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Wed, 06 September 2017
Rajasthan Blue Whale challenge: Girl tries to kill self again
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23:23 Rajasthan Blue Whale challenge: Girl tries to kill self again
A 17-year-old girl, who was rescued after she trying to commit suicide by jumping into a lake in Jodhpur as part of the Blue Whale Challenge, made another attempt to kill herself, the police said.
The Class X student, who told her parents that she was going to meet her friends, on Monday night carved the shape of a whale on her arm and threw away her mobile phone before jumping into the Kailana lake, they said.
The girl yesterday allegedly again attempted suicide by consuming some tablets kept in her house. She was rushed to a private hospital and admitted to its ICU.
Owner of the hospital, Dr K R Daukiya said she was out of danger but has been kept in ICU for examination of her vital organs.
According to the doctor, she is depressed.
He said soon counselling of the girl would be started.
"When the girl was brought here last morning, she was quite stressed. But after treatment, she spoke about how she got into it (the blue whale challenge)," the doctor said.
22:28 Trump says military action against North Korea not "first choice"
After saying that the the threat from North Korea will be met with "fire and fury like the world has never seen" if they continue to expand their nuclear and missile programme, US President Donald Trump said that military action against the rogue nation was not the first choice.
Earlier, the United States said it would launch a 'massive military response' to any threats from North Korea.
North Korea claimed on Sunday it had successfully tested a hydrogen bomb meant to be loaded onto an intercontinental ballistic missile.
It was Pyongyang's sixth, and the most powerful nuclear test, which was set to raise tension in the region.
"We made clear that we have the ability to defend ourselves and our allies, South Korea and Japan, from any attack. And our commitment among the allies is ironclad: Any threat to the United States or its territories, including Guam, or our allies will be met with a massive military response, a response both effective and overwhelming," Mattis told reporters at the White House.
21:45 Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad condemns social media posts expressing happiness on Lankesh killing
Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad hit out those expressing happiness at the killing of activist-journalist Gauri Lankesh on social media.
While several people condemned her murder in Bengaluru last night, many on social media also posted hateful comments. Some even justified Lankesh's murder.
"Expressing happiness on the killing of anyone is shameful, regrettable and totally against Indian traditions. Social media is not for that.
"I strongly condemn & deplore the messages on social media expressing happiness on the dastardly murder of#Gaurilankesh," Prasad said in a series of tweets.
He hoped that the Karnataka police would soon nab the killers. The killing unleashed outrage across the country even as the Karnataka government quickly set up a Special Investigation Team to probe the crime.
21:34 Trump on Hurricane Irma: 'Not good'
US President Trump on Wednesday predicted that Hurricane Irma "will not be good."
During a meeting with congressional leaders at the White House, Trump said they would discuss the dangerous hurricane set to hit Puerto Rico and Florida.
"There is a new and seems to be record-breaking hurricane [heading] toward Florida and Puerto Rico and other places," he told reporters in the Oval Office. "It looks like it could be something that will be not good. Believe me, not good."
The Category 5 storm has already battered several Caribbean islands and could pass over the US territory of Puerto Rico later Wednesday. While forecasters say its path is uncertain, some fear it could hit Florida by the weekend.
Irma poses a fresh challenge for the Trump administration, which is already scrambling to respond to the widespread damage in Texas and Louisiana caused by Hurricane Harvey.
21:24 Defiant Clinton looks to explain loss in new memoir
A raw and aggrieved Hillary Clinton takes ownership -- to a degree -- for her stunning 2016 loss to Donald Trump in her upcoming book, which offers a revealing look at the campaign through the eyes of the contest's loser.
The defeated presidential contender offers a patchwork of explanations for what, exactly, did happen last year -- some of which she insists were outside her control and some she concedes were her own fault.
Read full story HERE
20:53
JUST IN: IGP (Intelligence) B K Singh to head SIT probe into Gauri Lankesh's murder: Karnataka Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy.
20:41 Blue Whale challenge: 16-year old boy tries to end life
A 16-year-old boy allegedly attempted suicide by hanging himself from a fan while participating in Blue Whale Challenge in Pathankot district of
Punjab, in yet other deadly fall-out of the infamous online game.
However, he was saved due to timely intervention of his parents, said a government doctor who is treating the teenager.
"The boy attempted suicide by hanging himself from a ceiling fan. He was even making video of his actions on his mobile phone," Pathankot civil hospital, psychiatrist, Sonia Mishra said.
Following the incident, the district administration of Pathankot has issued directions to the department concerned to hold counselling sessions for children in schools so that they stay away from the dangerous online game, which allegedly incites players to commit suicide.
20:34 Aditya Pancholi to take legal action against Kangana, calls her 'mad girl'
Kangana Ranaut's recent series of interviews has sparked quite a lot of old flames including Aditya Pancholi who has not gulped Kanganas wrath with ease.
The Queen actress said that Aditya used to abuse her, keep her under house arrest and even chase her when they were in a relationship. When she complained to his family, they reportedly said they are happy with his absence at home and cannot help her in any way.
Kangana then lodged a FIR against Aditya and police helped in keeping Aditya away from her.
Aditya was the first one to react provocatively. In an interview, Aditya stated, She is a mad girl, what to do, did you see the interview? Didnt you feel like some mad person was talking? Who talks like that? We have been in the industry for so long, nobody has ever spoken anything so evil about anyone. What should I say, shes a mad girl. If you throw stones in mud, it will only spoil your clothes."
She is lying thats why I am taking legal action against her," added Aditya.
20:10 China taking over territory gradually, testing Indias threshold: Army chief Bipin Rawat
China is gradually taking over territory and testing Indias threshold, army chief General Bipin Rawat said on Wednesday, a little over a week after the countries ended one of their worst military face-offs.
Referring to China, Rawat said it had started flexing muscles and Pakistan was likely to take advantage of the situation developing along the northern border. He referred to China and Pakistan as Indias northern and western adversaries, and said the country needs to be prepared for a two-front war.
As far as the northern adversary is concerned, flexing of muscles has startedsalami slicing, taking over territory in a very gradual manner, testing our limits of threshold is something we have to be wary about and remain prepared for situations which could gradually emerge into conflict, Rawat said at a seminar organised by defence think-tank Centre for Land Warfare Studies.
Salami slicing refers to a string of small, clandestine operations meant to achieve a larger goal that would be difficult to accomplish in one go.
The chiefs comments come more than a week after India and China ended a 73-day border face-off in Doklam plateau near Sikkim. Troops were locked in a tense stand-off during which officials in Beijing hinted at drastic consequences such as a wider conflict. Soldiers from the two country also traded blows and threw stones at each other in a more northern region in Ladakh while the Doklam problem went on.
19:47 Modi hails people-to-people ties in Myanmar
More from the PM's address to the Indian Diaspora in Yangon, Myanmar
>> We have not shied away from taking decisions that are tough. For us, the nation is bigger than politics
>> GST is ushering in a new culture across the nation
>> People of India have the confidence that India can be transformed and we can break free from some of the evils that entered our systems
>> India is seen as a thought leader on the global stage
>> People to people ties are the strength of India-Myanmar relations
19:41 Not merely reforming India, but transforming India: Modi in Yangon
After having a meeting with Aung San Suu Kyi, Modi is now addressing the Indian Diaspora at the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon.
Here are the highlights from the address:
>> I am very happy to be here with you today
>> I am getting to witness a mini India in front of me today
>> Myanmar is the land of the great Buddha, it has not just preserved but also nurtured his valuable preaching.. I am honoured to be visiting this land of diversity,
>> Global recognition of Yoga is your achievement because it was taken to all corners of world by people of India
>> External Affairs Minister Sushma is sensitive to the concerns of every Indian in any part of the world and is always ready to help
>> We are not merely reforming India but are transforming India. A new India is being built
>> An India free from poverty, terrorism, corruption, communalism, casteism is being created
19:14 Students stage flash protest at Jaya mausoleum against NEET
Giving a slip to the police who had placed restrictions at the Marina beach here, students today staged a flash protest at the mausoleum of J Jayalalithaa against NEET.
Protests were held across Tamil Nadu for the fifth consecutive day today by students of private and government colleges and some pro-Tamil outfits against the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test.
They raised slogans against the central and state governments and demanded scrapping of the national entrance test for admission to medical colleges.
Protests were held in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Cuddalore, Tiruvannamalai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Dindigul and Karur.
Students, who gathered at the mausoleum of Jayalalithaa, squatted there, raised slogans against NEET and demanded justice for Anitha, a Dalit medical aspirant and anti-NEET court petitioner who committed suicide on Friday.
After a tough time handling protesters, the police removed them from the premises and tightened security.
Anticipating such protests, the police had placed tough restrictions at the Marina beach to maintain law and order.
