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Fri, 24 November 2017
No evidence of shots fired on Oxford Street: London Police
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23:53 UPDATE: No evidence of shots fired on Oxford Street: London Police
London police said there was no evidence of shots having been fired nor of any casualties in an incident that sparked panic in the city's Oxford Circus shopping district early on Friday evening.
Police had earlier said they were responding to reports of shots fired as if they could be terrorist-related.
"To date police have not located any trace of any suspects, evidence of shots fired or casualties," the Metropolitan Police said in a statement.
"If you are in building stay in a building, if you are on the street in Oxford Street leave the area," they added.
22:57 London's Oxford Circus station evacuated; armed police on scene
London's Oxford Circus underground station in the heart of the British capital's main shopping district was being evacuated.
According media reports, armed police were on the scene.
British Transport Police said officers were on the scene responding to an incident but gave no further details.
The police warned people to avoid the area, in London's West End.
"Oxford Circus Station is closed while we investigate a customer incident," Transport for London said.
Further details are awaiting.
Representative image
22:20 Strongly condemn the barbaric terrorist attack in Egypt: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today condemned the terror attack on an Egyptian mosque that claimed over 200 lives and said India supports the fight against terrorism.
Armed attackers today killed at least 235 worshippers in a bomb and gun assault on a packed mosque in Egypt's restive North Sinai province.
"Strongly condemn the barbaric terrorist attack on a place of worship in Egypt. Our deep condolences at the loss of innocent lives," the prime minister tweeted.
He said India "resolutely supports" the fight against all forms of terrorism and stands with the people and the Egyptian government.
22:03 LeT terrorist arrested in J-K's Kupwara district: Army
Security forces today arrested a Pakistani terrorist belonging to the Lashkar-e-Tayiba from a forest area in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district, an army official said.
"A Pakistani LeT terrorist was arrested during a joint search operation by the Army and the police in Magam area," he said.
The official said that the arrested terrorist, whose identity has not been disclosed, is being interrogated.
Three terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the same area on Tuesday. -- PTI
21:33 'Despite some anger', BJP to fare well in Gujarat: Ram Madhav
BJP national general secretary Ram Madhav today expressed confidence his party will perform better than the last assembly polls in Gujarat as people have supported demonetisation and implementation of the goods and services tax "despite some anger".
He called the two measures taken by the Union government "transformational" and said "no transformation is painless".
Madhav said the party was aware that people had to face difficulties due to the sudden demonetisation of high-value currency in November last year and the implementation of the GST in July this year.
But there was a need for such steps to "correct the basic economics" of the country, he stressed.
"We will win with better margin than the last time (in Gujarat assembly elections). Some journalists have told me that despite some anger among the people, they (the people) will support the BJP... Half of that anger is that of
journalists. Nobody in your family gets angry with you? They get angry because there is sense of belongingness," he said.
Addressing a gathering on 'Vision India-New India' organised by the National Democratic Teachers' Front at the Delhi University, Madhav said the Narendra Modi government has support at the grassroots level because people understand that the Union government was "doing good for the country".
Without naming anyone, he said "some intellectuals in Delhi" were scared of the support for the BJP, adding that a new word has been reserved for the intellectuals - 'demophobia' - "a phobia where these intellectuals are scared of people".
He also urged people to "become a stakeholder" in India's development and participate in government programmes such as the Clean India Mission.
He said Mahatma Gandhi used to say that India has got the political freedom but still needed to get economic and social freedom. -- PTI
20:45 SC agrees to examine validity of Parsi Marriage/Divorce Act
The Supreme Court today agreed to examine a plea questioning the validity of provisions of the pre-independence era Parsi Marriage and Divorce Act and said it wanted to know the Centre's stand on the issue.
A bench of Justices Kurian Joseph and Amitava Roy asked the petitioner to serve a copy of the plea to the Additional Solicitor General and fixed the matter for hearing next week.
"Let's seek the view of the Government of India. We want to have the view of the government," the apex court said while hearing the plea filed by a Parsi woman.
The lawyer for the woman told the bench that they have challenged the provision of the Parsi Marriage And Divorce Act, 1936 which was akin to "jury system" in divorce matter which would have a pan-India effect.
The lawyer referred to the apex court's decision holding the practice of divorce through instant 'triple talaq' among Muslims as illegal, void and unconstitutional, and said that this issue among Parsi has also to be considered.
During the brief hearing, the bench asked the petitioner that this provision under the Act was followed since 1936 and nobody has challenged it yet.
Responding to this, the counsel said, "yes. Nobody has challenged it. Today, there are family courts covering all such matters except this issue. This has to be considered by this court." -- PTI
20:42 Winter session delayed to avoid debate on Jay Shah, Rafale: Rahul
Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi today alleged the government delayed the winter session of Parliament as it wanted to avoid discussion on issues related to Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah's son Jay, the Rafale deal and Doklam standoff before the Gujarat polls.
His statement came hours after the announcement was made in New Delhi that the winter session will commence from December 15, a day after the second phase of the Gujarat assembly elections. Usually, the winter session starts in the third week of November and lasts till the third week of December.
"They have closed Parliament...every year Parliament opens in November, this year it will not open in November. You see, it is not going to open before elections," Gandhi said.
"Why? because they don't want Jay Shah, Rafale deal and Doklam issues to be discussed in Parliament before Gujarat elections," he told a gathering of Dalits in this town near Ahmedabad.
The Congress had recently raised questions over the Rafale fighter aircraft deal, accusing the government of compromising national interest and security while promoting "crony capitalism" and causing a loss to the public exchequer. However, the BJP had rubbished the allegation.
The tense Doklam military standoff between India and China was resolved after over two months.
"Every day they make statements that they will do this and do that in Parliament, but first you allow Parliament to open...I also want to discuss a few things regarding Rafale, Jay Shah and Doklam," Rahul Gandhi, who is on campaign trail in Gujarat, said.
