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Tue, 12 April 2016
Police horse attacked by BJP MLA recovering fast
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23:09 Police horse attacked by BJP MLA recovering fast
Police horse Shaktiman, which has to undergo and amputation surgery after a brutal attack allegedly by a Bharatiya Janata Party MLA during an anti-government protest in Dehradun, is now recovering fast, says Doctor Rakesh Kumar Nautiyal.
"He (Shaktiman) is able to stand on his own, without any support since 10-12 days (sic),' Nautiyal said.
The left hind leg of Shaktiman, which suffered multiple fractures after the attack, was amputated on last month.
The horse's amputation surgery took place two days after its fractures were fixed by external fixation by a group of 10 doctors -- six from Pantnagar and four district veterinary officers.
"He (Shaktiman) is able to stand on his own, without any support since 10-12 days (sic),' Nautiyal said.
The left hind leg of Shaktiman, which suffered multiple fractures after the attack, was amputated on last month.
The horse's amputation surgery took place two days after its fractures were fixed by external fixation by a group of 10 doctors -- six from Pantnagar and four district veterinary officers.
22:22 Two more succumb, Kollam tragedy toll climbs to 113
With two more persons succumbing to injuries tonight, the toll in the Puttingal Devi temple tragedy has gone up to 113.
The latest victim was 40-year-old Manikandan from Kollam who died at the Trivandrum Medical College Hospital, hospital sources said.
Earlier, 14-year-old Sabari, said to be the youngest victim of the Puttingal Devi temple tragedy; Satyan, 55, from nearby Kazhakootam and Surendran, 67, one of the fireworks contractors, had succumbed to injuries at the same hospital.
While Satyan had suffered 60 per cent burns, the two others had suffered 90 per cent burns, hospital sources said.
Sabari's weeping mother had been praying in front of the burns Intensive Care Unit at the hospital, hoping her young son would pull it through. But it was not to be and he succumbed to injuries this evening.
The condition of 24 of the injured persons continues to be serious. A total of 1,039 persons were treated as outpatients in various hospitals in Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.
The latest victim was 40-year-old Manikandan from Kollam who died at the Trivandrum Medical College Hospital, hospital sources said.
Earlier, 14-year-old Sabari, said to be the youngest victim of the Puttingal Devi temple tragedy; Satyan, 55, from nearby Kazhakootam and Surendran, 67, one of the fireworks contractors, had succumbed to injuries at the same hospital.
While Satyan had suffered 60 per cent burns, the two others had suffered 90 per cent burns, hospital sources said.
Sabari's weeping mother had been praying in front of the burns Intensive Care Unit at the hospital, hoping her young son would pull it through. But it was not to be and he succumbed to injuries this evening.
The condition of 24 of the injured persons continues to be serious. A total of 1,039 persons were treated as outpatients in various hospitals in Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.
22:15 IMF warns against significant economic risks of Brexit
Britain's possible exit from the European Union "could do severe regional and global damage" by disrupting international trade relations and poses the biggest risk to the global recovery, the International Monetary Fund
warned on Tuesday.
"A British exit from the European Union could pose major challenges for both the United Kingdom and the rest of Europe," IMF chief economist Maurice Obstfeld said in its latest 'World Economic Outlook'.
"The planned June referendum on European Union membership has already created uncertainty for investors; a 'Brexit' could do severe regional and global damage by disrupting established trading relationships," the IMF said.
Slashing the global growth forecasts and for the UK as well as other advanced economies, the Washington-based financial institution said Britain voting to leave the EU posed one of the biggest risks to the global recovery.
The UK economy is now expected to grow by 1.9 per cent this year, according to the IMF.
21:56 Akash missile test fired for second consecutive day
For the second day today, India's indigenously developed surface-to-air Akash missile was test fired from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur near Odisha's Balasore.
"Two rounds of test of the Akash missile were conducted today," Defence Research and Development Organisation officials said.
The missiles targeted unmanned air vehicle 'Banshee' and a para barrel target, they said.
Similar trial of the sophisticated missile had been conducted on Monday from the same test range.
The missiles, with a strike range of 25 km and capability to carry warhead of 60 kg, were test fired from the launch complex-3 of the ITR, the officials said.
Akash is a medium range surface-to-air anti-aircraft defence system developed by the DRDO as part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme.
Akash is powered by Ramjet-rocket propulsion system, which renders thrust for the missile to intercept the target at supersonic speed without any retardation.
It can fly at supersonic speed ranging from Mach 2.8 to 3.5 and can engage aerial targets up to a range of approximately 25 km.
