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Wed, 05 September 2018
More aid to Kerala once full estimate is done: Jaitley
Timeline Refresh
23:36 More aid to Kerala once full estimate is done: Jaitley
The Union government would extend further aid to Kerala to rehabilitate flood affected people once the full estimate of the damage was done,Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said on Wednesday.
Addressing the 'India for Kerala' conclave in Thiruvananthapuram, organised by the Times Network in association with the Times Foundation, via video message, he said the Centre's focus for the state was two-pronged.
"While carrying out relief activities, we are also focusing on the emergence of a new Kerala," he said.
Jaitley said insurance companies have been directed to settle claims and banks asked to give loans so that people can get 'a breathing space in rebuilding their lives'.
"Further aid from the central government will be givenonce the full estimate of the damage is done. I am sure we will see the quality of life for theKeralites reinstated," Jaitley said.
Kerala had asked for a special package and stated that loss and damage could be much more than it's plan outlay of Rs37,272.90 crore for 2018-19. -- PTI
23:30 Shocked at Kadam's remarks about kidnapping young girls: Shaina NC
Maharashtra Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson Shaina NC expressed displeasure on Wednesday over her party MLA Ram Kadam's anti-women remarks.
"I was quite shocked and I will say it quite openly. There was a legislator from our own political party who was talking about how you can kidnap young girls and if you want to have a quick pass time 'I will help you' and it shocked me," Shaina said.
"It shocked me for two reasons. One is women in India are viewed sometime as only an object. It's time we demystify this kind of image for women and realise that on one hand you talk about Saraswati, Durga and Lakshmi you pray and worship women and on the other you think that you can go out and abuse her and get away," the BJP spokesperson said during a discussion on the status of women in country.
At an event in his Ghatkopar assembly constituency Monday night, the BJP MLA had told youngsters that they can tell him if they liked a girl and he would 'kidnap' her for them even if she rejects their proposal.
With his remarks triggering an outrage, Kadam issued a video message on social media, saying, "I have very high regard for women. Without giving any explanation about the video clip (of his controversial remarks), I express my regret." -- PTI
23:12 Kanpur SP consumes poison, critical
A 30-year-old Indian Police Service officer is in a critical condition after consuming some poisonous substance in Kanpur on Wednesday, police said.
Surendra Kumar Das, an IPS officer of the 2014 batch, was posted in Kanpur as Superintendent of Police City (East) last month.
The private hospital where he is admitted said he is on life support system.
Kanpur zone Additional General of Police Avinash Chandra said Das spoke to circle officers about patrolling on Tuesday night.
At 4 am on Wednesday, his wife, who is a doctor, noticed that his health had suddenly deteriorated.
"He was rushed to a government hospital from where he was shifted to a private nursing home, where his condition is stated to be serious," Chandra told PTI.
Other family members then arrived here from Lucknow.
Chandra said the police department had nothing to do with the matter.
"He had worked till late in the night on Tuesday. His behaviour was very good. Now, for what reason he had consumed a poisonous substance will be probed," the ADG said.
He said the police will also question the IPS officer's wife.
Senior police and district administration officials, along with a team of doctors, are monitoring the officer's condition.
A medical bulletin released by the private hospital said Das is 'currently on life support system in the intensive care unit'.
The bulletin signed by Dr Rajesh Agarwal said the SP was admitted in a critical condition at around 6 am.
'Soon after admitting Das in the intensive care unit, a team of specialist doctors started his treatment, but his blood pressure and pulse could not be recorded,' it said.
Prima facie, the symptoms suggested that the officer might have consumed something laced with poison.
In accordance with the symptoms, he is being treated by physicians and cardiologists, the medical bulletin said. -- PTI
22:37 If Pak stops terrorism, we will also 'be like Neeraj Chopra': Army Chief
If Pakistan stops terrorism, the Army would also 'be like Neeraj Chopra', Army Chief General Bipin Rawat said Wednesday, referring to the Asian Games javelin gold medallist's gesture of reaching out to his Pakistani competitor.
Rawat, while speaking at an event to felicitate Asian Games medallists from the Army, also said the situation in Kashmir improved in 2017 as compared to the year before and in 2018, it was improving further.
Asked if there was any 'sportsmanship' on display at the Indo-Pak border, Rawat said, "They should make the first move, they should stop terrorism. If they stop terrorism, we will also be like Neeraj Chopra."
It was quite a moment at the Asian Games when Chopra stood flanked by a Chinese and a Pakistani on the podium.
The picture of Chopra shaking hands with Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, who won bronze, on the podium went viral on social media.
Rawat said that contrary to the figures that keep coming up in the media that terrorism was rising, local youngsters getting radicalised and taking up arms were getting killed by the security forces or arrested or surrendering in 1-2 months.
"This action (by the security forces) will continue, but I can say with confidence that among youngsters and their families there is a belief that this is not the right path.
"I see in many places that the mothers have urged their sons to come back and if this action continues, I am confident that we will be able to solve the problem of terrorism. And slowly the youngsters that have become radicalised, will come home," he said. -- PTI
21:56 There is no hatred here: Rahul tweets from Kailash Mansarovar
Congress president Rahul Gandhi, who is on a pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar, put out pictures of the 'tranquil and calm' waters of the lake and said there 'is no hatred here'.
'The waters of lake Mansarovar are so gentle, tranquil and calm. They give everything and lose nothing. Anyone can drink from them. There is no hatred here. This is why we worship these waters in India,' he said on Twitter.
Gandhi posted two pictures of the lake and its surroundings. He also put out pictures of the Rakshas Tal lake.
'The stunning beauty of lake Rakshas Tal,' he tweeted.
The 48-year-old leader is undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in accordance with a wish he expressed in April when his plane plunged hundreds of feet during the campaign for the Karnataka polls. -- PTI
21:08 3 dead, 11 missing in boat capsize in Brahmaputra
Three persons drowned and at least 11 others are missing after an overloaded motorised country boat capsized in the Brahmaputra river near Guwahati after hitting a rock on Wednesday, officials said.
10 passengers have been rescued, while 12 others managed to swim to safety, Kamrup Deputy Commissioner Kamal Kumar Baishya said.
The boat with 36 passengers was on its way to north Guwahati in Kamrup district across the river from Fancy Bazar ferry ghat here when its engine developed a technical snag around 2 pm and hit a rock near the bank of Ashwaklanta Temple, he said.
The boat was carrying 18 motorcycles illegally and only 22 passengers on board had valid tickets, Baishya, who is supervising the rescue operations at the site, said.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been pressed into service and the body of two persons, including a girl student of Cotton State University was fished out, he said.
One girl student of the university died on way to the hospital after being rescued, while four others of the institute who were also in the boat are missing, the deputy commissioner said.
The SDRF and NDRF personnel rescued ten passengers of the boat who had managed to cling to posts of a water supply project being constructed on the river and 12 others swam to safety, he said.
According to the passengers rescued, there were more than 40 people in the boat, including women and children.
The rescue operations have been suspended for the night due to low visibility and will resume tomorrow morning, officials said. Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has instituted a high-level inquiry into the capsize and it will be headed by Additional Chief Secretary Jishnu Baruah.
The district administration has opened helplines with numbers--0361-2733052 and 0361-2684407-- for information regarding the capsize.
The Inland Water Transport has temporarily suspended plying of country boats on the Brahmaputra, officials added. -- PTI
IMAGE: Rescue operation after the boat mishap on Wednesday.
21:05 File chargesheets fast rather than labelling accused as Urban Naxals or Hindu Terrorists: Uddhav
Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray Wednesday slammed the Maharashtra police for holding a press conference last week over the arrest of five Left-wing activists in multi-city raids for alleged Maoist links and favoured timely filing of chargesheet rather than labelling the accused as 'Urban Naxals'.
He said the government should submit evidence in the court instead of revealing everything before the media.
Instead of labelling the accused as 'Urban Naxals' or 'Hindu terrorists', charge sheets should be filed in time, Thackeray said while referring to the cases involving the five activists as also to the probe into recent seizure of explosives across state for which some people allegedly associated with right-wing groups have been arrested.
"A new system has started, wherein the police reveals everything before the court takes a decision. Even the court has expressed its displeasure over this... If what you're doing is right, submit evidence before the court soon," the Sena chief told reporters here after a meeting with his party leaders.
Thackeray said since terrorism has no religion, why should those arrested be labelled either as 'Hindu terrorists or Urban Naxals'.
"Whether you call them Urban Naxals or blame the Sanathan Sanstha, chargesheet should be filed against them in time," he said.
"Why have all of them become active during this government's tenure? If a pro-Hindutva government is in power in the country, why are Hindu terrorists, if at all they are, springing up now," he said.
Thackeray also slammed the central government over what he called the 'failed' note ban decision and said, "Who will take the responsibility of the loss to the country's economy and of the people who died while standing in queues? Will you accept this was a mistake?"
