband Javed Anand till tomorrow while granting them interim protection from arrest.
The CBI, which registered a case on July 8 against Sabrang Communication and Publishing Pvt Limited, has alleged that SCPPL was not registered under FCRA for collecting money from abroad and the amount of nearly Rs 1.8 crore (2.9 USD) was, therefore, received in violation of the Act as the organisation needed to seek prior approval of the Union Home Ministry.
The CBI sleuths searched four places including premises owned by Setalvad, Anand, an associate Gulam Mohammed Peshimam and the office of SCPPL on July 14.
She had been asked by a local court to appear before the central agency by Tuesday as on Friday special CBI Judge Anis Khan had reserved an order on the anticipatory bail applications filed by Setalvad and her husband Javed Anand till tomorrow while granting them interim protection from arrest.
The CBI, which registered a case on July 8 against Sabrang Communication and Publishing Pvt Limited, has alleged that SCPPL was not registered under FCRA for collecting money from abroad and the amount of nearly Rs 1.8 crore (2.9 USD) was, therefore, received in violation of the Act as the organisation needed to seek prior approval of the Union Home Ministry.
The CBI sleuths searched four places including premises owned by Setalvad, Anand, an associate Gulam Mohammed Peshimam and the office of SCPPL on July 14.
16:56 Kejriwal summons Delhi police chief again, asks for four lists
Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal met Delhi police commissioner BS Bassi for a list of complaints that have been registered regarding crimes against women and a list of action that has been taken. Kejriwal also asks for a list of inspectors who have not been made SHOs, a list of beat constables including their posts and mobile numbers.
The meeting comes in the wake of the chief minister's Saturday meeting with the family members of the 19-year-old girl who was brutally stabbed to death in the capital. Kejriwal has asked PM Narendra Modi to improve the law and order situation or transfer the powers of Delhi Police under the state government.
The contentious relationship between the Delhi government and the police was brought to the fore when Kejriwal came under fire on Friday after he used the word 'thulla' to describe Delhi policemen in an interview to a television news channel.'Thulla' is a derogatory slang commonly used in Delhi to refer to policemen.
The meeting comes in the wake of the chief minister's Saturday meeting with the family members of the 19-year-old girl who was brutally stabbed to death in the capital. Kejriwal has asked PM Narendra Modi to improve the law and order situation or transfer the powers of Delhi Police under the state government.
The contentious relationship between the Delhi government and the police was brought to the fore when Kejriwal came under fire on Friday after he used the word 'thulla' to describe Delhi policemen in an interview to a television news channel.'Thulla' is a derogatory slang commonly used in Delhi to refer to policemen.
16:54 Remember her?
Look who's here! Actor Rishi Kapoor tweets this picture, saying, "Flying with the Padmini Kolhapure from Hydrabad. After years!"
To which former J-K CM Omar Abdullah promptly replies: @abdullah_omar "Loved you guys in Prem Rog & Zamaane ko Dikhana Hai. Some of the lines from ZKDH are still family favourites :) "
To which former J-K CM Omar Abdullah promptly replies: @abdullah_omar "Loved you guys in Prem Rog & Zamaane ko Dikhana Hai. Some of the lines from ZKDH are still family favourites :) "
16:45 I have been sacked, says Hockey India coach Paul van Ass
Barely five months into the job, Indian hockey chief coach Paul van Ass has been sacked. The Hockey India disclosed no reason for removing the Dutchman.
Ass has said that he was verbally fired by Hockey India director Narendra Batra as he did not want him as the coach. Batra confirmed that Van Ass had not been officially sacked.
Current and former India players feel that Dutchman's absence could prove to be detrimental to their preparation for the 2016 Olympics.
Ass has said that he was verbally fired by Hockey India director Narendra Batra as he did not want him as the coach. Batra confirmed that Van Ass had not been officially sacked.
Current and former India players feel that Dutchman's absence could prove to be detrimental to their preparation for the 2016 Olympics.
Van Ass's future with the Indian team was in serious doubt after he
failed to report on time for the national team's camp that began at the
scenic Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Shilaroo, Himachal
Pradesh on Sunday.
16:17 SP slams VHP leader's 'Hindu nation by 2020' remark
Reacting to Ashok Singhal's remark that India will become a 'Hindu Nation' by 2020, Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan said the "disturbed" VHP patron's comment was a "conspiracy to destablise" the BJP government which was not paying any heed to him. Khan, the Uttar Pradesh Minister for Urban Development and Parliamentary Affairs, while interacting with media here last night said that that the VHP veteran was "not keeping in good health and none in the present government was lending ears to him." "He (Singhal) is disturbed because (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi has asked him to disclose details of crores of donations received by the organisation from across the world for construction of Ram temple," said Khan.
The senior Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) functionary had on Saturday said: "I was at the Sai Baba Ashram where Sai Baba told me by 2020 the entire country will be Hindu and 2030 the entire world will be Hindu. I feel that revolution has started."
Responding to the statement, the SP leader, said, "Singhal quoted Sai Baba while predicting about formation of a Hindu Rashtra. But the spiritual leader had then faced ire of Sadhus for his comments and his statues were also vandalised."
Speaking about the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Singhal stated that the organisation was changing stance over its demand of abrogation of Article 370, which accords special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and contemplating to distance itself from the issue.