The Gujarat assembly polls are due to be held in two phases on December 9 and 14. -- PTI
20:14 HC seeks Jaya's fingerprint details from Bengaluru jail
The Madras high court today decided to compare former chief minister J Jayalalithaa's thumb impression on documents relating to a bypoll last year, with the late leader's fingerprints available with the Parappana Agrahara jail at Bengaluru.
Justice P Velmurugan also asked the Unique Identification Authority of India to furnish Jayalalithaa's thumb impression details to the court.
The superintendent of central prison at Parappana Agrahara and UIDAI regional officer, who handles Aadhaar, should give fingerprints' details to the court by December 8, the judge said.
The matter relates to a petition filed by P Saravanan, DMK candidate for the November 2016 Thirupparankundram Assembly bypoll, challenging the election of AIADMK's A K Bose.
During the pendency of the case, Saravanan had filed an additional affidavit, questioning the validity of the election documents.
He contended that the thumb impression of Jayalalithaa was obtained without her consent and knowledge while she was unconscious, with the "connivance" of the doctors who attended to the former chief minister and others.
Jayalalithaa was lodged in the jail after her conviction in the Rs 65.66 crore disproportionate assets case in 2014.
She subsequently secured bail from the Supreme Court and was released on October 18, 2014, after spending 21 days in prison.
The Karnataka high court later acquitted her and three of her associates of all charges, but the Supreme Court on February 14 this year set aside the order.
However, since Jayalalithaa passed away on December 5 last year, the apex court abated the proceedings against her.
The apex court convicted Sasikala, deposed AIADMK general secretary, and her two relatives in the case and had restored the trial court's order awarding four year jail term to them. She is at present in the jail.
In his petition, Saravanan had also questioned the EC's decision to accept the left-thumb impression of Jayalalithaa affixed on the documents filed in support of Bose's nomination papers. -- PTI
19:43 Democracy is under threat, Oppn should work together: Mamata
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said that democracy is under threat in the country under the Bharatiya Janata Party rule and called upon opposition parties to work together for the greater interest of the people before the next Lok Sabha polls.
She accused the National Democratic Alliance government of trying to halt the developmental process in her state.
"Democracy is under threat in this country under the present central government. It is a super emergency that is going on in the country. I have been an MP for nearly two decades but I have never seen such a government at the centre," she said at the India Today Conclave East in Kolkata.
"I believe in collective leadership... At present all are working together and that is the best policy. Let us work together," Banerjee said about the opposition, adding she shares good relations with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, the Samajwadi Party, the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Biju Janata Dal and is working with the Congress inside Parliament on various issues.
When asked whether she is hinting at a broader opposition coalition with the Congress before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, she said, "In Bengal, the Congress and the Left are working at the state level. But at the national level for greater interests I think we should work together."
To a question whether the country would see a grand opposition coalition ahead of 2019, she said, "It depends. We are working together in Parliament. I went to (RJD chief) Lalu Prasadji's programme in Patna."
Banerjee said, "I have good relationship with (Samajwadi Party chief) Akhilesh ji and (BSP chief) Mayawati ji in Uttar Pradesh, with Stalin ji (DMK), Naveen ji (BJP)... I maintain the best of relations with so many other people. Even, within the BJP I maintain good relation with some people, but not with all."
Bengal will never accept divide and rule politics of the BJP, she asserted and dismissed that it was a challenger to the ruling (TMC) Trinamool Congress government.
"The BJP is nowhere in Bengal but only on media and social media. They only shout. Let the BJP shout along with their bike vahini, but they cannot do anything in Bengal," Banerjee said.
The BJP is trying to position itself as the main opposition in the state. -- PTI
19:35 SC's no to plea to nullify polls if NOTA gets majority
The Supreme Court today refused to entertain a plea seeking a direction to the poll panel to nullify an election result and conduct fresh poll if NOTA gets the maximum votes in a constituency.
A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud allowed the petitioner to withdraw the plea which had also sought a direction to the Election Commission of India to restrict those
candidates and political parties, whose election have been nullified, from taking part in fresh polls.
The apex court termed the suggestions as "unworkable" and said "we cannot destroy our democracy just like that... holding an election in our country is a very serious and expensive business. Today we cannot say that unless a person gets 51 per cent of votes, he cannot be declared elected."
Sensing the mood of the court favouring dismissing the plea, petitioner advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, also a Delhi BJP spokesperson, chose to withdraw the petition.
The petition had also said the right to reject and elect a new candidate will give power to the people to express their discontent.
The Right to Reject was first proposed by the Law Commission in its 170th report in 1999 as part of its 'Alternative Method of Election'. It had also suggested that the contesting candidates should be declared elected only if they have obtained 51 per cent of all valid votes.
The PIL wanted the Union government to implement the Law Commission recommendations to ensure free and fair polls. -- PTI
19:01 85 killed, 80 injured in Egypt mosque attack
At least 85 people were killed and 80 others injured when suspected terrorists launched a bomb and gun attack on a mosque during Friday prayers in Egypt's restive North Sinai region, state media reported today.
The bomb, which was planted near al-Rowda mosque in Al- Arish city, went off during the Friday prayer, security sources said.
The gunmen in four off-road vehicles opened fire on the people who tried to exit the mosque after the explosion, MENA state news agency reported.
About 50 ambulances rushed to the attack site to shift the injured to hospitals, it said.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far.
The Egypt government has announced three days of mourning, even as President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi was set to hold an emergency meeting with officials to discuss the incident. -- PTI
18:47 Arrest Hafiz Saeed, says 'deeply concerned' US
United States calls for Pakistan to arrest and charge recently freed Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed, reports ANI, quoting Reuters. "US is deeply concerned that Hafiz Seed has been released from house arrest in Pakistan. The Pakistani government should make sure he is arrested and charged for his crimes," the US Dept of State Spokesperson Heather Nauert.
