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Mon, 11 July 2016
UN Chief concerned over tensions in Kashmir
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23:07 UN Chief concerned over tensions in Kashmir
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon today expressed concern over the situation in Kashmir amid rising tensions in the valley following the killing of Hizbul commander Burhan Wani last week.
Ban's spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters today that the UN Chief has noted with concern the situation unfolding in Kashmir.
Dujarric strongly rejected remarks by a Pakistani journalist that the UN Chief, who had earlier in the day addressed the press on the situation in South Sudan, has "brushed aside" the issue of Kashmir and is not sufficiently addressing it.
"No one is denying that we are concerned about the situation in Kashmir. The fact that the Secretary General did not raise it as he did not raise many other critical situations around the world does not mean that he is brushing anything aside," Dujarric said.
22:44
Indian golfers Anirban Lahiri, Shiv Shankar Prasad Chawrasia and Aditi Ashok qualify for Rio Olympics.
22:43 Airlines directed to re-validate tickets of stranded Amarnath Yatra pilgrims
In a major relief to stranded Amarnath Yatra pilgrims, the Jammu and Kashmir government today said the Centre has directed all the airlines to re-validate tickets of passengers who could not undertake the yatra due to the law-and-order situation in the Valley.
"The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has, at the government's request, issued directions to all the airlines to re-validate tickets of passengers who could not undertake their scheduled journey due to the situation in the past three days," Chief Secretary BR Sharma informed a high-level meeting chaired by Governor NN Vohra at Raj Bhavan in Srinagar today.
The Governor, who is also the Chairman of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, reviewed issues related to the ongoing yatra and advised the Chief Secretary to take up the matter with General Manager, Northern Railways to permit re-validation of tickets, provide additional coaches and, as necessary, even run special trains in view of the situation.
Observing that the majority of pilgrims and tourists come from other states, Vohra directed DGP K Rajindra Kumar to strengthen the safety and security arrangements further.
He asked the Chief Secretary to reiterate instructions to all departments and agencies to maintain sustained effective coordination as also to undertake an urgent review to ensure that all required arrangements, particularly essential supplies and medical support systems, were in place.
Earlier, the police chief informed the meeting that arrangements were made for about 23,000 stranded pilgrims and tourists to proceed to Jammu in around 1,750 vehicles. They were expected to reach Jammu by the evening, he said, adding that all assistance was being extended to fliers as well.
22:41 Pro-RSS body to float anti-terrorist body to help misguided Muslim youths
To help stop misguided Muslim youths from joining terror groups like Islamic State, RSS-linked organisation Muslim Rashtriya Manch will soon float a new anti-terrorist body.
"The Muslim Rashtriya Manch will soon form a new anti-terrorist front that will help guide Muslim youths and channelise them into national work," Manch president Mohammad Afzal told PTI.
Asked when the new body would come into being, he said, "very soon".
"The new body will be formed within the next two months," he added.
The move is seen as an attempt by the pro-RSS organisation to stop the exodus of youths from the country to join terror organisations, after being misguided by radical Islamist groups.
It also assumes importance in the wake of reports that many Indian youths have been inspired by Islamic preacher Zakir Naik and joined the militant ranks.
Naik, who also runs Peace TV which has been banned by Bangladesh, is under the government's scanner and his preachings are being monitored by various agencies.
There have also been reports of some Kerala youth going missing and joining the IS ranks for accomplishing jihad.
22:13 Dallas suspect changed after military service: Family
Military service changed the Dallas gunman from an extrovert into a hermit, his parents said in an interview.
Micah Johnson's mother, Delphine Johnson, told TheBlaze website in an interview published today that her son wanted to be a police officer as a child and that his six years in the Army Reserve, including a tour in Afghanistan, were "not what Micah thought it would be ... what he thought the military represented, it just didn't live up to his expectations."
His father, James Johnson said haltingly and through tears: "I don't know what to say to anybody to make anything better. I didn't see it coming."
Micah Johnson, a black 25-year-old who was accused of sexually harassing a female soldier while deployed in Afghanistan, fatally shot five officers in Thursday's attack while hundreds of people were gathered in downtown Dallas to protest recent fatal police shootings, and wounded at least nine officers and two civilians.
Eleven officers fired at Johnson and two used an explosive device, Dallas Police Chief David Brown said today.
He noted that the investigation will involve more than 170 hours of body camera footage and "countless hours" of dashcam video. Brown also said that Dallas police are taking all threats seriously in the wake of the shootings.
"Bravery is not a strong enough word to describe what they did that day," Brown said of officers' response to Thursday's events.
The police chief again defended the decision to kill Johnson with a bomb delivered by remote-controlled robot, had "already killed us in a grave way, and officers were in surgery that didn't make it."
"This wasn't an ethical dilemma for me," he said. "I'd do it again. I do it again to save our officers lives." Authorities have said Johnson had plans for a larger assault, possessed enough explosive material to inflict far greater harm and kept a journal of combat tactics.
"We're convinced that this suspect had other plans and thought that what he was doing was righteous and believed that he was going to target law enforcement make us pay for what he sees as law enforcement's efforts to punish people of color," Brown told CNN's "State of the Union" yesterday.
22:00 Kashmir is burning but PM tweets about travels & play drums: Congress
"Kashmir is burning and our Prime Minister would rather tweet about his travels and play the drums", said the Congress on Monday, taking potshots at Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is on a tour of African countries.
The jibe was taken by the opposition party in a tweet posted on INC India.
Randeep Surjewala, Chief spokesman of the party, was equally caustic, who took to Twitter to advice the prime minister to cut short his tour and return home with Kashmir on the boil.
Surjewala wanted the prime minister to follow the United States President Barack Obama in the wake of the Dallas shootings of policemen.
"Kashmir is burning. 21 people have died. Security forces are being attacked daily. Amarnath Yatra suspended and Modiji is playing the drums. At least wake up now", he said in another tweet in Hindi.
He also reminded the prime minister that the People's Democratic Party-Bharatiya Janata Party government in the state is unable to handle the situation and he should not throw Kashmir in the "shadow of the gun" to
ensure that the peace process remained unaffected.
At the Congress briefing, party spokesman Abhishek Singhvi attacked Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for deploring India for "excessive" force against civilians in the Valley while expressing "deep shock" over the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani.
21:46
JUST IN: 13 CRPF jawans injured in a grenade attack in Nowhatta town near Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Mukhtar Ahmad/Rediff.com reports from Srinagar.
21:14
Pakistan summons Indian high commissioner to express concerns over situation in Jammu and Kashmir.
20:44 Govt to ensure safety of Kashmiri Pandits in Valley: MoS PMO
All possible steps are being taken by the government to ensure safety of Kashmiri Pandits living in the Valley, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said today. He was speaking after meeting a delegation of Kashmiri Pandits led by All India Kashmiri Samaj.
They sought the Centre's intervention to ensure safety of the community members living in the Kashmir Valley, in the wake of the situation following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani.