Thackeray also said he had called Gujarat's Patidar leader Hardik Patel and expressed his solidarity with him over his ongoing hunger strike.
"I have extended my support to him and told him we need fighters like you. I also requested him to withdraw his hunger strike," Thackeray said.
Patel has been on an indefinite fast in Ahmedabad since August 25 with demands including farm loan waiver and reservation for the Patidar community under OBC category in government jobs and education sector. -- PTI
20:15
How rupee fared vs US dollar in August.
20:13 Those opposing Rafale deal don't know procurement norms: IAF vice chief
In the midst of a raging political squabble over purchase of 36 Rafale jets, the Vice Chief of the Indian Air Force said Wednesday that the 'beautiful' aircraft will give India 'unprecedented' combat capabilities and those criticising the deal must understand the procurement norms.
Air Marshal S B Deo also indicated unhappiness over delay in delivery of indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft Tejas by the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and suggested that private sector should be involved in its production.
The IAF is reeling under shortage of combat aircraft. At present, it has 31 fighter squadrons against the authorised strength of 42 squadrons.
Each squadron comprises 16-18 aircraft.
On Rafale jets, he said 'all discussions on the deal' were taking place as people do not have adequate information about the procurement procedure.
"We are waiting for the aircraft to come. It is a beautiful aircraft. It is a very capable aircraft. It is a capability that we need quickly," he said on the sidelines of an event when asked about the controversy surrounding the Rafale deal.
Asked about allegations relating to the Rs 58,000 crore deal, he said 'all the discussions are taking place as people do not have information'.
"They should read DPP (defence procurement procedure) and offset policy," he said, adding the jets will give India unprecedented combat advantage.
India had inked an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore.
The delivery of the jets is scheduled to begin from September 2019.
The Congress has been alleging massive irregularities in the deal, claiming that the government was procuring each aircraft at a cost of over Rs 1,600 crore as against Rs 526 crore finalised by the United Progressive Alliance government.
The government has rejected the charges.
The party has also demanded answers from the government on why state-run aerospace major HAL was not involved in the deal.
On Tejas, Air Marshal Deo suggested that the private sector should be involved in its production if it helps in quick delivery of the aircraft.
"It is not necessary to know whether the money is with the DPSU (Defence Public Sector Undertakings) or with private company," he said.
"If the investment is in the country and aircraft comes out quickly, why should we refuse it?" he added.
The IAF had ordered 40 Tejas Mark-1 version.
A request for proposal was issued to HAL by the IAF in December for the procurement of another batch of 83 Tejas aircraft at a cost of around Rs 50,000 crore.
At present, the HAL is producing around eight Tejas annually and the defence ministry wants it to increase the number to 18 planes per year. -- PTI
20:07 Pompeo arrives in India
United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrives in India for 2+2 dialogue.
He was received by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. -- ANI
19:09 Not enough qualified teachers in UP: Adityanath
On Teachers' Day, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath lamented the lack of qualified educators in Uttar Pradesh and said it was not a shortcoming of his government but the education system, which has failed to produce excellent teachers.
Adityanath said a large number of educated people are still unemployed.
"We have a large number of educated unemployed persons. The UP government started the recruitment procedure for 68,500 primary school teachers. For this, 1.05 lakh applications were received, but 41,556 candidates could clear the examination," he said at a programme to mark Teachers' Day in Lucknow.
He said there is a shortage of 97,000 primary teachers in the state but 'our priority is to recruit on the basis of merit'.
"If we are not able to provide qualified teachers, then I feel that the shortcoming is not on the part of the government, but on the part of the education system, as it has failed...in providing excellent teachers," he said.
Referring to a protest by Sikhsa Mitras teachers, who had tonsured their head, demanding regularisation of services, the chief minister said, "I see some people are getting their heads shaved to convey that they should be posted without any competition and then the state government should honour them as teachers."
"What type of example are we trying to set for the future generation. They (the protesting teachers) want their work done by violating norms, but when they themselves come under scanner, they try to look for an escape route. An indisciplined society cannot build a bright future for itself," he said.
He said the efforts of his government to improve the quality of education over the past 15 months have started to pay off.
"If UP has to become the leading state in the country, then it could be only on the basis of education... Keeping this in mind, all of us have to make an effort. Why cannot our primary, secondary and higher education system be better? If the teachers take a pledge, then this will improve," he said.
Adityanath honoured teachers for their contribution to the education sector. -- PTI
18:41 Pompeo discusses 'bilateral, regional and international issues' with Qureshi
United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Wednesday discussed 'bilateral, regional and international issues' during their crucial talks, in a bid to reset the strained bilateral ties on basis of 'mutual trust and respect'.
This is the US' first high-level dialogue with Pakistan since the new government of Prime Minister Imran Khan assumed office after the July 25 elections and comes days after the Trump administration cancelled $300 million in military aid to Islamabad.
Pompeo, accompanied by US Joint Chief of Staff Chairman General Joseph Dunford, reached the Foreign Office to meet with Qureshi.
Qureshi and Pompeo discussed 'bilateral, regional and international issues' in the meeting that lasted for about 40 minutes, Foreign Office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said.
'FM Qureshi underscores the need to reset bilateral ties on basis of mutual trust and respect. Safeguarding Pakistan's national interests will remain supreme priority,' Faisal tweeted.
Pompeo is also expected to meet Chief of the Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Prime Minister Khan.
He is expected to press Pakistan to target all terror groups on its soil and play a positive role in war-torn Afghanistan when he meets the country's new leadership in a bid to reset the strained bilateral ties.
The Trump administration has cancelled $300 million in military aid to Pakistan as it was not doing enough against terror groups active on its soil, the latest controversy to hit Islamabad's troubled relationship with Washington.
Pompeo landed at the Nur Khan Airbase in Islamabad this afternoon and went straight to the US embassy.
Earlier, sources had said that the situation in Afghanistan, talks with the Taliban, action against the Haqqani Network and other militant groups, issue of suspension of US aid and other bilateral and regional issues will be discussed.
The relation between the two 'allies' are passing through a difficult period as the US is upset over what it calls lack of cooperation from Islamabad in eliminating militancy in Afghanistan.
The two sides publicly differed over what was discussed between Pompeo and Khan during a telephonic conversation.
Later, the US topped it by cancelling $300 million aid which Pakistan said was the money it already spent in the war on terror and Washington was bound to reimburse it as part of understanding between the two sides.
Talking to reporters travelling with him hours before landing in Pakistan, the Secretary of State said: "The rationale for them (Pakistan) not getting the money is very clear. It's that we haven't seen the progress that we need to see from them."
He defended the Trump administration's decision to cut $300 million aid to Pakistan, saying Islamabad did not make satisfactory progress in combating terrorism.
"The very reason for this trip is to try and articulate what it is our expectation is, the things that they can do, the things that they expect us to do, and see if we can't find a path forward together," Pompeo said.
However, Pompeo said that this was not news for Pakistan.
"Look, this wasn't news to the Pakistanis. It made a lot of headlines over the last few days because of the formality... but they were told this past summer that they weren't likely to get that money.
"There are real expectations. We need Pakistan to seriously engage to help us get to the reconciliation we need in Afghanistan... They have important interests, security interests in Afghanistan to make sure they get the issues at their border right, and we need their help," he said.
Pompeo said he wanted to get there at the beginning of Khan's tenure in an effort to 'reset the relationship' between the two countries.
"We have worked closely with the Pakistanis in my role as the CIA director. Our teams have been working together for a long time. There are lots of challenges between our two nations for sure, but we're hopeful that with the new leadership that we can find common ground and begin to work on some of our shared problems together. They have expressed good-faith intention to do so," the Secretary of State said.
Qureshi, in one of his media talks, said that what the US was showing was just one side of the picture.
"We will show (them) the other side," he said. -- PTI
18:03 Suo motu case registered in Kolkata bridge collapse
The Alipur police station on Wednesday registered a suo motu case against unknown responsible persons (maintenance agency) in connection with Kolkata's Majerhat bridge collapse.
A section of the bridge in south Kolkata had crashed down on Tuesday.
Till now, one death is confirmed while two persons are feared trapped in the debris of the bridge.Deputy Commissioner (south) Meeraj Khalid said case was registered under Sections 304 (punishment for culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 308 (causing the death of any person by doing any rash or negligent act), 427 (causing damage to property) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code against unknown persons.
The National Disaster Response Force is carrying out the rescue operation. "Beams of flyover are really heavy so it is taking time to cut them and rescue people. Case will be registered against those responsible," Khalid added.
Calling it a heartbreaking incident, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee yesterday said that the administration's priority was relief and rescue work. -- ANI
17:48 SC directs IGP of Meerut range to supervise probe in Hapur lynching
The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Inspector General of Police of Meerut range to supervise the investigation in the Hapur lynching case.
A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud was informed by the Uttar Pradesh government that it has transferred the SHO concerned and filed appeals seeking cancellation of bails granted to the accused in the case.