19:14 Maharashtra minister's daughter on list of foreign scholarship beneficiaries
The name of Maharashtra Social Justice Minister Rajkumar Badole's daughter has figured on the list of beneficiaries of the government scholarship for pursuing higher education abroad.
The assistance includes one-time fare of flight for economy class, education fee, allowances etc.
Badole, a BJP leader who heads the social justice ministry, has distanced himself from the matter.
His daughter Shruti is pursuing a three-year PhD course in Astronomy and Astrophysics at University of Manchester in the UK.
The list was published by Ministry of Higher and Technical Education in a government resolution dated September 4.
18:09 SC allows 13-year-old rape victim to terminate her 31-week-old pregnancy
The Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed the 13-year-old rape victim to terminate her 31 week old pregnancy.
The apex court bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, Justices AM Khanwilkar and Justices Amitava Roy, passed the order for terminating the pregnancy.
While pronouncing the ruling, CJI Misra said that keeping in mind the age of the petitioner and the trauma she faced, the court is allowing her to terminate her pregnancy.
The court had directed to conduct the termination preferably on September 8.
In the last hearing, the Apex Court had directed the Chandigarh administration to give an immediate financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh each to the victim and her mother.
The minor girl's mother moved the apex court, seeking its permission to terminate the pregnancy of her daughter.
Earlier, on July 28, the top court had rejected a petition, on medical grounds, filed by another 10-year-old rape victim, who sought permission to terminate her 32-week-old pregnancy. The minor girl had recently delivered a child in Chandigarh.
The apex court bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, Justices AM Khanwilkar and Justices Amitava Roy, passed the order for terminating the pregnancy.
While pronouncing the ruling, CJI Misra said that keeping in mind the age of the petitioner and the trauma she faced, the court is allowing her to terminate her pregnancy.
The court had directed to conduct the termination preferably on September 8.
In the last hearing, the Apex Court had directed the Chandigarh administration to give an immediate financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh each to the victim and her mother.
The minor girl's mother moved the apex court, seeking its permission to terminate the pregnancy of her daughter.
Earlier, on July 28, the top court had rejected a petition, on medical grounds, filed by another 10-year-old rape victim, who sought permission to terminate her 32-week-old pregnancy. The minor girl had recently delivered a child in Chandigarh.
17:58 Grenade hurled by militants in Kashmir fails to explode
Militants today hurled a grenade at a police station in Shopian district of south Kashmir but there was no damage as it did not explode, police said. The grenade landed close to the main gate of the police station, a police official said. It did not explode, the official said, adding that a bomb disposal squad is on the job to dispose it off.
Image: The unexploded grenade hurled inside a police station in Shopian.
Image: The unexploded grenade hurled inside a police station in Shopian.
17:50
@ShatruganSinha My heartfelt condolences & love to the family of Gauri Lankesh. May the comfort of God help them muster the courage to deal with this loss.
17:38 Gaya road rage: Victim's parents satisfied with life term for Rocky Yadav
We are satisfied, respect court's verdict: Aditya Sachdeva's parents Chand and Shyam Sachdeva after Rocky Yadav's conviction. Rocky Yadav, the son of a Bihar politician, was given the life sentence for shooting the high school student in a case of road rage last year. Yadav, 26, was convicted last week by a court in Gaya, where he lived and opened fire last May on Aditya Sachdeva, a 19-year-old who was driving a Maruti Swift borrowed from his father to celebrate the end of his exams.
17:14 SC reserves verdict on criminalising marital rape
The Supreme Court on Wednesday reserved its verdict on a plea seeking clarification if a man's physical relation with his wife below 18 years of age amounts to rape or not.
The apex court was hearing a plea filed by an NGO seeking to make marital rape a criminal offence.
Earlier, the hearing was to be carried out by the Delhi High Court, but they put it on hold after learning that the SC has taken up for hearing of a petition on a similar matter.
The HC then asked the parties before it to find out if the issues raised before it in the petitions seeking to make marital rape an offence are similar to those being heard by the apex court.
The NGO, who had filed the plea is opposing this as they argue that while SC is hearing a plea questioning the validity of a provision under the IPC permitting a man to have physical relationship with his wife, even if she was aged between 15 and 18 years.
The issue before the HC is different as the PILs challenge the constitutionality of Section 375 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) on the ground that it discriminates against married women being sexually assaulted by their husbands.
The apex court was hearing a plea filed by an NGO seeking to make marital rape a criminal offence.
Earlier, the hearing was to be carried out by the Delhi High Court, but they put it on hold after learning that the SC has taken up for hearing of a petition on a similar matter.
The HC then asked the parties before it to find out if the issues raised before it in the petitions seeking to make marital rape an offence are similar to those being heard by the apex court.
The NGO, who had filed the plea is opposing this as they argue that while SC is hearing a plea questioning the validity of a provision under the IPC permitting a man to have physical relationship with his wife, even if she was aged between 15 and 18 years.
The issue before the HC is different as the PILs challenge the constitutionality of Section 375 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) on the ground that it discriminates against married women being sexually assaulted by their husbands.
17:14 SC reserves verdict on criminalising marital rape
The Supreme Court on Wednesday reserved its verdict on a plea seeking clarification if a man's physical relation with his wife below 18 years of age amounts to rape or not.
The apex court was hearing a plea filed by an NGO seeking to make marital rape a criminal offence.
Earlier, the hearing was to be carried out by the Delhi High Court, but they put it on hold after learning that the SC has taken up for hearing of a petition on a similar matter.
The HC then asked the parties before it to find out if the issues raised before it in the petitions seeking to make marital rape an offence are similar to those being heard by the apex court.
The NGO, who had filed the plea is opposing this as they argue that while SC is hearing a plea questioning the validity of a provision under the IPC permitting a man to have physical relationship with his wife, even if she was aged between 15 and 18 years.
The issue before the HC is different as the PILs challenge the constitutionality of Section 375 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) on the ground that it discriminates against married women being sexually assaulted by their husbands.
The apex court was hearing a plea filed by an NGO seeking to make marital rape a criminal offence.
Earlier, the hearing was to be carried out by the Delhi High Court, but they put it on hold after learning that the SC has taken up for hearing of a petition on a similar matter.
The HC then asked the parties before it to find out if the issues raised before it in the petitions seeking to make marital rape an offence are similar to those being heard by the apex court.
The NGO, who had filed the plea is opposing this as they argue that while SC is hearing a plea questioning the validity of a provision under the IPC permitting a man to have physical relationship with his wife, even if she was aged between 15 and 18 years.
The issue before the HC is different as the PILs challenge the constitutionality of Section 375 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) on the ground that it discriminates against married women being sexually assaulted by their husbands.
16:44 21-gun salute, state funeral for slain scribe Gauri Lankesh
Gauri Lankesh, the journalist who was killed at point-blank range as she returned from work and headed to her house after parking her car, has been accorded a state funeral.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was present at the journalist's funeral. Earlier, he called the called the murder an "assassination on democracy".
Journalists from across the country gathered and demanded justice amid call for standing up to forces trying to the muzzle the voices of dissent.
16:38 Centre, BJP or allied outfits have no link to Gauri's killing: Gadkari
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari today termed as "irresponsible, baseless and false" the allegations linking the killing of journalist Gauri Lankesh to the BJP or people following its ideology.
Slamming the statements of Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi and her deputy Rahul, he said levelling "untrue" allegations against the BJP and the prime minister is injustice to his party and detrimental to democracy.
"The present government, the BJP or any of its organisations have no connection with the killing of journalist Gauri Lankesh," the road transport, highways, shipping and water resources minister told reporters.
He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi was being accused of remaining silent despite people knowing that he is on a foreign visit.
"The reaction to this incident by the president of a political party is very irresponsible, baseless and false," Gadkari said without naming the Congress chief who has said that the killing is a chilling reminder that "intolerance and bigotry are raising their ugly head in our society".
Gadkari said he condemned the incident but the manner in which the ruling party is being portrayed by some political parties was unfortunate and objectionable.
"If there is a murder and somebody is accused of it, unless and until there is any evidence, that person cannot be pronounced guilty. Some people have allergy with Bhartiya Janata Party.
"They are unable to digest the good work by the BJP under the leadership of the prime minister. They are levelling such false and baseless allegations," the former BJP president said.
He said such "irresponsible and false" allegations "will cause harm to democracy" and any such projection that the BJP is linked to it is injustice to the party.
16:23 Separatist leaders to court arrest at NIA office on Sept 9
Three top Kashmiri separatist leaders today said they will stage a sit-in outside the NIA headquarters in Delhi on September 9 and court arrest to
protest against, what they termed as, "vilification" of Kashmiri people by the investigation agency.
