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Mon, 06 June 2016
Waiting for PM Modi, tweets Biswal
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23:25 Waiting for PM Modi, tweets Biswal
'With @USAmbIndia at Andrews Airforce Base waiting for the arrival of PM Modi,' tweets Nisha Biswal, assistant secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs in the Obama Administration, posting a photograph of her along with US ambassador to India Richard Verma. Photograph: @NishaBiswal/Twitter
23:10 Ashok Pandit slams 'CBFC chairman's diktat' on Udta Punjab
Central Board of Film Certification member Ashok Pandit has strongly critcised the move not to allow the references to Punjab in the movie Udta Punjab, and has squarely blamed Board chairman Pahlaj Nihalani for it.
"The decision of not allowing the word 'Punjab' is condemnable, a mockery of freedom of expression of a filmmaker," Pandit said.
Im confident that this decision is taken by our chairman. Weve been fighting against the diktats of our chairman. Not a single board member who is based in Mumbai will be involved in this mockery, he said.
Pandit is known for his anti-Nihalani stand. Last year also, he had called the CBFC chairman a tyrant.
All limits have been crossed. People will laugh at us that you cant take the name of even a place, Pandit said,
If there are 89 cuts in Udta Punjab, then the film loses its impression and basic ethos. You cannot massacre the film by giving so many cuts and saying that you cannot use the name of a state, he said.
"The decision of not allowing the word 'Punjab' is condemnable, a mockery of freedom of expression of a filmmaker," Pandit said.
Im confident that this decision is taken by our chairman. Weve been fighting against the diktats of our chairman. Not a single board member who is based in Mumbai will be involved in this mockery, he said.
Pandit is known for his anti-Nihalani stand. Last year also, he had called the CBFC chairman a tyrant.
All limits have been crossed. People will laugh at us that you cant take the name of even a place, Pandit said,
If there are 89 cuts in Udta Punjab, then the film loses its impression and basic ethos. You cannot massacre the film by giving so many cuts and saying that you cannot use the name of a state, he said.
22:54 SIT on Sikh riots by Centre an eyewash, allow us to form one: Kejriwal
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today termed as an 'eyewash' the Special Investigation Team formed by the Centre to probe 1984 anti-Sikh riots and asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to allow his government to set up one.
'(The) SIT (constituted by the central government) had been set up on February 12, 2015. It was slated to file its report on August 12, 2015...(the) SIT failed to reopen even single case! Now, apprehension is growing in the minds of people that this SIT was just an eyewash and you (PM) formed an ineffective SIT..,' Kejriwal said in a letter to the prime minister.
He also said files of any of the case related to 1984 massacre was not with the Delhi government but all records and file were with the central government.
'I would urge you to either get your SIT to do something, or kindly wind up this SIT and allow Delhi Government to set up an SIT, which will do proper investigation and get justice for the victims. It's been 32 years and any further delay would only hamper the hope for justice,' the Delhi CM said.
'(The) SIT (constituted by the central government) had been set up on February 12, 2015. It was slated to file its report on August 12, 2015...(the) SIT failed to reopen even single case! Now, apprehension is growing in the minds of people that this SIT was just an eyewash and you (PM) formed an ineffective SIT..,' Kejriwal said in a letter to the prime minister.
He also said files of any of the case related to 1984 massacre was not with the Delhi government but all records and file were with the central government.
'I would urge you to either get your SIT to do something, or kindly wind up this SIT and allow Delhi Government to set up an SIT, which will do proper investigation and get justice for the victims. It's been 32 years and any further delay would only hamper the hope for justice,' the Delhi CM said.
21:54 'Indications' N Korea has reactivated plutonium plant: IAEA
North Korea may have reactivated a plant for reprocessing plutonium for use in nuclear weapons, the United Nation atomic watchdog said on Monday, citing satellite imagery and echoing recent comments from a US think-tank.
"The indications that we have obtained... (are of) activities related to the five-megawatt reactor, expansion of enrichment facilities and activities related to (plutonium) reprocessing," International Atomic Energy Agency head Yukiya Amano said.
"However, as we do not have inspectors on the ground we are only observing through satellite imagery. We cannot say for sure. But we have indications of certain activities through the satellite imagery," Amano told a regular news conference in Vienna.
He said that the indications spotted at the main Yongbyon complex included the "movement of vehicles, steam, discharge of warm waters or transport of material".
The type of plutonium suitable for a nuclear bomb typically needs to be extracted from spent nuclear reactor fuel.
21:25 Senior Congress leader Gurudas Kamat resigns
Congress General Secretary Gurudas Kamat resigns from the Congress, says he is retiring from the party.
20:25 Don't try to resolve south China sea dispute unilaterally: US tells China
United States Secretary of State John Kerry on Monday warned China against attempts to resolve the South China Sea dispute through "unilateral actions" while Chinese President Xi Jinping said the two countries must properly manage their differences avoiding "major disturbance" in ties.
"The US will make it clear that we are looking for a peaceful resolution to the dispute -- the disputes of the South China Sea," Kerry said speaking here at the opening ceremony of the two-day strategic and economic dialogue between the world's two biggest economies.
"We are not a claimant. We have taken no position on any of the claims of any claimant. The only position we've taken is let's not resolve this by unilateral action; let's resolve this through rule of law, through diplomacy, through negotiation," he said.
He urged all nations to find a diplomatic solution, rooted in international standards and rule of law, countering Chinese criticism of US interferences in the SCS dispute.
The SCS dispute has become flash point between the two countries as the US backed the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan to counter China's claims of almost all the SCS.
China also declined to take part in the international tribunal which is currently hearing the Philippines' petition under the United Nation Convention on Law of Seas.
Beijing accuses Washington of trying to expand its influence in the region taking advantage of the SCS dispute.
Kicking off the talks, billed as the most important annual dialogue between the two countries, Xi said differences between China and the US are quite normal.
"So long as the two sides tackle differences and sensitive issues in the principle of mutual respect and equality, the bilateral relations can avoid major disturbance," Xi said, adding that China and the US should strengthen communication and cooperation on Asia-Pacific affairs.
20:22 Brexit moves ahead in polls
Brexit backers moved into a lead in the polls today for the first time in weeks, putting pressure on the pound and raising pressure on Prime Minister David Cameron ahead of Britain's EU referendum, AFP reported.
The WhatUKThinks average now puts "Leave" at 51 per cent against "Remain" at 49 per cent ahead of the June 23 vote that could see financial markets plunge and hit global economic growth if Britain votes to go.
The balance tipped in favour of "Leave" after two polls at the weekend and one today put them ahead.
The last time it put "Leave" in the lead was on May 12.
The vote could see Britain become the first country to leave the European Union and is being closely watched in countries where euroscepticism is growing.
The "Remain" camp led by Cameron has warned of the economic dangers of leaving, while "Leave" supporters like former London mayor Boris Johnson have said they want to curb immigrants from other parts of Europe.