"It (RSS) believes that Kashmir's problems would have been solved had Atal Bihari Vajpayee been holding the reins of the government," added Khan.
The senior Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) functionary had on Saturday said: "I was at the Sai Baba Ashram where Sai Baba told me by 2020 the entire country will be Hindu and 2030 the entire world will be Hindu. I feel that revolution has started."
Responding to the statement, the SP leader, said, "Singhal quoted Sai Baba while predicting about formation of a Hindu Rashtra. But the spiritual leader had then faced ire of Sadhus for his comments and his statues were also vandalised."
Speaking about the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Singhal stated that the organisation was changing stance over its demand of abrogation of Article 370, which accords special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and contemplating to distance itself from the issue.
"It (RSS) believes that Kashmir's problems would have been solved had Atal Bihari Vajpayee been holding the reins of the government," added Khan.
16:11 Yakub Memon's cousin meets him in prison
A family member of 1993 Mumbai blasts convict Yakub Memon, who is on a death row, today met him at the high security Central Prison in Napur.
Yakub's cousin Usman Memon, accompanied by a local lawyer, arrived at the Central Prison in the afternoon where the convict is lodged. His other family members, particularly his wife and daughter, were also expected to visit him, but they did not turn up.
Usman and lawyer Anil Gondane refused to talk to the media persons waiting outside the jail premises.
Memon's curative petition, his last legal attempt to escape the gallows, is expected to come up for hearing before the Supreme Court tomorrow.
Memon, a key conspirator with Dawood Ibrahim in the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case, is one of ten convicts awarded death penalty by a special TADA court.
His death sentence was upheld by a Supreme Court bench on March 21, 2013. Earlier, amid reports that Yakub will be hanged this month end, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had last week said his government would follow the directives of the Supreme Court on the issue.
"Whatever we do will be made public at an appropriate time," Fadnavis had said. If the execution is carried out, it will be the first in connection with the violence that rocked Mumbai resulting in the death of over 250 people in 1993.
Also read: Why it's wrong to hang Yakub Memon
Yakub's cousin Usman Memon, accompanied by a local lawyer, arrived at the Central Prison in the afternoon where the convict is lodged. His other family members, particularly his wife and daughter, were also expected to visit him, but they did not turn up.
Usman and lawyer Anil Gondane refused to talk to the media persons waiting outside the jail premises.
Memon's curative petition, his last legal attempt to escape the gallows, is expected to come up for hearing before the Supreme Court tomorrow.
Memon, a key conspirator with Dawood Ibrahim in the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case, is one of ten convicts awarded death penalty by a special TADA court.
His death sentence was upheld by a Supreme Court bench on March 21, 2013. Earlier, amid reports that Yakub will be hanged this month end, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had last week said his government would follow the directives of the Supreme Court on the issue.
"Whatever we do will be made public at an appropriate time," Fadnavis had said. If the execution is carried out, it will be the first in connection with the violence that rocked Mumbai resulting in the death of over 250 people in 1993.
Also read: Why it's wrong to hang Yakub Memon
16:07 Vyapam whisteblower Anand Rai transferred to Dhar
Days after he lodged a complaint with the CBI against senior BJP leader and former Union minister Vikram Verma, Vyapam scam whistleblower and government doctor Anand Rai has been transferred from Indore to Dhar district.
Rai had lodged a complaint with the CBI alleging that Verma, using his influence and power, had got his daughter, who was pursuing her MBBS in Santosh Medical College at Ghaziabad, transferred to Gandhi Medical College in Bhopal.
Rai, who was on deputation at the health department's training institute in Indore, was transferred yesterday.
His wife Gouri, who is also a government doctor, too was transferred from civil hospital at Mhow in Indore to Ujjain district hospital last month.
However, unfazed by the transfer, Dr Rai today said that he was going to move the court to challenge his transfer.
Read what Dr Rai told Rediff.com told about the Vyapam scam, here.
16:06
How Essar Handed Out 195 iPads as Diwali Gifts to Top Politicians, Bureaucrats and Journalists in 2010: List 1. Read more
16:02 Isis forces Yazidi children to behead dolls as part of their 're-education' training
Hundreds of Yazidi boys abducted by Isis are being forced to practice beheading techniques on dolls as part of their "re-education'.
The radicalisation programme is part of Isis' plan to create the next generation of extremists in the vast swathes of territory it controls in northern Iraq and Syria. Read more
The radicalisation programme is part of Isis' plan to create the next generation of extremists in the vast swathes of territory it controls in northern Iraq and Syria. Read more
15:54
Just In: Supreme Court issues notice to Jindal group on the Centre's plea against Delhi HC order on allocation of coal blocks in Odisha.
The apex court orders maintenance of status quo on the two coal blocks. Details soon.
15:53
Just In: Activist Teesta Setalvad records her statement before CBI.
15:37 Harry Potter fan movie to tell story of Severus Snape before the boy wizard was born
Harry Potter fans could be about to delve into the earlier world of Severus Snape in a new fan movie.The complex fictional character, a mainstay in JK Rowling's best-selling wizardry books, will be the focus of Severus Snape and the Maurauders following a Kickstarter fundraising campaign.
Snape is one of Rowling's most fascinating imaginations, with his hard, often cruel exterior hiding emotional turmoil and his much softer heart.