"It is directed that the investigation shall be carried out under the supervision of IGP of Meerut range," the bench said while posting the matter for hearing after two weeks.
Advocate Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the Uttar Pradesh government, told the top court that the police had taken swift and instant action at the time of the incident and the investigation in the case will be completed in 60 days.
On August 13, the apex court had directed a senior Uttar Pradesh Police officer to probe the Hapur lynching case in which one person was killed and another brutally assaulted in the name of cow vigilantism, while terming the allegations of survivor Samiuddin as 'serious'.
It had also directed the IGP to 'facilitate the recording' of victim's statement before a judicial magistrate regarding the incident in which 45-year-old Qasim Qureishi was beaten to death on June 18.
"In the meantime, the IGP, Meerut (Range) shall submit a report with regard to the incident in question. We have so directed keeping in view the serious allegations/ assertions made in the writ petition," the bench said.
The plea had sought setting up of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure 'an impartial, competent and fair investigation' into 'the barbaric incident of mob lynching on June 18 in Hapur district of Uttar Pradesh, wherein Samiuddin (the petitioner No. 1) and Qasim, both belonging to the minority community, were targeted and mercilessly assaulted by a mob of the majority community from the neighbouring village, in the name of cow vigilantism'.
Besides the state government, the court also issued notices to the IGP, Additional Director General of Police and Superintendent of Police of Hapur.
The plea had sought 'setting up a SIT comprising of police officers with impeccable career records of integrity and competence from outside the state of Uttar Pradesh, which shall be charged with the responsibilities and duties of investigation, in respect of all issues relating to the matters concerning and arising from the incident'.
It had sought a direction that the SIT 'shall report to and be responsible to this court through the filing of periodic status reports and shall also keep this court informed of any major developments'.
The plea further sought a direction to the state government to compensate the victim for his medical treatment.
It said Qasim had died as a consequence of the lethal mob lynching, while Samiuddin survived the attempt on his life but suffered multiple fractures, wounds and egregious injuries.
It said Yaseen and Dinesh Tomar, brother and a family friend, were subjected to 'grave threat and coercion' by Circle Officer Pawan Kumar Singh of Pilkhuwa Police Station for lodging a false complaint of road rage instead of mob lynching.
It also sought cancellation of bail granted to the accused, including alleged key offender Yudhishthir Singh Sisodia. -- PTI
17:19 Dilip Kumar admitted to hospital with chest infection
Legendary actor Dilip Kumar has been admitted to Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital with a chest infection, his wife Saira Banu said Wednesday.
Lilavati Hospital officials added that they were not sure how long the 95-year-old actor would stay in hospital and there was nothing to worry about.
"We are here at Lilavati and we come here for a routine check-up regularly. He will be here for a few days, as long as the doctors want to do tests. All kinds of tests will be conducted. There is a team of doctors here, chest physician, neurologist...," Saira Banu told PTI.
"The tests are being conducted under Dr Nitin Gokhale. We need your wishes so we can go home soon," she added.
The news was first shared on the actor's official Twitter account by his nephew Faisal Farooqui.
"Saab has been admitted to Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital as he was bit uneasy due to a chest infection. He's recuperating. Requesting your duas and prayers," he wrote.
Ajaykumar Pandey, vice president, Lilavati Hospital, said the actor was admitted to the hospital Wednesday afternoon.
"He has just come for routine check-up and there is nothing to worry about. He is keeping well. It is difficult to say how long he will stay in the hospital," he said. -- PTI
17:09 News at this hour
Russia confirms strikes on 'terrorist' targets in Syria's Idlib.
Kolkata's Majerhat bridge collapse: Public Works Department Alipore Division had issued a notice on April 16, 2018 inviting tender for surface repairing of Majerhat bridge.
Kolkata's Majerhat bridge collapse: Public Works Department Alipore Division had issued a notice on April 16, 2018 inviting tender for surface repairing of Majerhat bridge.
16:48 SC verdict on decriminalising gay sex at 10:30 am tomorrow
The Supreme Court to pronounce its verdict on section 377 of the Indian Penal Code at 10:30 am tomorrow.
Section 377 criminalises consensual gay sex. A five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra will pronounce the verdict on whether gay sex will be decriminalised in India.
Section 377 refers to 'unnatural offences' and says whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to 10 years, and shall also be liable to pay a fine.
The apex court has heard the writ petitions filed by dancer Navtej Jauhar, journalist Sunil Mehra, chef Ritu Dalmia, hoteliers Aman Nath, Keshav Suri and business executive Ayesha Kapur and 20 former and current students of the IITs.
They have sought decriminalisation of consensual sex between two
consenting adults of the same sex by declaring section 377 of IPC as illegal and unconstitutional.
Section 377 criminalises consensual gay sex. A five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra will pronounce the verdict on whether gay sex will be decriminalised in India.
Section 377 refers to 'unnatural offences' and says whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to 10 years, and shall also be liable to pay a fine.
The apex court has heard the writ petitions filed by dancer Navtej Jauhar, journalist Sunil Mehra, chef Ritu Dalmia, hoteliers Aman Nath, Keshav Suri and business executive Ayesha Kapur and 20 former and current students of the IITs.
They have sought decriminalisation of consensual sex between two
consenting adults of the same sex by declaring section 377 of IPC as illegal and unconstitutional.
16:31 SC defers date for receiving claims, objections for Assam NRC
The Supreme Court on Wednesday deferred till further orders the commencement of the process of receiving claims and objections for the National Register of Citizens in Assam.
A bench of justices Ranjan Gogoi and R F Nariman perused the report of NRC coordinator Pratik Hajela in which he said that 10 out of 15 documents provided in list A can be relied upon by a claimant for staking claim in the state's list of citizens.
The bench asked Attorney General K K Venugopal, appearing for the Centre, and other stakeholders to file their response on the report of Hajela in two weeks and posted the matter for further hearing on September 19.
Earlier on August 28, the apex court had said that it could consider a re-verification of 10 per cent of the people who were recently included in Assam's draft NRC, an exercise that could be carried out by an independent team.
The top court had termed the issue as "human problem with great magnitude" and had asked the state NRC coordinator to submit a report in a sealed cover on the ramification of allowing the claimants to file new sets of legacy documents.
The final draft NRC list was published on July 30 in which names of 2.89 crore of the 3.29 crore people were included. The names of 40,70,707 people did not figure in the list. Of these, 37,59,630 names have been rejected and the remaining 2,48,077 are on hold.
On July 31, the apex court had made it clear that there will be no coercive action by the authorities against over 40 lakh people, whose names did not figure in the NRC while observing that it was merely a draft.
On August 14, the Centre had told the apex court that distinct IDs will be created by collecting biometric details of 40 lakh people filing claims and objections with respect to the NRC. The first draft of the NRC for Assam was published on the intervening night of December 31 and January 1 in accordance with the top court's direction.
Names of 1.9 crore people out of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated then. Assam, which had faced influx of people from Bangladesh since the early 20th century, is the only state having an NRC which was first prepared in 1951. -- PTI
A bench of justices Ranjan Gogoi and R F Nariman perused the report of NRC coordinator Pratik Hajela in which he said that 10 out of 15 documents provided in list A can be relied upon by a claimant for staking claim in the state's list of citizens.
The bench asked Attorney General K K Venugopal, appearing for the Centre, and other stakeholders to file their response on the report of Hajela in two weeks and posted the matter for further hearing on September 19.
Earlier on August 28, the apex court had said that it could consider a re-verification of 10 per cent of the people who were recently included in Assam's draft NRC, an exercise that could be carried out by an independent team.
The top court had termed the issue as "human problem with great magnitude" and had asked the state NRC coordinator to submit a report in a sealed cover on the ramification of allowing the claimants to file new sets of legacy documents.
The final draft NRC list was published on July 30 in which names of 2.89 crore of the 3.29 crore people were included. The names of 40,70,707 people did not figure in the list. Of these, 37,59,630 names have been rejected and the remaining 2,48,077 are on hold.
On July 31, the apex court had made it clear that there will be no coercive action by the authorities against over 40 lakh people, whose names did not figure in the NRC while observing that it was merely a draft.
On August 14, the Centre had told the apex court that distinct IDs will be created by collecting biometric details of 40 lakh people filing claims and objections with respect to the NRC. The first draft of the NRC for Assam was published on the intervening night of December 31 and January 1 in accordance with the top court's direction.
Names of 1.9 crore people out of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated then. Assam, which had faced influx of people from Bangladesh since the early 20th century, is the only state having an NRC which was first prepared in 1951. -- PTI
15:10 NC to boycott J-K panchayat polls till decision on Article 35A
The National Conference has decided to boycott the panchayat election in Jammu and Kashmir citing the challenge to Article 35A of the constitution.