The separatist leaders who will court arrest are Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik.
This was stated by Mirwaiz and Malik at a hurriedly-convened press conference in the premises of historic Jamia Masjid. Geelani addressed the conference over phone.
The NIA has recently been conducting raids and arresting people associated with the separatist leaders in connection with money laundering and some other cases.
"The government is using the NIA to harass the leaders, the businessmen and the student community, which has been at the forefront of peaceful protests," alleged Mirwaiz, who heads the moderate Hurriyat Conference.
He alleged that the NIA investigations against prominent separatist leaders and businessmen of Kashmir were an attempt to divert the attention from the Kashmir issue.
16:01 Gaya road rage case: Rocky Yadav gets life term
Update: A court in Gaya today has sentenced Janata Dal-United MLC Manorama Devi's son Rocky Yadav to life imprisonment for the murder of a class 12 student, Aditya Sachdeva, in a road rage incident last year. Her husband Bindeshwari Prasad gets a five-year term, while two others were also handed out a life term.
Rakesh Kumar Ranjan alias Rocky, his father Bindi Yadav, cousin Teni Yadav and his mother's security guard Rajesh Kumar were guilty under various sections of the IPC.
While Rocky Yadav was found guilty of IPC sections 302 (murder), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 427 (mischief causing damage) and section 27 of the Arms Act, Bindi Yadav has been held guilty under sections 212 (harbouring the offender) and 177 (furnishing false information). Teni Yadav and Rajesh Kumar have been found guilty under sections applicable in the case of Rocky Yadav.
Rocky Yadav had fatally shot at Aditya Sachdeva, son of a Gaya-based businessman, after the latter's car overtook his luxury SUV on May 7, 2016.
Rocky had fled from the spot after committing the crime and took shelter at his father's factory at Bodh Gaya from where he was arrested 48 hours later. His parents too were arrested and charged under different sections of the law. The police had filed chargesheet against the accused persons a month after the commission of the crime.
Rakesh Kumar Ranjan alias Rocky, his father Bindi Yadav, cousin Teni Yadav and his mother's security guard Rajesh Kumar were guilty under various sections of the IPC.
While Rocky Yadav was found guilty of IPC sections 302 (murder), 323 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 427 (mischief causing damage) and section 27 of the Arms Act, Bindi Yadav has been held guilty under sections 212 (harbouring the offender) and 177 (furnishing false information). Teni Yadav and Rajesh Kumar have been found guilty under sections applicable in the case of Rocky Yadav.
Rocky Yadav had fatally shot at Aditya Sachdeva, son of a Gaya-based businessman, after the latter's car overtook his luxury SUV on May 7, 2016.
Rocky had fled from the spot after committing the crime and took shelter at his father's factory at Bodh Gaya from where he was arrested 48 hours later. His parents too were arrested and charged under different sections of the law. The police had filed chargesheet against the accused persons a month after the commission of the crime.
15:54 Modi in Myanmar: Free visas to India
PM Narendra Modi pays his respects at the Ananda Temple, the most historical and venerated temple in Bagan, Myanmar.
The Prime Minister today announced that India will grant gratis visa to Myanmarese citizens wanting to visit the country.
Modi made the announcement during his joint press statement with State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi after the two leaders held wide-ranging talks here.
"I am pleased to announce that we have decided to grant gratis (no-cost) visa to all the citizens of Myanmar who want to visit India," Modi said.
He also announced that India has decided to release 40 Myanmarese citizens, currently lodged in various jails in India.
"We hope that they will soon be able to meet their families in Myanmar," the prime minister said. Modi also asserted that India stands by Myanmar amid the challenges the country is facing. "I am confident that in future we will work together to create a strong and close partnership for mutual benefits," Modi said.
The Prime Minister today announced that India will grant gratis visa to Myanmarese citizens wanting to visit the country.
Modi made the announcement during his joint press statement with State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi after the two leaders held wide-ranging talks here.
"I am pleased to announce that we have decided to grant gratis (no-cost) visa to all the citizens of Myanmar who want to visit India," Modi said.
He also announced that India has decided to release 40 Myanmarese citizens, currently lodged in various jails in India.
"We hope that they will soon be able to meet their families in Myanmar," the prime minister said. Modi also asserted that India stands by Myanmar amid the challenges the country is facing. "I am confident that in future we will work together to create a strong and close partnership for mutual benefits," Modi said.
15:43
Syria government behind sarin gas attack in April, says an UN probe.
15:41 2 Pakistanis with three boats held off Gujarat coast
The Border Security Force today detained two Pakistani nationals and seized three boats from Harami Nalla in the Arabian Sea off Gujarat coast. The Pakistani nationals and their boats were apprehended by the central security agency's patrolling team near pillar number 1,166 at Harami Nalla, the BSF said.
At least five other Pakistani nationals managed to escape, leaving behind the boat in which they were travelling, it said. Following the apprehension, the BSF intensified combing operation in the area.
An initial investigation revealed that fishing material was being carried on the boats, the BSF said.
In April this year, the border forces had seized an abandoned Pakistani fishing boat from the same area off Gujarat coast in Kutch district.
The BSF patrolling team had also seized four such boats off Sir Creek area in February this year, even though the occupants had managed to escape across the border to the neighbouring country following a chase.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) had also seized a Pakistani boat with nine crew members in March 25 this year. In another major operation, the ICG had apprehended 26 Pakistani fishermen with five boats off Jakhau port on December 20 last year.
At least five other Pakistani nationals managed to escape, leaving behind the boat in which they were travelling, it said. Following the apprehension, the BSF intensified combing operation in the area.
An initial investigation revealed that fishing material was being carried on the boats, the BSF said.
In April this year, the border forces had seized an abandoned Pakistani fishing boat from the same area off Gujarat coast in Kutch district.
The BSF patrolling team had also seized four such boats off Sir Creek area in February this year, even though the occupants had managed to escape across the border to the neighbouring country following a chase.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) had also seized a Pakistani boat with nine crew members in March 25 this year. In another major operation, the ICG had apprehended 26 Pakistani fishermen with five boats off Jakhau port on December 20 last year.
15:38 N Koreas technology much better than Pakistan's
North Korea's nuclear technology is much better than Pakistan's, nuclear scientist Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan said on Monday, but ruled out any assistance from Islamabad to Pyongyang in this regard. Read more
15:37 Rushdie: A lot of what Trump unleashed was there anyway
Beginning with the inauguration of Obama and ending with the election of Trump, Rushdie's latest novel is an intimate portrait of New York. The author talks about the journey from hope to despair and always feeling an outsider. Read more
15:29
@ashwaqM tweets this picture of the meet at the Delhi Press Club. #GauriLankesh
15:18 SC allows 13-year-old rape survivor to end pregnancy
The Supreme Court today allowed a 13-year-old rape survivor to terminate her 32-week-old pregnancy after taking note of a medical report.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices Amitava Roy and A M Khanwilkar perused the medical report filed by a board of doctors of JJ hospital, Mumbai, set up by the court, and granted a nod for termination of pregnancy.
Solicitor General Ranjit Kumar, appearing for the Centre, referred to the medical report and an earlier order passed by the apex court on a plea by another rape survivor whose pregnancy was at an advanced stage.
The apex court asked the hospital authorities to conduct the termination of pregnancy preferably on September 8.
"The girl would be admitted a day before," it said.
The Mumbai-based rape survivor, a student of class seven, had sought permission to abort the foetus.
Section 3(2)(b) of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act prohibits abortion of a foetus after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
15:03 SC asks states to to take action against cow vigilantism. Here's how
In other news: the Supreme Court today has asked each state to appoint a Senior Police Officer in each district as a nodal officer to take action against cow vigilantism.The apex court bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra, was hearing the plea filed by Tehseen S Poonawalla seeking to stop cow vigilantism.
The CJI observed, "You petitioners know that how large number of animals were slaughtered a few days back. You must also file petitions against it.
"The apex court also made it clear that the Central and the State governments must take effective steps to stop cow vigilante groups or body from misusing the law.The monsoon session of the Parliament had also discussed the cow vigilante issue.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an all-party meeting ahead of the Monsoon Session of the Parliament, had also asked the State Governments to take a strict action against the anti-social elements creating violence in the name of cow vigilantism and punish them strictly.
While earlier on July 21, the Supreme Court asked the states, which had knocked its door seeking ban on cow vigilante groups across the nation, to file an affidavit.
The CJI observed, "You petitioners know that how large number of animals were slaughtered a few days back. You must also file petitions against it.
"The apex court also made it clear that the Central and the State governments must take effective steps to stop cow vigilante groups or body from misusing the law.The monsoon session of the Parliament had also discussed the cow vigilante issue.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in an all-party meeting ahead of the Monsoon Session of the Parliament, had also asked the State Governments to take a strict action against the anti-social elements creating violence in the name of cow vigilantism and punish them strictly.