Read more
Snape is one of Rowling's most fascinating imaginations, with his hard, often cruel exterior hiding emotional turmoil and his much softer heart.
Read more
15:30 Why it's wrong to hang Yakub Memon
The curative petition and other legal remedies still available to Yakub Memon are part of his rights as a prisoner condemned to death. Does the Maharashtra government want to deprive him of these rights, asks Jyoti Punwani. Read more
15:29 HC turns down murder convict's plea seeking stay in Salman's case
The Bombay High Court today refused accept a plea to grant stay on an appeal filed by Bollywood actor Salman Khan against the five-year sentence awarded to him in the 2002 hit-and-run case.
A convict in a murder case, whose appeal has not been heard since 2009, had filed an intervention application seeking a stay on Salman Khan's appeal.
He contended that the matters of celebrities were heard out-of-turn whereas those of other convicts like him were kept pending endlessly as a result of which they continued to languish in jails.
The convict has also filed a separate petition in the High Court making the same allegation about appeals of celebrities being heard urgently. He has prayed that his appeal may be heard expeditiously.
Justice A R Joshi refused to stay Salman's appeal saying that both the sides in the case had consented for expeditious hearing of the matter. Moreover, the Judge said, in the petition filed by the convict (who has intervened), the High Court has not passed any judicial order.
The intervenor's counsel, Aparna Vatkar, had sought a stay on Salman's appeal saying it should not be heard until the petition filed by her client separately before another bench is decided by the High Court.
A convict in a murder case, whose appeal has not been heard since 2009, had filed an intervention application seeking a stay on Salman Khan's appeal.
He contended that the matters of celebrities were heard out-of-turn whereas those of other convicts like him were kept pending endlessly as a result of which they continued to languish in jails.
The convict has also filed a separate petition in the High Court making the same allegation about appeals of celebrities being heard urgently. He has prayed that his appeal may be heard expeditiously.
Justice A R Joshi refused to stay Salman's appeal saying that both the sides in the case had consented for expeditious hearing of the matter. Moreover, the Judge said, in the petition filed by the convict (who has intervened), the High Court has not passed any judicial order.
The intervenor's counsel, Aparna Vatkar, had sought a stay on Salman's appeal saying it should not be heard until the petition filed by her client separately before another bench is decided by the High Court.
15:19 Pluto's 100-million-year heart still being formed
NASA's New Horizons spacecraft has discovered a vast, craterless plain in Pluto's 'heart' that appears to be no more than 100 million years old, and is possibly still being shaped by geologic processes. This frozen region is north of Pluto's icy mountains, in the centre-left of the heart feature informally named Tombaugh Region.
"This terrain is not easy to explain," said Jeff Moore, leader of the New Horizons Geology, Geophysics and Imaging Team (GGI) at NASA's Ames Research Centre in California.
"The discovery of vast, craterless, very young plains on Pluto exceeds all pre-flyby expectations," said Moore. This fascinating icy plains region - resembling frozen mud cracks on Earth - has been informally named "Sputnik Planum" (Sputnik Plain) after the Earth's first artificial satellite. It has a broken surface of irregularly-shaped segments, roughly 20 kilometres across, bordered by what appear to be shallow troughs, NASA said. Some of these troughs have darker material within them, while others are traced by clumps of hills that appear to rise above the surrounding terrain. Elsewhere, the surface appears to be etched by fields of small pits that may have formed by a process called sublimation, in which ice turns directly from solid to gas, just as dry ice does on Earth.
Also see: A whole new world on Pluto
"This terrain is not easy to explain," said Jeff Moore, leader of the New Horizons Geology, Geophysics and Imaging Team (GGI) at NASA's Ames Research Centre in California.
"The discovery of vast, craterless, very young plains on Pluto exceeds all pre-flyby expectations," said Moore. This fascinating icy plains region - resembling frozen mud cracks on Earth - has been informally named "Sputnik Planum" (Sputnik Plain) after the Earth's first artificial satellite. It has a broken surface of irregularly-shaped segments, roughly 20 kilometres across, bordered by what appear to be shallow troughs, NASA said. Some of these troughs have darker material within them, while others are traced by clumps of hills that appear to rise above the surrounding terrain. Elsewhere, the surface appears to be etched by fields of small pits that may have formed by a process called sublimation, in which ice turns directly from solid to gas, just as dry ice does on Earth.
Also see: A whole new world on Pluto
15:05 Ganguly in BCCI panel to study Lodha verdict
Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly was today named in the BCCI's four-member working group formed to study the Justice R M Lodha committee's order and give recommendations within six weeks.
The committee will be chaired by IPL Chairman Rajeev Shukla and will have BCCI Secretary Anurag Thakur and Treasurer Aniruddh Chaudhary as the other members. BCCI's legal adviser U N Banerjee will assist the panel.
Announcing the names of the panel members, Shukla said the panel will study the implications of the Justice Lodha Committee report and draw up a roadmap for IPL 9, which will have a minimum of eight teams.
"The committee will have six weeks' time to study the Lodha committee report and will give its recommendations after talking to all the stakeholders," Shukla told PTI. "The committee will also consult the legal experts before coming up with recommendations since we do not want any legal complications later on," Shukla said.