Hours after his release from house arrest, Mumbai attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawah chief Hafiz Saeed gave an hour-long Friday sermon at the JuD headquarters in Lahore, accusing the Pakistan government of taking "dictation from foreign masters" to appease India.
A large number of JuD activists had gathered at the Jamia Masjid Al-Qadsia. After Friday prayers, the charged workers greeted Saeed on his release and renewed their pledge for "Kashmir Jihad".
Saeed in his speech also targeted the Pakistani government for "taking dictation from foreign masters" and spoke of "Indian atrocities" in Kashmir. He told his supporters the "reasons" behind his 10-month detention, and also as to why Nawaz Sharif was ousted as prime minister. -- PTI
Hours after his release from house arrest, Mumbai attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawah chief Hafiz Saeed gave an hour-long Friday sermon at the JuD headquarters in Lahore, accusing the Pakistan government of taking "dictation from foreign masters" to appease India.
A large number of JuD activists had gathered at the Jamia Masjid Al-Qadsia. After Friday prayers, the charged workers greeted Saeed on his release and renewed their pledge for "Kashmir Jihad".
Saeed in his speech also targeted the Pakistani government for "taking dictation from foreign masters" and spoke of "Indian atrocities" in Kashmir. He told his supporters the "reasons" behind his 10-month detention, and also as to why Nawaz Sharif was ousted as prime minister. -- PTI
18:16 S&P keeps India rating unchanged with stable outlook
S&P Global Rating today kept India's sovereign rating unchanged at 'BBB-' with stable outlook saying vulnerabilities stemming from low per capita income and high government debt balances strong GDP growth.
The rating stance taken by S&P comes days after Moody's Investors Service raised India's sovereign rating for the first time in over 13 years, saying that growth prospects have improved with continued economic and institutional reforms.
"The ratings on India reflect the country's strong GDP growth, sound external profile, and improving monetary credibility. India's strong democratic institutions and its free press promote policy stability and compromise, and also underpin the ratings.
"These strengths are balanced against vulnerabilities stemming from the country's low per capita income and relatively high general government debt stock," it said in a statement. -- PTI
The rating stance taken by S&P comes days after Moody's Investors Service raised India's sovereign rating for the first time in over 13 years, saying that growth prospects have improved with continued economic and institutional reforms.
"The ratings on India reflect the country's strong GDP growth, sound external profile, and improving monetary credibility. India's strong democratic institutions and its free press promote policy stability and compromise, and also underpin the ratings.
"These strengths are balanced against vulnerabilities stemming from the country's low per capita income and relatively high general government debt stock," it said in a statement. -- PTI
17:59
Egypt state news agency reports 54 killed, 75 wounded in mosque attack in North Sinai, says ANI.
17:53 Dinakaran throws hat in RK Nagar bypoll ring
Sidelined AIADMK leader TTV Dinakaran today announced that he would contest the RK Nagar Assembly by-election, where polling will be held on December 21. Dinakaran who unsuccessfully fought for the two-leaves symbol with the Election Commission, said he has decided to contest the bypoll in deference to the views of senior leaders. All out efforts will be taken to retrieve the two-leaves symbol, Dinakaran told reporters at Tirupur.
17:37 Rahul expert in asking questions, not answering them: Sitharaman
Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday slammed Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi saying that he was an expert in raising questions and not in answering any.
Addressing the media, Sitharaman further said that the Congress failed to form an image of responsible Opposition.
"He is only good at raising question but never answers any. The Opposition is equally responsible to answer all the questions as the Centre. I think they have not understood the meaning of democracy in true sense," she said.
She further hits out at the Congress scion saying he only reads out script during his speech.
"He was asked certain questions by BJP President Amit Shah and Chief Minister Vijay Rupani-ji a few days ago about Gujarat but he has not answered so far. It seems like he only reads the script written by his scriptwriter and does not even listen to questions," she added. -- ANI
Addressing the media, Sitharaman further said that the Congress failed to form an image of responsible Opposition.
"He is only good at raising question but never answers any. The Opposition is equally responsible to answer all the questions as the Centre. I think they have not understood the meaning of democracy in true sense," she said.
She further hits out at the Congress scion saying he only reads out script during his speech.
"He was asked certain questions by BJP President Amit Shah and Chief Minister Vijay Rupani-ji a few days ago about Gujarat but he has not answered so far. It seems like he only reads the script written by his scriptwriter and does not even listen to questions," she added. -- ANI
16:46 'My brother can't commit suicide'
Ram Ratan Saini, brother of the man who was found hanging at Jaipur's Nahargarh fort reacts: "My brother cannot commit suicide, it appears to be a murder. Will demand for an investigation into the death. He has nothing to do with it (threat note written on rocks Padmavati).
16:43 Cop's sex change op: Hearing on Nov 27
The Bombay High Court today posted for hearing on November 27 a petition filed by a 28-year-old woman police constable in Beed district, seeking direction to Maharashtra Director General of Police (DGP) to grant her leave to undergo a sex change surgery.
Lalita Salve, who now prefers to be called Lalit, had sought a month's leave to undergo the sex reassignment surgery, but the request was refused by Beed police authorities, following which she petitioned the high court. Salve's lawyer Ejaz Naqvi today mentioned the petition before a division bench of Justices S M Kemkar and G S Kulkarni, which posted it for hearing on November 27.
As per the petition, Salve, born in June 1988, noticed changes in her body three years ago and underwent medical tests, wherein it was found that the presence of Y chromosome was more.
"The petitioner later undertook counseling sessions with psychiatrists at the state-run J J Hospital. The doctors found that she had gender dysphoria abnormality and advised her to undergo sex reassignment surgery, if she was willing to and was of sound mind," the petition said.
