LIVE
Fri, 18 November 2016
Despite queues outside banks, 72 per cent support demonetisation
Timeline Refresh
23:38 Kidney has no religious labels: Swaraj after Muslim man's offer
Kidney has no religious labels, this is what External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, undergoing treatment for renal failure, tweeted while thanking a Muslim man who offered her his kidney.
Swaraj has been offered kidneys by scores of people since Wednesday when she said on Twitter that she was in hospital due to kidney failure and was undergoing tests for a transplant.
"Thank you very much brothers. I am sure, kidney has no religious labels," she tweeted.
Her remark came in response to a tweet by Mujib Ansari who offered his kidney to her while adding that he is a Muslim and a supporters of BSP in Uttar Pradesh.
"@SushmaSwaraj mam I am a BSP supporter and a Muslim,bt I want 2 donate my kidney 4 u,4 me u r like my mother figure, May allah bless u," he said on Twitter.
Another Muslim Nyamath Ali Shaik also offered his kidney to Swaraj saying he was ready to donate his kidney, if need be.
Another Twitter follower Jaan Shah also said he was ready to offer his kidney to her.
Swaraj has been flooded with wishes from politicians cutting across party lines as well as from a cross-section of society.
23:10
JUST IN: Unknown persons torched Government Primary School, Rigipora at Kupwara district.
More details are awaited.
23:04 What Obama told his daughters on the morning Trump won the polls
Like millions of Americans, President Barack Obama was struggling to explain the results of last week's election, according to a New Yorker profile on the president.
But when Trump won the election in a shocking upset, Obama still had some comforting words to say to his daughters.
"What I say to them is that people are complicated," Obama told The New Yorker's David Remnick.
"'Societies and cultures are really complicated This is not mathematics; this is biology and chemistry. These are living organisms, and it's messy. And your job as a citizen and as a decent human being is to constantly affirm and lift up and fight for treating people with kindness and respect and understanding.
"And you should anticipate that at any given moment there's going to be flare-ups of bigotry that you may have to confront, or may be inside you and you have to vanquish. And it doesn't stop You don't get into a fetal position about it. You don't start worrying about apocalypse. You say, OK, where are the places where I can push to keep it moving forward."
22:48 Despite queues outside banks, 72 per cent support demonetisation
About 72 per cent of respondents agree with the demonetisation decision, says an online opinion poll carried out by SoGoSurvey to find how Indians reacted to the sudden scrapping of Rs 500 & Rs 1,000 currency notes.
The survey was conducted during November 10-17, in which 1,640 people in the age group of 18-65 participated.
The top three reasons the people who agreed with the currency ban were: demonetisation would help bring out hoarded black money; dismantle terror financing avenues; and would help tackle the problem of counterfeit notes.
The top three reasons given by those who disagree were that four hours were not enough for the entire population to arrange money for their daily needs; common man doesn't have black money but will suffer the most; and the move was diverting attention from basic issues on which the government is failing.
According to the survey, about 81 per cent of respondents from Bengaluru supported the move, while Mumbai showed positive response from 57 per cent respondents.
22:21 I fought them off; didn't cower down: Mallika Sherawat on robbery attempt
Mallika Sherawat who fought off masked attackers aimed at robbing her in Paris has vowed that she will not let it change her life.
Mallika Sherawat was attacked by three men who sprayed teargas at her and her French boyfriend, Cyrille Auxenfans, in the hallway of his apartment building as they arrived home.
They pushed Sherawat to the ground, then started hitting Auxenfans and tried to grab her bag.
"He was hurt a little bit. We both fought them off. I'm not going to let this change my life at all," she told CNN, describing herself as "a strong woman."
"I fought them off. They are strong men but I didn't just cower down," she said.
The attackers, who wore scarves over their faces, fled empty-handed from the building in rue de la Faisanderie, an upscale neighborhood in the 16th arrondissement.
Sherawat added, ""It was extremely traumatic. No one should be made to suffer the insecurity of having their home broken into or the physical and mental effects of such an attack."
21:56 Rs 2000 note with lucky number available online, at a premium
Here is another side of the craze for currency. While there are long queues all around for the newly launched notes, the pink-coloured Rs 2000 currency bearing the holy number 786 is up for sale on e-commerce websites.
Available at a premium -- as high as Rs 2 lakh -- such unique notes are much in demand among numismatists.
READ MORE HERE
21:25 Demonetisation: FM says execution could not have been better
Unfazed by criticism of the demonetisation move, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said replacing 86 per cent of the currency in circulation with new bank notes could not have been executed in a better way
than currently being implemented.
Ten days after the government withdrew 1,000 and 500 rupee notes, he said the move will help banks lend at a cheaper rate to businesses, trade, agriculture and infrastructure while at the same time getting rid of the shadow economy.
"On the execution part, I don't think this could have been better executed than how it has been executed now," he said.
He said replacing such a large currency without any social unrest and any significant economic disruption was an "achievement".
"When currency replacement takes place, initial inconvenience takes place, but there is not a single major incident in the country. It's moving smoothly as everyday passes by. The queues are getting smaller," he said.
"In the next 1-2 weeks, we have to make sure currency reaches rural areas because that is where it's required. This is the largest currency exchange in the world probably in recent times."
Indian shopkeepers, traders and retailers, according to Jaitley, will realise that formal official trade is certainly superior way of doing business than just a shadow economy.
"It has its own pitfalls. And therefore by this shock therapy, everybody enters into cleaner system of economy. In the long run, it will be welcome by all," he said.
21:05
JUST IN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets President Pranab Mukherjee and updates him about the steps taken by the government in the demonetisation move.
20:45 Pak's claim about Indian submarine 'blatant lies': India
India and Pakistan were engaged in war of words after Islamabad claimed that it prevented an Indian submarine from entering its territorial waters, a charge which was strongly dismissed as "blatant lies" by New Delhi.
"Indian Navy categorically denies the statement of Pakistani Navy as blatant lies," Navy spokesperson Captain D K Sharma said, adding that Indian Navy did not have any under water movement in the said waters as claimed by the Pakistani Navy.
The sharp reaction by Indian Navy came after Pakistan claimed that an Indian submarine, after being detected near Pakistan's territorial waters, had been pushed back.
"While Indian Army continues to undertake serious ceasefire violations along LoC and Working Boundary, Indian Navy has also deceitfully deployed its submarines against Pakistan with ulterior motives," Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations said in a statement.
"However, Pakistan Navy once again proved its vigilance and operational competence by detecting and blocking an Indian submarine from entering in Pakistani waters. The unsuspecting submarine was detected and localised south of Pakistani coast on November 14," the statement said.
"Thereafter, despite submarine's desperate efforts to escape detection, it was continuously tracked by Pakistan Navy fleet units and pushed well clear of our waters," it said.
Today's charge by Pakistan came two days after its army chief Gen Raheel Sharif had said his men killed 11 Indian soldiers in cross border firing across the Line of Control.
That statement too was denied by the Indian Army.
20:19
Just In: Internet services of all postpaid networks restored across Kashmir after 4 and a half months.
20:17 President Pranab Mukherjee may not seek second term?