"The National Conference will not participate in these elections (panchayat), unless & until, the Government of India & the state government clears its position on Article 35A and takes effective steps for the protection of Article 35 A in and outside the court," Farooq Abdullah said on Wednesday.
Former J-K CM Omar Abdullah added that it was for the central government to clarify where it stands with regard to Art 35-A. "It's not enough to use Panchayat & Municipal elections simply to delay proceedings in court," he said.
The dates for the local body elections in the state have not been declared yet, but they are likely to be held in September-end. 'Article 35-A, which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and denies property rights to women who marry those from outside the state.
The provision, which leads to such women from the state forfeiting their right over property, also applies to their heirs.
Last week, the Supreme Court had adjourned the hearing on petitions challenging the validity of Article 35-A of the Constitution to January next year. The Centre and Jammu and Kashmir government referred to the panchayat polls in the state and seek adjournment of hearing on petitions against Article 35A.
"The National Conference will not participate in these elections (panchayat), unless & until, the Government of India & the state government clears its position on Article 35A and takes effective steps for the protection of Article 35 A in and outside the court," Farooq Abdullah said on Wednesday.
Former J-K CM Omar Abdullah added that it was for the central government to clarify where it stands with regard to Art 35-A. "It's not enough to use Panchayat & Municipal elections simply to delay proceedings in court," he said.
The dates for the local body elections in the state have not been declared yet, but they are likely to be held in September-end. 'Article 35-A, which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and denies property rights to women who marry those from outside the state.
The provision, which leads to such women from the state forfeiting their right over property, also applies to their heirs.
Last week, the Supreme Court had adjourned the hearing on petitions challenging the validity of Article 35-A of the Constitution to January next year. The Centre and Jammu and Kashmir government referred to the panchayat polls in the state and seek adjournment of hearing on petitions against Article 35A.
15:01 Early menopause not related to intense physical activity
Turns out, there are no links between early menopause and the amount of physical activity that women undertake.
Until now, there have been conflicting findings of the relation between physical activity and menopause, with some studies suggesting that women who are very physically active may be at lower risk of a menopause before the age of 45, while others have found evidence of the opposite effect.
However, the latest study has analysed data from 107,275 women, who were followed prospectively from the time they joined the Nurses' Health Study II in 1989 until 2011 and found no association between physical activity at any age and early natural menopause.
Dr Elizabeth Bertone-Johnson, Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Massachusetts, USA, who directed the research, said, "Our study provides considerable information in helping us understand the relationship between activity and timing of menopause; this is because of its size, its focus on early menopause specifically, and because of its prospective design, which limited the likelihood of bias and allowed us to look at physical activity at different time periods."
"Several previous studies have found suggestions that more physical activity is associated with older age at menopause, but even in those studies the size of the effect was very small. Our results, in conjunction with other studies, provide substantial evidence that physical activity is not importantly associated with early menopause," she added. -- ANI
Until now, there have been conflicting findings of the relation between physical activity and menopause, with some studies suggesting that women who are very physically active may be at lower risk of a menopause before the age of 45, while others have found evidence of the opposite effect.
However, the latest study has analysed data from 107,275 women, who were followed prospectively from the time they joined the Nurses' Health Study II in 1989 until 2011 and found no association between physical activity at any age and early natural menopause.
Dr Elizabeth Bertone-Johnson, Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Massachusetts, USA, who directed the research, said, "Our study provides considerable information in helping us understand the relationship between activity and timing of menopause; this is because of its size, its focus on early menopause specifically, and because of its prospective design, which limited the likelihood of bias and allowed us to look at physical activity at different time periods."
"Several previous studies have found suggestions that more physical activity is associated with older age at menopause, but even in those studies the size of the effect was very small. Our results, in conjunction with other studies, provide substantial evidence that physical activity is not importantly associated with early menopause," she added. -- ANI
14:29 Tarun Vijay to lodge complaint over 'misuse' of Twitter account
Senior BJP leader Tarun Vijay on Wednesday said he will file a police complaint over the "misuse" of his Twitter handle.
Vijay took to Twitter to clarify that the anti-party tweets on his timeline were not done by him, and his 'account password was misused'.
"Thank you friends for showing faith in us and not believing the wrong tweets. It happened when we were shifting home. Password misused and I am filing a police complaint. Changed password. Thanks to the huge number of friends who stood by me. Thank you," the tweet read.
Earlier in the day, Vijay, in a statement to ANI, claimed that the tweets were a "pre 2019 conspiracy.""I have deactivated it (Twitter account). This can be a plot. I will live and die for (Narendra) Modi and Amit Shah. They are Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay and Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee for us small workers. My family and I work day and night for him. My family will die for BJP. No one demanded anything. It is a pre-2019 conspiracy. Please help me from anti-BJP elements," he said.
On Tuesday, a tweet was posted from Vijay's handle asking Prime Minister Modi to "shed his arrogance". "Hello. you are NOT there bec you are very popular. you are there bec there is this person behind you. @narendramodi. shed your arrogance. Oh My god, you think you are very popular!!!" the tweet read.
Another tweet on Congress President Rahul Gandhi's Kailash Mansarovar Yatra read: "Those commenting, mocking at, Making cheap comments on Rahul's Kailas Yatra are wrong. Not what a Hindu should do. it is is all between him and Shiva. None can be bigger than Shiva. I hv been blessed to visit Kailas three times and president of Kailas Manasarovar Yatri Sangh." However, the tweets were deleted a few hours after they were posted.
Journalist Shivam Vij tweeted his reaction: DilliDurAst Who is the person who used to tweet on behalf of Tarun Vijay? Johnnie Walker?
Vijay took to Twitter to clarify that the anti-party tweets on his timeline were not done by him, and his 'account password was misused'.
"Thank you friends for showing faith in us and not believing the wrong tweets. It happened when we were shifting home. Password misused and I am filing a police complaint. Changed password. Thanks to the huge number of friends who stood by me. Thank you," the tweet read.
Earlier in the day, Vijay, in a statement to ANI, claimed that the tweets were a "pre 2019 conspiracy.""I have deactivated it (Twitter account). This can be a plot. I will live and die for (Narendra) Modi and Amit Shah. They are Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay and Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee for us small workers. My family and I work day and night for him. My family will die for BJP. No one demanded anything. It is a pre-2019 conspiracy. Please help me from anti-BJP elements," he said.
On Tuesday, a tweet was posted from Vijay's handle asking Prime Minister Modi to "shed his arrogance". "Hello. you are NOT there bec you are very popular. you are there bec there is this person behind you. @narendramodi. shed your arrogance. Oh My god, you think you are very popular!!!" the tweet read.
Another tweet on Congress President Rahul Gandhi's Kailash Mansarovar Yatra read: "Those commenting, mocking at, Making cheap comments on Rahul's Kailas Yatra are wrong. Not what a Hindu should do. it is is all between him and Shiva. None can be bigger than Shiva. I hv been blessed to visit Kailas three times and president of Kailas Manasarovar Yatri Sangh." However, the tweets were deleted a few hours after they were posted.
Journalist Shivam Vij tweeted his reaction: DilliDurAst Who is the person who used to tweet on behalf of Tarun Vijay? Johnnie Walker?
14:17 New Pak President's father served as Nehru's dentist
An interesting tidbit about our neighbour.
Senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Arif Alvi was elected as the 13th President of Pakistan. But not many know that Alvi shares an interesting connection with India.
According to his biography published in the PTI website, Alvi's father Dr. Habib ur Rehman Elahi Alvi was a dentist to India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Alvi's family has claimed that they have letters from Nehru to Dr. Alvi.
Alvi's father, who practiced dentistry in India, had migrated to Pakistan in 1947 and resumed dental practice in Saddar area of Karachi, according to PTI.
Senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Arif Alvi was elected as the 13th President of Pakistan. But not many know that Alvi shares an interesting connection with India.
According to his biography published in the PTI website, Alvi's father Dr. Habib ur Rehman Elahi Alvi was a dentist to India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Alvi's family has claimed that they have letters from Nehru to Dr. Alvi.
Alvi's father, who practiced dentistry in India, had migrated to Pakistan in 1947 and resumed dental practice in Saddar area of Karachi, according to PTI.
14:11 'The price you pay for being an actor'
"I found the story unique," says Manoj Bajpayee, "I knew that if I managed to pull off this character, it would be unforgettable. I have given it my all. I have fallen sick, lost a lot of weight, went on the brink of a breakdown, the actor says. "This is my toughest role because we have never made these kinds of films or written these kinds of characters. Dealing with a mind like this, which is so complex, makes it tough. It took me one-and-a-half months to get inside his mind, and really understand him," Bajpayee tells Rediff.com's Ronjita Kulkarni in an intimate interview. Do read
14:03 Rafale will give India unprecedented combat capabilities: IAF vice chief
The Rafale is a beautiful aircraft which will give India "unprecedented" combat capabilities, the Indian Air Force said Wednesday amid escalating controversy over the Rs 58,000 crore deal.
Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal S B Deo also said those criticising the Rafale deal must understand the laid down norms and procurement procedure.
"It is a beautiful aircraft..It is a very capable aircraft and we are waiting to fly it," he said on the sidelines of an event when asked about the controversy surrounding the Rafale deal.
The air marshal said Rafale jets will give India unprecedented advantage over its adversaries in the region. India had inked an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore.
The delivery of the jets is scheduled to begin from September 2019. The Congress has raised several questions about the deal, including rates of the aircraft, while the government has rejected the charges. -- PTI
Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal S B Deo also said those criticising the Rafale deal must understand the laid down norms and procurement procedure.
"It is a beautiful aircraft..It is a very capable aircraft and we are waiting to fly it," he said on the sidelines of an event when asked about the controversy surrounding the Rafale deal.
The air marshal said Rafale jets will give India unprecedented advantage over its adversaries in the region. India had inked an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore.
The delivery of the jets is scheduled to begin from September 2019. The Congress has raised several questions about the deal, including rates of the aircraft, while the government has rejected the charges. -- PTI
13:33 One lakh supporters, says Alagiri
DMK leader MK Alagiri pays tribute at Karunanidhi memorial in Chennai. He said people who support him are being removed from the party. "One lakh people came here to support me today. Will they send all of them out?"
13:27 SC to hear plea seeking stay on Rafale deal next week
The Supreme Court Wednesday agreed to hear next week a plea seeking a stay on the Rafale fighter jet deal between India and France. A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud considered the submissions of advocate M L Sharma that his plea be listed for urgent hearing.
In his petition, Sharma has alleged discrepancies in the fighter jet deal with France and sought a stay on it. Sharma has claimed in his plea that the inter-government agreement to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets must be quashed as it was an "outcome of corruption" and not ratified by Parliament under Article 253 (Parliament has power to make any law for implementing any inter-government agreement) of the Constitution.
The petition has also sought FIR and prosecution of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former defence Minister and present Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, business tycoon Anil Ambani and French armament firm Dassault with recovery of amount.
A similar plea was filed in the apex court in March this year seeking an independent probe into the Rafale deal and disclosure of the cost involved in the deal before Parliament.
The plea, filed by Congress leader Tehseen S Poonawalla, had sought issuance of a direction against the Centre as to why the Union Cabinet's approval was not sought as part of the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) before signing the procurement deal with France on September 23, 2016. -- PTI
In his petition, Sharma has alleged discrepancies in the fighter jet deal with France and sought a stay on it. Sharma has claimed in his plea that the inter-government agreement to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets must be quashed as it was an "outcome of corruption" and not ratified by Parliament under Article 253 (Parliament has power to make any law for implementing any inter-government agreement) of the Constitution.
The petition has also sought FIR and prosecution of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former defence Minister and present Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, business tycoon Anil Ambani and French armament firm Dassault with recovery of amount.
A similar plea was filed in the apex court in March this year seeking an independent probe into the Rafale deal and disclosure of the cost involved in the deal before Parliament.
The plea, filed by Congress leader Tehseen S Poonawalla, had sought issuance of a direction against the Centre as to why the Union Cabinet's approval was not sought as part of the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) before signing the procurement deal with France on September 23, 2016. -- PTI
13:06 Azhagiri's one-liner at Marina: Have come to pay respects to my father
Expelled DMK leader M K Azhagiri today led a rally of his supporters in a show of strength to the mausoleum of his late father and DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi at the Marina beach in Chennai.
At the samadhi, all that Azhagiri said was, "I have come here to pay respects to my father."
Dressed in black, to condole Karunanidhi's death, Azhagiri began his rally from nearby Triplicane. After walking for a while, he hopped on to an open van, waving enthusiastically to cheer his cadres.
The expelled leader's followers from various districts held banners, which read 'karam korpom, kazhagam kappom,' (let us join hands and guard the party).
The former Union minister's loyalists, including Madurai-based P M Mannan, took part in the rally.
Azhagiri said some days ago that he was ready to accept the leadership of his estranged brother M K Stalin if he was admitted into the party. He was expelled from the DMK in 2014.
Today, when it was pointed out to him that the Velachery east secretary of the DMK had been sacked for welcoming him at Chennai airport, Azhagiri asked, "One and a half lakh supporters came here today, will they sack all of them?"
Photograph: Courtesy, Dhaya Azhagiri on Twitter.
12:58 Not curbing dissent but protecting society from chaos: Cops tell SC
The Maharashtra government has strongly rebutted in the Supreme Court that the five activists were arrested in connection with the Bhima-Koregaon violence due to their 'dissent' or 'difference in their political or other ideologies'.
Submitting its reply affidavit in the court, the state government maintained that "they are involved in not only planning and preparing for violence but were in the process of creating large-scale violence, destruction of property resulting into chaos in the society."
The affidavit, filed by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Pune, emphasised that the FIR registered against these activists disclosed commission of serious offences and that incriminating materials have emerged against them.
It said that these activists along with others were planning to "carry out a violence, planned ambush/rebellion against the enemy (which is our country and its security forces)."
Simultaneous raids had targeted the residences of prominent Telugu poet Varavara Rao in Hyderabad, activists Vernon Gonzalves and Arun Ferreira in Mumbai, trade union activist Sudha Bharadwaj in Faridabad and civil liberties activist Gautam Navalakha in New Delhi.
12:42 Ex-IPS officer and Modi critic Sanjiv Bhatt detained in 22-year-old drugs case
Former IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt was detained Wednesday by the Gujarat CID in connection with a 22-year-old case of arrest of a man for alleged possession of drugs, a senior police official said.
Bhatt and seven others, including some former policemen attached with the Banaskantha police, were detained for questioning in the case, director general of police, crime investigation department, Ashish Bhatia, said.
Bhatt was the Banaskantha district superintendent of police in 1996. As per case details, the Banaskantha police under Bhatt had arrested Sumersingh Rajpurohit, an advocate, in 1996 on charges of possessing around one kg of drugs.
At that time, the Banaskantha police had claimed that drugs were found in a hotel room occupied by Rajpurohit in the district's Palanpur town. However, a probe by the Rajasthan police had revealed that Rajpurohit was allegedly falsely implicated by the Banaskantha police.
It had also found that Rajpurohit was allegedly abducted by the Banaskantha police from his residence at Pali in Rajasthan.
In June this year, the Gujarat high court had handed over the probe in the case to the CID while hearing Rajpurohit's plea.
The high court had asked the CID to complete the probe in three months. The CID found substance in the charges against Bhatt, which led to his detention, Bhatia said, adding that Bhatt and some others could be arrested after questioning.
Bhatt was sacked by the Union ministry of home affairs in August 2015 for "unauthorised absence" from service.
12:28
JUST IN: 2008 Malegaon blast accused Major Ramesh Upadhyay (retired) to contest 2019 Lok Sabha election from Jadavpur constituency in West Bengal on Hindu Mahasabha ticket.
12:12 'Ghoul' actress makes an appeal for Kerala's flood-hit weavers
'Actress Ratnabali Bhattacharjee, who plays Major Das in the Netflix horror series Ghoul, has come out in support of the handloom weavers of Chendamangalam, Kerala, whose livelihood has been totally destroyed by the recent floods.
In an Instagram post, the actress says the only way to help the weavers is by buying their stock, worth almost Rs 40 lakh.
Everyone in a group, like an office, can contribute to buy one sari/mundu, the post says, which could all add up to a big relief.
If interested, do write to studiorouka@gmail.com and shalinijamesmantra@gmail.com, Ratnabali's post says.
12:06 Security forces, terrorists exchange fire in Pulwama
A brief exchange of fire took place on Wednesday between terrorists and security forces in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, the police said.
Terrorists opened fire on a patrol party of security forces at Haji Darpora in Pulwama, a police official said.
Security forces retaliated, leading to brief exchange of fire between the two sides, he said, adding there were no casualties.
Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched search operations to track down the terrorists, the official said.
-- PTI
12:02 'Imran appears very meek and almost unhappy'
"Imran and his government have obviously agreed to be subservient to the military establishment. 'How can we expect him to take a stand on anything?"
In an e-mail interview from England, Imran Khan's ex-wife, Reham Khan, she tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih that since Imran's swearing-in, his blunders prove that every word in her book is a hundred percent true. Read the interview here.
In an e-mail interview from England, Imran Khan's ex-wife, Reham Khan, she tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih that since Imran's swearing-in, his blunders prove that every word in her book is a hundred percent true. Read the interview here.
11:55 Alagiri marches to Karunanidhi samadhi in a show of strength
A month after the death of late M Karunanidhi, his elder son M K Alagiri is on his way to his father's memorial at Marina Beach in a show of strength that could leave his brother MK Stalin worried.
Challenging the party president Stalin, Alagiri claims that majority of Karunanidhi's followers are with him. Alagiri was removed from the party in 2014 for 'anti-party activities'.