Cameron took part in an event with political opponents Labour, the Liberal Democrats and Greens to accuse "Leave" supporters of "perpetuating an economic con-trick on the British people".
19:51 'Christian fundamentalist schools teaching extreme ideology'
Several Christian "fundamentalist" schools in the UK have been teaching extreme ideology to students like telling girls that they must obey men, a media report said today.
Called Accelerated Christian Education schools, these institutions originate from an education system developed in southern Baptist states in the US which has developed off-shoots around the world including in Britain. Between 20 and 60 pupils aged between four and 18 attend each
one.
These "fundamentalist" schools are teaching children creationism over evolution, that gay people are "unnatural" and that girls must submit to men, the Independent reported quoting some former students.
19:25 Pakistan denies consular access to Jadhav
Pakistan will not allow consular access to alleged Indian spy Kulbushan Jadhav who was arrested for his involvement in "subversive activities", Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan said today.
"The Indian spy Kulbhushan entered Pakistan with a special purpose. Hence, it has been decided that consular access will not been given to him," Khan told reporters here.
The Pakistani security forces had arrested Jadhav from Balochistan in March and alleged that he was "a serving officer in the Indian Navy and deputed to the Indian intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing."
Jadhav has been accused by Pakistan of planning "subversive activities" in the country.
19:19 UK special forces in anti-ISIS frontline role in Syria
Britain's special forces have taken on frontline roles in Syria to help a rebel unit counter ISIS attacks, a media report said today.
They have been forced to take on a more active role rather than just training the rebel forces due to a sustained attack near the Jordan-Syria border, The Times reported.
"British special forces based in Jordan frequently cross into Syria to assist the New Syrian Army, which has been holding out in the south-eastern village of al-Tanf.
"The rebel unit, made up of former Syrian special forces who defected from President Assads army, was retrained by the British and Americans," the newspaper said.
Unlike regular troops, the deployment of special forces does not require parliamentary approval in Britain.
Almost two years ago, Prime Minister David Cameron was defeated in the House of Commons when he failed to secure enough votes from MPs for airstrikes on Syria against the Assad regime.
18:31 Southwest monsoon likely to hit Kerala in next 2 days: IMD
The much-awaited southwest monsoon is expected to hit the Kerala coast in next two days. However, there is going to be "no significant" change in the temperatures in northwest India for the next five days, which is reeling under intense heat.
"Conditions continue to remain favourable for the onset of southwest monsoon over Kerala in next 48 hours," the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said today.
The IMD had earlier said that monsoon should hit the Kerala coast on June 7, with an error margin of plus or minus four days. The MeT department has also predicted "heavy to very heavy rains" in coastal Karnataka and Kerala, Arunachal Pradesh, south interior Karnataka and Lakshadweep. Thunderstorms accompanied with squall are very likely at isolated places over Telangana and north interior Karnataka.
"Heavy to very heavy rains are also likely at isolated places over sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura," it said. However, heatwave conditions are "very likely" to prevail over isolated places in Rajasthan and west and east Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, south Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.
"Conditions continue to remain favourable for the onset of southwest monsoon over Kerala in next 48 hours," the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said today.
The IMD had earlier said that monsoon should hit the Kerala coast on June 7, with an error margin of plus or minus four days. The MeT department has also predicted "heavy to very heavy rains" in coastal Karnataka and Kerala, Arunachal Pradesh, south interior Karnataka and Lakshadweep. Thunderstorms accompanied with squall are very likely at isolated places over Telangana and north interior Karnataka.
"Heavy to very heavy rains are also likely at isolated places over sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura," it said. However, heatwave conditions are "very likely" to prevail over isolated places in Rajasthan and west and east Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, south Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.
18:28 Delhi court dismisses complaint seeking FIR against SRK, Salman
A Delhi Court on Monday dismissed a criminal complaint filed against Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan for allegedly hurting religious sentiments by entering the sets of a temple wearing shoes while shooting for reality show 'Bigg Boss 9'.
The Tis Hazari court, however, allowed the complainant to produce pre-summoning evidence on October 14. In an Action Taken Report (ATR), the police had earlier said that Shah Rukh and Salman were shooting at a makeshift temple, which was part of the sets in a studio for the reality show and had no intention to hurt religious sentiments.
The Tis Hazari court, however, allowed the complainant to produce pre-summoning evidence on October 14. In an Action Taken Report (ATR), the police had earlier said that Shah Rukh and Salman were shooting at a makeshift temple, which was part of the sets in a studio for the reality show and had no intention to hurt religious sentiments.
18:18
Rebel Congress leader Ajit Jogi announces new party, asks people to suggest a name.
18:14 Modi praises Bollywood, tennis for Indo-Swiss ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today praised India's film industry for increasing awareness of enchanting Swiss landscapes to its audience. Indian films especially the Hindi film industry, also known as Bollywood, has shot their romantic songs extensively in the pristine backdrops of Switzerland.
"Strong ties between the people of our two countries are an important base and benchmark of our linkages. Thanks to the Indian film industry, we are very familiar with the enchanting beauty of the Swiss landscapes.
"But, we are also keen to welcome larger number of Swiss visitors to India. For this, we have opened the facility of e-Tourist Visa for Swiss nationals earlier this year," he said during a joint press interaction with Swiss President Johann Schneider-Ammann.
The Prime Minister also referred to Indian tennis stars Sania Mirza and Leander Paes winning a number of Grand Slams while pairing up with Swiss player Martina Hingis.
"There are many success stories of our relationship. One that has been making waves in the Grand Slams of the tennis world is the partnership of famous Swiss player Martina Hingis with Sania Mirza and Leander Paes of India.
"I am confident that our common commitments and values, people to people links and a strong and growing economic partnership will take our relations to new heights," Modi said.
"Strong ties between the people of our two countries are an important base and benchmark of our linkages. Thanks to the Indian film industry, we are very familiar with the enchanting beauty of the Swiss landscapes.
"But, we are also keen to welcome larger number of Swiss visitors to India. For this, we have opened the facility of e-Tourist Visa for Swiss nationals earlier this year," he said during a joint press interaction with Swiss President Johann Schneider-Ammann.
The Prime Minister also referred to Indian tennis stars Sania Mirza and Leander Paes winning a number of Grand Slams while pairing up with Swiss player Martina Hingis.
"There are many success stories of our relationship. One that has been making waves in the Grand Slams of the tennis world is the partnership of famous Swiss player Martina Hingis with Sania Mirza and Leander Paes of India.
"I am confident that our common commitments and values, people to people links and a strong and growing economic partnership will take our relations to new heights," Modi said.
17:57 Where have the dhabas gone?
Wide, 4 lane expressways have taken the pleasures out of seeing life along the roads like the highways of old -- homes, bazaars, dhabas, women filling water, elderly folk sitting under the peepal tree... True Indian scenes most often lie on less travelled routes, along roads that have fallen off the map, after modern highways have come up.