President Pranab Mukherjee today appeared to give hints that he may not be the occupant of Rashtrapati Bhavan next year when his five-year term ends.
"Perhaps, when the next visitor's conference is held, there will be someone else presiding over the event. But I am sure the crusade for excellence that we started will continue with greater vigour," he said.
The President, who is a Visitor to all central universities, was addressing the concluding session of the three-day Visitor's conference -- attended by heads of central universities.
Mukherjee, a Congress veteran, was elected in 2012 and will demit office in July next year.
20:02 No exchange of notes at banks tomorrow; senior citizens exempted
The Indian Banks Association has decided to stop over-the-counter exchange for old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes for tomorrow but has exempted senior citizens from the same.
The banks have decided to take a one-day break from exchange of currency notes to work on other customer issues.
19:43 Trump selects candidates for CIA, attorney general
United States President-elect Donald Trump has tapped three conservative loyalists and Army veterans to lead his national security and law enforcement teams, including Senator Jeff Sessions for attorney general and Representative Mike Pompeo as CIA director, a transition official said on Friday.
The official said retired Lieutenant General Mike Flynn was chosen as the president-elect's national security adviser, a position that does not require US Senate confirmation.
All three men have accepted Trump's offer, and the announcements will be made formally later on Friday, according to the transition team member.
19:25 Cash withdrawal using debit cards starts at 700 petrol pumps
Nearly 700 petrol pumps across the country on Friday started dispensing cash through debit card swipe in a bid to ease the cash crunch in the economy following the government's decision to withdraw Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes.
The facility to provide Rs 2,000 per day per card will be extended to 2,500 petrol pumps by this week-end and will in due course be available at 20,000 outlets across the country.
The government had on Thursday decided to allow up to Rs2,000 per day per person to be dispensed against swiping of debit cards at select petrol pumps where point of sale machines of the State Bank of India are already available.
PoS machines are the machines which are generally used for debit or credit card transactions.
Petrol pumps have been accepting old and now-defunct currency notes of 500 and 1,000 denominations and the same will continue till 24 November.
There is no shortage of petroleum products at the petrol pumps and consumers can purchase them as per their needs, an official statement said. As of 4 pm today, "cash dispensing facility had become operational at 686 retail outlets', it said.
19:22 Deadline to get feedback on uniform civil code extended till Dec 21
The Law Commission has so far received over 15,000 responses to its questionnaire on the Uniform Civil Code and amid demands for more time, today decided to extend the deadline to submit the feedback by a month.
The commission said, keeping in mind the "overwhelming response" from the people and various stakeholders, the continuous inflow of replies, and requests by some seeking extension of time for more deliberations, it is extending the November 21 deadline by another 30 days to December 21.
On October 7, the law panel had floated the document with 16 questions, including the one dealing with 'triple talaq'.
Should the practice of triple talaq be abolished, retained or retained with suitable amendments; and whether a uniform civil code should be optional are among queries by the commission.
Seeking to widen its consultation on the contentious issue, it had also asked political parties recognised by the Election Commission to respond to the questions.
19:14 Pak spent $118 bln on 'war on terror': central bank
Pakistan has spent a hefty $118 billion since 2002 to combat terrorism which has significantly hampered growth and it is facing "serious challenges" to its economy, according to a new central bank report.
'The State of Economy 2015-16' report, released by the State Bank of Pakistan, said the country is facing "serious challenges" in the form of low savings and investment levels, falling exports and poor spending in the social sector.
However, the report said despite the crunch, Pakistan had spent $118.3 billion on the 'war on terror'. "The problem is compounded by the stop gap measures adopted to spread the tax net," the report said.
The $118.3 billion payment is equivalent to well over one third of its gross domestic product.
The central bank said the amount included direct and indirect losses incurred due to the terrorism and extremism in the country between 2002 and 2016.
The central bank report noted that both economic growth and social sector development have been severely hampered by terrorism-related incidents.
18:43 Jayawardene replaces Ponting as Mumbai Indians head coach
Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene has replaced Ricky Ponting as the head coach of Mumbai Indians for the upcoming Indian Premier League.
Jayawardene's appointment has come in the wake of Ponting's contract coming to a close.
The former Australia captain was Mumbai Indians chief coach for the the past two seasons after taking charge from former India coach John Wright.
Commenting on the Sri Lankan's appointment, team owner Nita Ambani said, "Jayawardene is an astute figure in the modern era of cricket. He is a perfect role-model for the young Mumbai Indians squad. I am sure our global fans, who have always believed in the team and expects the best, will welcome Mahela to our Mumbai Indians family."
The Sri Lankan while accepting the challenge has termed his new assignment as the "start of a new chapter" and is looking forward to bringing the best of his life learning to the field.
18:31
Just In: CBI to send request to UAE for extradition of Christian Michel James, the alleged middle man in the VVIP Chopper deal.
18:21 Markets extend fall on US rate hike blues, weak rupee
Sensex stumbled for the fifth day as it touched a fresh six-month low due to continuous foreign outflows after Fed chair Janet Yellen signaled a rate hike in December policy review.
The rupee too played spoilsport, dropping below the 68-level against the dollar after nearly five months to trade at 68.18 during afternoon trade, before closing at 68.13.
Sentiment took a hit after US Federal Reserve chief indicated that the central bank may hike interest rates next month, lifting the dollar to almost 14-year highs against a basket of major currencies, leading to acceleration in capital outflows by foreign funds, brokers said.
18:03 PM wants party MPs to publicise benefits of note ban
Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants Bharatiya Janata Party MPs to publicise 'benefits' of the demonetisation and also counter the Opposition's charges against it during this weekend as the political battle over the measure heats up in and outside Parliament.
Sources said the MPs have been asked to interact with people and the media to disseminate information about the move's positive impact and also assuage public concerns caused by long waiting queues outside banks and ATMs to exchange old notes and withdraw money.
The party leadership has asked its allies to follow suit and take on the Opposition.
BJP's Parliamentary Party office has given all the MPs, including those of its allies, a compilation of the Reserve Bank of Indias and finance ministry's communication over demonetisation so that they could use the information to inform the masses and counter the Opposition's points, sources said.
Sources said the MPs have been asked to interact with people and the media to disseminate information about the move's positive impact and also assuage public concerns caused by long waiting queues outside banks and ATMs to exchange old notes and withdraw money.
The party leadership has asked its allies to follow suit and take on the Opposition.
BJP's Parliamentary Party office has given all the MPs, including those of its allies, a compilation of the Reserve Bank of Indias and finance ministry's communication over demonetisation so that they could use the information to inform the masses and counter the Opposition's points, sources said.
17:25 Centre enhances ex gratia for kin of military personnel
The Centre on Friday said it has enhanced the ex gratia lump sum compensation being paid to families of military personnel.
With effect from January 1 this year, Next of Kin (NoK) in case of death in the course of duties attributable to actions of violence by terrorists etc has been increased to Rs 25 lakh in place of Rs 10 lakh earlier, figures given by Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre in a written reply to Lok Sabha said.
Similarly, in death occurring during enemy action in war or border skirmishes or in action against militants, terrorists, the amount has been increased to Rs 35 lakh from the Rs 15 lakh at present.