Salve approached senior police officials and sought a month's medical leave to undergo the surgery. -- PTI
Lalita Salve, who now prefers to be called Lalit, had sought a month's leave to undergo the sex reassignment surgery, but the request was refused by Beed police authorities, following which she petitioned the high court. Salve's lawyer Ejaz Naqvi today mentioned the petition before a division bench of Justices S M Kemkar and G S Kulkarni, which posted it for hearing on November 27.
As per the petition, Salve, born in June 1988, noticed changes in her body three years ago and underwent medical tests, wherein it was found that the presence of Y chromosome was more.
"The petitioner later undertook counseling sessions with psychiatrists at the state-run J J Hospital. The doctors found that she had gender dysphoria abnormality and advised her to undergo sex reassignment surgery, if she was willing to and was of sound mind," the petition said.
Salve approached senior police officials and sought a month's medical leave to undergo the surgery. -- PTI
16:12 Padmavati death: Madhur Bhandarkar asks for probe
In the wake of a body having been found hanging on the ramparts of Jaipur's Nahargarh Fort, along with a threat note engraved on the rocks in protest of the movie Padmavati, filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar on Friday said attacks and threats like these were not in the right spirit, and demanded a thorough investigation into the matter.
"It's a very shocking news and I want a thorough investigation should be done into this," Bhandarkar said. "These acts are not right and we condemn these kind of attacks and threats to actors. I'm sure that state government will take proper cognisance of this," he added.
The incident was earlier speculated to be a suicide case, but when the police reached the spot, they found a message written on the rocks stating - "We do not only burn effigies, in protest of Padmavati".
Padmavati has been in the eye of the storm following protests from conservative groups over alleged tampering with historical facts, a contention which filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has denied repeatedly.
"It's a very shocking news and I want a thorough investigation should be done into this," Bhandarkar said. "These acts are not right and we condemn these kind of attacks and threats to actors. I'm sure that state government will take proper cognisance of this," he added.
The incident was earlier speculated to be a suicide case, but when the police reached the spot, they found a message written on the rocks stating - "We do not only burn effigies, in protest of Padmavati".
Padmavati has been in the eye of the storm following protests from conservative groups over alleged tampering with historical facts, a contention which filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has denied repeatedly.
16:07 IAF cadets ejects safely after plane crashes
A Kiran trainer aircraft crashes in Telangana's Siddipet. A woman cadet on board, who was undergoing fighter training, ejected in time. The Kiran trainer aircraft took off from Hakimpet Air Force station and was trying for an emergency landing, but failed.
15:13 Delhi metro lost 3 lakh commuters a day after fare hike: RTI
The Delhi Metro lost three lakh commuters a day after the fare hike on October 10, says RTI data. Part two of the revision in fares which took place in October -- part one was in May -- saw a maximum increase in fares by Rs 10. The revision was recommended by the fourth Fare Fixation Committee, a committee set up by the central government. Commuters travelling between two and five kilometres, now pay Rs 20, while a distance of over 32 kilometres cost Rs 60, up by Rs 10 each on both sections.
15:02 'Ticket prices for Hyd Metro Rail to be notified soon'
The ticket prices for the Hyderabad Metro Rail, which is scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 28, will be notified in a day or two, Telangana Chief Secretary SP Singh said today.
The transit system will be thrown open to public from November 29, Singh said.
"The proposal for pricing is ready. The concessionaire has already submitted it. The departments concerned have also discussed it. The prices will be notified in a day or two once our Chief Minister (K Chandrasekhar Rao) clears it," Singh told PTI.
As per an earlier government notification in 2011, the basic fare for up to 2 km was fixed at Rs 8. However, the present price is expected to go up given the current circumstances, a senior official of the Municipal Administration department said. -- PTI
The transit system will be thrown open to public from November 29, Singh said.
"The proposal for pricing is ready. The concessionaire has already submitted it. The departments concerned have also discussed it. The prices will be notified in a day or two once our Chief Minister (K Chandrasekhar Rao) clears it," Singh told PTI.
As per an earlier government notification in 2011, the basic fare for up to 2 km was fixed at Rs 8. However, the present price is expected to go up given the current circumstances, a senior official of the Municipal Administration department said. -- PTI
14:09 Thak-thak gang steals MP's bag from car
A bag containing cash was allegedly stolen by members of the 'thak-thak' gang from BJP MP Yashwant Singh's car in Chandni Chowk, police said today. The incident occurred on November 22. Police said the MP wasn't in the car but his driver was inside. Someone knocked on the driver's window and engaged him in a conversation while another man stole the bag, the police said. The amount of cash in the bag was not known.
14:07 TMC plans no-confidence motion in parliament
The Trinamool Congress is planning a no-confidence motion against the Narendra Modi government in the winter session of Parliament. The session will be held from December 15 to January 5.
The TMC is in touch with the Congress and other political parties and if this proposal the Congress party's acceptance, the no confidence motion will get precedence over any other subject matter. In fact, it will be made on the first day of the session.
Though the BJP has a comfortable majority in the house, the no confidence motion is being done just to provoke and irritate the treasury benches, The BJP will welcome this as the initiative of the TMC and will further ensure a division in Opposition ranks.
The TMC is in touch with the Congress and other political parties and if this proposal the Congress party's acceptance, the no confidence motion will get precedence over any other subject matter. In fact, it will be made on the first day of the session.
Though the BJP has a comfortable majority in the house, the no confidence motion is being done just to provoke and irritate the treasury benches, The BJP will welcome this as the initiative of the TMC and will further ensure a division in Opposition ranks.
13:56 Mooh mitha
Hafiz Saeed, the Butcher of Bombay, the mastermind of the 26/11 terror attacks, enjoys sweetmeats after Pakistan today freed him from detention. He immediately launched his anti-India rhetoric by saying he would mobilise people for the "cause of Kashmir".
13:49 Paralympian Oscar Pistorius sentenced to 13 years in jail
Just in: Former Paralympian Oscar Pistorius, convicted of the 2013 murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, has been sentenced to 13 years and five months in jail.