In a memorandum, the delegation alleged that, at a time when the demand for the return of displaced Kashmiri Pandits to Kashmir was gaining momentum and the central and state governments seemed serious on this, such large-scale violence at this juncture, appears to be orchestrated by separatists and radical elements supported by Pakistan, with a motive to put the issue once again on the backburner.
Singh, minister of state in the Prime Minister's Office, assured the members of delegation that the Union government, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the security agencies are taking every possible step to ensure absolute security and protection of Kashmiri Pandits living in the Valley.
Singh said, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh was receiving regular updates on the situation.
20:19 Pakistan advised to refrain from interfering in India's internal affairs: says MEA
In an official response to Pakistan's remarks about the situation in Jammu & Kashmir, the MEA has asked it to refrain from interfering in internal matters of neighbours.
"Statements from Pak on situation in J&K reflect Pak's continued
attachment to terrorism & its usage as an instrument of state policy," the MEA tweeted on Monday.
"Pakistan is advised to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of its neighbours," tweeted MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup.
"Pakistan's remarks also reflect usage of terror as an instrument of state policy," MEA added.
20:14 US allows departure of family of embassy staff from Bangladesh
The US has authorised voluntary departure of family members of its staff posted at the American embassy in Dhaka in the wake of the recent terror attacks in Bangladesh.
"Effective July 10, 2016, the Department of State authorised the voluntary departure of family members of US government personnel posted to the US Embassy in Dhaka," an official statement said today.
At the same time, it said the US Embassy in Dhaka remains open and will provide all routine consular services.
"The US government assesses that the terrorist threat is real and credible," the State Department said.
In a travel warning, the State Department warned US citizens to consider carefully whether they need to travel to Bangladesh, in light of the latest attacks.
On July 1, 2016, attackers killed 22 people in a restaurant frequented by foreigners in Dhakas diplomatic enclave, including one US citizen.
20:09 Car sales down 5.18%, passenger vehicle up 2.68% in June
Domestic passenger vehicle sales grew 2.68 per cent to 2,23,454 units in June from 2,17,620 units in the same month last year.
However, car sales were down 5.18 per cent to 1,54,237 units as against 1,62,655 units in June last year, according to data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers.
Motorcycle sales last month increased 7.52 per cent to 9,43,680 units as against 8,77,690 units a year earlier.
Total two-wheeler sales in June grew 12.26 per cent to 14,68,035 units as compared with 13,07,704 units in the year- ago month.
20:04 Preachers of hate threatening society, says PM
Amid the expanding footprint of ISIS across the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today warned that "preachers of hate and violence" are threatening the fabric of the society and asked the youth to build a counter narrative to extremist ideologies.
He also emphasised that those giving shelter to terrorists and using them as political instruments must be condemned, an apparent reference to Pakistan.
Addressing the students at the University of Nairobi here, Modi pitched for a world free from terror and hate, saying safety and security of people and societies is essential for realising the benefits of the economic progress.
"Preachers of hate and violence are threatening the fabric of our society," he said.
Underlining the need to counter radicalization, he said "Youth can play an important role in building a counter narrative to extremist ideologies."
20:03 Jawan killed in gunfight in Kupwara
An Army jawan was killed in a gunfight near the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmirs Kupwara district.
The gunfight erupted during the intervening night of Sunday and Monday when the Army noticed suspected movement of militants close to the LoC near the Khantawali forest in Keran sector, 130 km from here. Sources said the militants were trying to infiltrate into Kashmir when their movement was noticed.
As they were challenged, the militants opened fire triggering a gunfight, in which an Army jawan was wounded, who later succumbed to injuries on way to hospital, sources said.
The exchange of fire has stopped in the area and the Army is carrying out massive searches in the forest areas to track the militants.
19:59 Sharif, Saeed express shock over killing of Hizbul commander
Wading into the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed have attacked the killing of Hizbul commander Burhan Wani and made some strong comments against the action of the security forces in the valley.
Exploiting the violence that has led to 23 deaths in the wake of killing of the poster boy of militancy on Friday, Sharif, who returned from London after an open heart surgery, expressed "deep shock" over the killing of Wani and civilians by the forces.
Deploring the "excessive" force, Sharif said, "Oppressive measures such as these cannot deter the valiant people of Jammu and Kashmir from their demand of exercising their right to self-determination in accordance
with the UN Security Council resolutions."
19:16 Normalcy illogical, say Kashmir separatists, extend shutdown till July 13
As Kashmir Valley remains on the edge following the killing of militant commander Burhan Wani, separatists today extended the shutdown call till July 13.
The separatists termed the state government's appeal for help to restore normalcy as "childish and illogical". Hardline Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Shah Geelani in a statement issued here on behalf of the separatist groups said the strike has been extended by two more days. "July 13 would be observed as the Reaffirmation Day and all three separatist leaders, including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik, would march from Hyderpora, Jamia Masjid and Maisuma towards Mazar-e-Shuhda (martyrs graveyard) in Naqshband Sahab, respectively," the statement said. Every year, separatists, including mainstream parties, observe July 13 as the death anniversary of 21 protestors killed by Dogra army outside Srinagar's Central Jail in 1931.
The separatists had earlier called a three-day strike following the killing of the militant commander. The separatists asked the people to "raise and repeat the slogan of right to self-determination".
The separatists termed the state government's appeal for help to restore normalcy as "childish and illogical". Hardline Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Shah Geelani in a statement issued here on behalf of the separatist groups said the strike has been extended by two more days. "July 13 would be observed as the Reaffirmation Day and all three separatist leaders, including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik, would march from Hyderpora, Jamia Masjid and Maisuma towards Mazar-e-Shuhda (martyrs graveyard) in Naqshband Sahab, respectively," the statement said. Every year, separatists, including mainstream parties, observe July 13 as the death anniversary of 21 protestors killed by Dogra army outside Srinagar's Central Jail in 1931.
The separatists had earlier called a three-day strike following the killing of the militant commander. The separatists asked the people to "raise and repeat the slogan of right to self-determination".
19:13 Amarinder promises to settle farmers' debt
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president Capt Amarinder Singh today promised to settle the loans of debt-ridden farmers by enacting a law to save their land and other property from being auctioned if the Congress forms the government in the state. He expressed concern over the alarming rise in the number of suicides by the farmers. Capt Amarinder also promised to set up a government degree college in Dirba besides elevating the place to the sub-divisional level as demanded by the local people. He also announced to increase the number of seats in all the government colleges as these were falling too short of the demand as on now.
19:03
Just in: BSF has foiled an infiltration bid in Samba sector (J&K).
18:09 Rajnath's 2nd meeting on Kashmir with NSA Doval, Jaitley
Just in: Second high-level meeting on Kashmir underway. NSA Ajit Doval and Arun Jaitley in attendance, home minister Rajnath Singh is chairing the meeting. Also at the meeting are Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi and the IB chief.
Earlier in the day, the Union Home Minister reached out to the opposition as the government grappled with a tense situation in Jammu and Kashmir, where 23 people have died during violent protests against the death of terrorist Burhan Wani of the Hizbul Mujahideen.