Army Group Insurance Fund for Officers has been raised to Rs 75 lakh for officers with effect from October 1, 2016 from Rs 60 lakh while for JCOs/Other ranks, the amount has been increased to Rs 37.5 lakh from Rs 30 lakh.
With effect from January 1 this year, Next of Kin (NoK) in case of death in the course of duties attributable to actions of violence by terrorists etc has been increased to Rs 25 lakh in place of Rs 10 lakh earlier, figures given by Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre in a written reply to Lok Sabha said.
Similarly, in death occurring during enemy action in war or border skirmishes or in action against militants, terrorists, the amount has been increased to Rs 35 lakh from the Rs 15 lakh at present.
Army Group Insurance Fund for Officers has been raised to Rs 75 lakh for officers with effect from October 1, 2016 from Rs 60 lakh while for JCOs/Other ranks, the amount has been increased to Rs 37.5 lakh from Rs 30 lakh.
17:17 Priyanka to play 'major role' in UP polls
Priyanka Gandhi will campaign for Congress and play a 'major role' in the Uttar Pradesh assembly election to be held early next year, party leaders said today.
"She (Priyanka) is going to play a major role. Let everything be finalised," UP Congress campaign committee chairman Sanjay Singh said.
"It has been decided that she will campaign for the party in the state elections. She has accepted our request to campaign. Whenever we will get her schedule, we will use her time accordingly," Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee chief Raj Babbar said.
He added that once the elections schedule will be announced, it will bring more clarity on her plans for campaign in the state.
Earlier, Babbar had said Priyanka's presence will give confidence and energy not only to the party men but also to the people across the state.
"She (Priyanka) is going to play a major role. Let everything be finalised," UP Congress campaign committee chairman Sanjay Singh said.
"It has been decided that she will campaign for the party in the state elections. She has accepted our request to campaign. Whenever we will get her schedule, we will use her time accordingly," Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee chief Raj Babbar said.
He added that once the elections schedule will be announced, it will bring more clarity on her plans for campaign in the state.
Earlier, Babbar had said Priyanka's presence will give confidence and energy not only to the party men but also to the people across the state.
17:02 Venkaiah Naidu's secret wish
Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu is keen to replace Hameed Ansari. Yes, as both the chairman of the Rajya Sabha and Vice President of India.
That aside, Naidu has always been very quick, yet measured with his ripostes in Parliament.
On Thursday it was Naidu who objected to Congress senior leader Ghulam Nabi Azad comparing the deaths in the Uri terror attacks to those who died cash crunch crisis. Naidu claims he is the only tall leader and senior in the BJP from southern India. If the President of India is from the north, then it is courtesy that south India should get representation. That's probably the reason Naidu is seen as an alert parliamentarian. He knows he is being watched.
That aside, Naidu has always been very quick, yet measured with his ripostes in Parliament.
On Thursday it was Naidu who objected to Congress senior leader Ghulam Nabi Azad comparing the deaths in the Uri terror attacks to those who died cash crunch crisis. Naidu claims he is the only tall leader and senior in the BJP from southern India. If the President of India is from the north, then it is courtesy that south India should get representation. That's probably the reason Naidu is seen as an alert parliamentarian. He knows he is being watched.
16:51 Man dissolves in acidic water after he falls into hot spring at Yellowstone National Park
In a bizarre incident, a 23-year- old man accidentally fell into a hot spring at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and died, US media reported on Friday. Colin Nathaniel Scott from Oregon essentially dissolved inside a hot spring at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming after he accidentally fell into it, CNN reported.
The incident happened back in June, when Scott went to the park with his sister to find a place to "hot pot".
According to a recently released report from park officials, Scott and his sister went to an unauthorised area near the Norris Geyser.
"They were specifically moving in that area for a place that they could potentially get into and soak,' Deputy Chief Ranger Lorant Veress told CNN affiliate KULR. "I think they call it hot potting.'Scott had reached down to check the temperature of a spring when he slipped and fell into it. Rescuers later found Scott's body inside the pool, but could not retrieve it because of a lightning storm in the area.
When they came back the next day, no remains were found beneath the springs churning, acidic waters. In a very short order, there was a significant amount of dissolving, Veress said.
The incident happened back in June, when Scott went to the park with his sister to find a place to "hot pot".
According to a recently released report from park officials, Scott and his sister went to an unauthorised area near the Norris Geyser.
"They were specifically moving in that area for a place that they could potentially get into and soak,' Deputy Chief Ranger Lorant Veress told CNN affiliate KULR. "I think they call it hot potting.'Scott had reached down to check the temperature of a spring when he slipped and fell into it. Rescuers later found Scott's body inside the pool, but could not retrieve it because of a lightning storm in the area.
When they came back the next day, no remains were found beneath the springs churning, acidic waters. In a very short order, there was a significant amount of dissolving, Veress said.
16:46 No proposal by govt to stop exchange of old notes 'as of now'
No, it is not true. 'As of now'.
News agency ANI quoting official sources says as of now there is no proposal by the government to stop exchange of old currency notes.
This comes after reports that the government is considering stopping the exchange of old notes for new ones.
Just yesterday, the limit on a one-time swap of old notes for new ones was lowered from Rs 4,500 to Rs 2,000.
The government said it was doing it because it was concerned about the "clogging of the banking system".
Reports have shown the same people trading in old Rs 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes, depriving others of their entitlement.
Old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes must be deposited in banks by December 30. 2,000.
Finance Ministry officials acknowledged that there was clear evidence of people using proxies to collect the new notes, or of those who had already collected their quota or lining up again at banks.
To prevent this, banks were told to use indelible ink to mark those who'd made the swap.
News agency ANI quoting official sources says as of now there is no proposal by the government to stop exchange of old currency notes.
This comes after reports that the government is considering stopping the exchange of old notes for new ones.
Just yesterday, the limit on a one-time swap of old notes for new ones was lowered from Rs 4,500 to Rs 2,000.
The government said it was doing it because it was concerned about the "clogging of the banking system".
Reports have shown the same people trading in old Rs 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes, depriving others of their entitlement.
Old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes must be deposited in banks by December 30. 2,000.
Finance Ministry officials acknowledged that there was clear evidence of people using proxies to collect the new notes, or of those who had already collected their quota or lining up again at banks.
To prevent this, banks were told to use indelible ink to mark those who'd made the swap.
16:25 Jaitley the star of the show in Parliament
Whenever Finance Minister Arun Jaitley enters the Central Hall of Parliament, a group of 50-75 journalists make a beeline for him asking questions on demonetisation.
Jaitley is one of the few BJP minister's in the Modi cabinet who is allowed to interact with the media.
Almost all the questions are about the hardships faced by the people in what is being termed as a disastrous decision by the government.
Jaitley responds with questions. Has the position improved? Is there are queue after the ink mark decision? Why should people stand in for the rich?
Jaitley is one of the few BJP minister's in the Modi cabinet who is allowed to interact with the media.
Almost all the questions are about the hardships faced by the people in what is being termed as a disastrous decision by the government.
Jaitley responds with questions. Has the position improved? Is there are queue after the ink mark decision? Why should people stand in for the rich?