The world-renowned athlete was arrested on Valentine's Day in 2013 the day of the killing. He claimed that he had mistaken Steenkamp for an intruder.
The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein more than doubled his original sentence of six years after the state appealed that it was unduly lenient.
The world-renowned athlete was arrested on Valentine's Day in 2013 the day of the killing. He claimed that he had mistaken Steenkamp for an intruder.
The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein more than doubled his original sentence of six years after the state appealed that it was unduly lenient.
13:43 Indrani Mukerjea gets visitors in Byculla jail
A team of the Enforcement Directorate on Friday reached Mumbai's Byculla jail to question Indrani Mukerjea in connection with a money laundering case.Indrani is lodged in the Byculla jail for allegedly murdering her daughter Sheena Bora.
The Enforcement Directorate reached the Byculla jail after a special CBI court, which is conducting the trial in Sheena Bora murder case, allowed it to interrogate Indrani.
Earlier in May, the Enforcement Directorate registered the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act against the son of former finance minister P Chidambaram, Karti Chidambaram, INX Media and its directors Peter and Indrani Mukerjea, and others. -- ANI
Also read: Vaihayasi Pande Daniel reports the court: Peter responds to Indrani's charges
The Enforcement Directorate reached the Byculla jail after a special CBI court, which is conducting the trial in Sheena Bora murder case, allowed it to interrogate Indrani.
Earlier in May, the Enforcement Directorate registered the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act against the son of former finance minister P Chidambaram, Karti Chidambaram, INX Media and its directors Peter and Indrani Mukerjea, and others. -- ANI
Also read: Vaihayasi Pande Daniel reports the court: Peter responds to Indrani's charges
13:17 HC declines to stay order on screening 'S Durga' at IFFI
The Kerala High Court today declined to stay a single bench order to screen the controversial Malayalam film "S Durga" in the Panorama section of the ongoing International Film Festival of India in Goa. A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Antony Dominic and Justice A Muhamed Mustaque refused to stay the single judge order while admitting an appeal filed by the Centre.
12:57 Rajputs protest in Delhi
Brandishing swords, Rajput community members hold protests against the film Padmavati in Delhi's Nangloi area.
12:53 Centre clarifies: No proposal to withdraw bank chequebook facility
The Central Government on Thursday issued a clarification that there is no proposal under consideration to withdraw the bank chequebook facility.
Certain media reports were highlighting the possibility that the Central Government is mulling to withdraw bank cheque book facility in the near future, in a bid to encourage digital transactions.
The Ministry of Finance, however, denied the same in a tweet. Ministry of Finance @FinMinIndia The Government of India has reaffirmed that there is NO proposal under consideration to withdraw the bank Cheque Book facility.
The Government emphasised that it is committed to transform India into a less cash economy and promote digital and electronic transactions through multi-pronged initiatives, but cheques play an important role in the payment system in the country.
"Cheques are an integral part of the payments landscape, and form the backbone of trade and commerce, by being negotiable instruments, which often serve as the security for underlying trade transactions," the Finance Ministry said in an official statement. -- ANI
Certain media reports were highlighting the possibility that the Central Government is mulling to withdraw bank cheque book facility in the near future, in a bid to encourage digital transactions.
The Ministry of Finance, however, denied the same in a tweet. Ministry of Finance @FinMinIndia The Government of India has reaffirmed that there is NO proposal under consideration to withdraw the bank Cheque Book facility.
The Government emphasised that it is committed to transform India into a less cash economy and promote digital and electronic transactions through multi-pronged initiatives, but cheques play an important role in the payment system in the country.
"Cheques are an integral part of the payments landscape, and form the backbone of trade and commerce, by being negotiable instruments, which often serve as the security for underlying trade transactions," the Finance Ministry said in an official statement. -- ANI
12:33 Delhi HC dismisses 'hopeless' plea against Padmavati screening
Update: The Delhi High Court today dismissed a plea against the film Padmavati, observing that such petitions were encouraging those agitating against the movie.
A bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar termed as "hopeless" and "misconceived" a petition seeking that a committee be set up prior to the release of the movie to check whether there was any distortion of history.
"Have you (counsel for the petitioner) seen the film. Have the people, who are burning cinema halls seen the film? By this kind of petitions, you are encouraging the people who are agitating," the bench observed. It further directed the petitioner, Akhand Rashtrawadi Party, which claims to be a political party, to approach the Censor Board as the court was not inclined to entertain it.
The plea has said that the committee was necessary as there was alleged distortion of historical facts in the film starring Deepika Padukone. -- PTI
A bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar termed as "hopeless" and "misconceived" a petition seeking that a committee be set up prior to the release of the movie to check whether there was any distortion of history.
"Have you (counsel for the petitioner) seen the film. Have the people, who are burning cinema halls seen the film? By this kind of petitions, you are encouraging the people who are agitating," the bench observed. It further directed the petitioner, Akhand Rashtrawadi Party, which claims to be a political party, to approach the Censor Board as the court was not inclined to entertain it.
The plea has said that the committee was necessary as there was alleged distortion of historical facts in the film starring Deepika Padukone. -- PTI
12:08 SC grants time on action against cops in Bilkis Bano case
The Supreme Court today granted six weeks time to the Gujarat government for apprising it on whether any disciplinary action has been initiated against policemen convicted in the 2002 Bilkis Bano gangrape case.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, considered the submission of Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the state government, that some more time be given to get instruction on the authorities concerned in the case.
The bench listed the plea for hearing in the first week of January. -- PTI
A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, considered the submission of Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the state government, that some more time be given to get instruction on the authorities concerned in the case.
The bench listed the plea for hearing in the first week of January. -- PTI
12:05 Delhi HC refuses to hear plea on Padmavati panel
The Delhi High Court dismisses a plea to set up a panel prior to the release of the film Padmavati to ensure there is no "distortion"of history. The court says the PIL against the release of Padmavati is hopeless and misconceived and such pleas are encouraging people who are agitating against it.