On the fourth leg of their 2,148 km journey, Rediff.com's Archana Masih and photographer Rajesh Karkera discover one such forgotten place in the Thar Desert. Read more
On the fourth leg of their 2,148 km journey, Rediff.com's Archana Masih and photographer Rajesh Karkera discover one such forgotten place in the Thar Desert. Read more
17:36 Mark Zuckerberg Twitter account gets hacked
Facebook CEO and founder Mark Zuckerberg's Twitter and Pinterest accounts were hacked by a hacker group who claimed to have obtained passwords from his 2012 LinkedIn account, according to media reports.
The hacker group called 'OurMine Team', who have more than 40,000 Twitter followers wrote from Zuckerberg's Twitter page. "Hey @finkd, you were in Linkedin Database with the password 'dadada' !, the team wrote from Zuckerberg's Twitter page. On his Pinterest, the new title was "Hacked by OurMine Team."
The group have claimed that the password leaked through a massive data breach on LinkedIn in 2012 with more than 164 million users' data stolen, The New York Daily news reported. Zuckerberg has not tweeted since 2012.
The hacker group called 'OurMine Team', who have more than 40,000 Twitter followers wrote from Zuckerberg's Twitter page. "Hey @finkd, you were in Linkedin Database with the password 'dadada' !, the team wrote from Zuckerberg's Twitter page. On his Pinterest, the new title was "Hacked by OurMine Team."
The group have claimed that the password leaked through a massive data breach on LinkedIn in 2012 with more than 164 million users' data stolen, The New York Daily news reported. Zuckerberg has not tweeted since 2012.
17:32 Swiss people have rejected Rs 1.7 lakh per month free income plan: Heres why
Swiss voters have rejected by a wide margin a proposal to introduce a guaranteed basic income for everyone living in the wealthy country after an uneasy debate about the future of work at a time of increasing automation.
Supporters had said introducing a monthly income of 2,500 Swiss francs (Rs 1.7 lakh) per adult and 625 francs per child under 18 no matter how much they work would promote human dignity and public service.
Opponents, including the government, said it would cost too much and weaken the economy.
Provisional final results showed 76.9% of voters opposed the bold social experiment launched by Basel cafe owner Daniel Haeni and allies in a vote under the Swiss system of direct democracy.
Haeni acknowledged defeat but claimed a moral victory.
"As a businessman I am a realist and had reckoned with 15% support, now it looks like more than 20% or maybe even 25%. I find that fabulous and sensational,' he told SRF.
Supporters had said introducing a monthly income of 2,500 Swiss francs (Rs 1.7 lakh) per adult and 625 francs per child under 18 no matter how much they work would promote human dignity and public service.
Opponents, including the government, said it would cost too much and weaken the economy.
Provisional final results showed 76.9% of voters opposed the bold social experiment launched by Basel cafe owner Daniel Haeni and allies in a vote under the Swiss system of direct democracy.
Haeni acknowledged defeat but claimed a moral victory.
"As a businessman I am a realist and had reckoned with 15% support, now it looks like more than 20% or maybe even 25%. I find that fabulous and sensational,' he told SRF.
17:25 India never opened a window of opportunity with Pak: Aziz
Pakistan is "not desperate" to resume peace talks with India which has never opened a window of opportunity for dialogue and goodwill with it, Pakistan's Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz has said.
"It is a very strange thing to say as it was decided here on December 9 that the dialogue will resume but then the Pathankot incident occurred and everything vanished into thin air," Aziz told Geo TV yesterday.
His remarks came in response to Indian defence minister Manohar Parrikar's statement that the window for dialogue with Pakistan was "slowly closing".
"It is a very strange thing to say as it was decided here on December 9 that the dialogue will resume but then the Pathankot incident occurred and everything vanished into thin air," Aziz told Geo TV yesterday.
His remarks came in response to Indian defence minister Manohar Parrikar's statement that the window for dialogue with Pakistan was "slowly closing".
17:07 No desire to become PM: Nitish
Amid speculation over Nitish Kumar becoming a prime ministerial candidate of a non-BJP front in the next general elections, the Bihar Chief Minister today said he only desired to become an MP and did not nourish a dream to become a PM.
"I had only desired to become an MP at least once in life ... I had never nourished a dream to become a minister, chief minister or prime minister," the Chief Minister said at a function to launch a biography of 'Super-30' founder Anand Kumar in Patna. "Some people are trying to defame me so that I do not ever desire to become a PM ... but they are doing it uselessly as I do not harbour the ambition to become a PM," Kumar said in an apparent dig at BJP leaders who have been making "adverse" comments on him.
"I had only desired to become an MP at least once in life ... I had never nourished a dream to become a minister, chief minister or prime minister," the Chief Minister said at a function to launch a biography of 'Super-30' founder Anand Kumar in Patna. "Some people are trying to defame me so that I do not ever desire to become a PM ... but they are doing it uselessly as I do not harbour the ambition to become a PM," Kumar said in an apparent dig at BJP leaders who have been making "adverse" comments on him.
16:50 5 security personnel injured in grenade attack in Pulwama, J-K
At least five security personnel were injured in a grenade attack in Pulwama, south Kashmir, this afternoon. The attack on the security personnel reportedly took place near Rajpora Chowk in Pulwama at around noon. In Anantnag, two major attacks took place last week within 24 hours, leading to the death of three BSF jawans and two policemen.
File pic.
File pic.
16:35 2016 Shakti Bhatt 1st book prize invites entries
The Shakti Bhatt Foundation is inviting entries for the 2016 Shakti Bhatt First Book Prize. In its ninth year, the prize is a cash award of Rs 2 lakh and a trophy.
Submissions in the following genres are invited: poetry, fiction, graphic novels, creative non-fiction (travel writing, autobiography, biography and narrative journalism), and drama.
The deadline for publishers and individuals to send in first books is July 15, 2016. Books published between June 2015 and June 2016 are eligible.
The winner will be announced in November and the prize presentation will take place in Delhi, December 2016. Authors from the subcontinent are eligible but books must be published in India. Publications must be in English or translated into English from an Indian language. Vanity press publications are ineligible.
This year's shortlist will be put together by poet and author Jeet Thayil, and author Arshia Sattar, who runs the Sangam House international writers' residency program. Three judges (to be announced) will pick the winning entry.
Books should be sent to the following addresses: The Shakti Bhatt Foundation, C-6/36, First Floor, SDA, New Delhi 110016 (one copy each); The Shakti Bhatt Foundation, 011, Maangalya Residences, 6/1, Benson Cross Road, Bangalore 560046 (two copies each). For further information, mail shaktibhattprize@gmail.com.
Submissions in the following genres are invited: poetry, fiction, graphic novels, creative non-fiction (travel writing, autobiography, biography and narrative journalism), and drama.
The deadline for publishers and individuals to send in first books is July 15, 2016. Books published between June 2015 and June 2016 are eligible.