16:12 Demonetisation: Pvt hospitals in Delhi told to accept cheques, drafts
Delhi government has issued strict instructions to all private hospitals to accept cheques, demand drafts and online payments from patients. The government issued a circular in this regard in the wake of complaints that some hospitals were not accepting cheques and demand drafts following demonetisation, leading to inconvenience to patients.
Government has authorised only state-run hospitals to accept Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes from old circulation. It is informed that a few cases of non-acceptance of cheques/demand drafts and online payment transfer from customers by certain business houses including hospitals have been reported subsequent to demonetisation of old currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 from circulation.
In this regard I am directed to covey that all private hospitals and nursing homes in Delhi are hereby instructed to comply with the directions, said a circular issued by Dr A K Saini, Medical Superintendent, Nursing Home Cell. Government has also instructed the Chief District Medical officers (CDMOs) to visit the private hospitals and nursing homes in their jurisdiction to inspect that these instruction are being complied with by private hospitals and nursing homes and submit an action taken report.
Government has authorised only state-run hospitals to accept Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes from old circulation. It is informed that a few cases of non-acceptance of cheques/demand drafts and online payment transfer from customers by certain business houses including hospitals have been reported subsequent to demonetisation of old currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 from circulation.
In this regard I am directed to covey that all private hospitals and nursing homes in Delhi are hereby instructed to comply with the directions, said a circular issued by Dr A K Saini, Medical Superintendent, Nursing Home Cell. Government has also instructed the Chief District Medical officers (CDMOs) to visit the private hospitals and nursing homes in their jurisdiction to inspect that these instruction are being complied with by private hospitals and nursing homes and submit an action taken report.
15:54 Amar Singh cuts a sorry figure in Parliament
Samajwadi Leader Amar Singh walks alone. Not just metahporically speaking. The close aide/friend/confidante of SP chief Mulayam Singh Yadav is rarely seen to be mingling with the SP MPs. Instead, if he does speak to anyone in Central Hall, it is with the BJP, BSP or Congress MPs. The reason is probable loss of face after ousted SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav was reinstated as Leader of 19 SP MPs in the House. Amar Singh is one of these 19 MPs.
15:45 Why PC didn't debate demonetisation in Parliament
Former finance minister P Chidambaram is believed to be upset that he was not allowed to initiate the demonetisation discussion in the Rajya Sabha. He had come armed with lots of points to counter the government's stand on demonetisation and project the Congress Party views.
But Rahul Gandhi picked Anand Sharma as the man of the moment, ostensibly because he could debate in Hindi, which the Congress VP felt would be more effective and take the party's message far and wide.
But Sharma turned out to be a flop show and we hear that many in the Congress have been particularly happy.
So Chidambaram chose to give exclusive interviews to TV channels where he had articulated the same points he had prepared for Rajya Sabha.
Rahul gets an 'F' again.
But Rahul Gandhi picked Anand Sharma as the man of the moment, ostensibly because he could debate in Hindi, which the Congress VP felt would be more effective and take the party's message far and wide.
But Sharma turned out to be a flop show and we hear that many in the Congress have been particularly happy.
So Chidambaram chose to give exclusive interviews to TV channels where he had articulated the same points he had prepared for Rajya Sabha.
Rahul gets an 'F' again.
15:32 Govt should apologise, not us: Cong
Hitting back at the BJP, Congress today sought an apology from the ruling party over demonetisation, saying it has "pushed back" the people of the country.
"BJP should apologise (for demonetisation) to the entire nation, not me. The way they have pushed back the country, they must apologise to the 125 crore people of this country," senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said outside Parliament.
Congress and BJP members yesterday clashed in Rajya Sabha over Azad's remarks during demonetisation debate forcing adjournment of the House thrice in quick succession.
Azad had in his remarks compared the deaths after demonetisation with those killed in terrorist attacks. The remarks were expunged by the Chair yesterday itself. Seeking Prime Minister Narendra Modi's presence in the demonetisation debate in Parliament, BSP chief Mayawati today said, "PM should let go of his dictatorial attitude and think about people of this country. It would be better if he comes to the Parliament and takes part in the debate and listen to what people are saying."
Image: A security personnel takes aim. Congress had compared the deaths in the Uri terror attack to the deaths following demonetisation
"BJP should apologise (for demonetisation) to the entire nation, not me. The way they have pushed back the country, they must apologise to the 125 crore people of this country," senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said outside Parliament.
Congress and BJP members yesterday clashed in Rajya Sabha over Azad's remarks during demonetisation debate forcing adjournment of the House thrice in quick succession.
Azad had in his remarks compared the deaths after demonetisation with those killed in terrorist attacks. The remarks were expunged by the Chair yesterday itself. Seeking Prime Minister Narendra Modi's presence in the demonetisation debate in Parliament, BSP chief Mayawati today said, "PM should let go of his dictatorial attitude and think about people of this country. It would be better if he comes to the Parliament and takes part in the debate and listen to what people are saying."
Image: A security personnel takes aim. Congress had compared the deaths in the Uri terror attack to the deaths following demonetisation
14:58 SC refuses to accept rejection of names by Centre for appointment of judges
The Supreme Court on Friday refused to accept the rejection of 43 names by the Centre that were recommended by the Collegium of judges headed by Chief Justice of India Tirath Singh Thakur for appointments in various high courts.
The plea was filed by Lt. Col. Anil Kabotra, seeking the court's intervention in the appointment of judges in various high courts.
The Centre had on November 11 informed the apex court that it has returned over half the names recommended to it for appointment as high court judges by the Collegium.
Out of the 77 names recommended to the government, 34 judges were cleared for appointment. The balance 43 names were returned.Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi had told the top court that the Collegium is yet to respond to the draft Memorandum of Procedure (MoP) that the Centre had submitted to it on August 7 this year.
The plea was filed by Lt. Col. Anil Kabotra, seeking the court's intervention in the appointment of judges in various high courts.
The Centre had on November 11 informed the apex court that it has returned over half the names recommended to it for appointment as high court judges by the Collegium.
Out of the 77 names recommended to the government, 34 judges were cleared for appointment. The balance 43 names were returned.Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi had told the top court that the Collegium is yet to respond to the draft Memorandum of Procedure (MoP) that the Centre had submitted to it on August 7 this year.
14:52 Cash crunch death: 70-year-old man dies after waiting in queue for 3 days
A 70-year-old man standing in the queue for getting his now-invalid notes exchanged died after he was taken seriously ill. Siyaram, resident of Balapatti, who had been standing in the queue for the past three days, failing to get his old notes exchanged was taken seriously ill yesterday and was rushed to hospital where he died, Superintendent of Police Dilip Kumar Srivastava said on Friday.
The victim had been standing in the queue before the Canara Bank branch near Burz wala Kuan, the SP said, adding that police has been deployed in view of huge crowds collecting in front of banks.
Meanwhile, the locals have sent a fax message to the Prime Minister's Office in New Delhi demanding a compensation of Rs 20 lakhs for the family of the deceased.
The victim had been standing in the queue before the Canara Bank branch near Burz wala Kuan, the SP said, adding that police has been deployed in view of huge crowds collecting in front of banks.
Meanwhile, the locals have sent a fax message to the Prime Minister's Office in New Delhi demanding a compensation of Rs 20 lakhs for the family of the deceased.