Rajnath Singh telephoned Congress president Sonia Gandhi and National Conference leader and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, discussing with them the ground situation in the state and the government's response.
Earlier in the day, the Union Home Minister reached out to the opposition as the government grappled with a tense situation in Jammu and Kashmir, where 23 people have died during violent protests against the death of terrorist Burhan Wani of the Hizbul Mujahideen.
Rajnath Singh telephoned Congress president Sonia Gandhi and National Conference leader and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, discussing with them the ground situation in the state and the government's response.
17:23 Hardik Patel set to be released, gets bail in all cases
Patel agitation leader Hardik Patel granted bail in all cases, set to be released from jail in Gujarat with conditions.
While granting Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) leader Hardik Patel bail, the Gujarat high court has imposed conditions which means he will have to stay at one location for a six-month 'exile'.
While granting bail to Patel furnishing a bond of Rs 50,000 and two sureties of Rs 25,000 each, Justice A J Desai asked Hardik to give a fresh undertaking that he would live outside Gujarat for the next six months. This is on the lines of what Hardik promised during the hearing of his bail applications, that he would leave the state for six months if granted bail.
The HC asked Hardik to furnish a temporary address where he would live for these six months. He is not allowed to change the address without permission from the court. He will also have to, without fail, mark his presence at the nearest police station on Mondays.
While granting Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) leader Hardik Patel bail, the Gujarat high court has imposed conditions which means he will have to stay at one location for a six-month 'exile'.
While granting bail to Patel furnishing a bond of Rs 50,000 and two sureties of Rs 25,000 each, Justice A J Desai asked Hardik to give a fresh undertaking that he would live outside Gujarat for the next six months. This is on the lines of what Hardik promised during the hearing of his bail applications, that he would leave the state for six months if granted bail.
The HC asked Hardik to furnish a temporary address where he would live for these six months. He is not allowed to change the address without permission from the court. He will also have to, without fail, mark his presence at the nearest police station on Mondays.
17:21 Police post set afire in Sopore, Kashmir continues to simmer
Just in: A police post has been set on fire by protesters in Sopore, Jammu and Kashmir.
The state continued to be on the boil with six more people, including a cop, getting killed in violence on Sunday, raising the death toll to 23, even as curfew-like restrictions were in place and mobile internet services remained suspended.
The Amarnath Yatra has begun today to the unrest in the valley in which over 200 people, many of them police and security personnel, have been injured.
The Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet, headed by Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, met and expressed anguish over the situation and the death of civilians in clashes with security forces following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani.
The government promised to investigate if there was any instance of disproportionate use of force by security forces even as it appealed to the people not to become tools in the machinations of instigators of violence.
The state continued to be on the boil with six more people, including a cop, getting killed in violence on Sunday, raising the death toll to 23, even as curfew-like restrictions were in place and mobile internet services remained suspended.
The Amarnath Yatra has begun today to the unrest in the valley in which over 200 people, many of them police and security personnel, have been injured.
The Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet, headed by Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, met and expressed anguish over the situation and the death of civilians in clashes with security forces following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani.
The government promised to investigate if there was any instance of disproportionate use of force by security forces even as it appealed to the people not to become tools in the machinations of instigators of violence.
17:09 Ticket seekers to pledge not to contest polls if denied Cong ticket
The Punjab Congress has asked ticket seekers to "take a pledge" and give an undertaking that they will not contest polls on any assembly seat against Congress nominee if they are not "chosen".
"I hereby give an undertaking and take a pledge that if am not selected for any constituency on behalf of the Congress, I will not contest on any seat against any Congress candidate in this election and will fully support the official Congress candidate," says the performa of attested declaration issued by Punjab Congress which is to be filled by ticket aspirants along with application form for nomination for 2017 Assembly polls. Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh has recently said that ticket aspirants could submit their applications to the state unit by August 15.
Amarinder had said that winnability of the candidate would be the criteria for the allotment of party ticket in the upcoming assembly polls. "The party will ensure that there was proper distribution of tickets this time and only the deserving candidates who were in a position to win were allotted the party tickets," Amarinder had said in Ludhiana on July 7.
The Punjab Congress Chief had also said that all the other deserving candidates who were left out, would be accommodated in the government if Congress voted to power.
"I hereby give an undertaking and take a pledge that if am not selected for any constituency on behalf of the Congress, I will not contest on any seat against any Congress candidate in this election and will fully support the official Congress candidate," says the performa of attested declaration issued by Punjab Congress which is to be filled by ticket aspirants along with application form for nomination for 2017 Assembly polls. Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh has recently said that ticket aspirants could submit their applications to the state unit by August 15.
Amarinder had said that winnability of the candidate would be the criteria for the allotment of party ticket in the upcoming assembly polls. "The party will ensure that there was proper distribution of tickets this time and only the deserving candidates who were in a position to win were allotted the party tickets," Amarinder had said in Ludhiana on July 7.
The Punjab Congress Chief had also said that all the other deserving candidates who were left out, would be accommodated in the government if Congress voted to power.
16:45 Confident of finding solutions to Kashmir: Doval
"We are quite confident and competent of finding solutions," NSA Ajit Doval says regarding situation in Kashmir.
16:28 Andrea Leadsom to 'quit Conservative leadership bid'
Andrea Leadsom is expected to pull out of the two-way contest to become the next Conservative Party leader and UK prime minister, the BBC understands.A source close to the energy minister said "the abuse has been too great". Leadsom was up against Home Secretary Theresa May in the race to succeed David Cameron as prime minister.She apologised to Mrs May on Monday after suggesting being a mother made her a better candidate for the job.
16:27 Amarnath Yatra resumes three days after Wani's killing
Just in: Amarnath Yatra resumes from Jammu base camp; buses are leaving Jammu Administration.
Earlier today, bout 23,000 pilgrims were stranded at base camps after darshan at Amarnath shrine have been moved out to Jammu from where they will return to their homes.
At least 15,000 pilgrims were still stranded in Jammu for third day on Monday after the clashes began in the Kashmir Valley on Friday.
Around 2,000 pilgrims who were stuck on the Jammu-Srinagar Highway are now being escorted to the Baltal base camp located about 120 km from state capital Srinagar, which is under curfew as are all 10 districts of the Kashmir Valley after violent protests against the death of terrorist Burhan Wani of the Hizbul Mujahideen, who was killed in an intelligence-led police operation on Friday.
The arterial highway that connects the Valley with Jammu has been closed since Saturday, trains have been stopped and internet services are down. The pilgrims or yatris were moved out to Jammu via the highway on buses with police escort.
Earlier today, bout 23,000 pilgrims were stranded at base camps after darshan at Amarnath shrine have been moved out to Jammu from where they will return to their homes.
At least 15,000 pilgrims were still stranded in Jammu for third day on Monday after the clashes began in the Kashmir Valley on Friday.