The winner will be announced in November and the prize presentation will take place in Delhi, December 2016. Authors from the subcontinent are eligible but books must be published in India. Publications must be in English or translated into English from an Indian language. Vanity press publications are ineligible.
This year's shortlist will be put together by poet and author Jeet Thayil, and author Arshia Sattar, who runs the Sangam House international writers' residency program. Three judges (to be announced) will pick the winning entry.
Books should be sent to the following addresses: The Shakti Bhatt Foundation, C-6/36, First Floor, SDA, New Delhi 110016 (one copy each); The Shakti Bhatt Foundation, 011, Maangalya Residences, 6/1, Benson Cross Road, Bangalore 560046 (two copies each). For further information, mail shaktibhattprize@gmail.com.
16:25 HC dismisses PIL seeking new Commission to probe Gandhi murder
The Bombay High Court today dismissed a public interest litigation seeking appointment of a Commission of Inquiry to probe afresh the murder of Mahatma Gandhi in January 1948, and the conspiracy behind it.
A bench headed by Justice V M Kanade was of the opinion that it cannot hear a matter that had concluded long ago. "We are inclined to dismiss the petition...the writ jurisdiction of the high court cannot be exercised in a matter which has concluded long ago.
As a long time has lapsed, we cannot go into the issue now," said the bench. The judges said they would give a reasoned order later for dismissing the petition.
The petitioner, Dr Pankaj Phadnis, arguing in person, said he had forensic evidence with him to justify a fresh probe into Gandhi's killing. He also said that even Supreme Court was hearing the 150-year-old matter pertaining to precious 'Kohinoor' diamond in public interest.
On the same ground, the PIL, seeking new Commission to probe Gandhi's death, should be heard by the HC.
Notably, All India Human Rights and Social Justice Front has filed a petition in the Supreme Court demanding that Kohinoor and other famous antiques, including the ring and sword of Tipu Sultan, should be returned to India by the United Kingdom.
16:02 Modi, Obama likely to discuss Pakistan on NSG meet sidelines
A senior US lawmaker has said that there is every likelihood that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Barack Obama would discuss ongoing developments in Pakistan and their impact on India and the larger South Asian region on the sidelines of the Nuclear Suppliers Group meeting scheduled to be held in Washington this week.
At a congressional hearing last week, ranking Democratic Senator Ben Cardin hoped that Prime Minister Modi's visit would also pave the way for greater understanding of Washington's position on Pakistan.
"And, clearly, Pakistan is going to be in the discussions. How do we advance the regional security, and how do we handle what India can do in regards to the Pakistan relationship?" Senator Cardin asked.
15:58
JUST IN: Ukraine arrests French man for plotting attacks on Euro 2016
15:41 Art Of Living deposits Rs 4.75 crore compensation with DDA
The Art of Living (AOL) foundation has deposited Rs. 4.75 crore "environment compensation" with Delhi Development Authority as directed by the National Green Tribunal for damaging Yamuna's biodiversity during its 'World Culture Festival' in March.Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's Art of Living deposited the environment compensation through a demand draft to the DDA on June 3.
"Art of Living foundation has submitted a demand draft of Rs. 4.75 crore as per the orders of the National Green Tribunal on June 3," advocate Kush Sharma, appearing for DDA, told PTI.
The green panel had on June 3 directed the expert committee headed by Shashi Shekhar, Secretary of Ministry of Water Resources to inspect the site on Yamuna floodplains where the three-day festival was organised, before June 10.
"Art of Living foundation has submitted a demand draft of Rs. 4.75 crore as per the orders of the National Green Tribunal on June 3," advocate Kush Sharma, appearing for DDA, told PTI.
The green panel had on June 3 directed the expert committee headed by Shashi Shekhar, Secretary of Ministry of Water Resources to inspect the site on Yamuna floodplains where the three-day festival was organised, before June 10.
15:36 Rahul set to be promoted to Congress prez on his 45th birthday
An Emergency Congress Working Committee is likely to be held on June 15 in New Delhi. This is to neutralise the publicity that the BJP enjoyed during its National Executive in Allahabad. But more importantly, the CWC is likely to endorse the promotion of Rahul Gandhi as AICC chief.
The promotion will come at an opportune time -- four days later -- on June 19 -- Rahul Gandhi will turn 46. The promotion is being called Rahul's birthday gift at the party HQ at 24 Akbar Road in New Delhi.
Prashant Kishor, the election strategist roped in by the party to revive its fortunes in Uttar Pradesh, has suggested that Rahul be the party's chief ministerial face in the state, which goes to polls next year.
Former minister and senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh reacted to the reports at an AICC briefing, saying, "I have no idea what Prashant Kishor has said or he is attributed to have said. All I can say is Rahul Gandhi is a Member of Parliament from Amethi. Rahul Gandhi is vice-president of the Congress party and we all expect Rahul Gandhi to become president of the Congress party in 2016 Rahul Gandhi obviously cannot be chief minister for 29 states We all hope and expectthat he will be Congress president in 2016."
The promotion will come at an opportune time -- four days later -- on June 19 -- Rahul Gandhi will turn 46. The promotion is being called Rahul's birthday gift at the party HQ at 24 Akbar Road in New Delhi.
Prashant Kishor, the election strategist roped in by the party to revive its fortunes in Uttar Pradesh, has suggested that Rahul be the party's chief ministerial face in the state, which goes to polls next year.
Former minister and senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh reacted to the reports at an AICC briefing, saying, "I have no idea what Prashant Kishor has said or he is attributed to have said. All I can say is Rahul Gandhi is a Member of Parliament from Amethi. Rahul Gandhi is vice-president of the Congress party and we all expect Rahul Gandhi to become president of the Congress party in 2016 Rahul Gandhi obviously cannot be chief minister for 29 states We all hope and expectthat he will be Congress president in 2016."
15:36
Vadodara hacker Manish Bhangale's plea in Bombay HC demanding CBI probe in Dawood-Khadse alleged phone calls issue to be heard on June 14.
15:34 Like Queen Elizabeth, Sonia Gandhi should continue
Once again, there are reports on Rahul Gandhi taking over the Congress leadership. He will be 46 on Friday, and has been in active politics for a decade. It is natural that his supporters in the party should want him to take over officially. What is less clear is why his mother Sonia Gandhi should make way for him. There are two things that are thought to be the reason for seeking the change. Read Aakar Patel's column here
14:44 Louts blooms in Air India
The lotus has become so omnipresent that Air India has been offering passengers an art work of the flower in a glass. The souvenir seems to be attractive to foreign tourists with flyers' book entries saying Air India should now start to market the lotus for sale to economy class passengers as well. As of now, it's only available to business class passengers.
Incidentally, it is learnt the decision to create a lotus souvenir came from the PMO. In fact, the BJP's election symbol, the lotus, will now be seen on mementos not only for Air India but also at the handicrafts of the Commerce Ministry. Union Ministers will be encouraged to purchase these souvenirs as gifts on their official visits abroad.