The decision to form a working group was taken at the crucial IPL Governing Council meeting in Mumbai yesterday where members discussed the Lodha Committee's order, suspending Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals for two years in the IPL.
Shukla said that Ganguly, who is also a member of the IPL Governing Council, has been included in the group as a representative of players. The IPL Chairman clarified that the BCCI will implement the Lodha Committee verdict in toto and the panel's job is only to find the way forward so that preparations for IPL 9 can begin.
The committee will be chaired by IPL Chairman Rajeev Shukla and will have BCCI Secretary Anurag Thakur and Treasurer Aniruddh Chaudhary as the other members. BCCI's legal adviser U N Banerjee will assist the panel.
Announcing the names of the panel members, Shukla said the panel will study the implications of the Justice Lodha Committee report and draw up a roadmap for IPL 9, which will have a minimum of eight teams.
"The committee will have six weeks' time to study the Lodha committee report and will give its recommendations after talking to all the stakeholders," Shukla told PTI. "The committee will also consult the legal experts before coming up with recommendations since we do not want any legal complications later on," Shukla said.
The decision to form a working group was taken at the crucial IPL Governing Council meeting in Mumbai yesterday where members discussed the Lodha Committee's order, suspending Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals for two years in the IPL.
Shukla said that Ganguly, who is also a member of the IPL Governing Council, has been included in the group as a representative of players. The IPL Chairman clarified that the BCCI will implement the Lodha Committee verdict in toto and the panel's job is only to find the way forward so that preparations for IPL 9 can begin.
15:02 The states flawed focus on madrasas
In a scenario where the Muslim community's impulse for modern education is discernible and madrasas are responding to it, Maharashtra's move to arm-twist madrasas into modernisation is both short-sighted and outright stereotyping. Read
14:31
Anurag Thakur and Rajeev Shukla to be members of BCCI working group to study Justice R M Lodha committee verdict.
14:28 Exclusive! 'By 2012, we brought China boundary row to point of solution'
"Now it is really a question of whether both political leaderships wish to do it now. It is a big thing to do because it means that we have to change the way we learnt to draw the map of India in our schools because you will never get hundred percent of what you want from a settlement."
"The Chinese also have to learn to change the way they learnt to draw the map of China in their schools. A settlement will mean give and take. It will mean adjustments."
A sensational interview on India-China relations, with the man most qualified to answer. Shiv Shankar Menon -- India's former ambassador to China, former foreign secretary and former national security adviser -- speaks to Sheela Bhatt/Rediff.com. Read
"The Chinese also have to learn to change the way they learnt to draw the map of China in their schools. A settlement will mean give and take. It will mean adjustments."
A sensational interview on India-China relations, with the man most qualified to answer. Shiv Shankar Menon -- India's former ambassador to China, former foreign secretary and former national security adviser -- speaks to Sheela Bhatt/Rediff.com. Read
14:24 The Queen was wise to mock Hitler
If you're feeling the faintest twinge of regret about your childhood behaviour, Ma'am, then DON'T, writes former London mayor Boris Johnson about the Nazi salute of Queen Elizabeth II. Read
14:10 Hours after ouster Farooq Abdullah reinstated as J-K cricket board prez
The Jammu and Kashmir High Court stayed Farooq Abdullah's removal from the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association, he continues to remain president. A sub-judicial court in the state stayed the elections. Hours earlier, Imran Ansari -- the sports minister of J&K -- had been elected president, but his appointment now stands cancelled after the court order stayed the cricket association polls.
14:02
Dr Anand Rai, whistle blower in the Vyapam scam transferred from Indore to Dhar in Madhya Pradesh.
13:58 Bajrangi Bhaijaan enters Rs 100 crore club in opening weekend
Salman Khan's Eid release Bajrangi Bhaijaan has collected Rs 102.6 crore in the opening weekend, making it his eighth film to end the coveted Rs 100 crore club, according to distributors.
"Eros International & SKF announces record breaking opening weekend collections of Rs 102.60 crore India NBOC for 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' said the distributors.
After a considerable jump from the opening day where the movie collected Rs 27.25 crore, the film went on to make Rs 36.60 crore and Rs 38.75 crore on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
"Eros International & SKF announces record breaking opening weekend collections of Rs 102.60 crore India NBOC for 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' said the distributors.
After a considerable jump from the opening day where the movie collected Rs 27.25 crore, the film went on to make Rs 36.60 crore and Rs 38.75 crore on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
13:53 Vyapam scam: SC allows SIT to file charge sheets
The Supreme Court today allowed SIT and the Special Task Force of Madhya Police to file charge sheets in Vyapam scam cases till the matters are transferred to CBI. A three-judge bench of Chief Justice H L Dattu and Justices Arun Kumar Mishra and Amitava Roy fixed July 24 for further hearing of the application of CBI that the probe agencies of the state police be allowed submit be charge sheets in the scam cases.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, sought time to file a reply to the plea of the CBI.
The bench allowed it and fixed the matter for further hearing on July 24. CBI had on July 16 approached the apex court with the plea, saying that transfer of more than 185 Vyapam scam cases from SIT to CBI will take time and the state investigating agencies be allowed to file charge sheets in the cases in which the probe is complete.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, sought time to file a reply to the plea of the CBI.