12:03 Padmavati death
TV reports say a threat note was scribbled next to the body found hanging at Nahargarh fort in Jaipur. The note said, "We don't behead, we hang. Burning effigies not enough."
The police are probing the case, but there is no clarity on whether it is a suicide or murder.
The police are probing the case, but there is no clarity on whether it is a suicide or murder.
11:48 Padmavati protests: Dead body found hanging at Jaipur fort
Padmavati protests turn deadly.
In Nahargarh fort near Jaipur, the dead body of a man was found hanging from the ramparts of the fort. The suicide note seems to suggest that the man was upset over effigies of Padmavati being burnt in protests against the screening of the film. He said he was ending his life over Padmavati: 'Padmavati ka virodh' was written next to the body.
Meanwhile, the furore over Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmavati has reached the United Kingdom with Rajput groups in London planning protests against the British censor boards all-clear to the controversial film.
The film, whose released has been deferred in India following massive protests, was cleared uncut by the British Board of Film Classification. However, Viacom 18, the makers of Padmavati, said there was no plan to release the film globally without it being cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification in India.
The London Rajput Samaj has, however, shot off a letter to the British censor board, asking it to reconsider its decision.
Image: The suicide note found next to the body.
In Nahargarh fort near Jaipur, the dead body of a man was found hanging from the ramparts of the fort. The suicide note seems to suggest that the man was upset over effigies of Padmavati being burnt in protests against the screening of the film. He said he was ending his life over Padmavati: 'Padmavati ka virodh' was written next to the body.
Meanwhile, the furore over Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Padmavati has reached the United Kingdom with Rajput groups in London planning protests against the British censor boards all-clear to the controversial film.
The film, whose released has been deferred in India following massive protests, was cleared uncut by the British Board of Film Classification. However, Viacom 18, the makers of Padmavati, said there was no plan to release the film globally without it being cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification in India.
The London Rajput Samaj has, however, shot off a letter to the British censor board, asking it to reconsider its decision.
Image: The suicide note found next to the body.
11:37 News updates
Bilkis Bano gang-rape case: Supreme Court grants six weeks' time to the Gujarat government to apprise it whether any disciplinary action has been initiated against the cops who were convicted in the case
O Panneerselvam files a caveat in Supreme Court, pleads in the apex court to not pass any order without hearing them, if Dhinakaran camp moves SC challenging the EC order in 'two leaves' symbol case.
Enforcement Directorate team reached Mumbai's Byculla women's prison to question Indrani Mukerjea, in connection with a PMLA case.
O Panneerselvam files a caveat in Supreme Court, pleads in the apex court to not pass any order without hearing them, if Dhinakaran camp moves SC challenging the EC order in 'two leaves' symbol case.
Enforcement Directorate team reached Mumbai's Byculla women's prison to question Indrani Mukerjea, in connection with a PMLA case.
11:29 Dengue mosquito breeding grounds in Ganguly's house
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation team has found dengue mosquito breeding grounds at Saurav Ganguly's mansion in Kolkata's Behala suburb. He has assured full cooperation, an official from the KMC said.
In fact, Ganguly's elder brother Snehasish was diagnosed with dengue on Wednesday. He is undergoing treatment at the Belle Vue hospital in the city.
The official number of dengue deaths in state this year stands at 35, but unofficial records say that the toll is 50. Around 12,600 people have been affected by the virus so far.
In fact, Ganguly's elder brother Snehasish was diagnosed with dengue on Wednesday. He is undergoing treatment at the Belle Vue hospital in the city.
The official number of dengue deaths in state this year stands at 35, but unofficial records say that the toll is 50. Around 12,600 people have been affected by the virus so far.
11:10
Here's a confirmation: The Winter Session of Parliament will be held from December 15 to January 5.
11:09 2nd train derailment today
At least 14 bogies of a coal laden goods train derailed near Odisha's Jagatsinghpur district on Friday. The incident occurred at 5:55 am, near Gauli station here. No casualties were reported.
The Indian Railways informed that restoration of affected line is expected to be completed by tomorrow.
Earlier in the day, Vasco De Gama Patna Express derailed was also derailed in Uttar Pradesh's Chitrakoot district claiming lives of three people and left seven injured.
The CPRO of NCR region, Gaurav Krishna Bansal informed that 13 coaches of the train slipped off the track at Chitrakoot's Manikpur station at 4:18 am when it was leaving from the platform. -- ANI
The Indian Railways informed that restoration of affected line is expected to be completed by tomorrow.
Earlier in the day, Vasco De Gama Patna Express derailed was also derailed in Uttar Pradesh's Chitrakoot district claiming lives of three people and left seven injured.
The CPRO of NCR region, Gaurav Krishna Bansal informed that 13 coaches of the train slipped off the track at Chitrakoot's Manikpur station at 4:18 am when it was leaving from the platform. -- ANI
11:03 1 dead in Bhiwandi building collapse
One person dead and may feared injured in a four-storey building collapse in Bhiwandi in Thane district. Many persons are feared trapped under the debris, officials said. The building in Navi Vasti locality collapsed at around 9 am, Regional Disaster Management Cell chief Santosh Kadam said.
A senior district administration official said teams of the National Disaster Response Force have been rushed to Bhiwandi for the rescue and relief operation. Senior police and civic officials have also rushed to the spot, he said. Further details are awaited.
A senior district administration official said teams of the National Disaster Response Force have been rushed to Bhiwandi for the rescue and relief operation. Senior police and civic officials have also rushed to the spot, he said. Further details are awaited.
10:56 Bypolls in Jayalalithaa's constituency on Dec 21
A by-election will be held in Chennai's Dr Radhakrishnan (RK) Nagar, which was J Jayalalithaa's former Assembly constituency, on December 21, the Election Commission has announced today.