Around 2,000 pilgrims who were stuck on the Jammu-Srinagar Highway are now being escorted to the Baltal base camp located about 120 km from state capital Srinagar, which is under curfew as are all 10 districts of the Kashmir Valley after violent protests against the death of terrorist Burhan Wani of the Hizbul Mujahideen, who was killed in an intelligence-led police operation on Friday.
The arterial highway that connects the Valley with Jammu has been closed since Saturday, trains have been stopped and internet services are down. The pilgrims or yatris were moved out to Jammu via the highway on buses with police escort.
16:02 The unpredictable consequences of Burhan Wani's death
The situation was virtually gifted to Burhan Wani and if for some reason he were not to be around to step into the frame, the compulsion of circumstances would necessarily have found a "Burhan". New Delhi's total disengagement virtually scripted the course of events, entailing unpredictable long range consequences,' says Mohammad Sayeed Malik. Read
IMAGE: Protesters throw stones amid tear gas smoke fired by the police during a protest against Burhan Wani's killing in Srinagar. Photograph: Umar Ganie
IMAGE: Protesters throw stones amid tear gas smoke fired by the police during a protest against Burhan Wani's killing in Srinagar. Photograph: Umar Ganie
16:00 Gotcha! New I&B ministers nabs latecomers
Top Information and Broadcasting ministry officials were in for a surprise today as Union Minister M Venkaiah Naidu, who took charge last week, made an unannounced punctuality and cleanliness check early this morning.
Explanations have been sought from officials who were found missing as to why they were not in their workplace on time after Naidu along with Minister of State Rajyavardhan Rathore made the surprise check at 9.30 am.
"The Minister personally checked the rooms of several officers and their supporting staff. He also looked into the cleanliness of washrooms in the offices. He also inspected the condition of electrical fittings in the various rooms and corridors in the building," a senior I&B ministry official told PTI.
Naidu, who is also the Urban Development minister, later tweeted about his visit. "Made a surprise check of attendance and cleanliness at Shastri Bhawan today at sharp 9:30 am....Directed concerned Joint Secretaries to review issues related to punctuality and cleanliness in the offices on daily basis," he said on twitter. The minister also added that "explanation sought from those who were not present at the time of inspection."
Explanations have been sought from officials who were found missing as to why they were not in their workplace on time after Naidu along with Minister of State Rajyavardhan Rathore made the surprise check at 9.30 am.
"The Minister personally checked the rooms of several officers and their supporting staff. He also looked into the cleanliness of washrooms in the offices. He also inspected the condition of electrical fittings in the various rooms and corridors in the building," a senior I&B ministry official told PTI.
Naidu, who is also the Urban Development minister, later tweeted about his visit. "Made a surprise check of attendance and cleanliness at Shastri Bhawan today at sharp 9:30 am....Directed concerned Joint Secretaries to review issues related to punctuality and cleanliness in the offices on daily basis," he said on twitter. The minister also added that "explanation sought from those who were not present at the time of inspection."
15:46 Pak provokes India: Hafiz Saeed holds prayer meeting for Hizb terrorist Wani
JuD chief and 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed accompanied by some of the key members of JuD's cyber cell held extensive meetings with Hizb-ul-Mujahideen chief Sayeed Salahuddin and his close associates in Pakistan and held a small prayer meeting in the memory of Burhan Wani.
Wani is the Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist who was killed in Kashmir on Friday.
Pakistan has expressed shock over the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter in Kashmir and deplored "oppressive measures" and "excessive" force used against civilians in the latest wave of violence in the Valley.
Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who has been under attack from the opposition for remaining "silent" over the killing of protesters in Kashmir, came out with a late night statement condemning the action of Indian security forces.
"The Prime Minister of Pakistan has expressed his deep shock at the killing of Kashmiri leader Burhan Wani and many other civilians by the Indian military and paramilitary forces," Sharif's office said in the statement.
The Prime Minister said it was "deplorable that excessive and unlawful force was used against the civilians" who were protesting against the killing of Wani.
"Oppressive measures such as these cannot deter the valiant people of Jammu and Kashmir from their demand of exercising their right to self-determination in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions," he said.
Expressing concern over the detention of Kashmiri separatist leaders, Sharif said India should fulfil its human rights obligations as well as its commitments under the United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The death toll in the clashes between protesters and security forces in Kashmir mounted to 23, as normal life remained paralysed for the third day today in the Valley due to curfew-like restrictions and separatists-sponsored strike in the wake of the killing of Wani in an encounter on Friday.
Most of the separatist leaders, including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umer Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik, are either in custody or under house arrest.
Pakistan People's Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has alleged that "Sharif-Modi friendship" was causing "irreparable damage" to the Kashmir issue.
Wani is the Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist who was killed in Kashmir on Friday.
Pakistan has expressed shock over the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter in Kashmir and deplored "oppressive measures" and "excessive" force used against civilians in the latest wave of violence in the Valley.
Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who has been under attack from the opposition for remaining "silent" over the killing of protesters in Kashmir, came out with a late night statement condemning the action of Indian security forces.
"The Prime Minister of Pakistan has expressed his deep shock at the killing of Kashmiri leader Burhan Wani and many other civilians by the Indian military and paramilitary forces," Sharif's office said in the statement.
The Prime Minister said it was "deplorable that excessive and unlawful force was used against the civilians" who were protesting against the killing of Wani.
"Oppressive measures such as these cannot deter the valiant people of Jammu and Kashmir from their demand of exercising their right to self-determination in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions," he said.
Expressing concern over the detention of Kashmiri separatist leaders, Sharif said India should fulfil its human rights obligations as well as its commitments under the United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The death toll in the clashes between protesters and security forces in Kashmir mounted to 23, as normal life remained paralysed for the third day today in the Valley due to curfew-like restrictions and separatists-sponsored strike in the wake of the killing of Wani in an encounter on Friday.
Most of the separatist leaders, including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umer Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik, are either in custody or under house arrest.
Pakistan People's Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has alleged that "Sharif-Modi friendship" was causing "irreparable damage" to the Kashmir issue.
15:35 Modi is following the Gujarat model of governance
"He selects certain portfolios that he has personal interest in, and he does not give them to a senior leader.
"The responsibility is given to a junior minister who then directly reports to Modi or to the small team of bureaucrats working with Modi.
"I noticed this first in Gujarat where Modi worked mainly with two ministers, Saurabh Patel and Amit Shah,' says Aakar Patel. Read
"The responsibility is given to a junior minister who then directly reports to Modi or to the small team of bureaucrats working with Modi.
"I noticed this first in Gujarat where Modi worked mainly with two ministers, Saurabh Patel and Amit Shah,' says Aakar Patel. Read
15:34
Just In: Sensex gains over 500 points, ends day at 27,626.69.
15:12 India announces evacuation of stranded citizens from strife-torn South Sudan
India issues travel advisory as renewed clashes break out the South Sudanese capital, Juba, despite calls by the UN Security Council for rival factions to "urgently end the fighting" that has engulfed the city in recent days.