The bench allowed it and fixed the matter for further hearing on July 24. CBI had on July 16 approached the apex court with the plea, saying that transfer of more than 185 Vyapam scam cases from SIT to CBI will take time and the state investigating agencies be allowed to file charge sheets in the cases in which the probe is complete.
13:51 Who are the Opposition leaders Modi speaks to regularly?
Who are the five Union ministers considered close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi?
Who are the five junior ministers who have Modi's eyes and ears?
Who are the five senior Opposition leaders in whom the prime minister has trust and often interacts with?
What is Modi's daily routine like?
All that and more here.
Who are the five junior ministers who have Modi's eyes and ears?
Who are the five senior Opposition leaders in whom the prime minister has trust and often interacts with?
What is Modi's daily routine like?
All that and more here.
13:46 Tea with the president on July 30?
President Pranab Mukherjee has invited senior journalists from Delhi for tea on July 30 at the stunning durbar hall of the Rashtrapati Bhawan to mark the completion of three years in office. Pranab Mukherjee will host a dinner for the council of ministers and also invite a few top opposition leaders for a another private dinner.
13:18 Ex Goa CM denies involvement of ministers in US bribery case
Former Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, who headed the government during the alleged bribery case involving a US firm in 2009, has denied involvement of any of his ministers.
"All the tenders for the JAICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) project were issued as per central public works department norms. There is no intervention of any minister in it," Kamat said today. He said the role of any state department comes to the fore only while deciding estimates for the tender.
"Once estimates are drawn there is no possibility of any minister interfering in it," he said. The former chief minister said a consortium from Japan was the lowest bidder for this project aiming to revive water and sewerage system in Goa.
"Anyone can allege that he paid money to the minister but there should be proper base to support it," he said.
Union Minister and former Goa CM Manohar Parrikar had yesterday hinted that two ex-ministers might be involved in the alleged bribery case involving New Jersey-based construction management firm Louis Berger over a water developmental scheme in the state. Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar had earlier said he will demand a CBI inquiry into the allegations.
"All the tenders for the JAICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) project were issued as per central public works department norms. There is no intervention of any minister in it," Kamat said today. He said the role of any state department comes to the fore only while deciding estimates for the tender.
"Once estimates are drawn there is no possibility of any minister interfering in it," he said. The former chief minister said a consortium from Japan was the lowest bidder for this project aiming to revive water and sewerage system in Goa.
"Anyone can allege that he paid money to the minister but there should be proper base to support it," he said.
Union Minister and former Goa CM Manohar Parrikar had yesterday hinted that two ex-ministers might be involved in the alleged bribery case involving New Jersey-based construction management firm Louis Berger over a water developmental scheme in the state. Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar had earlier said he will demand a CBI inquiry into the allegations.
13:13 Naidu: No question of resignations
With the Opposition all set to corner the Narendra Modi government over the Lalit Modi and the Vyapam scam issue, an all-party meet, called by the Centre a day ahead of the commencement of Monsoon session to work out a strategy to ensure the smooth functioning of the Parliament, was held on Monday.
The meeting was convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Venkaiah Naidu. Naidu said, there was no question of any resignations and warned the Opposition that no on can dictate the way the Parliament is run. He said running Parliament is everyone's responsibility and said state issues can't be discussed in Parliament.
The opposition has demanded that both Raje and Swaraj resign till the probe in the issues are over.
The meeting was convened by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Venkaiah Naidu. Naidu said, there was no question of any resignations and warned the Opposition that no on can dictate the way the Parliament is run. He said running Parliament is everyone's responsibility and said state issues can't be discussed in Parliament.
The opposition has demanded that both Raje and Swaraj resign till the probe in the issues are over.
12:58 Sushma Swaraj will make a statement in Parliament on Lalit Modi issue
Damage control is an art perfected by BJP president Amit Shah and he does a darn good job of it. That vote of confidence comes from none other than PM Narendra Modi who said as much when he made an introductory speech at at the meeting of senior union ministers on Sunday evening held at 7 Race Course Road to finalise the party's strategy as it gets ready to battle an united opposition in Parliament. The monsoon session of Parliament begins tomorrow.
At the 7RCR meet, held between 2 pm and 7 pm, the atmosphere was relaxed with Modi pointing to the basic issues which needed to be highlighted in the monsoon session.
On Sunday morning, Shah had a meeting with external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj and Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Scindia at his house on Akbar Road. Shah suggested that Swaraj be allowed to make a three paragraph statement about her involvement in the Lalit Modi controversy.
The PM agreed to it, but the sticky point that remains is the manner in which the issue would be raised in Parliament.
The PM, quoting his one year experience in Parliament, said that the battle plan needs to be figured out before the session commences. He said it would not be possible to do it ad hoc since the day the session begins, you can be assured that MPs would be rushing to the well of the house to hijack issues.
There will be little opportunity to clarify issues irrespective of whether the MPs is from the Opposition or the treasury benches.
So, the Prime Minister has asked Sushma Swaraj to keep her statement ready, so that it can be ready whenever the occasion presents itself.
The Prime Minister also told all the Union Ministers to speak about their ministry's achievements in the last one year during the question hour as well as during debates. Modi said there should be 10 to 15 items on the list of accomplishments during the past one year at every minister's finger tips.
Union ministers should not refer to any notes prepared by officials.