Incidentally, it is learnt the decision to create a lotus souvenir came from the PMO. In fact, the BJP's election symbol, the lotus, will now be seen on mementos not only for Air India but also at the handicrafts of the Commerce Ministry. Union Ministers will be encouraged to purchase these souvenirs as gifts on their official visits abroad.
14:36 Just Udta. Censor board says Alia-Shahid film can't be set in Punjab
Ten days before its scheduled release director Abhishek Chaubey's film 'Udta Punjab' has run into more trouble, with a committee asking that all references to Punjab, politics and elections be removed from the film, reports NDTV.
The film, based on drug abuse in the state, was referred to a panel called the Revising Committee after the Censor Board refused to clear it for release without cuts because it features "excessive swearing.
"The filmmakers said the revising committee wants the film to be set in a fictional land rather than in Punjab and wants heavy cuts to temper the "reality" of the film."Udta Punjab, starring actors Shahid Kapoor and Alia Bhatt is scheduled for release on June 17 and sources said if the filmmakers don't reach a settlement with the committee soon, they may have to change the title to just "Udta".
Fierce objections to the film's title and narrative have come from Punjab's ruling Akali Dal led by Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and his son and deputy Sukhbir Badal, who have been assailed by opposition parties Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party over the growing drug menace in the state, where assembly elections will be held early next year.
The Akali Dal is a member of the ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance at the Centre and the two parties also partner in governing Punjab.
The Akali Dal-BJP combine had a won second straight term in the state elections in 2012, defeating a trend of Punjab alternating between parties every five years, but this time is seen to be facing a huge anti-incumbency sentiment. The film, starring Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Kareena Kapoor, is to release on June 17.
The film, based on drug abuse in the state, was referred to a panel called the Revising Committee after the Censor Board refused to clear it for release without cuts because it features "excessive swearing.
"The filmmakers said the revising committee wants the film to be set in a fictional land rather than in Punjab and wants heavy cuts to temper the "reality" of the film."Udta Punjab, starring actors Shahid Kapoor and Alia Bhatt is scheduled for release on June 17 and sources said if the filmmakers don't reach a settlement with the committee soon, they may have to change the title to just "Udta".
Fierce objections to the film's title and narrative have come from Punjab's ruling Akali Dal led by Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and his son and deputy Sukhbir Badal, who have been assailed by opposition parties Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party over the growing drug menace in the state, where assembly elections will be held early next year.
The Akali Dal is a member of the ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance at the Centre and the two parties also partner in governing Punjab.
The Akali Dal-BJP combine had a won second straight term in the state elections in 2012, defeating a trend of Punjab alternating between parties every five years, but this time is seen to be facing a huge anti-incumbency sentiment. The film, starring Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Kareena Kapoor, is to release on June 17.
14:36 Narsingh wins. HC dismisses Sushil Kumar's Olympics plea
Just in: Delhi High Court dismisses wrestler Sushil Kumar's plea seeking selection trial for 74 kg freestyle category at Rio Olympics. Delhi HC says it will not interfere in the jurisdiction of the wrestling federation unless arbitrary or unreasonable behaviour is shown.
"Though Sushil Kumar is a player with a great record, the decision of Wrestling Federation cannot be held perverse," says the Delhi HC. "Arguments that the trial was held months ago and hence not tenable, are unsound and not accepted," the court said.
Fighting for an Olympic ticket on unfamiliar legal turf, Sushil Kumar's glorious wrestling career met an unceremonious end when the Delhi High Court pronounced its verdict on who gets to board the flight to Rio between him and Narsingh Yadav.
An unfavourable verdict for Sushil may not be the end on the legal front as he can still challenge the ruling in the Supreme Court. But it could well signal the end of the road for perhaps the greatest Indian Olympian, who won two back-to-back medals.
"Though Sushil Kumar is a player with a great record, the decision of Wrestling Federation cannot be held perverse," says the Delhi HC. "Arguments that the trial was held months ago and hence not tenable, are unsound and not accepted," the court said.
Fighting for an Olympic ticket on unfamiliar legal turf, Sushil Kumar's glorious wrestling career met an unceremonious end when the Delhi High Court pronounced its verdict on who gets to board the flight to Rio between him and Narsingh Yadav.
An unfavourable verdict for Sushil may not be the end on the legal front as he can still challenge the ruling in the Supreme Court. But it could well signal the end of the road for perhaps the greatest Indian Olympian, who won two back-to-back medals.
14:25 Political anniversaries
The near-coincidence of Jawaharlal Nehru's 52nd death anniversary (May 27) and the Modi government's second birthday (May 26) is an opportunity to look at the state of play in the contest between two rival ideas of India.
Read more
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14:16 Mathura district magistrate, SP transferred in fallout over bloody clashes
Just in: Heads have started rolling after the Mathura clash. The District Magistrate and SSP have been transferred even as the death toll rose to 29.
District Magistrate Rajesh Kumar and the SSP were suspended from their posts due to lack of coordination while handling the violent clashes between the protestors and the cops.
The development comes shortly after a high-level meeting took place at Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav's official residence in Lucknow.
District Magistrate Rajesh Kumar and the SSP were suspended from their posts due to lack of coordination while handling the violent clashes between the protestors and the cops.
The development comes shortly after a high-level meeting took place at Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav's official residence in Lucknow.
14:08
Just in: Quantum of punishment in Gulbarg massacre case adjourned to June 9.
13:52
illegal possession of liquor case: Suspended JDU MLC Manorama Devi granted bail by Patna High Court. Her son Rocky Yadav is in judicial custody for the alleged murder of Aditya Sachdev in Gaya.
13:47 After late night arrival, early morning meeting for PM Modi in Geneva
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Swiss President Johann Schneider-Ammann in Geneva today to deepen bilateral and multilateral cooperation with the key European nation.
Modi arrived in Geneva late last night from the Qatari capital Doha on the third leg of his five-nation tour.
"A late night arrival is followed by an early morning engagement.PM @narendramodi meets Swiss Prez Schneider-Ammann," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted.
The two leaders thereafter led delegation-level talks. "A closer engagement with the heart of Europe. President and PM lead delegation level talks #IndiaSwitzerland," Swarup said in another tweet.
Ahead of his five-nation tour, Modi had described Switzerland as India's key partner in Europe. "I will hold talks with President Schneider-Ammann to deepen our bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
"In Geneva, I will meet prominent businesspersons. Our agenda will be to expand economic and investment ties. I will meet Indian scientists working at CERN. India takes pride in their contribution to exploring new frontiers of science in the service of humanity," he had said.
The Prime Minister is likely to raise the issue of black money stashed by Indians in Swiss banks.
Modi arrived in Geneva late last night from the Qatari capital Doha on the third leg of his five-nation tour.
"A late night arrival is followed by an early morning engagement.PM @narendramodi meets Swiss Prez Schneider-Ammann," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted.