14:44 Why Narendra Modi has already won the demonetisation gambit
"Courage is often a misunderstanding of suicide or gamble. It appears that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose devotees are celebrating his "boldness' for delegitimising large bills, has in fact made a calculated gamble. And it is turning out to be an excellent move. He has already gotten away with it, only the extent of his rewards is unclear."
So, has the PM won the day with demonetisation? Here's what Manu Joseph says. Read
So, has the PM won the day with demonetisation? Here's what Manu Joseph says. Read
14:30 Jayalalithaa can 'guide and direct now', says Apollo Hospitals chief
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa is free to go home any time she wants. Apollo Hospitals cannot dictate on her discharge, Apollo Hospitals Chairman Pratap C Reddy said today.
He said Jayalalithaa can "guide and direct now", and :her mental state was normal".
Last week, Reddy told reporters that the Tamil Nadu CM's infection is fully under control but her discharge from hospital depended on her progress.
"I already told (you) her infection is fully under control. But what is required is that she needed reinvigoration to go back. This is what is happening," he told reporters here.
He said her discharge from the hospital depended on her progress adding no date has been fixed for it.
Answering a question on her being shifted to general ward, he said, "no general ward", adding, it was about, "which is more comfortable for her".
He said the "change of room is only for her convenience" without elaborating whether she will continue to be in her present room or if she will be shifted.
Stating there was no major change in the line of treatment, he said, "she had therapy, which has completely cured (her)."
"What is needed is recuperation. For that all efforts are being taken. Teams are working towards that," he said.
To a question on her discharge from hospital, he said, "I think discharge again is going to depend upon her. Whenever she feels that she is physically fit and when she feels the hospital has given enough...It will happen. There is no fixed date. For what she came (for treatment), that is completely under control."
Answering another question, he said, "she is having the diet which she likes."
On November 4, Reddy had said Jayalalithaa had "completely recovered" and it was up to her to decide when to go home.
He said Jayalalithaa can "guide and direct now", and :her mental state was normal".
Last week, Reddy told reporters that the Tamil Nadu CM's infection is fully under control but her discharge from hospital depended on her progress.
"I already told (you) her infection is fully under control. But what is required is that she needed reinvigoration to go back. This is what is happening," he told reporters here.
He said her discharge from the hospital depended on her progress adding no date has been fixed for it.
Answering a question on her being shifted to general ward, he said, "no general ward", adding, it was about, "which is more comfortable for her".
He said the "change of room is only for her convenience" without elaborating whether she will continue to be in her present room or if she will be shifted.
Stating there was no major change in the line of treatment, he said, "she had therapy, which has completely cured (her)."
"What is needed is recuperation. For that all efforts are being taken. Teams are working towards that," he said.
To a question on her discharge from hospital, he said, "I think discharge again is going to depend upon her. Whenever she feels that she is physically fit and when she feels the hospital has given enough...It will happen. There is no fixed date. For what she came (for treatment), that is completely under control."
Answering another question, he said, "she is having the diet which she likes."
On November 4, Reddy had said Jayalalithaa had "completely recovered" and it was up to her to decide when to go home.
14:14 Ex-dacoit queues up to exchange notes in Gwalior
The demonetisation of Rs 500 and 1,000 currency notes has led people from all walks of life to line up in front of banks across the country in the run to get cash.
In Gwalior on Thursday, the dreaded dacoit of the 70s and 80s, Malkhan Singh, too was seen lining up at a bank branch to get his old currency exchanged.
The people who queued up with him at the SBI branch in Gwalior were amused to see him.
One of the most feared outlaws of the Chambal ravines, Malkhan and his gang had 94 police cases lodged against them, including 18 cases of dacoity, 28 of kidnapping, 19 of attempt to murder and 17 cases of murder.
He had surrendered with his men before the then chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, Arjun Singh, in 1983.Malkhan rose to prominence in 1976 after blood feud between him and village Bilao sarpanch Kailash Narayan.
He tried to eliminate Narayan with a machine gun but failed, ultimately injuring two of his men and killing one. Narayan sustained six bullets wounds but survived, forcing Malkhan to flee to Jalaun in Uttar Pradesh.After this, his name spelled terror in parts of Bundelkhand in UP and Madhya Pradesh.
The former bandit was recently in news over his biopic being shot by actor-director Mukesh R Chauksey.Post his surrender, Singh has been leading peaceful life in his native village engaging in farming and taking part frequently in religious conventions.
In Gwalior on Thursday, the dreaded dacoit of the 70s and 80s, Malkhan Singh, too was seen lining up at a bank branch to get his old currency exchanged.
The people who queued up with him at the SBI branch in Gwalior were amused to see him.
One of the most feared outlaws of the Chambal ravines, Malkhan and his gang had 94 police cases lodged against them, including 18 cases of dacoity, 28 of kidnapping, 19 of attempt to murder and 17 cases of murder.
He had surrendered with his men before the then chief minister of Madhya Pradesh, Arjun Singh, in 1983.Malkhan rose to prominence in 1976 after blood feud between him and village Bilao sarpanch Kailash Narayan.
He tried to eliminate Narayan with a machine gun but failed, ultimately injuring two of his men and killing one. Narayan sustained six bullets wounds but survived, forcing Malkhan to flee to Jalaun in Uttar Pradesh.After this, his name spelled terror in parts of Bundelkhand in UP and Madhya Pradesh.
The former bandit was recently in news over his biopic being shot by actor-director Mukesh R Chauksey.Post his surrender, Singh has been leading peaceful life in his native village engaging in farming and taking part frequently in religious conventions.
13:59 Congress backs Azad, says "nothing wrong" in his comments
With the government demanding an apology from Ghulam Nabi Azad over his remarks in the Rajya Sabha yesterday on demonetisation, the Congress Party on Friday came out in defence of its Leader of Opposition and said that he has said nothing wrong but expressed pain over the causalities.
Congress leader Rajiv Shukla asserted that there was nothing wrong in Azad's assertion and said that there was no need for him to tender an apology."What was wrong in the comments of Ghulam Nabi Azad that he will apologise? He expressed pain over the deaths, which took place in the wake of demonetisation. There was nothing wrong in his comments," he added.
Union Human Resource and Development (HRD) Minister Prakash Javadekar yesterday demanded an apology from Azad for accusing the government of burdening the public with wrong policy and alleging that the deaths due to demonetisation are higher as compared to those killed in the Uri terror attack.Javadekar while addressing the media here condemned Azad's comments and alleged that the anti-black money Congress is getting frustrated as such comments exude its anxiety.
Congress leader Rajiv Shukla asserted that there was nothing wrong in Azad's assertion and said that there was no need for him to tender an apology."What was wrong in the comments of Ghulam Nabi Azad that he will apologise? He expressed pain over the deaths, which took place in the wake of demonetisation. There was nothing wrong in his comments," he added.
Union Human Resource and Development (HRD) Minister Prakash Javadekar yesterday demanded an apology from Azad for accusing the government of burdening the public with wrong policy and alleging that the deaths due to demonetisation are higher as compared to those killed in the Uri terror attack.Javadekar while addressing the media here condemned Azad's comments and alleged that the anti-black money Congress is getting frustrated as such comments exude its anxiety.