In other words, the PM has insisted that ministers should involve themselves not only by being articulate in Parliament but they have been told to follow up on the implementation of suggestions and monitor them on a weekly basis.
Stay with us when the monsoon session of Parliament begins tomorrow.
At the 7RCR meet, held between 2 pm and 7 pm, the atmosphere was relaxed with Modi pointing to the basic issues which needed to be highlighted in the monsoon session.
On Sunday morning, Shah had a meeting with external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj and Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Scindia at his house on Akbar Road. Shah suggested that Swaraj be allowed to make a three paragraph statement about her involvement in the Lalit Modi controversy.
The PM agreed to it, but the sticky point that remains is the manner in which the issue would be raised in Parliament.
The PM, quoting his one year experience in Parliament, said that the battle plan needs to be figured out before the session commences. He said it would not be possible to do it ad hoc since the day the session begins, you can be assured that MPs would be rushing to the well of the house to hijack issues.
There will be little opportunity to clarify issues irrespective of whether the MPs is from the Opposition or the treasury benches.
So, the Prime Minister has asked Sushma Swaraj to keep her statement ready, so that it can be ready whenever the occasion presents itself.
The Prime Minister also told all the Union Ministers to speak about their ministry's achievements in the last one year during the question hour as well as during debates. Modi said there should be 10 to 15 items on the list of accomplishments during the past one year at every minister's finger tips.
Union ministers should not refer to any notes prepared by officials.
In other words, the PM has insisted that ministers should involve themselves not only by being articulate in Parliament but they have been told to follow up on the implementation of suggestions and monitor them on a weekly basis.
Stay with us when the monsoon session of Parliament begins tomorrow.
12:27 So, is this the point we say 'nahi chalega, nahi chalega?'
AAP MP Bhagwan Singh Mann discusses the agenda of the party in the upcoming Parliament session. Mann tweeted the picture saying, "AAP is ready to rock the parliament on public issues."
The party has four MPs in the Lok Sabha.
The party has four MPs in the Lok Sabha.
12:07
At all-party meet, united Opposition asks for 'high-level probe' against Sushma Swaraj, Vasundhara Raje over the Lalit Modi controversy.
12:00 Delhi top cop meets LG about law and order situation in Delhi
Delhi Police Commissioner BS Bassi met Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung today to discuss the law and order situation in the national capital.
Bassi would also be meeting Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal later today in the wake of the gruesome murder of a 19-year-old girl at Anand Parbat.
Kejriwal had yesterday while expressing shock over the incident said that the law and order situation in the national capital has deteriorated drastically in the recent past.
"The Delhi Police is under the Centre. The Prime Minister should either act or transfer Delhi Police's command to the Delhi Government," he said.
Kejriwal has been demanding that the charge of the Delhi Police be handed over to the Aam Aadmi Party Government.
"I appeal with folded hands to PM Modi either take out 1 hour for law and order or give Delhi Police to us," the AAP's Twitter handle had earlier quoted Kejriwal as saying
Bassi would also be meeting Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal later today in the wake of the gruesome murder of a 19-year-old girl at Anand Parbat.
Kejriwal had yesterday while expressing shock over the incident said that the law and order situation in the national capital has deteriorated drastically in the recent past.
"The Delhi Police is under the Centre. The Prime Minister should either act or transfer Delhi Police's command to the Delhi Government," he said.
Kejriwal has been demanding that the charge of the Delhi Police be handed over to the Aam Aadmi Party Government.
"I appeal with folded hands to PM Modi either take out 1 hour for law and order or give Delhi Police to us," the AAP's Twitter handle had earlier quoted Kejriwal as saying
11:58 Why this photo of a cop helping an elderly man has gone viral
This picture of a black police chief helping a man has gone viral. Here's the story. The white man wearing a swastika T-shirt was at a Ku Klux Klan rally in South Carolina, when he felt unwell as a result of a heat stroke.
The compassionate cop in the picture is Leroy Smith, the director of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, who choose to overlook deeply ingrained race divides in the US and help the man. No wonder then, that the picture has been retweeted over 3,000 times since it was shared on Twitter. The photo was provided to the Associated Press by photographer Rob Godfrey.
The KKK rally in support of the Confederate flag came a week and a day after the flag was removed from outside the Capitol building.The KKK in the 1950s has focused on opposition to the Civil Rights Movement, is virulently anti black and has used threats of violence during the anti-segregation movement and race riots of the sixties.
The compassionate cop in the picture is Leroy Smith, the director of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, who choose to overlook deeply ingrained race divides in the US and help the man. No wonder then, that the picture has been retweeted over 3,000 times since it was shared on Twitter. The photo was provided to the Associated Press by photographer Rob Godfrey.
The KKK rally in support of the Confederate flag came a week and a day after the flag was removed from outside the Capitol building.The KKK in the 1950s has focused on opposition to the Civil Rights Movement, is virulently anti black and has used threats of violence during the anti-segregation movement and race riots of the sixties.
11:34 Govt ready to discuss all issues, PM promises at all-party meet
The PM said that the government has to take the initiative and responsibility to run Parliament, but the responsibility has to be shared by all. The Parliament has a major significance and it should be utilised to discuss all issues; the govt is ready to discuss all issues, the PM said.