While earlier on July 21, the Supreme Court asked the states, which had knocked its door seeking ban on cow vigilante groups across the nation, to file an affidavit.
14:55 Gauri's murder captured on CCTV cameras: Brother
The murder of senior journalist Gauri Lankesh is believed to have been captured by two CCTV cameras outside her residence, her brother Indrajit Lankesh said today.
Gauri was shot by unknown assassins last night and a SIT probe has been ordered into the murder by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah.
Speaking to the media outside the hospital, where Gauri's postmortem was carried out, Indrajeet Lankesh said that the CCTV has captured everything. He also requested the police to let him or his mother be present, while watching the footage.
Talking about the incident Indrajeet said that the police have told him that a woman living in the neighbouring building heard a sound, thinking it was a firecracker.
"When she came, she saw Gauri lying down there. The place where she was living was calm and there were no street lights there. She was living alone as well," said Indrajit Lankesh.
He also said that there is nothing that Gauri told her mother, sister or him. He said that she was an aggressive journalist, and was doing her job.
"She's not just my sister; she's an activist, a journalist. It is disgraceful and painful for me as a brother," Lankesh said and added that he is requesting a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, as they have seen in earlier cases as well the police has done nothing about issues like this.
He then added that the Gauri's wish has been fulfilled as "one of the patients here has got Gauri's eyes," as she had always wanted to donate her eyes.
Image: Gauri Lankesh's "adopted" son and controversial figure Kanhaiya Kumar tweeted this picture saying, "Deeply shocked and saddened at the cowardly murder of Gauri Lakesh! She was like a mother to me. She will always be alive in my heart."
Gauri was shot by unknown assassins last night and a SIT probe has been ordered into the murder by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah.
Speaking to the media outside the hospital, where Gauri's postmortem was carried out, Indrajeet Lankesh said that the CCTV has captured everything. He also requested the police to let him or his mother be present, while watching the footage.
Talking about the incident Indrajeet said that the police have told him that a woman living in the neighbouring building heard a sound, thinking it was a firecracker.
"When she came, she saw Gauri lying down there. The place where she was living was calm and there were no street lights there. She was living alone as well," said Indrajit Lankesh.
He also said that there is nothing that Gauri told her mother, sister or him. He said that she was an aggressive journalist, and was doing her job.
"She's not just my sister; she's an activist, a journalist. It is disgraceful and painful for me as a brother," Lankesh said and added that he is requesting a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, as they have seen in earlier cases as well the police has done nothing about issues like this.
He then added that the Gauri's wish has been fulfilled as "one of the patients here has got Gauri's eyes," as she had always wanted to donate her eyes.
Image: Gauri Lankesh's "adopted" son and controversial figure Kanhaiya Kumar tweeted this picture saying, "Deeply shocked and saddened at the cowardly murder of Gauri Lakesh! She was like a mother to me. She will always be alive in my heart."
14:50 Amnesty International India condemns Gauri Lankesh's murder
Amnesty International India today asserted that the killing of journalist Gauri Lankesh by gunmen outside her residence in Bengaluru raises alarms about the state of freedom of expression in the country.
"Gauri Lankesh was never afraid of speaking truth to power. Her assassination must be thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators brought to justice," said the Programmes Director at Amnesty International India, Asmita Basu.
"The police must investigate whether she was killed because of her journalism," she said.
55-year-old Gauri Lankesh was the editor of Gauri Lankesh Patrike, a Kannada weekly. She was widely regarded as an independent and outspoken journalist and activist, and a fierce critic of hardline Hindu groups in Karnataka.Speaking to journalists, the Bangalore City Police Commissioner said that unidentified men shot Gauri Lankesh in a close range, and three bullets hit her on the neck and chest.
"Critical journalists and activists have increasingly faced threats and attacks across India in recent years. The State Governments must act to protect those whose voices of dissent are being silenced," Basu mentioned."Investigations into these killings have been ineffective for too long," she added.
"Gauri Lankesh was never afraid of speaking truth to power. Her assassination must be thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators brought to justice," said the Programmes Director at Amnesty International India, Asmita Basu.
"The police must investigate whether she was killed because of her journalism," she said.
55-year-old Gauri Lankesh was the editor of Gauri Lankesh Patrike, a Kannada weekly. She was widely regarded as an independent and outspoken journalist and activist, and a fierce critic of hardline Hindu groups in Karnataka.Speaking to journalists, the Bangalore City Police Commissioner said that unidentified men shot Gauri Lankesh in a close range, and three bullets hit her on the neck and chest.
"Critical journalists and activists have increasingly faced threats and attacks across India in recent years. The State Governments must act to protect those whose voices of dissent are being silenced," Basu mentioned."Investigations into these killings have been ineffective for too long," she added.
14:14 I can't believe I won't see her again
"The first time I met Gauri Lankesh was on a train to Delhi. My first impression of her was of a petite, slim, short haired young woman in jeans, who kept going to the door of the train or to the window to smoke."
In memoriam... Journalist and Gauri Lankesh's former colleague, M D Riti writes for Rediff.com. Do read.
In memoriam... Journalist and Gauri Lankesh's former colleague, M D Riti writes for Rediff.com. Do read.
14:03 Gauri Lankesh murder: Karnataka CM pays his respects
The mortal remains of slain journalist Gauri Lankesh at Ravindra Kala Kshethra in Bengaluru. The Karnataka government today decided to form a Special Investigation Team to probe the killing of senior journalist and activist Gauri Lankesh.
Briefing reporters after a meeting with top police officials and state Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the SIT would be headed by an Inspector General level officer. He said the state government was firm on tracking down the culprits at the earliest, and directed the Director General of Police to form the SIT.
To a query, the chief minister said he had an "open mind" for a probe by the CBI in the case. "But let the SIT investigate. If family members (of Gauri) are very particular, I am with an open mind," he said.
Briefing reporters after a meeting with top police officials and state Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the SIT would be headed by an Inspector General level officer. He said the state government was firm on tracking down the culprits at the earliest, and directed the Director General of Police to form the SIT.
To a query, the chief minister said he had an "open mind" for a probe by the CBI in the case. "But let the SIT investigate. If family members (of Gauri) are very particular, I am with an open mind," he said.
13:54
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah arrives at the Ravindra Kala Kshethra where the mortal remains of Gauri Lankesh are kept. Seen here with her brother, Indrajit.
13:25 Gauri Lankesh murder: Rajnath seeks report
Updates: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh seeks a report on the murder of journalist Gauri Lankesh. The HM has asked the Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba to speak to the Karnataka Government and seek a report on the murder.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah held a press conference earlier today saying that the probe into the murder would be carried out by a Special Investigation Team led by the Inspector General of Police (IG), Karnataka. He ruled out a CBI inquiry, but said he was keeping options open.
At the presser, the CM said Gauri Lankesh had met hims recently but never spoke about any threats. He said he left the probe to the DGP who will speak to the Home Minister and decide on it. He said he had instructed the police that activists propagating progressive thoughts should be given police protection. He said similar weapons were used in the Kalburgi, Pansare and Dabholkar killings, but in this case it was too early to draw a link.
He said he had given instructions that the case must be taken seriously and be investigated by a special team headed by a senior police officer.
Reports say that cops have recovered the password to the CCTV cameras at Gauri Lankesh's residence. The CCTV footage is password protected.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah held a press conference earlier today saying that the probe into the murder would be carried out by a Special Investigation Team led by the Inspector General of Police (IG), Karnataka. He ruled out a CBI inquiry, but said he was keeping options open.
At the presser, the CM said Gauri Lankesh had met hims recently but never spoke about any threats. He said he left the probe to the DGP who will speak to the Home Minister and decide on it. He said he had instructed the police that activists propagating progressive thoughts should be given police protection. He said similar weapons were used in the Kalburgi, Pansare and Dabholkar killings, but in this case it was too early to draw a link.
He said he had given instructions that the case must be taken seriously and be investigated by a special team headed by a senior police officer.
Reports say that cops have recovered the password to the CCTV cameras at Gauri Lankesh's residence. The CCTV footage is password protected.
12:54 Gauri Lankesh murder: Postmortem ends, burial this evening
Bengaluru: Mortal remains of Gauri Lankesh being taken to the Ravindra Kala Kshethra where well wishers and friends can pay their last respects. The
body will, thereafter, be taken to the Chamarajapete burial ground for the
last rites to be performed by this evening.
Senior journalist Lankesh was shot dead on Tuesday at her residence in Bengaluru's Rajarajeshwari Naga by some unidentified assailants at around 8-8:30 pm.