Foreign minister Sushma Swaraj tweeted, "I am aware of the developments in South Sudan. We are planning evacuation of Indian nationals. Please register yourself with Indian Embassy and do not panic.
Indian nationals are advised not to travel to South Sudan."
Hundreds of people, mostly soldiers, have been reportedly killed in the fighting between rival armed groups since Thursday, raising fears of a slide back into all-out conflict in the five-year-old country.
At least 272 people have died, a health ministry source told the Reuters news agency early on Sunday.
Foreign minister Sushma Swaraj tweeted, "I am aware of the developments in South Sudan. We are planning evacuation of Indian nationals. Please register yourself with Indian Embassy and do not panic.
Indian nationals are advised not to travel to South Sudan."
Hundreds of people, mostly soldiers, have been reportedly killed in the fighting between rival armed groups since Thursday, raising fears of a slide back into all-out conflict in the five-year-old country.
At least 272 people have died, a health ministry source told the Reuters news agency early on Sunday.
14:26 Rajnath, Sonia, Omar put their heads together for Kashmir
With Kashmir in turmoil, Home Minister Rajnath Singh today reached out to opposition leaders including Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and discussed the prevailing situation there.
During the telephonic conversation with Gandhi and National Conference leader Omar, the Home Minister discussed with them efforts to bring back peace and normalcy in Kashmir Valley, which is witnessing violent protests after killing of militant leader Burhan Wani on Friday, official sources said.
The Home Minister's discussions with Gandhi and Omar, who ruled Jammu and Kashmir between 2009 and 2015, are believed to be an attempt by the central government to take opposition leaders into confidence.
In a statement, Gandhi today said there can be no compromise on matters relating to national security even as she voiced anguish over the loss of lives in the clashes.
Omar had yesterday said his party was ready to contribute towards maintaining peace in Kashmir but Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti should take the lead in showing the way. Singh is also speaking to other opposition leaders on the Kashmir situation, sources said. The Home Minister has already spoken at least twice to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and assured her all central assistance to tackle the violent protests, which so far claimed 23 lives. Meanwhile, the Home Minister reviewed the Kashmir situation for the second time in as many days and instructed officials to do the needful to bring back normalcy in the state. Normal life remained paralysed for the third day today in the Valley due to curfew-like restrictions and separatists- sponsored strike in the wake of the killing of Wani. Mobile internet services continued to remain suspended for since Saturday. Authorities have strengthened the presence of security forces in vulnerable areas of the city and elsewhere in the Valley to contain the protests. Restrictions were being enforced strictly today to avoid any further loss of life or damage to property, officials said.
During the telephonic conversation with Gandhi and National Conference leader Omar, the Home Minister discussed with them efforts to bring back peace and normalcy in Kashmir Valley, which is witnessing violent protests after killing of militant leader Burhan Wani on Friday, official sources said.
The Home Minister's discussions with Gandhi and Omar, who ruled Jammu and Kashmir between 2009 and 2015, are believed to be an attempt by the central government to take opposition leaders into confidence.
In a statement, Gandhi today said there can be no compromise on matters relating to national security even as she voiced anguish over the loss of lives in the clashes.
Omar had yesterday said his party was ready to contribute towards maintaining peace in Kashmir but Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti should take the lead in showing the way. Singh is also speaking to other opposition leaders on the Kashmir situation, sources said. The Home Minister has already spoken at least twice to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and assured her all central assistance to tackle the violent protests, which so far claimed 23 lives. Meanwhile, the Home Minister reviewed the Kashmir situation for the second time in as many days and instructed officials to do the needful to bring back normalcy in the state. Normal life remained paralysed for the third day today in the Valley due to curfew-like restrictions and separatists- sponsored strike in the wake of the killing of Wani. Mobile internet services continued to remain suspended for since Saturday. Authorities have strengthened the presence of security forces in vulnerable areas of the city and elsewhere in the Valley to contain the protests. Restrictions were being enforced strictly today to avoid any further loss of life or damage to property, officials said.
14:16 Pentagon chief in Baghdad for talks on IS fight
Pentagon chief Ashton Carter arrived in Baghdad today for talks with Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi on the fight against the Islamic State group and plans to recapture Mosul from the jihadists.
Carter's unannounced visit -- his fourth to Iraq since beginning his job in February 2015 -- comes two days after Iraqi forces captured an airbase to the south of Mosul that is seen as an important step toward the eventual battle for the country's second city, which has been under IS control since June 2014.
More than two years after IS overran large parts of Iraq as well as territory in neighboring Syria, Carter wants to highlight successes, even as the jihadists have fought back with devastating attacks in Iraq and abroad.
Carter's unannounced visit -- his fourth to Iraq since beginning his job in February 2015 -- comes two days after Iraqi forces captured an airbase to the south of Mosul that is seen as an important step toward the eventual battle for the country's second city, which has been under IS control since June 2014.
More than two years after IS overran large parts of Iraq as well as territory in neighboring Syria, Carter wants to highlight successes, even as the jihadists have fought back with devastating attacks in Iraq and abroad.
14:06 Solar plane leaves Spain for penultimate leg of world tour
The Solar Impulse 2 left southern Spain today on its way to Egypt for the penultimate leg of the solar-powered airplane's landmark round-the-world journey.
The experimental aircraft took off from Seville at 6:20 am for a flight that should last about 50 hours and will take it over the Mediterranean Sea. Swiss national Andre Borschberg was at the controls for the journey that will pass through through Algerian, Tunisian, Italian, Maltese and Greek airspace.
Solar Impulse is to land in Cairo yesterday. The plane, which is no heavier than a car but has the wingspan of a Boeing 747, will then set out for Abu Dhabi on the final leg of its voyage. It took off from the United Arab Emirates capital on March 9, 2015 with the aim of promoting clean, renewable energy.
Solar Impulse is being flown on its 35,400-kilometre (22,000-mile) trip around the world in stages, with Borschberg and his Swiss compatriot Bertrand Piccard taking turns at the controls of the single-seat plane.
The experimental aircraft took off from Seville at 6:20 am for a flight that should last about 50 hours and will take it over the Mediterranean Sea. Swiss national Andre Borschberg was at the controls for the journey that will pass through through Algerian, Tunisian, Italian, Maltese and Greek airspace.
Solar Impulse is to land in Cairo yesterday. The plane, which is no heavier than a car but has the wingspan of a Boeing 747, will then set out for Abu Dhabi on the final leg of its voyage. It took off from the United Arab Emirates capital on March 9, 2015 with the aim of promoting clean, renewable energy.
Solar Impulse is being flown on its 35,400-kilometre (22,000-mile) trip around the world in stages, with Borschberg and his Swiss compatriot Bertrand Piccard taking turns at the controls of the single-seat plane.
13:51 What happens to Benegal's recommendations to the I&B ministry?
The last file put up to Arun Jaitley as Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting was the one on the Shyam Benegal Committee's report on the Cinematograph Act. This was on the day of the Union Cabinet expansion. Jaitley gently told his successor Venkaiah Naidu to take a view on the recommendations and implement the report. He told Naidu that he had demitted office and would not want to interfere in the ministry's functioning. Officials had pleaded with Jaitley for his inputs, but he stood his ground.