11:21 All parties should move forward on Land Bill: PM at all-party meet
PM Narendra Modi at the all-party meet addresses the biggest roadblock in the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament -- the land bill -- and says, all parties should move forward on the Land bill.
The Opposition is all set to corner the Narendra Modi government over the Lalit Modi-Vasundhara Raje-Sushma Swaraj mess as well as the Vyapam issue. The all-party meet was therefore called by the Centre, just a day ahead of the Monsoon session of Parliament, to work out a strategy to ensure logjams and disruptions during the session are few and far between.
The meeting has been convened by Parliamentary Affairs minister Venkaiah Naidu.
The Opposition is all set to corner the Narendra Modi government over the Lalit Modi-Vasundhara Raje-Sushma Swaraj mess as well as the Vyapam issue. The all-party meet was therefore called by the Centre, just a day ahead of the Monsoon session of Parliament, to work out a strategy to ensure logjams and disruptions during the session are few and far between.
The meeting has been convened by Parliamentary Affairs minister Venkaiah Naidu.
11:04 PM arrives at all-party meet ahead of tomorrow's monsoon session
The Narendra Modi government has called an all-party meeting on Monday morning as it prepares for a stormy Monsoon Session of Parliament, in which it must pass some important bills including the Goods and Services Tax or GST Bill. The PM arrives at the meeting.
10:47 Oil prices down in Asia on strong dollar, supply worries
Oil prices declined in Asia today on a stronger dollar and concerns a supply glut will worsen following a landmark deal that will allow Iran to increase its crude exports.
US benchmark West Texas Intermediate for August delivery fell seven cents to $50.82 and Brent crude for September dipped five cents to $57.05 a barrel in late-morning trade.
The dollar was firm in Asian trade today with investors focussing on the timing of a US interest rate increase after debt-stricken Greece reached a bailout agreement with creditors.
10:27 Petrol pumps closed in Haryana after dealers go on indefinite strike
Over 2,300 fuel pumps in Haryana have stopped selling petrol and diesel to consumers as petroleum dealers today went on their indefinite strike to press for various demands, including lower VAT on diesel.
As many as 2,310 fuel pumps across the state went on strike from 6 am in the morning, All Haryana Petroleum Dealers Association Senior Vice President Palwinder Singh Oberoi said today.
Petroleum dealers will not buy and sell fuel as per their protest, he said.
However, some the fuel pumps, which are directly owned by oil companies like Indian Oil, BPCL and HPCL, are open.
"As per our decision taken on July 17, all petroleum dealers of Haryana today went on indefinite strike," All Haryana Petroleum Dealers Association Senior Vice President Palwinder Singh Oberoi said today.
There is a complete shut down of fuel outlets across the state, including Gurgaon, he claimed.
Dealers have also refused to engage meeting with Haryana BJP Chief Subhash Barala for resolving the matter, saying they will talk only with Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.
10:20 Landslide-hit Pune-Mumbai expressway reopened for traffic
The Pune-Mumbai Expressway, which was kept out of bounds till late on Sunday night after a landslide, was opened for traffic this morning. Three people were killed in the landslide on Sunday afternoon.
One of the passing cars had been completely smashed after tons of earth and rocks landed on the highway near the Adoshi tunnel, close to Lonavala, blocking a portion of the road.
Sources in the Highway Police say the iron holding on the side of the expressway has become old and so the area is landslide prone, putting motorists at risk every day, especially during monsoons.
Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu later announced two special trains between Mumbai and Pune to clear the passengers stranded due to a landslide on the busy highway that has crippled road traffic.
Read more on what happened on Sunday, HERE
09:53 Maharashtra: Army jawan killed in firing by civilians
An Army jawan was killed when two youths allegedly snatched his service weapon and shot him in Bhusawal in North Maharashtra, police said on Monday.
The incident occurred at Bajarpeth in Bhusawal of Jalgaon district on Sunday night after an altercation between the armyman and the youth.
The two suspects, in their 20s, have been arrested and case registered under section 302 of IPC, a police official said over phone from Bhusawal.
The 32-year-old jawan Shaikh Aquil Shaikh Rehman was a resident of Bhusawal and had gone to an adjacent locality where he got into a quarrel with the two youths, police said.
"The armyman then took out his service pistol which the youth snatched from him and shot him on his hand and abdomen. He was rushed to the civil hospital at Jalgaon where he was declared dead," the official said.
09:17 Pakistani troops target Indian posts along LoC once again
Jammu, Jul 20 (PTI)
In fresh ceasefire violation, Pakistani troops once again targeted several Indian posts along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district.
"Pakistani troops resorted to small arms firing on several posts along the Line of Control in Poonch district at 2245 hours last night," an Army spokesman said.
Our troops retaliated, resulting in exchange of fire that continued till 2330 hours. There was no report of loss of life or injury from the Indian side, he said.
This is the seventh incident of ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops since July 15. One person has been killed and 16 have been injured so far in the firing from across the border.
In July, there have been 11 ceasefire violations by the Pakistan army.
On Saturday last, five civilians were injured when Pakistani troops targeted several Indian positions in Naushera sector of Rajouri district and the two villages in Poonch sector.