Bypolls will also be held in Sabang in West Bengal, Sikandra in Uttar Pradesh, and Likabali and Pakke Kasang in Arunanchal Pradesh on the same day.
The counting of votes will be take place on December 24.
A bypoll had in fact been scheduled for the RK Nagar constituency on April 12, but it was cancelled after Income Tax raids uncovered evidence of massive corruption and bribery.
The Election Commission had also frozen the 'two leaves' symbol of the AIADMK in March ahead of the polls after infighting between the O Panneerselvam and E Palaniswamy (then led by VK Sasikala) camps.
Bypolls will also be held in Sabang in West Bengal, Sikandra in Uttar Pradesh, and Likabali and Pakke Kasang in Arunanchal Pradesh on the same day.
The counting of votes will be take place on December 24.
A bypoll had in fact been scheduled for the RK Nagar constituency on April 12, but it was cancelled after Income Tax raids uncovered evidence of massive corruption and bribery.
The Election Commission had also frozen the 'two leaves' symbol of the AIADMK in March ahead of the polls after infighting between the O Panneerselvam and E Palaniswamy (then led by VK Sasikala) camps.
10:35 Trump vows to repeal, replace Obamacare 'disaster'
Attacking the ObamaCare, United States President Donald Trump has vowed to repeal and replace it after the Republican tax cut bill is signed into law.Dubbing the healthcare bill as a 'disaster', Trump in a tweet post said,
"ObamaCare premiums are going up, up, up, just as I have been predicting for two years. ObamaCare is OWNED by the Democrats, and it is a disaster. "But do not worry. Even though the Dems want to Obstruct, we will Repeal & Replace right after Tax Cuts!"
Trump's promise to repeal ObamaCare comes in the backdrop of an unexpected surge in the enrollment in the health-care law.
According to reports, the Senate's failure to pass any bill to repeal or overhaul Obamacare is what prompted Republicans to quickly move to tax cuts this year.
Nearly 2.3 million people signed up for coverage through ObamaCare exchanges during the first 18 days of the open enrollment period. Republicans are trying to take a nibble out of Obamacare as part of the tax bill. -- ANI
"ObamaCare premiums are going up, up, up, just as I have been predicting for two years. ObamaCare is OWNED by the Democrats, and it is a disaster. "But do not worry. Even though the Dems want to Obstruct, we will Repeal & Replace right after Tax Cuts!"
Trump's promise to repeal ObamaCare comes in the backdrop of an unexpected surge in the enrollment in the health-care law.
According to reports, the Senate's failure to pass any bill to repeal or overhaul Obamacare is what prompted Republicans to quickly move to tax cuts this year.
Nearly 2.3 million people signed up for coverage through ObamaCare exchanges during the first 18 days of the open enrollment period. Republicans are trying to take a nibble out of Obamacare as part of the tax bill. -- ANI
10:24 From Obama to you
For those missing the former US president. Barack Obama @BarackObama tweets: From the Obama family to yours, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving full of joy and gratitude.
Thanksgiving was celebrated in the US and Canada yesterday.
Thanksgiving was celebrated in the US and Canada yesterday.
10:06 Vasco Express derailment: Compensation of Rs 5 lakh for dead
The Railway Ministry today announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the kin of those dead in the the Vasco Da Gama-Patna Express derailment in Uttar Pradesh and Rs 1 lakh for those with grievous injuries.
Railway Minister Piyush Goyal expressed grief over the accident and extended his condolences to the families of the deceased. He said Rs 5 lakh would be given as ex-gratia to the kin of the dead, Rs 1 lakh for those with grevious injuries and Rs 50,000 for those with simple injuries.
The minister directed Chairman Railway Board Ashwani Lohani, who is in the state, to rush to the site and also ordered an inquiry by the commissioner railway safety. At least three people were killed and nine injured after 13 coaches of the express train jumped the rails near Manikpur railway station in in the early hours today. -- PTI
09:57 26/11 butcher vows to fight for Kashmir
Mumbai attack mastermind and banned JuD chief Hafiz Saeed today walked free from house arrest and said he would gather people across Pakistan for the "cause of Kashmir" and try to help Kashmiris get their "destination of freedom".
The Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) head, who carries a USD 10 million American bounty for his role in terror activities, was freed after the government decided against detaining him further in any case. He was under detention since January.
"I was detained for 10 months only to stop my voice for Kashmir," Saeed told his supporters gathered outside his residence to celebrate his release. "I fight for the case of Kashmiris. I will gather the people from across the country for the cause of Kashmir and we will try to help Kashmiris get their destination of freedom," he said upon his release.
Punjab province's Judicial Review Board comprising judges of the Lahore High Court (LHC) on Wednesday unanimously ordered Saeed's release on the completion of his 30-day house arrest which expired last night. Saeed said that he was detained when he announced a month of solidarity for Kashmiris in January. --PTI
09:25 Amid meme row, Shatrughan Sinha takes dig at 'chaiwalla' PM Modi
Veteran film actor and BJP MP Shatrughan Sinha after jumping into the ongoing Padmavati controversy on Wednesday hit out at the Narendra Modi-led BJP government at the Centre on Friday.
Sinha, who seemed to be taking a swipe at those in his own party who are not in good terms with him, said he too can speak on the economy if other people can do so without being a specialist.
"If vakeel babu can speak on finance, if a TV actress can become the country's HRD minister and if a chai wala can become... I wouldn't say any further... Why can't I speak on economy?" said the BJP leader who has criticised his party over a range of issues in the past.
Sinha said people have asked him what qualification he has to speak on the economy as his career has its roots in the film industry. He said the overnight pull-out of high-value currency notes last year has left millions of Indians without jobs, factories have shut down, and small traders and hawkers are out of work.
"If I do not speak for the youth, for the poor... for the oppressed, then what am I doing in politics?" Sinha said.