The two leaders thereafter led delegation-level talks. "A closer engagement with the heart of Europe. President and PM lead delegation level talks #IndiaSwitzerland," Swarup said in another tweet.
Ahead of his five-nation tour, Modi had described Switzerland as India's key partner in Europe. "I will hold talks with President Schneider-Ammann to deepen our bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
"In Geneva, I will meet prominent businesspersons. Our agenda will be to expand economic and investment ties. I will meet Indian scientists working at CERN. India takes pride in their contribution to exploring new frontiers of science in the service of humanity," he had said.
The Prime Minister is likely to raise the issue of black money stashed by Indians in Swiss banks.
13:37 Prof Parashar Kulkarni becomes 1st Indian to win Commonwealth short story prize
A University professor Parashar Kulkarni has become the first Indian author to win the Commonwealth short story prize, beating almost 4,000 entries for the 5,000 pound award with the first short story he has ever written.
The Assistant Professor in Social Sciences at Yale NUS College in Singapore, was presented the Prize by Man Booker Prize Winner and former short story judge Marlon James at the Calabash Literary Festival in Jamaica on June 5.
The winning story, 'Cow and Company' is a narrative set in India in the 1990s about four men who go in search of a cow to feature in an advertisement for chewing gum.
The Assistant Professor in Social Sciences at Yale NUS College in Singapore, was presented the Prize by Man Booker Prize Winner and former short story judge Marlon James at the Calabash Literary Festival in Jamaica on June 5.
The winning story, 'Cow and Company' is a narrative set in India in the 1990s about four men who go in search of a cow to feature in an advertisement for chewing gum.
13:18 Did Kanimozhi scuttle TR Baalu's RS candidature?
DMK senior leader M K Stalin is upset with his father M Karunanidhi for nominating TKS Elangovan as Rajya Sabha MP. It is a known fact that Stalin wanted to send TR Baalu, the 79-year-old DMK leader to the Upper House as he would be helpful to liaise with the Congress. It is believed that Karunanidhi's daughter, Kanimozhi, scuttled Baalu's nomination and ensured her follower Elangovan was fielded.
Differences between father and son are now widening as was evident in the 93rd birthday celebrations of Karunanidhi on June 3, 2016 in Chennai where the grand old man of the DMK left without waiting for a photo op with top leaders.
Differences between father and son are now widening as was evident in the 93rd birthday celebrations of Karunanidhi on June 3, 2016 in Chennai where the grand old man of the DMK left without waiting for a photo op with top leaders.
13:02 US journalist David Gilkey, translator killed in Afghanistan
Award-winning American journalist David Gilkey and his translator were killed while traveling with an Afghan army unit that came under fire in southern Helmand province, in a sign of just how dangerous the conflict remains for the media trying to cover it. The translator was identified as Zabihullah Tamanna, 38.
Two other National Public Radio journalists traveling with Gilkey in a separate vehicle, reporter Tom Bowman and producer Monika Evstatieva, were unharmed. NPR said the vehicle in which Gilkey, 50, and his translator were traveling was struck by shellfire near the town of Marjah yesterday. A Taliban hotbed, the opium-rich province of Helmand is almost entirely under the control of insurgents.
Two other National Public Radio journalists traveling with Gilkey in a separate vehicle, reporter Tom Bowman and producer Monika Evstatieva, were unharmed. NPR said the vehicle in which Gilkey, 50, and his translator were traveling was struck by shellfire near the town of Marjah yesterday. A Taliban hotbed, the opium-rich province of Helmand is almost entirely under the control of insurgents.
12:56 Omar 'dedicates' tweet to Mehbooba
Former J-K CM tweets: "This tweet's dedicated to @mufti_mehbooba who through her ill tempered assembly intervention made me realise how much she hates me tweeting. Amazing how she attacked the media as well today. The newspapers must've made for uncomfortable reading this morning. Explains the mood!!!"
J-K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah sparred in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly this morning, with an argument over the setting of a "Sainik colony" fast turning personal.
NDTV reported that Mufti accused Abdullah, a former chief minister, of spreading rumours on Twitter, on which he is very active.
"I know you will be happy if I delete my Twitter account," retorted Abdullah, vowing to continue tweeting and "raising public issues through the forum".
J-K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah sparred in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly this morning, with an argument over the setting of a "Sainik colony" fast turning personal.
NDTV reported that Mufti accused Abdullah, a former chief minister, of spreading rumours on Twitter, on which he is very active.
"I know you will be happy if I delete my Twitter account," retorted Abdullah, vowing to continue tweeting and "raising public issues through the forum".
12:53
Grenade attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, several injured.
12:52
National Investigation Agency doesn't oppose Sadhvi Pragya's bail plea based on chargesheet filed, leaves it to court to decide on plea: ANI
12:50 'Markets will be hit if Raghuram Rajan not given 2nd term'
Mohamed El-Erian , Allianz SE's chief economic adviser, said financial markets would 'understandably' not respond well if Raghuram Rajan is not given a second term as Reserve Bank of India ( RBI ) governor.
"He is rightly deemed as one of the very best central bank governors in the world," El-Erian said in an email interview. "Indeed, few can match his expertise, experience and knowledge."
One of the most influential voices in the global financial markets, El-Erian was once deemed to be the successor of 'Bond King' Bill Gross at Pacific Investment Management Co (Pimco), the world's largest bond fund manager. Both left Pimco in 2014 reportedly after a falling out.Rajan, whose three-year term is set to end in September, has been subjected to fierce attacks by a ruling party lawmaker and his comments criticised by a minister. Read more
"He is rightly deemed as one of the very best central bank governors in the world," El-Erian said in an email interview. "Indeed, few can match his expertise, experience and knowledge."
One of the most influential voices in the global financial markets, El-Erian was once deemed to be the successor of 'Bond King' Bill Gross at Pacific Investment Management Co (Pimco), the world's largest bond fund manager. Both left Pimco in 2014 reportedly after a falling out.Rajan, whose three-year term is set to end in September, has been subjected to fierce attacks by a ruling party lawmaker and his comments criticised by a minister. Read more
12:39 No objection to Indrani Mukerjea's driver turning approver: CBI
Just in: The CBI says it has no objection in making driver Shyamvar Rai an approver in the Sheena Bora case. The CBI has filed its reply in the Special CBI court.
Last month, Indrani Mukerjeas former driver Shyamvar Rai claimed repentance for the murder of Sheena Bora and expressed his desire to reveal all details of the conspiracy.
His testimony as an approver would be an eyewitness account with blow-by-blow details of the crime.
Rai, lodged separately in Thane central prison, had not been produced before the court since March 31.
In his submission recorded in the court, Rai said, I am ready to disclose entire facts and circumstances of which I am awarebeing a participant in the commission of the crime, that is the killing of Sheena Bora by strangulation. He further said he would make himself available as a witness before the court.