13:22 Maneka and the elephant in the room
In a recent Union Cabinet meeting, Union Minister Maneka Gandhi pleaded strongly for saving an elephant in Delhi and told the cabinet about the extra constitutional act of Lt Governor Najeeb Jung by holding a court to ensure the elephant was sent to the forest. Though it is not a subject matter of discussion, Maneka's voice was heard by Prime Minister Modi who wanted to know the real story. It was at the intervention of Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha that the elepahnt issue was resolved. Jung has a quasi judicial authority as administrator of Delhi and holds court on weekdays.
13:19 Lalit Modi applies for citizenship in Caribbean
Just in: Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi applies for citizenship in the Caribbean.
13:11 Did Amit Shah, Owaisi have a secret deal during Bihar polls?
The 2015 Bihar Assembly Elections witnessed three major parties JD(U), RJD andCongress coming together to form a 'grand alliance' for taking on BJP. On the other hand BJP also joined hands with several local parties including that of former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi.
However, a letter written by former Gujarat BJP MLA Yatin Oza to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal reveals that there was another 'secret' alliance which took place after a meeting between AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and BJP president Amit Shah at the latter's residence.
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However, a letter written by former Gujarat BJP MLA Yatin Oza to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal reveals that there was another 'secret' alliance which took place after a meeting between AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and BJP president Amit Shah at the latter's residence.
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13:06 There can be no compromise on national security: Sonia on Wani's killing
An anguished Congress party president Sonia Gandhi said on Monday that political parties must be allowed time to find durable and enduring ways to fulfill the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
In a statement issued with regard to more than 20 lives lost in the state owing to clashes between protestors and security forces following the death of militant Burhan Wani in an encounter in the Tral region last week, Gandhi said, "It is a matter of great anguish that so many innocent lives have been lost these past days in parts of the Kashmir Valley. There can be no compromise on matters relating to national security. Terrorism must be dealt with firmly and forcefully."
The statement further quoted her, as saying, "Even so, the death of so many of our brethren is very painful. The political process has made many gains in J&K over the last two decades particularly and these must not get lost.
In a statement issued with regard to more than 20 lives lost in the state owing to clashes between protestors and security forces following the death of militant Burhan Wani in an encounter in the Tral region last week, Gandhi said, "It is a matter of great anguish that so many innocent lives have been lost these past days in parts of the Kashmir Valley. There can be no compromise on matters relating to national security. Terrorism must be dealt with firmly and forcefully."
The statement further quoted her, as saying, "Even so, the death of so many of our brethren is very painful. The political process has made many gains in J&K over the last two decades particularly and these must not get lost.
13:03 PM's day in Nairobi
9 am Wreath laying ceremony at Mausoleum of Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, First President of Kenya
09:30 Ceremonial Welcome at State House by President Uhuru Kenyatta
10:00 Restricted Meeting with President Kenyatta
10:30 Delegation level talks
11:45 Signing of Agreements
12:00 Handing over of field ambulances and a Bhabhatron model
12:10 Press Statements
12:30 Lunch hosted by President Kenyatta
14:45 Offering floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi's statue
15:00 Address to students at University of Nairobi
16:00 Visit to UN Office in Nairobi
16:50 India- Kenya Business Forum
18:00 Meeting with Bharatwallah Alumni Association
19:55 Emplane for New Delhi
09:30 Ceremonial Welcome at State House by President Uhuru Kenyatta
10:00 Restricted Meeting with President Kenyatta
10:30 Delegation level talks
11:45 Signing of Agreements
12:00 Handing over of field ambulances and a Bhabhatron model
12:10 Press Statements
12:30 Lunch hosted by President Kenyatta
14:45 Offering floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi's statue
15:00 Address to students at University of Nairobi
16:00 Visit to UN Office in Nairobi
16:50 India- Kenya Business Forum
18:00 Meeting with Bharatwallah Alumni Association
19:55 Emplane for New Delhi
12:26 Arms missing from S Kashmir police station yet to be traced
Security forces have not been able to trace the large cache of arms and ammunition, including 35 assorted rifles, that went missing from a police station in south Kashmir following a mob attack on Saturday, a police official said today. Among the arms and ammunition that are still untraced are 21 INSAS rifles, 12 SLR rifles, two AK 47 rifles, one Light Machine Gun and three Carbine Machine Guns, the official said.
"The missing items include 108 INSAS magazines, six Carbine Machine Gun magazines, 18 SLR magazine, one LMG magazine and five AK 47 magazines.The number of ammunition rounds could not be ascertained yet as most of the magazines were fully loaded," he said.
A mob attacked a police station at Damhal Hanjipora in south Kashmir on Saturday during violent protests against the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter with security forces a day earlier.
The official said it was not clear whether the mob has taken away the arms and ammunition or some police personnel posted at the police station managed to save these. "We have our fingers crossed that these weapons have not fallen into wrong hands," he said.
The official said some sensitive documents were also missing from the police station. "The Police Wireless Communication Code (PWCC) document, the coded language used by the department for relay of information, is also missing. Case diaries and some other records are also not traced yet," he added.
Protesters throw stones at security personnel in Srinagar in the wake of the killing of Burhan Wani, a separatist militant leader, in the city. Photograph: Umar Ganie/Rediff.com
"The missing items include 108 INSAS magazines, six Carbine Machine Gun magazines, 18 SLR magazine, one LMG magazine and five AK 47 magazines.The number of ammunition rounds could not be ascertained yet as most of the magazines were fully loaded," he said.
A mob attacked a police station at Damhal Hanjipora in south Kashmir on Saturday during violent protests against the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter with security forces a day earlier.
The official said it was not clear whether the mob has taken away the arms and ammunition or some police personnel posted at the police station managed to save these. "We have our fingers crossed that these weapons have not fallen into wrong hands," he said.
The official said some sensitive documents were also missing from the police station. "The Police Wireless Communication Code (PWCC) document, the coded language used by the department for relay of information, is also missing. Case diaries and some other records are also not traced yet," he added.
Protesters throw stones at security personnel in Srinagar in the wake of the killing of Burhan Wani, a separatist militant leader, in the city. Photograph: Umar Ganie/Rediff.com
12:05 Miffed Jaya will skip PM's meet
Tamil Nadu CM J Jayalalithaa is unlikely to attend the Inter State council meeting being held in New Delhi on July 16. She is believed to be unwell and is upset that none of her demands like more financial aid for
the state as mentioned in her memorandum have been okayed by the Centre. So far, the files haven't moved in either the PMO or the Finance Ministry for the sanctions for the projects Jaya wants for ther state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured Jayalalaitha a month ago, that there would be a Special Task Force from the PMO on Tamil Nadu, but it is yet to be constituted. So, a miffed Jaya has decided to sit this one out, a
senior AIADMK leader says.