As per reports, three bullets were pumped in her body.
Lankesh's body was later shifted to the Victoria Hospital for the post-mortem.
Lankesh was the editor of the Gauri Lankesh Patrike, a tabloid described as an "anti-establishment" publication.
Senior journalist Lankesh was shot dead on Tuesday at her residence in Bengaluru's Rajarajeshwari Naga by some unidentified assailants at around 8-8:30 pm.
As per reports, three bullets were pumped in her body.
Lankesh's body was later shifted to the Victoria Hospital for the post-mortem.
Lankesh was the editor of the Gauri Lankesh Patrike, a tabloid described as an "anti-establishment" publication.
12:47 Rahul: Anybody who speaks against the ideology of BJP-RSS is killed
Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi said "truth cannot be silenced" and demanded that the culprits be tracked down and punished. "The truth will never be silenced. Gauri Lankesh lives on in our hearts. My condolences & love to her family. The culprits have to be punished," his office said in a twitter post.
Speaking to the press later, Rahul said he had spoken to the Karnataka CM and told him that the people who did this must be caught and punished.
"Anybody who speaks against the ideology of the BJP-RSS is pressured, beaten, attacked and even killed. The PM is a skilled Hindutva politician. Unke shabdo mein 2 meanings hote hain. Unke base ke liye ek hota hai, baaki duniya ke liye alag," he said.
Senior Kannada journalist-activistGauri Lankesh, known for her left-leaning outlook and forthright views against Hindutva politics, was shot dead by unidentified assailants at her residence in Bengaluru today, police said. Gauri, aged 55, had returned home in her car and was opening the gate when motorcycle-borne assailants fired at her indiscriminately with two bullets hitting her in the chest and one on her forehead, police officials said. She died instantaneously.
Speaking to the press later, Rahul said he had spoken to the Karnataka CM and told him that the people who did this must be caught and punished.
"Anybody who speaks against the ideology of the BJP-RSS is pressured, beaten, attacked and even killed. The PM is a skilled Hindutva politician. Unke shabdo mein 2 meanings hote hain. Unke base ke liye ek hota hai, baaki duniya ke liye alag," he said.
Senior Kannada journalist-activistGauri Lankesh, known for her left-leaning outlook and forthright views against Hindutva politics, was shot dead by unidentified assailants at her residence in Bengaluru today, police said. Gauri, aged 55, had returned home in her car and was opening the gate when motorcycle-borne assailants fired at her indiscriminately with two bullets hitting her in the chest and one on her forehead, police officials said. She died instantaneously.
12:29 Killing an ominous portent for dissent in democracy: Editor's Guild
Statement by the Editor's Guild of India on Gauri Lankesh's murder:
"Deeply shocked and strongly condemn the murder of Gauri Lankesh, senior journalist and Editor, Lankesh Patrika. Her killing is an ominous portent for dissent in democracy and brutal assault on freedom of the press. We demand that the Karnataka government act with alacrity to bring the culprits to justice apart from instituting a judicial probe.
"Deeply shocked and strongly condemn the murder of Gauri Lankesh, senior journalist and Editor, Lankesh Patrika. Her killing is an ominous portent for dissent in democracy and brutal assault on freedom of the press. We demand that the Karnataka government act with alacrity to bring the culprits to justice apart from instituting a judicial probe.
12:13 Angry India protests Gauri Lankesh's murder
Gauri Lankesh murder updates:
Senior journalist Gauri Lankesh, an outspoken critic of Hindutva politics, was shot dead by unidentified assailants at her residence in Bengaluru on Tuesday.
Gauri, aged 55, had returned home in her car and was opening the gate when motorcycle-borne assailants fired at her indiscriminately with two bullets hitting her in the chest and one on her forehead, police officials said.
She died instantaneously.
Following the incident, protest marches, have been organised across cities in the country by citizens and journalists. Protests in Bengaluru against the murder took place at 10:30 am today, but here's where else you can go.
Mangalore 4 pm @townhall in front of Gandhi Statue by and 5 pm @ DC office.
Udupi gather at 5 pm on 6 September at the Clock Tower.
Protests in Gulbarga and Mandya were held this morning.
Dharwad also held a protest at 10am from Dr Kalburgi's house in Kalyan Nagar. Dharwad district press club will also hold a protest meeting at 11am in Hubballi, Karnataka.
If you are in Delhi be at Press club for a condolence meeting at 12:30 pm and at 3 pm.
Kerala union of journalists will also protest at noon at Jantar Mantar on 6 sept and another protest will happen on 7 September at Jantar mantar at 4 pm.
If you are in Mumbai 5 pm and 6 pm calls have been given at the Amphitheater, Carter Road, Bandra.
Pune will hold protests at 4 pm opposite SP college in Sadashiv Peth.
In Hyderabad, the protests are at Sunderayya Vignana Kendram 4 pm.
In Chennai, the protests are over. They were held at 11am, near the Press Club.
Protests in Kerala are at Manaveeyam veedhi Trivandrum, 4pm and High court junction 6pm.
The Chandigarh Press Club held a protest meeting at 12 noon.
In Lucknow, protest meet at the Gandhi Statue, Hazratganj at 5pm today and again at 5:30 pm at GPO on September 7.
In Gorakhpur 6 sep, 4 pm, Pant Park.
Senior journalist Gauri Lankesh, an outspoken critic of Hindutva politics, was shot dead by unidentified assailants at her residence in Bengaluru on Tuesday.
Gauri, aged 55, had returned home in her car and was opening the gate when motorcycle-borne assailants fired at her indiscriminately with two bullets hitting her in the chest and one on her forehead, police officials said.
She died instantaneously.
Following the incident, protest marches, have been organised across cities in the country by citizens and journalists. Protests in Bengaluru against the murder took place at 10:30 am today, but here's where else you can go.
Mangalore 4 pm @townhall in front of Gandhi Statue by and 5 pm @ DC office.
Udupi gather at 5 pm on 6 September at the Clock Tower.
Protests in Gulbarga and Mandya were held this morning.
Dharwad also held a protest at 10am from Dr Kalburgi's house in Kalyan Nagar. Dharwad district press club will also hold a protest meeting at 11am in Hubballi, Karnataka.
If you are in Delhi be at Press club for a condolence meeting at 12:30 pm and at 3 pm.
Kerala union of journalists will also protest at noon at Jantar Mantar on 6 sept and another protest will happen on 7 September at Jantar mantar at 4 pm.
If you are in Mumbai 5 pm and 6 pm calls have been given at the Amphitheater, Carter Road, Bandra.
Pune will hold protests at 4 pm opposite SP college in Sadashiv Peth.
In Hyderabad, the protests are at Sunderayya Vignana Kendram 4 pm.
In Chennai, the protests are over. They were held at 11am, near the Press Club.
Protests in Kerala are at Manaveeyam veedhi Trivandrum, 4pm and High court junction 6pm.
The Chandigarh Press Club held a protest meeting at 12 noon.
In Lucknow, protest meet at the Gandhi Statue, Hazratganj at 5pm today and again at 5:30 pm at GPO on September 7.
In Gorakhpur 6 sep, 4 pm, Pant Park.
11:55 Chennai scribes protest Lankesh murder
@_poorvaja tweets this image of journalists in Chennai protest against the killing of Gauri Lankesh.
11:48 Outrage over the Gauri Lankesh murder
-- Press Club of India, IWPC and Press Association to jointly protest
#GauriLankeshMurder. meeting @PressClubIndia in Delhi at 3 pm.
-- Protest in Jaipur at Gandhi Circle, 4.30 p.m. onwards; by Jaipur citizens and journalists.
-- Tehseen Poonawalla Dear @narendramodi ji. We on SM are stunned by your silence on the #GauriLankeshMurder . Giving u till 11 am to speak or SM will erupt.
-- Rana AyyubVerified account @RanaAyyub Anantkumar Hegde known for hatred of muslims, intimidating journalists inducted in cabinet. And govt not accountable for Gauri's murder? There is a Godse in every street of this country. She received threat from every possible right wing group. Ashamed yet India ?
-- Protest in Jaipur at Gandhi Circle, 4.30 p.m. onwards; by Jaipur citizens and journalists.
-- Tehseen Poonawalla Dear @narendramodi ji. We on SM are stunned by your silence on the #GauriLankeshMurder . Giving u till 11 am to speak or SM will erupt.
-- Rana AyyubVerified account @RanaAyyub Anantkumar Hegde known for hatred of muslims, intimidating journalists inducted in cabinet. And govt not accountable for Gauri's murder? There is a Godse in every street of this country. She received threat from every possible right wing group. Ashamed yet India ?
11:44
Karnataka: Protest at a Town Hall in Bengaluru against the killing of a senior journalist Gauri Lankesh.