09:13 Uma Thurman finally speaks out on Harvey Weinstein, saying #metoo
Uma Thurman is spreading the holiday spirit to everyone, except to Harvey Weinstein and his "wicked conspirators".
The 47-year-old actress, who recently appeared to demonstrate extreme self-restraint when asked her thoughts on women speaking out against harassment, took to her Instagram page to reveal that she's getting closer to having her say.
"Happy Thanksgiving! I am grateful today, to be alive, for all those I love, and for all those who have the courage to stand up for others," the 'Kill Bill' star began her post.
"I said I was angry recently, and I have a few reasons, #metoo, in case you couldn't tell by the look on my face. I feel it's important to take your time, be fair, be exact, so," she added.
Thurman continued: "Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! (Except you Harvey, and all your wicked conspirators - I'm glad it's going slowly -You don't deserve a bullet) - stay tuned," Uma concluded.
The post was attached with a still photograph of Thurman in 'Kill Bill: Volume 2,' a film produced by Miramax -- the company Weinstein founded.
Thurman has worked several times with Weinstein, including on her Oscar-nominated breakout role in Quentin Tarantino's 1994 film 'Pulp Fiction.'
She also starred in 'Beautiful Girls' and 'Burnt,' two films that were distributed by Weinstein-owned companies.
-- ANI
09:05
JUST IN: Railway Minister Piyush Goyal announces ex-gratia compensation of Rs 5 lakh each to kin of dead in Vasco Da Gama-Patna express derailment, Rs 1 lakh for those with grievous injuries.
08:47 Pak mocks Swaraj for issuing medical visas, calls it 'Indian gimmickry'
Pakistan accused India of "politicising" humanitarian issues and said selective issuance of medical visas to its citizens was not a gesture of
compassion but "cold blooded politicking".
Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said the Indian policy of selective issuance of medical visa to Pakistanis was "regrettable".
Faisal said India continued to politicise humanitarian issues, which was more reprehensible as many patients have been consulting Indian doctors for a long time on their own expense.
"No one is fooled by Indian gimmickry. This is not a gesture of compassion but cold blooded politicking under which individuals are picked at will for political mileage," he said.
Faisal's remarks came days after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj asked the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to grant a visa to a Pakistani woman for a liver transplant in India.
Her intervention came after Sadia, the ailing woman's daughter, last week requested Swaraj for grant of a visa to her mother.
Swaraj has been adopting a humanitarian approach in granting visas to Pakistani nationals on medical ground notwithstanding strain in relationship between the two sides over a host of sticky issues, including cross-border terrorism.
-- PTI
compassion but "cold blooded politicking".
Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said the Indian policy of selective issuance of medical visa to Pakistanis was "regrettable".
Faisal said India continued to politicise humanitarian issues, which was more reprehensible as many patients have been consulting Indian doctors for a long time on their own expense.
"No one is fooled by Indian gimmickry. This is not a gesture of compassion but cold blooded politicking under which individuals are picked at will for political mileage," he said.
Faisal's remarks came days after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj asked the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to grant a visa to a Pakistani woman for a liver transplant in India.
Her intervention came after Sadia, the ailing woman's daughter, last week requested Swaraj for grant of a visa to her mother.
Swaraj has been adopting a humanitarian approach in granting visas to Pakistani nationals on medical ground notwithstanding strain in relationship between the two sides over a host of sticky issues, including cross-border terrorism.
-- PTI
07:51 3 dead, 9 hurt after Vasco Da Gama-Patna Express derails in UP
Three people were killed and at least nine persons have been injured after a Patna-bound train derailed near Manikpur railway station in Uttar Pradesh early this morning, police said. The injured have been taken to local hospitals.
Thirteen coaches of the Vasco Da Gama-Patna Express derailed at 4.18 am after it left the Manikpur station, less than 12 hours after a bolero collided with a passenger train near Lucknow killing four and injuring two.
Relief operations are underway, North Central Railway PRO Amit Malviya said.
"The injured have been rushed to the hospital and officials have left for the spot. Relief operations are underway," North Central Railway PRO Amit Malviya said.
He further said that soon after the accident, a medical train reached the spot and by 5:20 am, an accident relief train was dispatched for the spot.
07:38 LIVE! 3 dead as Vasco Da Gama-Patna Express derails near Manikpur, UP.
Three dead, nine injured in Vasco Da Gama-Patna Express derailment: SP, Chitrakoot.
07:09 Vasco Da Gama-Patna Express derails near Manikpur in UP, 7 injured
13 coaches of the Vasco Da Gama-Patna Express derailed near Manikpur railway station in Uttar Pradesh on Friday, leaving at least seven people injured.
The Patna-bound train derailed at 4:18 am near the Manikpur railway station in UP's Chitrakoot district.
"The injured have been rushed to hospital. Relief operations are underway," North Central Railway PRO Amit Malviya said.
While no deaths were confirmed by the railways, sources say multiple fatalities cannot be ruled out.
00:04 Centre grants 'Y' category security cover to Hardik Patel
A 'Y' category of armed VIP security cover has been accorded by the Centre to Gujarat's Patidar leader Hardik Patel, official sources said on Thursday.
The Central Industrial Security Force has been entrusted with the task of safeguarding the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti leader, they said.
"A contingent of armed CISF commandos will take charge of the new protectee very soon. Patel will have about eight commandos with him, whenever he travels in Gujarat," a senior official said.
He said a threat analysis report, prepared by central intelligence and security agencies, favoured granting of such a cover to Patel.
There is a potential threat to his security and hence he needs an armed cover, they said.
The CISF has a special VIP security wing and it secures around 60 dignitaries like National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat.
The 24-year-old Patel had yesterday declared the support of PAAS for the Congress in the Gujarat assembly elections next month after the latter accepted its demand for reservation for the Patel community.
Elections in Gujarat will be held on December 9 and 14. -- PTI
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