Modi will meet chief ministers on July 16 to discuss a host of issues including inter-state relations, internal security and atrocities on SC and STs.
Convened after a gap of 10 years, the 11th meeting of the Inter-state Council here will also discuss issues concerning school education, direct benefit scheme, Aadhaar card, good governance and economic and social planning.
The Prime Minister is the chairman of the Council while six of his senior Cabinet Ministers -- Rajnath Singh, Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, M Venkaiah Naidu, Nitin Gadkari, Manohar Parrikar -- were nominated by him as members.
Image: Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa presenting her memorandum to PM Modi at 7RCR in June.
the state as mentioned in her memorandum have been okayed by the Centre. So far, the files haven't moved in either the PMO or the Finance Ministry for the sanctions for the projects Jaya wants for ther state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured Jayalalaitha a month ago, that there would be a Special Task Force from the PMO on Tamil Nadu, but it is yet to be constituted. So, a miffed Jaya has decided to sit this one out, a
senior AIADMK leader says.
Modi will meet chief ministers on July 16 to discuss a host of issues including inter-state relations, internal security and atrocities on SC and STs.
Convened after a gap of 10 years, the 11th meeting of the Inter-state Council here will also discuss issues concerning school education, direct benefit scheme, Aadhaar card, good governance and economic and social planning.
The Prime Minister is the chairman of the Council while six of his senior Cabinet Ministers -- Rajnath Singh, Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, M Venkaiah Naidu, Nitin Gadkari, Manohar Parrikar -- were nominated by him as members.
Image: Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa presenting her memorandum to PM Modi at 7RCR in June.
11:55 Priyanka wants Cong to do a U-turn on GST: Pass Bill without 18% cap
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has convinced her brother and Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi to allow the Goods and Services Tax bill be passed in the Rajya Sabha. The Bill has already been passed in the Lok Sabha.
Priyanka, who is the party's last hope in the UP polls believes that it should not be seen as obstructing the passage of the cruical GST Bill. She met senior Congress leaders, but did not concur with the view of 18 per cent cap on the bill.
The 122nd Constitution Amendment Bill, passed in the Lok Sabha in May, is stuck for want of political consensus in the Rajya Sabha where the ruling BJP does not have a majority.
The Congress, which had for years advocated the need for a country-wide indirect tax system, has insisted that the GST rate be capped at 18% in the legislation itself.
Even Finance minister Arun Jaitley had said he agrees to the Congress demand that the proposed Goods and Services Tax rate should not go beyond 18 %.
Once passed, the GST law will replace the myriad local levies and usher in Indias biggest tax reforms.
Priyanka would rather go with the UPA bill and has differed from former finance minister P Chidambaram arguments on the bill, according to a highly-placed a Congress leader.
In all probability by end of July, the GST will be passed in the Rajya Sabha.
Priyanka, who is the party's last hope in the UP polls believes that it should not be seen as obstructing the passage of the cruical GST Bill. She met senior Congress leaders, but did not concur with the view of 18 per cent cap on the bill.
The 122nd Constitution Amendment Bill, passed in the Lok Sabha in May, is stuck for want of political consensus in the Rajya Sabha where the ruling BJP does not have a majority.
The Congress, which had for years advocated the need for a country-wide indirect tax system, has insisted that the GST rate be capped at 18% in the legislation itself.
Even Finance minister Arun Jaitley had said he agrees to the Congress demand that the proposed Goods and Services Tax rate should not go beyond 18 %.
Once passed, the GST law will replace the myriad local levies and usher in Indias biggest tax reforms.
Priyanka would rather go with the UPA bill and has differed from former finance minister P Chidambaram arguments on the bill, according to a highly-placed a Congress leader.
In all probability by end of July, the GST will be passed in the Rajya Sabha.
11:17 Kollam temple fire case: All 43 accused get bail
The Kerala high court has granted bail to all the 43 accused in Kollam temple fire tragedy case.
Over a 100 devotees were killed when disaster struck the crowded precincts of the Puttingal Devi Temple at Paravur, south of Kollam, around 3.30 am on March 10 after an entire dump of fire crackers meant to be burst to mark the conclusion of the Meena-Bharani festival exploded.
The high court had in May rejected the bail plea of 39 accused, which included the temple trust officials. The judge observed that the state had developed an unhealthy cultural practice, celebrating religious festivals with fireworks or elephant parades.
The judge also observed that "the officers functioning under law do not have guts and commitments to enforce the law."
10:48
ANI reports: Dayanidhi Maran, Kalanithi Maran and other accused appear in Delhi CBI court in connection with the Aircel-Maxis case. Case adjourned till July 21.
10:33 Monsoon above normal but deficient in northeast: MeT
After two consecutive years of deficient rains, this year could be a cheerful one with the country-wide deficit being met.
According to India Meteorological Department data, monsoon rains across India are about 1% above normal for this time of the year.
The data was recorded between June 1 and July 10. On June 1, the overall rain deficit was 28%. This reduced to 25% by mid-June. It was only in the first week of July that the rain gap started to come down.
Five states -- Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Goa -- have seen above normal rains.
Of these, rains in the previously parched Madhya Pradesh are in excess by 72%. In Andhra Pradesh, the rains are 44% in excess while in Maharashtra, they are 21% more than normal. While the cumulative monsoon rain average for this time of the year is 251.8 mm, the average rain received so far is 254.6 mm.
Read more HERE
10:20 Controversial Zakir Naik set to return to India today
Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, who has been in news ever since it emerged that two of the Dhaka attack terrorists were inspired by him, will be returning to India on Monday from Saudi Arabia.
Reports said Naik will also address the media in Mumbai tomorrow, amid probes into his controversial activities by multiple agencies.
Further, The Indian Express reported today citing sources that he will be constantly monitored by various central and state intelligence as well as counter-terrorism agencies after he lands at the Mumbai airport today.
Security has also been tightened in Mumbai as different groups are likely to hold protests as well as marches in his support.
Further, policemen have been posted outside the Mumbai office of the Islamic Research Foundation, a charitable organisation founded by Naik.
10:19 Army chief to embark on his four-day Australia visit from today
Army Chief General Dalbir Singh will today embark on his four-day visit to Australia. The visit assumes special significance in the light of enhanced military cooperation between the two countries.
During his tour, Singh will be visiting important defence establishments of the Australian Armed Forces.
He is also scheduled to meet a number of high ranking defence officials including the Australian Army Chief and officials of Ministry of Defence of Australia.
He will be visiting Australian naval ships Kuttabul and Adelaide, Headquarters Force Command, Headquarters Joint Operation Command, School of Military Engineering, Royal Military College, Land Network Integration Centre and Land Systems Division.
09:51 RSS to brainstorm on strategy for poll-bound states today
Discussions on upcoming elections in four states, including Uttar Pradesh, and steps to spread RSS' programmes are likely to be the focus of the five-day annual meeting of it's regional office-bearers starting in Kanpur today.