11:29 Gauri Lankesh kiling: Karnataka CM calls for an emergency meet
CNN News18: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah calls for an emergency meeting in the wake of journalist Gauri Lankesh's death. The Karnataka police have also received good leads after crucial evidence has been found. Case likely to be cracked soon.
11:14 Want police to open CCTV images before me and my mother: Gauri's brother
Gauri Lankesh's brother's statement to the media in Bengaluru: Gauri was shot in her chest. CCTV captured everything. Requested police to open it in front of me and my mother. She was an activist, she was doing her job, there were no threats as of now as far as we know. Her dream was to donate her eyes. In this moment of pain the little relief I've found is a patient got eyesight.
11:06 Brother asks for CBI probe in Gauri's murder, unaware of death threats
The brother of slain senior journalist and activist Gauri Lankesh today expressed confidence that the culprits will be traced soon with the help of concrete evidence from the CCTV footage and the journalist's mobile phone.
He said he wanted a CBI probe in the murder. He also said reports of threats to her were false. Neither he, nor his sister or mother were aware of the threats.
He also said Gauri had donated her eyes.
"The CCTV camera (in the premises) has captured the whole incident... I am very confident that the culprits will be caught soon," Indrajit Lankesh, Gauri's brother and a filmmaker said in Bengaluru today.
"In fact her mobile phone also contains a lot of evidence and clues... Investigation is underway... I will provide details later in the day," he said.
He said their mother was in a state of shock as was he.
Gauri Lankesh, known for her progressive and fearless writing, was shot dead at close range by unknown assailants at her Bengaluru home yesterday.
The 55-year-old journalist had returned home in her car and was opening the gate when motorcycle-borne assailants fired at her indiscriminately, with two bullets hitting her in the chest and one on her forehead, police officials had said.
Noting that the police have secured the CCTV hard disk, Indrajit said, "I am requesting them to open it in front of me or my mother." "The two CCTV cameras (near the gate and door) even without lights has captured the whole incident and in fact from the footage we can make out what has actually happened there... planning and execution everything is recorded there," he added.
Divulging details of the last rites, Indrajit said after the postmortem, the mortal remains will be taken to Samsa outdoor auditoriums at Ravindra Kalakshetra for well wishers and friends to pay their last respect.
The body will, thereafter, be taken to Chamarajapete burial ground for the last rites to be performed by this evening, he said.
He said he wanted a CBI probe in the murder. He also said reports of threats to her were false. Neither he, nor his sister or mother were aware of the threats.
He also said Gauri had donated her eyes.
"The CCTV camera (in the premises) has captured the whole incident... I am very confident that the culprits will be caught soon," Indrajit Lankesh, Gauri's brother and a filmmaker said in Bengaluru today.
"In fact her mobile phone also contains a lot of evidence and clues... Investigation is underway... I will provide details later in the day," he said.
He said their mother was in a state of shock as was he.
Gauri Lankesh, known for her progressive and fearless writing, was shot dead at close range by unknown assailants at her Bengaluru home yesterday.
The 55-year-old journalist had returned home in her car and was opening the gate when motorcycle-borne assailants fired at her indiscriminately, with two bullets hitting her in the chest and one on her forehead, police officials had said.
Noting that the police have secured the CCTV hard disk, Indrajit said, "I am requesting them to open it in front of me or my mother." "The two CCTV cameras (near the gate and door) even without lights has captured the whole incident and in fact from the footage we can make out what has actually happened there... planning and execution everything is recorded there," he added.
Divulging details of the last rites, Indrajit said after the postmortem, the mortal remains will be taken to Samsa outdoor auditoriums at Ravindra Kalakshetra for well wishers and friends to pay their last respect.
The body will, thereafter, be taken to Chamarajapete burial ground for the last rites to be performed by this evening, he said.
10:47 The shameful silence of Aung San Suu Kyi
There's a population of around a million people living in fear right now, facing the likely wrath of an uncaring government that doesn't seem to recognize their claim to the country they have always called home.
The crisis along the Burma-Bangladesh border has dramatically intensified over the past week, with more than 125,000 Rohingya Muslims fleeing a Burmese military offensive in restive Rakhine state, according to aid organizations.
Reports keep flooding in of mass killings carried out by Burmese security forces, as well as torture, rape and the systematic razing of Rohingya villages. Read more
The crisis along the Burma-Bangladesh border has dramatically intensified over the past week, with more than 125,000 Rohingya Muslims fleeing a Burmese military offensive in restive Rakhine state, according to aid organizations.
Reports keep flooding in of mass killings carried out by Burmese security forces, as well as torture, rape and the systematic razing of Rohingya villages. Read more
10:36 PM Modi meets Myanmar State Counsellor Suu Kyi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday morning met with the State Counsellor of Myanmar, Aung San Suu Kyi, in Nay Pyi Taw.The Prime Minister is currently in the second leg of his two-nation visit.
Earlier on Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi presented a reproduction of an 1841 map of a stretch of the River Salween and a sculpture of Bodhi tree to President of Myanmar U Htin Kyaw.Prime Minister Modi took to Twitter and expressed his happiness: "Presented Myanmar President U Htin Kyaw a reproduction of a 1841 map of a stretch of the River Salween. Also presented President Htin Kyaw a sculpture of Bodhi tree."
Prior to this, Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial reception at the Presidential Palace in Nay Pyi Taw, as he arrived on a two-day visit to Myanmar.
Prime Minister Modi will also pay a visit to Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar's Yangon. He had visited Myanmar earlier in 2014 for the ASEAN-India Summit, but this is his first bilateral visit.
Earlier on Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi presented a reproduction of an 1841 map of a stretch of the River Salween and a sculpture of Bodhi tree to President of Myanmar U Htin Kyaw.Prime Minister Modi took to Twitter and expressed his happiness: "Presented Myanmar President U Htin Kyaw a reproduction of a 1841 map of a stretch of the River Salween. Also presented President Htin Kyaw a sculpture of Bodhi tree."
Prior to this, Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial reception at the Presidential Palace in Nay Pyi Taw, as he arrived on a two-day visit to Myanmar.
Prime Minister Modi will also pay a visit to Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar's Yangon. He had visited Myanmar earlier in 2014 for the ASEAN-India Summit, but this is his first bilateral visit.
10:25
Cartoonist Satish Acharya's take on Gauri Lankesh's death. Born in 1962, Gauri was the daughter of legendary Kannada journalist and founding editor of Kannada weekly tabloid Lankesh Patrike.Her siblings -- Kavitha and Indrajit Lankesh -- are film and theatre personalities.
10:13 Gauri Lankesh murder: Mumbai journalists to hold candlelight vigil at 7pm
To protest and condemn the killing of journalist Gauri Lankesh, there will be a candlelight vigil of journalists starting from the Mumbai Press Club at 7 pm today. All journalist organisations to join including the Mumbai Press Club, TVJournalists Association, Photographers Association, Network of Women in Media. Please come and spread the message.
To bring you up to speed, senior Kannada journalist-activist Gauri Lankesh, known for her left-leaning outlook and forthright views against Hindutva politics, was shot dead by unidentified assailants at her residence in Bengaluru last night, police said.
Gauri, aged 55, had returned home in her car and was opening the gate when motorcycle-borne assailants fired at her indiscriminately with two bullets hitting her in the chest and one on her forehead, police officials said.
She died instantaneously.
Four bullets hit the compound wall of her building in Rajarajeshwari Nagar, the officials said.
Gauri edited the Kannada tabloid Gauri Lankesh Patrike besides owning some other publications, and was known for her forthright views against hardline Hindutva politics.
Bengaluru police commissioner T Sunil Kumar, along with senior police officers, rushed to the spot and officials said it was not immediately known who carried out the attack and the motive behind it.
Police suspected that she was under surveillance of the assailants who must have trailed her closely.Chief Minister Siddaramaiah termed her death shocking.
The chief minister said three police teams have been constituted to probe the killing. Instructions have been issued to crack the case and bring the culprits to book at the earliest, he said.
He said recently Gauri had been instrumental in bringing Naxalites into the mainstream and they had surrendered."Its shocking news for me. No one who has faith in humanity will ever kill anyone. Gauri Lankesh was secular and helped government bring the Naxals back to the mainstream," said Siddaramaiah.
He wondered why Gauri didn't tell the government about the threat to her life though she had met him many times.
Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy drew parallels between the gunning down of Gauri and rationalists Narendra Dabholkar and M M Kalburgi, allegedly by fringe Hindu groups.
Dabholkar was shot dead in August 2013, while Kalburgi was gunned down in August 2015.