09:13 Ahead of Parliament 'muqabla', PM Modi to hold all-party meet today
Pre-empting a scathing attack by the opposition parties over Vyapam scam and Lalit Modi row during the monsoon session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for the maiden meet of all NDA constituents on Monday to chalk out a strategy to aggressively take on the opponents.
The meeting, called on the eve of monsoon session that starts from Tuesday, will aim to work out the plan to ensure a smooth functioning of both houses of the Parliament.
The seriousness of the situation can be gauged from the fact that this is the first time Modi has called for the meeting of the ruling alliance ever since he came to power in May last year.
However, the opposition is expected to launch a blistering attack on the BJP, especially on Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.
While, Swaraj and Raje are mired in controversies regarding Lalit Modi, Chauhan is under the lens for the Vyapam scam.
However, the BJP is seeking to counter the opposition strongly by attacking them on their weak lines.
09:13 Sparks may fly at ILC meet over labour law reforms
Amid strong opposition by trade unions against certain proposed amendments to labour laws, the two-day long 46th Indian Labour Conference is likely to witness a stormy session on these issues today.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the conference on July 20 and dedicate the National Career Service portal to the nation and launch health reforms of the Employees' State Insurance Corporation of India on the occasion.
"The 46th Session of the Indian Labour Conference is being held on July 20-21, 2015 in New Delhi. The Prime Minister will inaugurate the conference... (He will) dedicate National Career Service (NCS) Portal and launch ESIC 2.0 Reform Initiatives," an official release said.
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will be the guest of honour.
"We will definitely lodge our protest against certain proposed labour law amendments that will dilute social security of workers and go against their interest during deliberations at ILC," All India Trade Union Congress Secretary D L Sachdev said.
He further said, "Trade unions are determined and unanimous on certain issues raised by them at different fora. We have decided to go on strike on September 2 to express our strong protest. The central trade unions will not change the position taken by them."
09:11 Cuba to open its embassy in US today after 54-year freeze
The United States and Cuba will abolish one of the last vestiges of the Cold War today when, in a move unimaginable just a few months ago, they restore diplomatic ties frozen for half a century.
For the first time since 1961, the Cuban red, white and blue flag will fly over Havana's newly upgraded embassy in Washington, just a stone's throw from the White House.
And from the crack of dawn today, it will also take its place in a row of flags from around the world which adorn the State Department's imposing marble entrance.
In yet another historic gesture, US Secretary of State John Kerry will also formally receive his Cuban counterpart Bruno Rodriguez for talks, before holding a joint press conference.
Rodriguez will earlier preside over a ceremony to mark the upgrading of the Cuban interests section to a full embassy.
The remarkable turnaround in relations between the communist authorities in Cuba and the US administration after five decades of hostility has happened at break-neck speed.
09:04 Monsoon session: Modi to chair BJP parliamentary party meet today
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called a meeting of BJP parliamentary party executive today as the government and the ruling party firm up their strategy for the monsoon session of parliament, which is set to be stormy over the opposition demand for the resignation of many party leaders.
The meeting will follow Modi's meet with all the NDA constituents, a first on the session eve, and underlines the government's resolve to put in place a strong defence against the opposition onslaught it is set to face in the session beginning from July 21.
The BJP has made it clear that it will not be on the defensive and instead target top Congress leaders over issues like Lalit Modi controversy.
Bracing for the opposition onslaught in Parliament, government and the ruling BJP today decided to aggressively counter the attack on its leaders like Sushma Swaraj, Vasundhara Raje and Shivraj Singh Chouhan and rake up controversies related to Congress leaders.
09:02 Pushkaram: Two-day holiday in Andhra Pradesh
In view of the huge rush of pilgrims for the 12-day long Godavari Pushkaram in Rajahmundry, the Andhra Pradesh government has decided to keep the ghats open for 24 hours and also announced two day special holiday from today.
"Special holidays have been declared on Monday and Tuesday in Andhra Pradesh for the Godavari Pushkaralu," Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister N Chinnnarajappa said.
The special holiday would be for schools, colleges, offices and commercial establishments in the state.
"We are witnessing serpentine queues in Rajahamundry and other rural ghats. Hence, the state government has extended to 24 hours the bathing time at the ghats for the convenience of pilgrims," he said adding devotees can take dip in the river round the clock.
We are expecting more rush in the next two days and making necessary arrangements including security to the pilgrims for their smooth movement in ghats and security. Our aim is to send the pilgrims to their native places safely, he said.
The mega religious event -- also called Kumbh Mela of the South -- had witnessed a stampede, which had claimed 27 lives on the first day of the festival (July 14).
08:16 Delhi cop files complaint against CM Kejriwal over thulla remark
The strained relationship between the Delhi Police and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal witnessed an interesting twist on Sunday when a constable filed a complaint against the CM for referring cops as "thullas".
Constable Ajay filed a written complaint against Kejriwal in south Delhi's Lajpat Nagar police station for using derogatory language against policemen.
Kejriwal, during an interview with India Today, said, "These people want that even if a thulla (cop) is caught demanding money from the street vendors, we can't try him." Thulla is a slang mostly used in and around the national capital.
Delhi Police Commissioner BS Bassi had reacted strongly to Kerjiwal's remark.
"I refuse to believe the chief minister could have used such a word, but if he has, it is very unfortunate and derogatory," Bassi had said.
Read more HERE
08:05
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