Alagiri wants to be reinducted into the DMK and has even said he is willing to work under Stalin, but Stalin refuses to bend. Even though Alagiri had earlier claimed that the rally would be attended by at least one lakh people, the numbers are not more than 10,000.
Alagiri and his supporters is marching from Triplicane police station to the Karunanidhi Samadhi on Marina beach, where the leader will pay respects to his late father. No public meeting or speeches are planned. He is unlikely to make an announcement or declaration. He will meet the press later to say that he will take his next decision after consulting his cadres across the state.
Challenging the party president Stalin, Alagiri claims that majority of Karunanidhi's followers are with him. Alagiri was removed from the party in 2014 for 'anti-party activities'.
Alagiri wants to be reinducted into the DMK and has even said he is willing to work under Stalin, but Stalin refuses to bend. Even though Alagiri had earlier claimed that the rally would be attended by at least one lakh people, the numbers are not more than 10,000.
Alagiri and his supporters is marching from Triplicane police station to the Karunanidhi Samadhi on Marina beach, where the leader will pay respects to his late father. No public meeting or speeches are planned. He is unlikely to make an announcement or declaration. He will meet the press later to say that he will take his next decision after consulting his cadres across the state.
11:43 Gutka scam: CBI raids at residences of Tamil Nadu health minister, DGP
The CBI today carried out searches at around 40 locations in Tamil Nadu, including at the residences of state's health minister and the director general of police, in connection with the Gutka scam, officials said.
They said the searches are spread across the state but did not reveal exact locations at this stage, saying it may hamper the ongoing operations.
The residences of Health Minister C Vijayabaskar and DGP TK Rajendran, besides that of a former senior police official, among others are being searched, they said. The scam came to light on July 8, 2017, when income tax sleuths raided the godown, offices and residences of a pan masala and gutka (a concoction of tobacco and pan masala) manufacturer in Tamil Nadu, who had been facing charges of tax evasion to the tune of Rs 250 crore. -- PTI
They said the searches are spread across the state but did not reveal exact locations at this stage, saying it may hamper the ongoing operations.
The residences of Health Minister C Vijayabaskar and DGP TK Rajendran, besides that of a former senior police official, among others are being searched, they said. The scam came to light on July 8, 2017, when income tax sleuths raided the godown, offices and residences of a pan masala and gutka (a concoction of tobacco and pan masala) manufacturer in Tamil Nadu, who had been facing charges of tax evasion to the tune of Rs 250 crore. -- PTI
11:41 Nadal battles into US Open semis
World number 1 Rafael Nadal scraped into the semi finals of the US Open by defeating Austria's Dominic Thiem in five sets. Nadal won -- 0-6, 6-4, 7-5, 6-7,7-6 against the ninth seeded Austrian Thiem. Nadal will now face Argentina's Juan Martin Del Potro in the semis.
11:35 'My brother is under the debris'
Update on the Majerhat bridge collapse in south Kolkata: A man says his brother, who worked at the metro construction project near the Majerhat bridge is missing. "Two people, including him, are trapped under the debris. I told the police officers about it but they have not taken any step," says Partho Deb.
11:28 Modi-baiter, former IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt held
Modi-baiter and former IPS office Sanjiv Bhatt has been held in a 1998 fake narcotics case. Bhatt had allegedly framed a laywer in the fake case. Details awaited.
Bhatt was suspended in 2011 for not showing up at work, for misusing his official car and for threatening a constable. In 2015, he was sacked.
The officer came to the spotlight alleging that Narendra Modi, as Chief Minister of Gujarat, was complicit in the riots of 2002 in which more than 1,000 people were killed. PM Modi was given a clean chit by the Supreme Court in 2012.
Bhatt was suspended in 2011 for not showing up at work, for misusing his official car and for threatening a constable. In 2015, he was sacked.
The officer came to the spotlight alleging that Narendra Modi, as Chief Minister of Gujarat, was complicit in the riots of 2002 in which more than 1,000 people were killed. PM Modi was given a clean chit by the Supreme Court in 2012.
11:15 Now, a farmers' march in Delhi
In Delhi, the Delhi the Mazdoor Kisan Sangharsh has begun its rally towards Parliament from Ramlila Maidan. The rally is being organised by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions, All India Kisan Sabha and the All India Agriculture Workers Union. They are demanding debt waivers for farmers among others.
10:57 Azhagiris silent march begins in Chennai
The silent march called by M Karunanidhi's son M K Azhagiri, to protest against his brother M K Stalin's elevation as DMK president, and to assert his own clout, is wending its way through Chennai's Triplicane area towards the Kalaignar Samadhi on Marina Beach, reports A Ganesh Nadar.
The posters on display have photos of Karunanidhi, Azhagiri and his son Dayanidhi, showing that both brothers may differ on many things but certainly not on inducting their progeny into their politics.
The narrow roads of Triplicane are jam-packed with Azharigi supporters. And while the number may not reach the 5 lakh that Stalin's estranged brother boasted of, it certainly must send creases of worry across the DMK chief's brow, says Ganesh.
10:55 'There could be a few trapped beneath collapsed bridge'
The overnight search and rescue operations at the Majerhat bridge collapse site in the south Kolkata continued Wednesday morning to find those possibly trapped in the debris, officials said.
A section of the over 50-year-old bridge on the arterial Diamond Harbour Road in south Kolkata collapsed Tuesday evening, killing one person, trapping several people and crushing many vehicles.
Amid rains, the rescuers tried drilling the concrete slabs, used sophisticated cameras and engaged sniffer dogs to ensure anybody trapped under the rubble could be reached and rescued.
Additional lighting arrangements were made to aid the rescue works at night, the officials said.
"There could be a few trapped underneath the collapsed bridge. We are trying to find them out. We are using cutters and drill machines to cut through the concrete slabs of the bridge. Till now, we are unable to locate anybody. We are trying our best," an official of the rescue team said this morning. The area near the site had been dug up for a metro railway project and construction material are strewn all over the place. Labourers working on the metro project claimed that two of their co-workers, who were probably inside a temporary shelter underneath the bridge, were missing.
The Kolkata Disaster Management Department, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the state fire department conducted the search operations throughout the night, the officials said.
The police had said Tuesday evening that 27-year-old Soumendu Bag had died in the collapse while 21 others, including three women, were injured. The injured are receiving treatment at the hospitals in the city. A mini bus, four cars and a few motorcycles that were damaged in the bridge collapse were removed using cranes, the official said. -- PTI
A section of the over 50-year-old bridge on the arterial Diamond Harbour Road in south Kolkata collapsed Tuesday evening, killing one person, trapping several people and crushing many vehicles.
Amid rains, the rescuers tried drilling the concrete slabs, used sophisticated cameras and engaged sniffer dogs to ensure anybody trapped under the rubble could be reached and rescued.
Additional lighting arrangements were made to aid the rescue works at night, the officials said.
"There could be a few trapped underneath the collapsed bridge. We are trying to find them out. We are using cutters and drill machines to cut through the concrete slabs of the bridge. Till now, we are unable to locate anybody. We are trying our best," an official of the rescue team said this morning. The area near the site had been dug up for a metro railway project and construction material are strewn all over the place. Labourers working on the metro project claimed that two of their co-workers, who were probably inside a temporary shelter underneath the bridge, were missing.
The Kolkata Disaster Management Department, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the state fire department conducted the search operations throughout the night, the officials said.
The police had said Tuesday evening that 27-year-old Soumendu Bag had died in the collapse while 21 others, including three women, were injured. The injured are receiving treatment at the hospitals in the city. A mini bus, four cars and a few motorcycles that were damaged in the bridge collapse were removed using cranes, the official said. -- PTI
10:43 No hatred in Mansarovar, says Rahul
Congress president Rahul Gandhi, who is at Kailash Mansarovar, tweeted this picture of the place, writing, "The waters of lake Mansarovar are so gentle, tranquil and calm. They give everything and lose nothing. Anyone can drink from them. There is no hatred here. This is why we worship these waters in India."
Rahul left Delhi on August 31 to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as per his wish expressed in April after a mid-air accident was averted while he was flying to Karnataka for campaigning in assembly polls.
The pilgrimage, aimed at seeking the blessing of Lord Shiva for prosperity and success of the country and its people, will take about 12 days, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said. He did not disclose the route map due to security reasons.
Gandhi took to Twitter to put out a Sanskrit 'shloka' from the Upanishads and tweeted a picture of Mount Kailash along with it."
Shiv bhakt Congress president Rahul Gandhi has left for undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, where he will take the 'parikrama' of Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva, and of Mansarovar lake. The yatra will take around 12 to 15 days, but the exact route cannot be disclosed due to security reasons," Surjewala said.
The BJP was quick to react alleging the Congress chief wanted Chinese ambassador to give him a ceremonial send-off and accused him of holding brief for China everywhere like a "Chinese spokesperson".
Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson Sambit Patra sought to know from the Congress as to which politicians and officials Gandhi will meet during his visit to China, "his favourite country".
Patra did not comment on Gandhi's pilgrimage, saying it is a personal visit. 'Kailash Mansarovar' region falls in China.
Rahul left Delhi on August 31 to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as per his wish expressed in April after a mid-air accident was averted while he was flying to Karnataka for campaigning in assembly polls.
The pilgrimage, aimed at seeking the blessing of Lord Shiva for prosperity and success of the country and its people, will take about 12 days, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said. He did not disclose the route map due to security reasons.
Gandhi took to Twitter to put out a Sanskrit 'shloka' from the Upanishads and tweeted a picture of Mount Kailash along with it."
Shiv bhakt Congress president Rahul Gandhi has left for undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, where he will take the 'parikrama' of Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva, and of Mansarovar lake. The yatra will take around 12 to 15 days, but the exact route cannot be disclosed due to security reasons," Surjewala said.
The BJP was quick to react alleging the Congress chief wanted Chinese ambassador to give him a ceremonial send-off and accused him of holding brief for China everywhere like a "Chinese spokesperson".
Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson Sambit Patra sought to know from the Congress as to which politicians and officials Gandhi will meet during his visit to China, "his favourite country".
Patra did not comment on Gandhi's pilgrimage, saying it is a personal visit. 'Kailash Mansarovar' region falls in China.
10:33 Does Modi want to hijack higher education?
The ministry of human resources recently came up with a draft of the Higher Education Commission of India Act 2018 to replace the University Grants Commission Act. But many educationists like Professor M Ananthakrishnan, former vice-chancellor, Anna University, and former chairman, IIT-Kanpur, are strongly against the new Act.
"Higher education in India will be controlled by a single agency at the Centre. After Independence, it was believed that higher education will flourish as an intellectual enterprise in the country, independent of bureaucracy and other controls. All that will be gone now," Professor Ananthakrishnan tells Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier.
Read the interview here.
"Higher education in India will be controlled by a single agency at the Centre. After Independence, it was believed that higher education will flourish as an intellectual enterprise in the country, independent of bureaucracy and other controls. All that will be gone now," Professor Ananthakrishnan tells Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier.
Read the interview here.
10:30 Pak knew US would cut aid: Pompeo
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has defended the Trump administration's decision to cut USD 300 million aid to Pakistan, saying Islamabad did not make satisfactory progress in combating terrorism.
Pompeo is arriving in Islamabad along with General Joseph Dunford, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, days after the Trump administration cancelled USD 300 million in military aid to Pakistan as it was not doing enough against terrorist groups inside its borders, the latest controversy to hit Islamabad's troubled relationship with Washington.
Pompeo's talks will be the Trump administration's first high-level dialogue with Pakistan since the new government of Prime Minister Imran Khan assumed office after the July 25 elections.
Talking to reporters travelling with him hours before landing in Pakistan, the Secretary of State said: "The rationale for them (Pakistan) not getting the money is very clear. It's that we haven't seen the progress that we need to see from them". The top American diplomat, during his meeting with Khan, army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa and Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, would convey the same message of acting tough on terrorist organisations in Pakistan.
"The very reason for this trip is to try and articulate what our expectation is, the things that they can do, the things that they expect us to do, and see if we can't find a path forward together," Pompeo said amid reports that the Pentagon has sought a Congressional approval to reprogramme USD 300 million meant for financial assistance to Pakistan because of the lack of progress in fight against terrorism.
However, Pompeo said that this was not news for Pakistan. "Look, this wasn't news to the Pakistanis. It made a lot of headlines over the last few days because of the formality... but they were told this past summer that they weren't likely to get that money," he said. Ahead of the meeting with Khan, Pompeo hoped that they can turn the page and begin to make progress. -- PTI
Pompeo is arriving in Islamabad along with General Joseph Dunford, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, days after the Trump administration cancelled USD 300 million in military aid to Pakistan as it was not doing enough against terrorist groups inside its borders, the latest controversy to hit Islamabad's troubled relationship with Washington.
Pompeo's talks will be the Trump administration's first high-level dialogue with Pakistan since the new government of Prime Minister Imran Khan assumed office after the July 25 elections.
Talking to reporters travelling with him hours before landing in Pakistan, the Secretary of State said: "The rationale for them (Pakistan) not getting the money is very clear. It's that we haven't seen the progress that we need to see from them". The top American diplomat, during his meeting with Khan, army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa and Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, would convey the same message of acting tough on terrorist organisations in Pakistan.
"The very reason for this trip is to try and articulate what our expectation is, the things that they can do, the things that they expect us to do, and see if we can't find a path forward together," Pompeo said amid reports that the Pentagon has sought a Congressional approval to reprogramme USD 300 million meant for financial assistance to Pakistan because of the lack of progress in fight against terrorism.
However, Pompeo said that this was not news for Pakistan. "Look, this wasn't news to the Pakistanis. It made a lot of headlines over the last few days because of the formality... but they were told this past summer that they weren't likely to get that money," he said. Ahead of the meeting with Khan, Pompeo hoped that they can turn the page and begin to make progress. -- PTI
10:22 9-year-old gang-raped, eyes gouged out, in Kashmir
A nine-year-old girl was gang-raped allegedly by her stepbrother and his friends, who were instigated by her stepmother, in Kashmir's Baramulla, reports NDTV.
The horrific details emerging from the probe say the child's eyes were gouged out and her body was burnt with acid before being dumped in a forest near her home in Uri.
The girl's stepmother, 14-year-old stepbrother and three others have been arrested. The police call it an open-and-shut case.
The decomposed body of the girl was found in the forest on Sunday last.
"We started investigation immediately," said Mir Imtiyaz Hussain, a senior police officer at Baramulla. A special team formed to investigate the murder uncovered a horrifying story of jealousy and revenge within a family.
"It was found that the stepmother had been nursing a grudge against the non-local wife of her husband, and her children," said Hussain.
During interrogation, the girl's stepmother allegedly said her husband would spend more time with his second wife and the nine-year-old was closest to him among all his children.
The police said tension had been rising in the family.
"The woman conspired to kill her stepdaughter. She took her to the nearby jungle where she asked her 14-year-old son to rape the girl," the police officer said. "The girl was gang-raped at the instance of her stepmother and in her presence," Hussain said.
The stepmother strangled the girl and her son struck her head with an axe, killing her on the spot, the police officer said.
The horrific details emerging from the probe say the child's eyes were gouged out and her body was burnt with acid before being dumped in a forest near her home in Uri.
The girl's stepmother, 14-year-old stepbrother and three others have been arrested. The police call it an open-and-shut case.
The decomposed body of the girl was found in the forest on Sunday last.
"We started investigation immediately," said Mir Imtiyaz Hussain, a senior police officer at Baramulla. A special team formed to investigate the murder uncovered a horrifying story of jealousy and revenge within a family.
"It was found that the stepmother had been nursing a grudge against the non-local wife of her husband, and her children," said Hussain.
During interrogation, the girl's stepmother allegedly said her husband would spend more time with his second wife and the nine-year-old was closest to him among all his children.
The police said tension had been rising in the family.
"The woman conspired to kill her stepdaughter. She took her to the nearby jungle where she asked her 14-year-old son to rape the girl," the police officer said. "The girl was gang-raped at the instance of her stepmother and in her presence," Hussain said.
The stepmother strangled the girl and her son struck her head with an axe, killing her on the spot, the police officer said.
10:05 Ghats along Ganga in Kanpur submerged
Kanpur: Several Ganga ghats and adjoining areas have been submerged in water as water level rises following heavy rainfall. Over 35 villages have been affected. Flood Relief Officer, says, "Water level is rising in the Ganga. It is upstream 114.61cm and downstream 114.01cm, still 50-60cm below danger mark."
10:03 Bridge too heavy, experts had warned
Kolkata's Majerhat bridge had become too heavy and needed to shed load, experts had warned almost two years ago, a senior Nabanna official told The Telegraph on Tuesday evening. The warning was issued in mid-2017 by a Delhi-based agency commissioned to examine the fitness of the structure during a safety audit that followed the collapse of the Vivekananda Road flyover in March 2016. Read more
09:50 Alagiri's rally at Karunanidhi's memorial today
Tamil Nadu: Visuals from M Karunanidhi's memorial at Chennai's Marina beach. Expelled DMK leader and M Karunanidhi's son MK Alagiri will hold a rally at the memorial today.
09:49 Trump admin has neglected relationship with India: former US diplomat
US President Donald Trump has neglected the country's vital relationship with India unlike his predecessors George W Bush and Barack Obama, a former diplomat has alleged, ahead of the crucial 2+2 dialogue tomorrow in New Delhi.
The twice-delayed dialogue was earlier scheduled for July 6 in Washington, but was postponed by the US on June 27, citing "unavoidable reasons".