Last month, Indrani Mukerjeas former driver Shyamvar Rai claimed repentance for the murder of Sheena Bora and expressed his desire to reveal all details of the conspiracy.
His testimony as an approver would be an eyewitness account with blow-by-blow details of the crime.
Rai, lodged separately in Thane central prison, had not been produced before the court since March 31.
In his submission recorded in the court, Rai said, I am ready to disclose entire facts and circumstances of which I am awarebeing a participant in the commission of the crime, that is the killing of Sheena Bora by strangulation. He further said he would make himself available as a witness before the court.
12:17
Former Union Minister V Narayanasamy sworn in as Puducherry Chief Minister.
12:16 PM Modi meets Swiss Prez
PM Narendra Modi meets Swiss President Schneider-Ammann. Modi arrived on Monday in Switzerland on the
third leg of his five-nation tour during which he will hold talks with
the Swiss president to deepen bilateral and
multilateral cooperation.
12:06 I know you will be happy if I delete my Twitter account, angry Omar tells J-K CM
J-K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah sparred in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly this morning, with an argument over the setting of a "Sainik colony" fast turning personal.
NDTV reports that Mufti accused Abdullah, a former chief minister, of spreading rumours on Twitter, on which he is very active.
"I know you will be happy if I delete my Twitter account," retorted Abdullah, vowing to continue tweeting and "raising public issues through the forum".
The heated debate began after independent lawmaker Engineer Rashid quoted media reports on plans to set up a Sainik colony - a separate residential complex for former servicemen - and asked the government to explain them.
An angry chief minister responded by saying that she would not allow anybody to "destabilise peace by spreading false and inflammatory reports." She said her government would take strict against those who spread "such false news reports".
Mufti's People's Democratic Party or PDP rules Jammu and Kashmir in partnership with the BJP, which favours the setting up of a Sainik Colony in Kashmir, a move opposed by the state's regional parties. The PDP has so far rejected the proposal saying there is no land to allot to "non-state subjects."
Also controversial is the BJP demand for separate resettlement colonies for Kashmiri Pandits who had to migrate out of the state when militancy was at its height in the state.
NDTV reports that Mufti accused Abdullah, a former chief minister, of spreading rumours on Twitter, on which he is very active.
"I know you will be happy if I delete my Twitter account," retorted Abdullah, vowing to continue tweeting and "raising public issues through the forum".
The heated debate began after independent lawmaker Engineer Rashid quoted media reports on plans to set up a Sainik colony - a separate residential complex for former servicemen - and asked the government to explain them.
An angry chief minister responded by saying that she would not allow anybody to "destabilise peace by spreading false and inflammatory reports." She said her government would take strict against those who spread "such false news reports".
Mufti's People's Democratic Party or PDP rules Jammu and Kashmir in partnership with the BJP, which favours the setting up of a Sainik Colony in Kashmir, a move opposed by the state's regional parties. The PDP has so far rejected the proposal saying there is no land to allot to "non-state subjects."
Also controversial is the BJP demand for separate resettlement colonies for Kashmiri Pandits who had to migrate out of the state when militancy was at its height in the state.
11:42
Dadri killing: Section 144 banning large gatherings imposed in UP's Bisada village as families of accused plan protest meet.
11:41 Severe water crisis in MP's Betul, Section 144 imposed
The Madhya Pradesh government on Monday imposed Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code (unlawful assembling of people) in Betul district reasoning that there are law and order problems there borne out of a crisis over water.According to a report, Betul district of Madhya Pradesh has been facing severe water crisis this year. Section 144 prohibits unlawful assembly of five or more persons at a place.
District Magistrate of Betul told News 18 that all construction work, whether government or private has been restricted in the town due to the imposition of Section 144 in the region.
File picture
District Magistrate of Betul told News 18 that all construction work, whether government or private has been restricted in the town due to the imposition of Section 144 in the region.
File picture
11:36 Danish woman gang rape case: Five of nine accused guilty, says Delhi court
A Delhi court on Monday convicted five of the nine accused of raping a Danish woman in the national capital. The arguments on quantum of punishment will be held on June 9.
Nine men, including three juveniles, were accused of raping the 52-year-old Danish woman in central Delhi. Additional sessions judge Ramesh Kumar had on May 26 fixed the matter for judgement after he concluded hearing final arguments of both the Delhi Police and the defence counsel.
Arjun, Raju alias Chhakka, Mohammad Raja, Mahendra alias Ganja, Raju alias Bajji and Shyam Lal were accused of robbing and raping the Danish woman at knife-point near New Delhi Railway Station in January 2014 after she sought directions to her hotel in Paharganj area. Shyam Lal died in February inside Tihar jail and proceedings against him in the case were abated.
Nine men, including three juveniles, were accused of raping the 52-year-old Danish woman in central Delhi. Additional sessions judge Ramesh Kumar had on May 26 fixed the matter for judgement after he concluded hearing final arguments of both the Delhi Police and the defence counsel.
Arjun, Raju alias Chhakka, Mohammad Raja, Mahendra alias Ganja, Raju alias Bajji and Shyam Lal were accused of robbing and raping the Danish woman at knife-point near New Delhi Railway Station in January 2014 after she sought directions to her hotel in Paharganj area. Shyam Lal died in February inside Tihar jail and proceedings against him in the case were abated.
11:27 Gulbarg society: Quantum of sentence likely today, prosecution wants death
A special SIT court, which convicted 24 accused in the 2002 post-Godhra Gulbarg society massacre case, is expected to pronounce the quantum of sentence today.
The prosecution is likely to seek capital punishment for the 11 convicted who were charged with murder, while the lawyer of victims may seek life imprisonment for them.
On June 2, Special Court Judge P.B. Desai convicted 24 of the 66 accused, including a VHP leader, in the Gulbarg society massacre, which left 69 people including former Congress MP Eshan Jafri dead.
Out of the total 66 accused, six had died during the trial. Of the 24 convicted, 11 have been charged with murder, while 13 others, including VHP leader Atul Vaidya, have been convicted for lesser offences.While pronouncing the judgment, the court had said there was no evidence of criminal conspiracy in the case and dropped charges under section 120-B of the IPC.
Those acquitted include sitting BJP corporator Bipin Patel, the then police inspector of the area under which the Gulbarg Society was located, K G Erda, and former Congress corporator Meghsinh Chaudhari.
The Gulbarg Society case shook the nation when a mob set about attacking the society in the heart of Ahmedabad and killed the residents, including Jafri.
The prosecution is likely to seek capital punishment for the 11 convicted who were charged with murder, while the lawyer of victims may seek life imprisonment for them.
On June 2, Special Court Judge P.B. Desai convicted 24 of the 66 accused, including a VHP leader, in the Gulbarg society massacre, which left 69 people including former Congress MP Eshan Jafri dead.