13:54 Times Now staff sport sun glasses to give Arnab a farewell
Arnab Goswami, the feisty, combative editor-in-chief of Times Now, and the face of the news channel, was given a fond farewell by his colleagues at the network this morning.
Arnab, who would regularly sport sun glasses in the office, was given a rousing applause at the farewell by his colleagues - all of who sported sun glasses like their boss.
The ace news anchor whose future plans remain a mystery accepted the felicitations with a smile - something one didn't get to see much of when he helmed the daily Newshour at "super prime time".
Arnab, who would regularly sport sun glasses in the office, was given a rousing applause at the farewell by his colleagues - all of who sported sun glasses like their boss.
The ace news anchor whose future plans remain a mystery accepted the felicitations with a smile - something one didn't get to see much of when he helmed the daily Newshour at "super prime time".
13:28
SC refuses to accept rejection of 43 names by Centre recommended by its Collegium for appointment of HC judges. SC expresses reservation on Centre's plea for direction that no court except apex court hears pleas on demonetisation
notification.
notification.
13:24
Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi accuses senior advocate Kapil Sibal of using the SC as a political platform on the issue of demonetisation.
13:22 There are difficulties, Centre can't deny it: Chief Justice tells govt
Just in: Calcutta High Court seeks report from the Centre by November 25 on the measures taken to minimise the hardships faced by the people in the wake of demonetisation.
The government yesterday revised guidelines for the withdrawal of cash, limiting counter exchange of old Rs 500, Rs 1,000 notes from Rs 4,500 to Rs 2000 starting today.
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court refused to stay the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes but directed the government to submit a report detailing the steps taken to minimise public inconvenience.
"We don't intend to interfere with the policy but we want to know what steps you are taking to reduce inconvenience caused to the public. The common man must not suffer," observed the Chief Justice of India.
The chief justice said, "The Centre cannot dispute that there were hardships," and asked the Centre, "You have reduced the exchange limit, is it a printing problem?"
The government yesterday revised guidelines for the withdrawal of cash, limiting counter exchange of old Rs 500, Rs 1,000 notes from Rs 4,500 to Rs 2000 starting today.
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court refused to stay the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes but directed the government to submit a report detailing the steps taken to minimise public inconvenience.
"We don't intend to interfere with the policy but we want to know what steps you are taking to reduce inconvenience caused to the public. The common man must not suffer," observed the Chief Justice of India.
The chief justice said, "The Centre cannot dispute that there were hardships," and asked the Centre, "You have reduced the exchange limit, is it a printing problem?"
13:06
RS adjourned till 1430 hrs due to continued Oppn protest over demonetisation.
12:56
ANI reports: SC directs Centre to make an amendment to treat NRIs as special voters at the earliest, gives 4 weeks to reply
12:54 Chinese firm under radar for sending data to China secretly
A global Chinese software company is under the radar after the US media reported that it "left a backdoor" on its American users' Android phones to secretly send massive amount of user data to China every 72 hours.
US media reported Wednesday that Kyptowire, a mobile security firm, discovered that Shanghai Adups Technology Co, a software provider of end-to-end device management and software solutions to leading firms, transmitted full contents of text messages, contact lists, call logs, location information and other data to a Chinese server.
The code comes preinstalled on phones and the surveillance is not disclosed to users.
"Security contractors recently discovered preinstalled software in some Android phones that monitors where users go, whom they talk to and what they write in text messages. The American authorities say it is not clear whether this represents secretive data mining for advertising purposes or a Chinese government effort to collect intelligence," a New York Times report said.
12:38
Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2.30 pm amid protests over demonetisation
12:33 'Maybe don't put it in water?': SC on Rs 2,000 note bleeding
NDTV reports: Why would you do that was the Supreme Court's withering response today to a lawyer who complained that the new Rs. 2,000 note bleeds colour when it's wet.
"Well, don't put notes in water," was Chief Justice TS Thakur's advice to the lawyer, ML Sharma, who is among a group of petitioners who have asked the top court to cancel the ban on Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes announced a little over a week ago by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Read more HERE
12:25
Lok Sabha adjourned till Monday following uproar over the demonetisation issue.
12:01 48 demonetisation deaths: Now, overworked bank manager dies of heart attack
A bank manager at Rohtak's Cooperative Bank died of a heart attack after reportedly staying round the clock in the bank for three consecutive days to manage the heavy rush of customers, reports the Indian Express.
Rajesh Kumar (57) was found dead in his cabin Wednesday. A security guard who reached the bank in the morning knocked at his door, but got no response. He alerted other employees of the bank who called the police. The police then broke open the door. Kumar was rushed to hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.
A police officer said bank staff told them that Rajesh had been working frantically for the past three days. Owing to the rush, he had been sleeping in his chamber and had not gone home. The officer added that he had been taking medication for heart disease. Kumar, who belongs to Gurgaon, is survived by his wife and two children. After his death, work at the bank was suspended.
A police officer said bank staff told them that Rajesh had been working frantically for the past three days. Owing to the rush, he had been sleeping in his chamber and had not gone home. The officer added that he had been taking medication for heart disease. Kumar, who belongs to Gurgaon, is survived by his wife and two children. After his death, work at the bank was suspended.
Ten days since demonetisation, the death toll has reached 48. These are confirmed deaths reported in the national media. The number of unreported deaths may be higher. While most deaths are of the elderly waiting in long bank queues, there are quite a few suicides, especially of housewives.
Representational image.
Rajesh Kumar (57) was found dead in his cabin Wednesday. A security guard who reached the bank in the morning knocked at his door, but got no response. He alerted other employees of the bank who called the police. The police then broke open the door. Kumar was rushed to hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.
A police officer said bank staff told them that Rajesh had been working frantically for the past three days. Owing to the rush, he had been sleeping in his chamber and had not gone home. The officer added that he had been taking medication for heart disease. Kumar, who belongs to Gurgaon, is survived by his wife and two children. After his death, work at the bank was suspended.
A police officer said bank staff told them that Rajesh had been working frantically for the past three days. Owing to the rush, he had been sleeping in his chamber and had not gone home. The officer added that he had been taking medication for heart disease. Kumar, who belongs to Gurgaon, is survived by his wife and two children. After his death, work at the bank was suspended.
Ten days since demonetisation, the death toll has reached 48. These are confirmed deaths reported in the national media. The number of unreported deaths may be higher. While most deaths are of the elderly waiting in long bank queues, there are quite a few suicides, especially of housewives.
Representational image.
11:48
JUST IN: South Africa cricket captain Faf du Plessis charged for ball tampering - ICC.
11:45 How Tughlaqs currency change led to chaos in 14th century India
If you've been wondering about the references of Narendra Modi with Mohammed bin Tughlaq, here's a quick read: "Like Modi, Tughlaq took a major gamble with the currency in his kingdom. Unfortunately for the ruler, that move was a disaster, leading to a weakening of his sultanate." Read more
11:35
SC agrees to hear next week a plea of Subramanian Swamy as to why Ayodhya temple dispute matters should be heard on day-to-day basis.