According to sources, the Assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Punjab, slated for next year, are likely to be discussed in detail and strategy would be chalked out to ensure BJP's victory in the elections at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh meeting, which is an annual affair.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, general secretary Bhaiyyaji Joshi and 41 regional pracharaks have arrived in the city for the annual meeting, Prant Prachar Pramukh Mohan Agarwal today said, adding that informal meetings are going on among the leaders.
The sources said BJP national general secretaries Ram Lal and Ram Madhav might participate in the meeting.
On speculation that Home Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP President Amit Shah would also participate in the meeting, Agrawal said he has no information in this regard.
09:49 Delhi airport immigration officer to Manipuri girl: 'Pakka Indian Ho'?
A Manipuri woman has alleged that she was harassed at the Indira Gandhi International Airports immigration desk where she was reportedly faced a barrage of racist comments and was asked if she was really 'Indian'.
Monika Khangembam wrote on Facebook:
The bloody racist immigration desk at it again! Looks at my Passport and says, "Indian toh nahi lagti ho". I get that all the time so don't react much to it but then he goes on, "Pakka Indian ho?" with a smirk. I still don't react. What really got me was when he said, "See... You yourself need to know your Indianess. How many states are there in India?" The lady at the next counter is giggling. I tell him I am really running late. He goes, "nahi nahi bolo bolo". I helplessly answer him as he is not proceeding with the process. And then he continues, "kaha se ho". I said Manipur and he is like, "so tell me how many states Manipur shares borders with. Name them". I totally lose it and I look away and roll my eyes and don't answer. And he is still insisting me to answer. This bloody moron has all the time to ask all this. I said I was really getting late and he goes like, "aircraft aapko chodke kahi nahi jaa rahi. Aaram se jawab do". What a bully and never felt so humiliated. It was like it was his mission to make me realise my 'Indianness' and he thought he was being funny. I was running late and felt I was giving in to the bully. Spoiled my night. Is there a way to complain against these bullies?
Speaking to ANI on Monday, Monika's sister said: "It's unfortunate that my sister carrying an Indian passport was asked by the immigration officer about her nationality. Such type of treatment is unacceptable, concerned authorities must look into it."
09:42 Markets open at new 2016 high; Sensex up over 400 points
Markets opened higher, amid firm global cues, after an encouraging US jobs data signalled that growth in the world's largest economy is picking up pace.
At 9:43am, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 447.10 points at 27,574 and the Nifty50 topped the 8,400 level for the first time high in 10-months was up over 126 points at 8,451.
"The Nifty has to cross and hold above 8350 zones to start a fresh up move towards 8420 then 8450 zones while on the downside holding below 8285 may drag it towards 8242 then 8220 zones," Anand Rathi Securities said in a technical note.
Foreign institutional investors were net buyers in equities to the tune of Rs 331 crore on Friday, as per provisional stock exchange data.
09:26 L&T Infotech's over Rs 1,200-cr IPO to kick off today
L&T Infotech will hit the capital markets today to raise up to Rs 1,243 crore through an initial share sale offer.
The IT firm, part of diversified Larsen & Toubro group, would be coming out with an IPO that can fetch up to Rs 1,243 crore.
The price band for the issue, which would be open for subscription from July 11 to 13, has been fixed at Rs 705-710.
L&T Infotech on Friday raised Rs 373 crore from anchor investors by selling shares at a price of Rs 710 apiece.
The IPO comprises an offer-for-sale of up to 1.75 crore equity shares by L&T Ltd. It constitutes 10.3 per cent of the post offer paid-up equity share capital of the company. At the upper end of the price band, the offer would be worth Rs 1,243.50 crore. The sale would rake in Rs 1,233.75 crore at Rs 705 per share.
Kotak Mahindra Capital Company, Citigroup Global Markets India and ICICI Securities would be managing the issue.
09:21 Kandhamal: Congress and BJP call for bandhs against 'anti-Naxal op'
Congress and BJP both have called for a shut-down in Kandhamal, Odisha after accusing the Biju Janata Dal government of killing tribals during the anti-Maoist operation in the district.
Kandhamal Superintendent of Police Pinak Mishra clarified that five persons had been killed in Maoist-police crossfire.
Police had on Sunday put the death toll at six in the incident in Gumudumaha forest area under Tumudibandha police station limit.
Odisha PCC president Prasad Harichandan said the judicial probe ordered into the incident by the Naveen Patnaik government was "unacceptable". "BJD government is fully responsible for the tragedy in which innocent people were killed in the name of anti-Maoist operation."
09:11
ANI reports: Sarpanch abducted on July 9, killed by naxals on suspicion of being a police informer in Chhattisgarh.
09:10 Strict curfew continues in Kashmir; toll rises to 22
Strict curfew continued on Monday in most parts of the Kashmir Valley following heightened tension over the death of 22 people during protests against the killing of Hizbul commander, Burhan Wani.
The victims included 21 protesters and a police driver. They were killed during clashes with security forces, mostly in Anantnag, Shopian, Kulgam and Pulwama districts. Shabir Ahmad, the first victim from Srinagar succumbed to bullet injuries late Sunday evening.
A total of 102 civilians and 100 security personnel were injured in the bloody clashes.
Amarnath Yatra from Jammu base camp suspended for the third consecutive day, today.
09:04 Indians in South Sudan asked to stay calm amid unrest
Indian embassy in South Sudan has asked Indians stranded in capital Juba to stay calm, assuring them that they are in constant touch with authorities in India and all options are being considered to provide relief to them amid heavy in fighting between South Sudan's army and former rebels.
"The Indian embassy is in regular touch with concerned authorities with concerned authorities in India and all options are being considered for providing relief to Indians stranded here in Juba. All are requested to keep calm and await further development and further inputs from the embassy," External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj retweeted Indian embassy in South Sudan's statement.
Bhupat Patel, an Indian resident in South Sudan, tweeted to Swaraj asking for help, saying that they are stuck in between heavy gunfire. Swaraj retweeted the Indian embassy in South Sudan's statement and said that concerned authorities have been intimated to extend help.
Heavy fighting in South Sudan's capital was witnessed on Sunday as former rebels and government soldiers exchanged fire in several parts of the city.
09:02 French police arrest 40 over Euro 2016 violence
French police arrested around 40 people for violence and other offences before and after France's defeat to Portugal in the Euro 2016 final in Paris, police have said.
Police used tear gas and rounded up supporters who pelted them with bottles at the foot of the Eiffel Tower after they were refused entry to the fan zone, which was closed after it was packed to its 90,000 capacity, Paris police said.
Other arrests took place outside the Stade de France where the match was played. They were for public disorder offences.
The base of the Eiffel Tower was engulfed in clouds of tear gas as riot police repelled the youths, who started fires on the pavement and threw bottles and other objects at the police lines, AFP photographers said yesterday.
The police, who had posted a message on Twitter and issued warnings in the Metro informing supporters the fan zone was full, used water cannon to extinguish the blazes.
The ground was littered with broken fencing and shattered glass as evening fell, and firefighters were later deployed to put out larger blazes on the streets of Paris near where the clashes took place.
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