Out of the total 66 accused, six had died during the trial. Of the 24 convicted, 11 have been charged with murder, while 13 others, including VHP leader Atul Vaidya, have been convicted for lesser offences.While pronouncing the judgment, the court had said there was no evidence of criminal conspiracy in the case and dropped charges under section 120-B of the IPC.
Those acquitted include sitting BJP corporator Bipin Patel, the then police inspector of the area under which the Gulbarg Society was located, K G Erda, and former Congress corporator Meghsinh Chaudhari.
The Gulbarg Society case shook the nation when a mob set about attacking the society in the heart of Ahmedabad and killed the residents, including Jafri.
11:07 Mathura: Life inside 'free-nation' camp
The monthly food bill came to Rs 25 lakh at Mathura's Jawahar Bagh, which cult leader Ram Briksh Yadav and 3,000 followers had forcibly occupied for two years and declared a "free nation", police said today.
Tents worth Rs 11 lakh were pitched on the 60-acre public park alongside 1,500 illegally built single-room wooden quarters, a 2,000sqft community kitchen, an in-house school, 40 makeshift toilets and a storeroom stacked with thousands of soap bars.
A fleet of 12 luxury cars including a Land Rover bore testimony to the comfortable lifestyle the cult leader and his lieutenants enjoyed. All the cars were damaged and half-burnt, and most bore Madhya Pradesh registration numbers, police sources said. Read more
Tents worth Rs 11 lakh were pitched on the 60-acre public park alongside 1,500 illegally built single-room wooden quarters, a 2,000sqft community kitchen, an in-house school, 40 makeshift toilets and a storeroom stacked with thousands of soap bars.
A fleet of 12 luxury cars including a Land Rover bore testimony to the comfortable lifestyle the cult leader and his lieutenants enjoyed. All the cars were damaged and half-burnt, and most bore Madhya Pradesh registration numbers, police sources said. Read more
11:04 Raghuram Rajan's second term gets 60,000 online petitions
With numerous political and corporate opinions swarming over RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan's tenure, internet is also abuzz with at least seven online petitions doing the rounds in support of a second term for him and have together garnered nearly 60,000 signatures so far.
A noted economist and often hailed as the 'James Bond' of the central banking space, Rajan is currently at the centre of a debate on whether he would get an extension or not beyond his current three-year tenure ending in September.
Some sections of the ruling BJP have openly voiced their opposition to his continuance in the post, although top government functionaries have said that any decision would be taken only closer to the end of his term.
Vocal BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy has openly called for immediate sacking of Rajan, but the government is yet to spell out its official stance.
10:28 Modi government @2: Reassess the report card
Even after weeding out extreme opinions, of the diehard supporters and the trenchant critics, whose hard stances reduce the utility of their opinions, one can sense disappointment with this government's performance. I find this surprising.
Perhaps I had expected too little, given the scale of the problems and the sharply reduced role of the Central government in the economy, and the others too much, ingrained as they were in the Delhi-centric view of India. There are also differences between idealism and pragmatism, or theory and practice, to put it simply.
Read more HERE
09:59 'Pakistan is not desperate for talks with India'
Adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz said India never opened a window of opportunity for dialogue and goodwill with Pakistan as any progress in this regard was scuttled when talks between the countries were postponed after the Pathankot attack.
Aziz was referring to Indian Defence Minister Manohar Parrikars recent statement about the slowly closing window of goodwill and dialogue with Pakistan as Pakistan separates terrorists between good ones and bad ones.
It is a very strange thing to say, the foreign affairs advisor contended, adding, "It was decided here on December 9 that the dialogue will resume but then the Pathankot incident occurred and everything vanished into thin air.
Aziz added that Pakistan is not desperate for talks and there is no restlessness on the Pakistani side for dialogue. But if this region has to see peace, this region has to see co-ordination first.
The whole world agrees that India and Pakistan should have composite dialogue.
09:41 'Younger people should be given charge of Congress'
'Nehru-Gandhi family has a unique place in the DNA of the Congress' but more people need to be projected'.
Former Law Minister and ex-Rajya Sabha member Ashwani Kumar talks about the many challenges before the Congress, as it struggles to regain its position as the premier party, and Indian politics in general.
Read more HERE
09:09 PM Modi in Switzerland, focus on black money, NSG
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Swiss capital today on the third leg of his five-nation tour during which he will hold talks with Swiss President Johann Schneider-Ammann to deepen bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
Earlier, PM Modi had tweeted, "I will hold talks with President Schneider-Ammann to deepen our bilateral and multilateral cooperation. In Geneva, I will meet prominent businesspersons. Our agenda will be to expand economic and investment ties. I will meet Indian scientists working at CERN. India takes pride in their contribution to exploring new frontiers of science in the service of humanity."
The PM is likely to raise the issue of black money stashed by Indians in Swiss banks.
Modi is also likely to seek Switzerland's support for India's membership of the 48-member Nuclear Suppliers Group as it is a key member of the elite grouping.
08:49 Ahead of Modi's US visit, NYT says 'India's NSG membership not merited'
Even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes a final push for India's entry to the Nuclear Suppliers Group during his visit to the United States, the New York Times has published an editorial advocating No Exceptions for a Nuclear India.
The editorial says that India should be required to meet the NSGs standards, including opening negotiations with Pakistan and China on curbing nuclear weapons and halting the production of nuclear fuel for bombs.
The editorial reasons itself by arguing that India has not proved its willingness to take a leading role in halting the spread of nuclear weapons, but without substantiating this claim or suitably explaining why it feels that India is unwilling to play this role.
08:33 Clinton claims victory in Puerto Rico, edges closer to nomination
Hillary Clinton has claimed victory in the Puerto Rico Democratic presidential primary, putting her closer to securing the number of delegates needed to win her party's White House nomination.
The candidate later tweeted that she had beaten her rival Bernie Sanders to the territory's collection of delegates. "We just won Puerto Rico! Gracias a la Isla del Encanto por esta victoria!" tweeted Clinton.
She is now less than 30 delegates short of the 2,383 needed to win the Democratic nomination for president and could reach the target when polls close in the New Jersey primary. California also votes in what is expected to be a decisive day for the former secretary of state.
08:13 Amritsar turns into a fortress for Operation Bluestar 32nd anniversary
The 32nd Operation Bluestar anniversary today has the state police on its toes that have grappled with violent clashes in the past two years on this day. Security around the Golden Temple has been strengthened.
Nearly 8,000 police personnel, besides six companies of paramilitary forces, have been camping in Amritsar for a week now, deployed at 200-odd checkpoints.
Also, as many as 15 companies of paramilitary forces including ITBP, CRPF, RAF, besides police personnel in strength, have been deployed.
07:49 Looking forward to PM Narendra Modi's visit: US State Department
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to visit the United States from June 6 to June 8, the state department issued a statement saying it was looking forward to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, which will include a bilateral meeting with President Barack Obama and a White House lunch.
The US State Department added, "There have been six meetings between President Obama and PM Modi. This visit shows their significance on our natural alliance."
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