11:14 Govt issues whip to Lok Sabha MPs to be present in House
On day three of the Winter Session of Parliament, the government demands an apology from the Congress for comparing the Uri terror attack deaths to the demonetisation deaths. The BJP issues a 3-line whip to Lok Sabha MPs to be present in the House.
In the Rajya Sabha, MPs troop into the well of the house as the chair unsuccessfully pleads with members to go back to their places.
The Lok Sabha has been adjourned till noon after uproar over the cash ban. The Rajya Sabha has been adjourned till 11:30 am.
On day two, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha witnessed continued protests from the opposition about the demonetisation move and even asked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to respond in the demonetisation debate but it was rejected by the government benches immediately. Repeated efforts from the Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to bring normalcy proved futile and she adjourned the Lok Sabha. In the Rajya Sabha, once again Opposition parties stormed the well. Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien's efforts proved futile and the Rajya Sabha was adjourned many times.
On day one of the winter session of Parliament, Lok Sabha was adjourned after obituary references and Rajya Sabha witnessed some serious debate between the government and Opposition about the demonetisation move announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 8. The Opposition parties moved adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha for day 2.
In the Rajya Sabha, MPs troop into the well of the house as the chair unsuccessfully pleads with members to go back to their places.
The Lok Sabha has been adjourned till noon after uproar over the cash ban. The Rajya Sabha has been adjourned till 11:30 am.
On day two, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha witnessed continued protests from the opposition about the demonetisation move and even asked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to respond in the demonetisation debate but it was rejected by the government benches immediately. Repeated efforts from the Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to bring normalcy proved futile and she adjourned the Lok Sabha. In the Rajya Sabha, once again Opposition parties stormed the well. Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien's efforts proved futile and the Rajya Sabha was adjourned many times.
On day one of the winter session of Parliament, Lok Sabha was adjourned after obituary references and Rajya Sabha witnessed some serious debate between the government and Opposition about the demonetisation move announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 8. The Opposition parties moved adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha for day 2.
11:06
Like!
Rajdeep Sardesai @sardesairajdeep tweets: My day is made: an unknown person sends ice cream and brownie at airport coffee shop with a thank you message! More power to aam aadmi!
Rajdeep Sardesai @sardesairajdeep tweets: My day is made: an unknown person sends ice cream and brownie at airport coffee shop with a thank you message! More power to aam aadmi!
11:00 Soiled notes to the rescue
The Reserve Bank of India has found a way to meet the relentless demand for 100-rupee notes: by recycling soiled notes. The central bank is exhorting banks, public and private, to reuse notes that had been taken out of circulation and were bound for the shredder and then the dumping ground. Read more
10:53
Just in: Fire breaks out at SBI bank in Parry's Corner, Chennai. Four fire tenders at the spot.
10:52 PM meets senior ministers
PM Narendra Modi meeting senior ministers in his chamber in Parliament. Finance minister Arun Jaitley, M Venkaiah Naidu, Ananth Kumar present. Details awaited.
10:48 Rs 1.26 lakh crore cash deposits in SBI in a week
SBI collections for a week from November 10 to 17.
Cash deposits: 266.71 lakh transactions of Rs 1,26,853 crore
Currency exchange: 172.10 lakh transactions of Rs 6,477 crore
Cash withdrawal: 181.06 lakh transactions of Rs 23,337 crore
Total: 1012.10 lacs transactions of Rs. 171610 crore
Cash deposits: 266.71 lakh transactions of Rs 1,26,853 crore
Currency exchange: 172.10 lakh transactions of Rs 6,477 crore
Cash withdrawal: 181.06 lakh transactions of Rs 23,337 crore
Total: 1012.10 lacs transactions of Rs. 171610 crore
10:30 Don't use indelible ink in banks, EC writes to Finance Ministry
Just in: The Election Commission writes to the Finance ministry not to use indelible ink in banks. EC raised the concern as several states will be going to polls and this is one of major points to mark citizens who have already voted.
The government announced on Tuesday a raft of measures to unclog the replacement of withdrawn currency with new banknotes, a less-than-smooth process that has seen millions queue up outside banks and ATMs for cash .
Economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das said banks will mark with indelible ink the fingers of people exchanging old currency at counters to stop them from coming back repeatedly and choking queues. The process -- similar to the indelible ink used in elections to tag voters -- will start in major cities from Tuesday.
The government has blamed the long lines outside banks on unscrupulous elements using ordinary citizens to exchange illegal cash by multiple transactions.
The government announced on Tuesday a raft of measures to unclog the replacement of withdrawn currency with new banknotes, a less-than-smooth process that has seen millions queue up outside banks and ATMs for cash .
Economic affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das said banks will mark with indelible ink the fingers of people exchanging old currency at counters to stop them from coming back repeatedly and choking queues. The process -- similar to the indelible ink used in elections to tag voters -- will start in major cities from Tuesday.
The government has blamed the long lines outside banks on unscrupulous elements using ordinary citizens to exchange illegal cash by multiple transactions.
09:56 Rs 91 lakh seized from BJP minister's vehicle
Opposition Congress and NCP today demanded the sacking of Maharashtra Cooperative Minister Subhash Deshmukh amid reports of seizure of Rs. 91 lakh from vehicle belonging to the minister.
The Opposition has also sought an enquiry by Income Tax department into bank transactions of state BJP leaders to "unearth black money"."(Recovery of cash) proves that BJP leaders are in the possession of black money. Since the government has launched a campaign against black money and corruption, properties of the BJP leaders should be searched to unearth black money.
"He (the minister) should be sacked from the ministry and arrested," NCP spokesman Nawab Malik said in a press conference.According to reports, cash worth over Rs 91 lakh belonging to Lokmangal Group of the minister was seized by the squad of Osmanabad municipality yesterday.
The cash reportedly comprised of the now-invalid tender of Rs. 1000. The minister was not available for comment. His assistant claimed that Mr Deshmukh was not in town.
Representational image.
The Opposition has also sought an enquiry by Income Tax department into bank transactions of state BJP leaders to "unearth black money"."(Recovery of cash) proves that BJP leaders are in the possession of black money. Since the government has launched a campaign against black money and corruption, properties of the BJP leaders should be searched to unearth black money.
"He (the minister) should be sacked from the ministry and arrested," NCP spokesman Nawab Malik said in a press conference.According to reports, cash worth over Rs 91 lakh belonging to Lokmangal Group of the minister was seized by the squad of Osmanabad municipality yesterday.
The cash reportedly comprised of the now-invalid tender of Rs. 1000. The minister was not available for comment. His assistant claimed that Mr Deshmukh was not in town.
Representational image.
09:47 Donations shoot up by 50 pct at Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple post demonetization
Donations have shot up by almost 50 percent at Mumbai's popular Siddhivinayak Temple thanks to the government's demonetisation deccision.
Normally the donation for Siddhivinayak Temple is around Rs.30 to Rs.40 lakhs per week, but post demonetisation, it has reportedly increased to Rs.60 lakhs per week.
"The average weekly collection is Rs.46.23 lakhs. But in the last ten days, the temple has received Rs 59.44 lakhs. Though there is hardly any difference between the amounts deposited, the surprise element is the sharp rise in Rs.500 and Rs.1,000 notes received as donations," said Siddhivinayak Temple Trust chairman Narendra Rane.