"Who is behind the incident, is it the Naxals or any other ideological fringe parties were behind the incident will be known only after investigation. It is very premature to hold anybody responsible for the incident," Reddy said.
Siddaramaiah also said he has asked police to get in touch with their Maharashtra counterparts probing the murder of Dabholkar.
Police have cordoned off the area around her house. Senior police officials, including Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) M N Anucheth, rushed to the spot to supervise investigation.
Karnataka police chief R K Dutta said Gauri had not voiced apprehension about any threat to her life during a couple of meetings he had with her.
Asked about who could be the possible suspects in the killing, the officer refused to hazard any guess, saying "let the investigation proceed first. I do not know how to react. The assailants should be brought to the book. The case should be handed over to CBI," Gauris brother Indrajit Lankesh said.
In a statement, RSS state unit expressed deep sorrow over the "heinous" murder of Gauri. "RSS appeals to the state government to act soon on the criminals responsible and bring them to the book," it said.
Veteran BJP Leader K S Eshwarappa rapped the Siddaramaiah government for "failing" to protect the lives of people, including those of noted writers like Kalburgi and Gauri.
Gauri was last year convicted in a defamation case filed by BJP MP Prahlad Joshi over a report published in her tabloid against some saffron party leaders.
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Rajyavardhan Rathore took to Twitter to denounce the incident.
"Terrible news from Bengaluru about the heinous murder of Gauri Lankesh. I condemn all acts of violence against journalists," he said.
Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi said "truth cannot be silenced" and demanded that the culprits be tracked down and punished."The truth will never be silenced. Gauri Lankesh lives on in our hearts. My condolences &love to her family. The culprits have to be punished," his office said in a twitter post.
Picture courtesy: Gauri Lankesh's Facebook page.
To bring you up to speed, senior Kannada journalist-activist Gauri Lankesh, known for her left-leaning outlook and forthright views against Hindutva politics, was shot dead by unidentified assailants at her residence in Bengaluru last night, police said.
Gauri, aged 55, had returned home in her car and was opening the gate when motorcycle-borne assailants fired at her indiscriminately with two bullets hitting her in the chest and one on her forehead, police officials said.
She died instantaneously.
Four bullets hit the compound wall of her building in Rajarajeshwari Nagar, the officials said.
Gauri edited the Kannada tabloid Gauri Lankesh Patrike besides owning some other publications, and was known for her forthright views against hardline Hindutva politics.
Bengaluru police commissioner T Sunil Kumar, along with senior police officers, rushed to the spot and officials said it was not immediately known who carried out the attack and the motive behind it.
Police suspected that she was under surveillance of the assailants who must have trailed her closely.Chief Minister Siddaramaiah termed her death shocking.
The chief minister said three police teams have been constituted to probe the killing. Instructions have been issued to crack the case and bring the culprits to book at the earliest, he said.
He said recently Gauri had been instrumental in bringing Naxalites into the mainstream and they had surrendered."Its shocking news for me. No one who has faith in humanity will ever kill anyone. Gauri Lankesh was secular and helped government bring the Naxals back to the mainstream," said Siddaramaiah.
He wondered why Gauri didn't tell the government about the threat to her life though she had met him many times.
Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy drew parallels between the gunning down of Gauri and rationalists Narendra Dabholkar and M M Kalburgi, allegedly by fringe Hindu groups.
Dabholkar was shot dead in August 2013, while Kalburgi was gunned down in August 2015.
"Who is behind the incident, is it the Naxals or any other ideological fringe parties were behind the incident will be known only after investigation. It is very premature to hold anybody responsible for the incident," Reddy said.
Siddaramaiah also said he has asked police to get in touch with their Maharashtra counterparts probing the murder of Dabholkar.
Police have cordoned off the area around her house. Senior police officials, including Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) M N Anucheth, rushed to the spot to supervise investigation.
Karnataka police chief R K Dutta said Gauri had not voiced apprehension about any threat to her life during a couple of meetings he had with her.
Asked about who could be the possible suspects in the killing, the officer refused to hazard any guess, saying "let the investigation proceed first. I do not know how to react. The assailants should be brought to the book. The case should be handed over to CBI," Gauris brother Indrajit Lankesh said.
In a statement, RSS state unit expressed deep sorrow over the "heinous" murder of Gauri. "RSS appeals to the state government to act soon on the criminals responsible and bring them to the book," it said.
Veteran BJP Leader K S Eshwarappa rapped the Siddaramaiah government for "failing" to protect the lives of people, including those of noted writers like Kalburgi and Gauri.
Gauri was last year convicted in a defamation case filed by BJP MP Prahlad Joshi over a report published in her tabloid against some saffron party leaders.
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Rajyavardhan Rathore took to Twitter to denounce the incident.
"Terrible news from Bengaluru about the heinous murder of Gauri Lankesh. I condemn all acts of violence against journalists," he said.
Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi said "truth cannot be silenced" and demanded that the culprits be tracked down and punished."The truth will never be silenced. Gauri Lankesh lives on in our hearts. My condolences &love to her family. The culprits have to be punished," his office said in a twitter post.
Picture courtesy: Gauri Lankesh's Facebook page.
09:58 Some forces are trying to change India's secular fabric: Tripura CM
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar has said that there are some forces in the country that had betrayed India's independent movement and are now trying to change the secular fabric of the country by trying to create a "Hindu Rashtra."
Speaking on the occasion of 'Teachers' Day', the Chief Minister Sarkar on Tuesday said, "Those who betrayed India's independent movement and acted as agents of the British Government are now active to change the secular fabric of the country to form a Hindu Rashtra." He, however, did not name any organisation or political party.
Clearing up the air, he asserted that his party was not against the Hindus or the Hinduism or any religion as such, but the country should be for people, irrespective of the religion, caste or creed.
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) further alleged that democracy and secularism, which are the mainstay of the country, are now under attack.
Speaking on the occasion of 'Teachers' Day', the Chief Minister Sarkar on Tuesday said, "Those who betrayed India's independent movement and acted as agents of the British Government are now active to change the secular fabric of the country to form a Hindu Rashtra." He, however, did not name any organisation or political party.
Clearing up the air, he asserted that his party was not against the Hindus or the Hinduism or any religion as such, but the country should be for people, irrespective of the religion, caste or creed.
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) further alleged that democracy and secularism, which are the mainstay of the country, are now under attack.
09:39 Indian immigrants in US fear deportation post DACA repeal
Thousands of people from India, who arrived in the United States illegally as children, are fearing deportation after President Donald Trump's decision to repeal the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival programme, a South Asian Advocacy group has said.
The number of such people from India, could be more than 20,000, according to an estimate carried out by South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT).
US Attorney General Jeff Sessions yesterday announced the rescinding of the Deferred Action for Children Arrival, an Obama-era amnesty programme that granted work permits to immigrants who arrived in the country illegally as children.
The announcement, which was anticipated for the past few days, was greeted with protests from across the country.
"Over 27,000 Asian Americans, including 5,500 Indians and Pakistanis, have already received DACA. An additional estimated 17,000 individuals from India and 6,000 Pakistan respectively are eligible for DACA, placing India in the top ten countries for DACA eligibility," SAALT said.
With the termination of DACA, these individuals could face deportation at the discretion of the administration, it said.
"The President's decision to terminate DACA puts 800,000 individuals at risk of deportation from the only country they've ever called home. Ending DACA is the latest evidence of this administration's utter lack of commitment to our nation's founding values of equality and fairness," Suman Raghunathan, executive director of SAALT, said.
"Our current patchwork of immigration policies and programs is broken, and we demand the Congress does its job to craft a commonsense immigration process that creates a road- map to citizenship for aspiring new Americans.
"This is the only way to align our immigration laws with the values Americans hold dear," she said.
In a statement, South Asian Bar Association president Rishi Bagga said 'DREAMERS' were brought to the US by their parents in hopes of a better life.
'As children, they did not choose to break the law. Most of these young men and women have never returned to the countries of their birth, and many do not even speak the language of their native countries. Rescinding DACA effectually takes away these young people's right to live in the only country they have ever known,' Bagga said.
SABA said when the DACA program ends, the 8,00,000-plus registrants who relied upon the federal government's representations by coming out of the shadows and willingly shared their information with the federal government will be in danger of deportation.
'In the vast majority of cases, DACA recipients who are gainfully employed in a variety of professions, including as doctors, lawyers, and engineers, will be unable to work legally in the United States. This number includes over 10,000 South Asian DACA recipients,' it said. -- PTI
The number of such people from India, could be more than 20,000, according to an estimate carried out by South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT).
US Attorney General Jeff Sessions yesterday announced the rescinding of the Deferred Action for Children Arrival, an Obama-era amnesty programme that granted work permits to immigrants who arrived in the country illegally as children.