"The future is very bright for both countries, but the United States must fully prioritise and expertly execute on this relationship," former US ambassador to India Tim Roemer said in an op-ed in the Foreign Policy magazine on Tuesday. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis are being hosted in Delhi by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This is the first ever 2+2 talks between the two nations.
"It is essential that it devote sufficient time and consistent effort towards anticipating problems and implementing an overall strategy that helps deepen this growing relationship and facilitate abiding trust moving forward," he said.
Roemer, who was a top US diplomat in the previous Obama administration, said it is a telling sign of how little the Trump administration has prioritised India that this critical relationship, where both sides stand to heavily benefit, is not moving steadily forward. -- PTI
The twice-delayed dialogue was earlier scheduled for July 6 in Washington, but was postponed by the US on June 27, citing "unavoidable reasons".
"The future is very bright for both countries, but the United States must fully prioritise and expertly execute on this relationship," former US ambassador to India Tim Roemer said in an op-ed in the Foreign Policy magazine on Tuesday. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis are being hosted in Delhi by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This is the first ever 2+2 talks between the two nations.
"It is essential that it devote sufficient time and consistent effort towards anticipating problems and implementing an overall strategy that helps deepen this growing relationship and facilitate abiding trust moving forward," he said.
Roemer, who was a top US diplomat in the previous Obama administration, said it is a telling sign of how little the Trump administration has prioritised India that this critical relationship, where both sides stand to heavily benefit, is not moving steadily forward. -- PTI
09:42 'Guru-Shishya' tradition is India's gift to the world: Mamata
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said Wednesday that India has gifted the "Guru-Sishya" (teacher-student) tradition to the world. "Today is #TeachersDay. Teachers are our gurus. The guru-sishya parampara is a gift of India to the world," Banerjee Tweeted. She said that her government has initiated the Siksha Ratna Samman to honour outstanding teachers for their contribution to the field of education. In recognition of the contribution of teachers in schools, colleges and universities, our govt felicitates outstanding teachers with 'Siksha Ratna Samman' on Teachers Day, she added. Teachers' Day is celebrated in the country to pay respect to the teachers for their contributions to the society. -- PTI
09:39 Gauri Lankesh Patrike relaunched with new name
On Gauri Lankesh's first death anniversary, friends and colleagues are piecing together a new edition of the Gauri Lankesh Patrike, a Kannada weekly that she used to edit, with a new name that is said to reflect her ideology and carry forward her legacy.
The first and last edition of the weekly came out a fortnight after she was shot dead outside her house, and the title of it seemed as though the weekly was reminding her killers: "my voice will not be silenced".
The new tabloid will be called Nyaya Path (path of justice) and will be launched in the city during a day-long memorial organised for Gauri by her dear ones and those who follow her ideology. It will be published with no advertisements like it was during the time Gauri and her father ran the weekly.
The editions, with literary and cultural aspects in addition to the political aspect Gauri had focused on, will be put together by the trust formed under her name working out of a new office.
09:17 US President Trump says Nike's ad sends a 'terrible message'
US President Donald Trump said Nikes decision to feature Colin Kaepernick as the face of its new Just Do It ad campaign sends a terrible message.
I think its a terrible message, Trump told conservative news site The Daily Caller.
Trump also added: In another way, it is what this country is all about, that you have certain freedoms to do things that other people think you shouldnt do, but I personally am on a different side of it.
Trumps comments come after Nike revealed NFL star Kaepernick in its new Just Do It campaign. Kaepernick, who became the symbol of protests after kneeling during the national anthem two years ago, tweeted an image from the campaign with the slogan, Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything, on Monday.
09:10 Arif Alvi elected as 13th Pakistan President
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf candidate Arif-ur-Rehman Alvi was elected as the 13th President of Pakistan, the result data from the Election Commission of Pakistan confirmed.
Alvi secured the lion's share of votes from the 1,100 that were cast on Tuesday, with the founding member of the PTI garnering nearly twice as many votes as Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal and Jamiat Ulema-e Islam - F chief, Fazal-ur-Rehman, who was supported by the Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz, according to a press release from the ECP.
Pakistan Peoples Party leader Aitzaz Ahsan was in the third spot.
In his victory speech, Alvi said, "I am grateful to God that the PTI-nominated candidate has been successful in the presidential race today. I am also thankful to Imran Khan for nominating me for such a big responsibility." He also stated he hoped that "fortunes of the poor" are turned around during his five-year term.
"From today I am not just a president that was nominated by the PTI but I am the president of the entire nation and all parties. Each party has an equal right on me," said Alvi.
-- ANI
08:20 India buying Russian missile system not primary focus of 2+2 talks: Pompeo
India buying a missile defence system from Russia and oil from Iran would be part of the 2+2 dialogue, but not the talks' primary focus, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said.
Pompeo and Defence Secretary Jim Mattis are headed to India for the talks tomorrow with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. This is the inaugural 2+2 dialogue between the two countries.
"They are (missile system purchase from Russia and oil from Iran) part of the conversation. They are part of the relationship.
"They will certainly come up, but I don't think they will be the primary focus of what it is we are trying to accomplish here," Pompeo said on Tuesday to a question from reporters who are travelling with him to Pakistan and then to India.
India is expected to convey to the US during the dialogue that it is going ahead with the Rs 40,000 crore deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 Triumf air defence missile system.
"There are half-a-dozen things on the agenda that we are really intent on making progress on. Those decisions are important, they are important to the relationship for sure, but I don't see us resolving those or have intention to resolve those during this set of meetings of the strategic dialogue," he said.
"They are really about things that are big and strategic and will go on for 20, 40, 50 years. Those are the kinds of topics that secretary Mattis and I are hoping to address not that those are not important, but they are not part of the structural relationship between the two countries," Pompeo said.
He regretted that the dialogue had to be postponed twice in the past. "I regret it was my fault the second time. I had to travel to Pyongyang. But secretary Mattis and I are both looking forward to this," he said.
-- PTI
07:44 PIL filed against Maharashtra Police's ADG for disclosing evidence in presser
In a move against Additional Director General of Maharashtra Police Param Bir Singh, a petition was filed in the Bombay high court on Tuesday seeking action against him under contempt of court for disobeying the order of the magistrate and disclosing evidence related to the Bhima-Koregaon violence in media.
According to the petition filed by social activist Sanjay Bhalerao, the police read out parts of letters, which were "crucial evidence" in the case, in a press conference before submitting it to the court in Pune.
Bhalerao is being represented in the Bombay HC by his lawyer Nitin Satpute.
The matter has been slated for a hearing on September 7 -- the same day when the court will hear the petition of the alleged victim of the Bhima Koregaon violence, Satish Gaikwad, who wants the case to be handed over to the National Investigative Agency. Gaikwad is also being represented in the HC by the same lawyer.
On Monday, the Bombay HC had come down heavily on the Maharashtra Police for holding a press conference and elaborating on the evidence against activists arrested in the Bhima Koregaon case.
00:20 Modi has to follow Vajpayee to resolve Kashmir tangle: Mehbooba
Terming resumption of dialogue between New Delhi and Islamabad as "inevitable" for peace in south Asia, former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti Tuesday appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend the hand of friendship to his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan for skae of Kashmir.
The People's Democratic Party president also appealed to the prime minister to follow the steps of late PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee to revive the peace process between the two neighbours.
"Peace in south Asia will only be possible if it is ensured in Jammu and Kashmir," the PDP president said, addressing a public meeting in border district of Rajauri.
Urging Modi to extend the hand of friendship to Khan and pick up the peace process from where Vajpayee had to leave it, Mehbooba said, "It will usher a new era of growth and tranquillity in the two countries."
If it's done, the people would no longer live in constant fears and heave a sigh of relief, she said.
She said opening new roads between "divided Jammu and Kashmir" and strengthening the people-to-people contact would lower the tension across the border.
Terming dialogue and reconciliation between India and Pakistan as "inevitable for the resolution of the Kashmir issue, Mehbooba said, "The two countries need to rise above ego and exhibit the political astuteness to help realise the people's dream of a peaceful and tranquil Jammu and Kashmir."
Asserting that economic packages alone would not usher peace in the Valley, she said consistent and earnest efforts aimed at taking youths into confidence are needed "to stop them from going adrift".
"The economic packages alone are not going to resolve the issue. The roads, bridges and electricity are vital for the people, but unless there is dialogue aimed at the resolution of the conflict, no relief can be ensured for the masses," she said.
She said after the 2014 polls yielded fragmented mandate, PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed decided to form government with the BJP with "the sole motive to reincarnate the Vajpayee era" in the state and to stop the vicious cycle of unabated killings and violence.
"As I told my father that the decision to join hands with the BJP has more risks than rewards and would decline party's popularity, he said he was ready to sacrifice everything including his life, if that resolves the decades-old conflict," Mehbooba said.
Her father was confident that the reconciliation and dialogue would be initiated, and the measures taken during Vajpayee's era would be replicated once again, she added. -- PTI
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