According to reports, devotees can also offer donations to Lord Ganesha in the form of shares or stocks of listed entities in addition to traditional offerings in cash and gold.
The Siddhivinayak Temple has also tied up with SBICAP Securities to provide devotees with an electronic platform to make offerings and donations of financial instruments
File pic of the Bachchans at Siddhivinayak temple
Normally the donation for Siddhivinayak Temple is around Rs.30 to Rs.40 lakhs per week, but post demonetisation, it has reportedly increased to Rs.60 lakhs per week.
"The average weekly collection is Rs.46.23 lakhs. But in the last ten days, the temple has received Rs 59.44 lakhs. Though there is hardly any difference between the amounts deposited, the surprise element is the sharp rise in Rs.500 and Rs.1,000 notes received as donations," said Siddhivinayak Temple Trust chairman Narendra Rane.
According to reports, devotees can also offer donations to Lord Ganesha in the form of shares or stocks of listed entities in addition to traditional offerings in cash and gold.
The Siddhivinayak Temple has also tied up with SBICAP Securities to provide devotees with an electronic platform to make offerings and donations of financial instruments
File pic of the Bachchans at Siddhivinayak temple
09:40 Ami Bera's lead nears 5,000 votes
Ami Bera, the only Indian- American in the current Congress, has increased his lead over his Republican rival by nearly 5,000 votes, increasing the prospect of him being elected for the third time. Bera now leads Scott Jones by over 2 per cent, 119,448 votes to 114,646, according to Sacramento County Registrar of Voters.
The third-ever Indian-American to be elected to the House of Representatives, Bera if re-elected would be joined by three other Indian-Americans - Ro Khanna from California, Raja Krishnamoorthi from Illinois and Pramila Jayapal from Washington State - in the lower chambers of the US Congress.
Excluding over-votes and undervotes, 53.82 per cent of the ballots in this latest update went for Bera compared to just 46.18 per cent for Jones. "As our lead continues to grow, we're in the strongest position we've ever been in," Bera said.
The third-ever Indian-American to be elected to the House of Representatives, Bera if re-elected would be joined by three other Indian-Americans - Ro Khanna from California, Raja Krishnamoorthi from Illinois and Pramila Jayapal from Washington State - in the lower chambers of the US Congress.
Excluding over-votes and undervotes, 53.82 per cent of the ballots in this latest update went for Bera compared to just 46.18 per cent for Jones. "As our lead continues to grow, we're in the strongest position we've ever been in," Bera said.
09:31 Accept cheque, card payments: Sports Minister Vijay Goel to SAI
Sports minister Vijay Goel said he has given directions to the director general of Sports Authority of India (SAI) to accept cheques or demand drafts from the public willing to use their facilities on a monthly or quarterly basis.
At present, SAI collects fees for their 'come and play scheme' in cash only.However, the government's demonitization drive has resulted in quite a few troubles for the paying public.
The SAI officials said that the old currency notes are not accepted and it has no system of accepting cheques or debit or credit card payments either.
Read more
At present, SAI collects fees for their 'come and play scheme' in cash only.However, the government's demonitization drive has resulted in quite a few troubles for the paying public.
The SAI officials said that the old currency notes are not accepted and it has no system of accepting cheques or debit or credit card payments either.
Read more
09:03 Get Rs 2,000 cash in some petrol pumps starting today
You can now withdraw 2,000 from certain petrol pumps starting Friday by swiping your debit card.
This facility will be available at 2,500 petrol pumps across the country.
"It has been decided that an amount up to Rs2000 per day per person in cash can be dispensed against swiping of debit card from select petrol pumps where point of sale machines of SBI are already available," an official told PTI.
PoS machines are the machines which are generally used for debit or credit card transactions.
08:44
Maharashtra govt approaches Bombay HC seeking to challenge a special court's order acquitting 8 men in 2006 Malegaon blasts, reports ANI.
The high court has issued notices to the respondents, given four weeks' time to reply.
08:30 What's making news today
* Supreme Court will hear a fresh plea of the Centre seeking a stay on the proceedings before various high courts and other courts except the apex court against its November 8 decision to demonetise high denomination currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000
* Finance ministry refuses demand of agriculture ministry to let farmers buy seeds with old notes.
* From today, individuals can exchange invalid 500 and 1,000 rupee notes totalling Rs 2,000, as against Rs 4,500 earlier, only once till December 30.
* Indians living outside can buy health or general insurance in foreign currency irrespective of the currency for settlement claims: RBI
* Navy will today formally induct four types of indigenously developed sonars that will boost the force's underwater surveillance capability.
* Heavy mortar shelling by Pakistan in Manjakote sector of Rajouri (J&K) last night.
* A Delhi court will pronounce its order on Sheila Dikshit's son-in-law Syed Mohammad Imran's bail plea in a case of theft and misappropriation of his wife's property.
08:15
Donald Trump has offered retired Lt Gen Michael Flynn job as national security adviser
00:30 Obama, Merkel issue a joint rebuttal to the coming Trump era
US President Obama wrapped up his final visit to Europe on Thursday by issuing a plaintive warning to Western democracies not to take for granted our system of government and our way of life as he prepares to relinquish the international stage to his successor, President-elect Donald J Trump.
Democracy is hard work, Obama said at a news conference after meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, one of his closest international partners. Ahead of their meeting, the pair had delivered a joint rebuttal to Trumps populist pledges, calling in a joint newspaper op-ed for more transatlantic cooperation on everything from security and climate change to fighting intolerance.
Obama tried to remain optimistic about the prospect of a Trump presidency, despite having sharply criticised him as temperamentally unfit for office during the long, bitter campaign.
Obama, without directly naming Trump, appeared critical of the political discourse in the United States, saying social media has made it easier to make negative attacks and simplistic slogans than it is to communicate complex policies.
On his last overseas trip as president, Obama met with Merkel, whom observers see as the heir apparent to his legacy as the leading global advocate of liberal democracy.
Ahead of a joint appearance later Thursday, the two penned an op-ed piece recognizing the painful side of freer trade along with a sober reality check.
The future is upon us, and we will never return to a pre-globalisation economy, they wrote.
00:00 School kids photocopy Rs 2,000 note, buy confectioneries
In an incident that could be called the first case of fraud involving new currency notes in Madhya Pradesh, four school children duped a milk parlour operator in Shajapur by purchasing products with photocopied note of Rs 2000 denomination on Thursday.
The kids were apparently on way to school with the bags when they stopped at the shop of one Gopalkrishna Yadav to make purchases at around 6am, Shajapur Kotwali police station in-charge Rajendra Verma said. They bought milk and confectioneries worth Rs 200 and walked away with the change of Rs 1800 returned by Yadav.
The shop owner, who gladly accepted the new Rs 2000 currency note, became suspicious in the afternoon and shared the details with his son. Both went to a bank branch, where the officials claimed it was a coloured photocopy of the original currency note. Yadav lodged a complaint with the Kotwali police.
TOP STORIES
© 2024 Rediff.com - Investor Information - Advertise with us - Disclaimer - Privacy Policy - Feedback - About us - Terms of use - Grievances