The announcement, which was anticipated for the past few days, was greeted with protests from across the country.
"Over 27,000 Asian Americans, including 5,500 Indians and Pakistanis, have already received DACA. An additional estimated 17,000 individuals from India and 6,000 Pakistan respectively are eligible for DACA, placing India in the top ten countries for DACA eligibility," SAALT said.
With the termination of DACA, these individuals could face deportation at the discretion of the administration, it said.
"The President's decision to terminate DACA puts 800,000 individuals at risk of deportation from the only country they've ever called home. Ending DACA is the latest evidence of this administration's utter lack of commitment to our nation's founding values of equality and fairness," Suman Raghunathan, executive director of SAALT, said.
"Our current patchwork of immigration policies and programs is broken, and we demand the Congress does its job to craft a commonsense immigration process that creates a road- map to citizenship for aspiring new Americans.
"This is the only way to align our immigration laws with the values Americans hold dear," she said.
In a statement, South Asian Bar Association president Rishi Bagga said 'DREAMERS' were brought to the US by their parents in hopes of a better life.
'As children, they did not choose to break the law. Most of these young men and women have never returned to the countries of their birth, and many do not even speak the language of their native countries. Rescinding DACA effectually takes away these young people's right to live in the only country they have ever known,' Bagga said.
SABA said when the DACA program ends, the 8,00,000-plus registrants who relied upon the federal government's representations by coming out of the shadows and willingly shared their information with the federal government will be in danger of deportation.
'In the vast majority of cases, DACA recipients who are gainfully employed in a variety of professions, including as doctors, lawyers, and engineers, will be unable to work legally in the United States. This number includes over 10,000 South Asian DACA recipients,' it said. -- PTI
09:14
Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi in Nay Pyi Taw. Photograph: ANI
08:49 US hails BRICS condemnation of N Korea nuclear test
The United States has welcomed the statement by BRICS nations -- Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa -- condemning the nuclear test conducted by North Korea, saying it encourages the five-member bloc to contribute to global governance and stability.
'We encourage the BRICS forum to contribute constructively to global governance and stability. We welcome the members' condemnation of North Korea's recent nuclear test,' a state department spokesperson said in response to a question on Tuesday.
'We express deep concern over the ongoing tension and prolonged nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, and emphasise that it should only be settled through peaceful means and direct dialogue of all the parties concerned,' the BRICS statement had said.
The official however, did not respond to questions on the BRICS statement that named Lashkar-e-Tayiba and Jaish-e- Mohammed as among terrorist groups creating problems in regional security.
'We, in this regard, express concern on the security situation in the region and violence caused by the Taliban, ISIL/DAISH, Al-Qaida (sic) and its affiliates, including Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, the Haqqani network, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, TTP and Hizb ut-Tahrir (sic),' read a joint declaration issued by the economic bloc during its annual summit in China's Xiamen.
'We reaffirm that those responsible for committing, organising, or supporting terrorist acts must be held accountable,' the declaration added.
Pakistan has, however, denied these allegations. -- PTI
'We encourage the BRICS forum to contribute constructively to global governance and stability. We welcome the members' condemnation of North Korea's recent nuclear test,' a state department spokesperson said in response to a question on Tuesday.
'We express deep concern over the ongoing tension and prolonged nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, and emphasise that it should only be settled through peaceful means and direct dialogue of all the parties concerned,' the BRICS statement had said.
The official however, did not respond to questions on the BRICS statement that named Lashkar-e-Tayiba and Jaish-e- Mohammed as among terrorist groups creating problems in regional security.
'We, in this regard, express concern on the security situation in the region and violence caused by the Taliban, ISIL/DAISH, Al-Qaida (sic) and its affiliates, including Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, the Haqqani network, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, TTP and Hizb ut-Tahrir (sic),' read a joint declaration issued by the economic bloc during its annual summit in China's Xiamen.
'We reaffirm that those responsible for committing, organising, or supporting terrorist acts must be held accountable,' the declaration added.
Pakistan has, however, denied these allegations. -- PTI
08:20 Communalism leaving no space for writers: Patkar on Lankesh's murder
Condemning the brutal murder of senior journalist Gauri Lankesh, activist Medha Patekar said, "Only a handful of writers wrote courageously and challenged the communal corrupt forces in the country. They must be given protection. Communalism is leaving no space for writers in the country."
She also urged the government to look into the matter and provide security to journalists. -- ANI
She also urged the government to look into the matter and provide security to journalists. -- ANI
07:33 John McCain writes to Suu Kyi, requests her to help stop atrocities against Rohingyas
United States Senator John McCain, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has sent a letter to Aung San Suu Kyi, requesting adherence to human rights obligations in response to atrocities being committed by the Burmese military against the Rohingya people.
'For decades, you have been a source of inspiration for those who seek peace, freedom, and justice. During our long friendship, I have admired your enduring courage and resilience in the face of the juntas oppression,' wrote McCain.
'Now I encourage you to take an active role in putting a stop to this worsening humanitarian crisis as it spreads throughout the country.
'I understand that the United Nations Human Rights Commission submitted a formal request for access to the region, yet your government denied permission.
'This decision calls into question your government's promise to protect fundamental freedoms and its willingness to undertake difficult reform efforts,' he wrote.
'Full cooperation with the UN inquiry will demonstrate your governments commitment to its human rights obligations, and I encourage you to allow the UNHRC to undertake a full investigation into these troubling allegations, the Senator wrote.
Read the full letter
'For decades, you have been a source of inspiration for those who seek peace, freedom, and justice. During our long friendship, I have admired your enduring courage and resilience in the face of the juntas oppression,' wrote McCain.
'Now I encourage you to take an active role in putting a stop to this worsening humanitarian crisis as it spreads throughout the country.
'I understand that the United Nations Human Rights Commission submitted a formal request for access to the region, yet your government denied permission.
'This decision calls into question your government's promise to protect fundamental freedoms and its willingness to undertake difficult reform efforts,' he wrote.
'Full cooperation with the UN inquiry will demonstrate your governments commitment to its human rights obligations, and I encourage you to allow the UNHRC to undertake a full investigation into these troubling allegations, the Senator wrote.
Read the full letter
07:25 Take away Aung San Suu Kyi's Nobel peace prize
Once she was an inspiration. Now, silent on the plight of the Rohingya in Myanmar, she is complicit in crimes against humanity, says George Monbiot in The Guardian. Read
07:16 PCI chief asks journalists to come together against Lankesh's murder
President of the Press Club of India Gautam Lahiri lamented the death of journalist Gauri Lankesh and deemed it as a 'sad day for democracy'.
While speaking to ANI about the murder, Lahiri said, "As the President of the Press Club of India, I think that it is a sad day for democracy and freedom of press. A journalist who exposed the wrong doing of the country was shot dead. It is difficult to accept this as a journalist."
The PCI president urged the journalists around the country to come together against the murder.
"I think all the journalists would come together and protest, and demand the arrest of the culprit," he said.
He demanded that the government should look into the matter and punish the culprit.
He said, "The government should explain how this happened. They should book the culprit without further delay." -- ANI
IMAGE: Relatives mourn the death of journalist Gauri Lankesh, who was shot dead at her residence in Bengaluru on Tuesday. Photograph: PTI Photo
While speaking to ANI about the murder, Lahiri said, "As the President of the Press Club of India, I think that it is a sad day for democracy and freedom of press. A journalist who exposed the wrong doing of the country was shot dead. It is difficult to accept this as a journalist."
The PCI president urged the journalists around the country to come together against the murder.
"I think all the journalists would come together and protest, and demand the arrest of the culprit," he said.
He demanded that the government should look into the matter and punish the culprit.
He said, "The government should explain how this happened. They should book the culprit without further delay." -- ANI
IMAGE: Relatives mourn the death of journalist Gauri Lankesh, who was shot dead at her residence in Bengaluru on Tuesday. Photograph: PTI Photo
00:52 Truth will never be silenced: Rahul on killing of Gauri Lankesh
Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi condemned the killing of senior Kannada journalist Gauri Lankesh on Tuesday, saying the truth will never be silenced.
"The truth will never be silenced. Gauri Lankesh lives on in our hearts. My condolences and love to her family. The culprits have to be punished," he said on Twitter.
Congress leader Kapil Sibal tweeted, "Gauri a rationalist silenced by gunshots. Her murder is an attempt to stifle reason, to silence those holding contrarian views. Tragic."
Lankesh was shot dead by unidentified assailants at her residence in Bengaluru.
Lankesh, said to be in her 50s, edited a Kannada tabloid 'Lankesh Patrike' besides owning some other publications, and was known for her forthright views against hardline Hindutva politics.
00:51 Top headlines at this hour
- Senior journalist Gauri Lankesh shot dead in Bengaluru
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