21:30 Permission needed for purchase, use of firecrackers in Lucknow
Alarmed over the Kerala temple tragedy, Lucknow district administration has warned of strong action if permission was not taken for use of fire crackers during any social event, and made it mandatory for shopkeepers
to ask for photo identity card of the purchasers.
In a stern directive, District Magistrate Raj Shekhar said it was henceforth mandatory for the public to take written permission from local administration for display of fireworks on such occasions, especially marriages.
The order will come into force from April 21. The marriage season is also about to begin.
The directive comes two days after a fireworks display went out of control at a temple in Kerala, leaving more than 100 people dead and hundreds others injured.
The permission for use of fire crackers in any function will have to be taken under section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code which prohibits any organisation or group from carrying any lethal items and explosives.
21:27 J&K school to withdraw notebooks with India, Pak flags
A private school in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday decided to withdraw its notebook with national flags of India and Pakistan on its cover, following protests by locals.
The Holy Cross Convent High School, located in border belt of R S Pura sector, had distributed notebooks to its students with national flags of the two countries on the cover of its notebooks.
There was widespread protest by parents and local residents on Monday against the notebooks given to students for the current academic session.
"We received a public complaint that the school authorities have published and distributed notebooks with India and Pakistan National Flags. We called the Principal of the school to explain his stand," Sub-Divisional Police Office RS Pura Harjeet Singh said.
He said the school Principal informed the police that his intention was not to hurt people's sentiments. He thought his move would help bring peace in the troubled region.
"Principal said that the school's aim behind publishing the flags was to bring peace in the region. We told him that this was not the way to do such things," Singh said.
The principal realized his mistake and has agreed to withdraw all the notebooks and immediately stop further publication such notebooks, the SDPO said.
21:07 India expresses displeasure to US over F-16 sale to Pakistan
India on Tuesday expressed its displeasure to the United States over the sale of F-16 fighter planes to Pakistan even as Washington said the aircraft were meant for anti-terror operations.
After talks with visiting US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said that he raised the issue of sale of F-16 aircraft by the US to Pakistan.
India had earlier protested sale of the combat planes to Pakistan, saying, "We disagree with their rationale that such arms transfers help to combat terrorism."
Carter said that the US was aiming to be a "trusted partner" of India, the way Russia has been all along.
Underlining that even the US has been victim of terror emanating from Pakistani soil, he said those who indulge in terrorism in India, like the Pathankot attack, "should be brought to justice and brought to account".
20:15 Royal couple arrive in Assam
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Prince William and Catherine were on Tuesday accorded a warm and traditional welcome as they arrived on a two-day trip in Assam during which they will visit Kaziranga National Park, famed for its one-horned rhinoceros.
The royal couple, which arrived in Tezpur at around 6 pm, was given a red-carpet welcome at the airport by Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and his wife Dolly Gogoi who greeted them with a traditional 'muga gamosa' (muga scarf with red motifs).
Other senior state government officials were also present to welcome Prince William and Catherine.
As the Duke, in a black suit, and the Duchess, in a sea-green dress, were escorted towards the airport lounge, they were welcomed traditionally by the Assamese 'gayan-bayan' and dancers performing Bihu, jhumur and bagrumba.
They spent some time in the airport lounge where they were served Assamese snacks 'Jolpan', 'pithas', 'Larus' and 'sunga pitha' with the couple tasting 'til pitha' and 'ghila pitha', official sources said.
19:39 UK Foreign Office employs cat as 'Chief Mouser'
The British Foreign Office has hired a cat to wage war on mice inside the iconic building in Whitehall, nearly five years after 10, Downing Street employed a feline to kill rats in the Prime Minister's home.
Appointed as the Chief Mouser, two-year-old Palmerston will be living at one of the country's most famous addresses among the UK's top diplomats and ministers.
Foreign Office bosses has been quick to point out he will be no burden on the taxpayer.
"Palmerston's domestic posting will have zero cost to the public purrse as a staff kitty will be used to pay for him and all aspects of his welfur."
The Foreign Office statement also said: "Palmerston is Her Majesty Diplomatic Service's newest arrival and in the role of FCO Chief Mouser will assist our pest controllers in keeping down the number of mice in our King Charles Street building.
The cat is apparently named after Viscount Palmerston, who was foreign secretary almost 200 years ago before twice serving as prime minister.
Image: Guy Opperman MP/Twitter
19:11 Venkaiah 'politely disagrees' with Shankaracharya's remarks on temple entry
Union Minister M Venkaiah Naidu today said he "disagreed" with Shankaracharya Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati's comments that the entry of women in Shani Shingnapur temple will lead to rise in crimes against them like rape.
"Politely disagree with the views expressed by Swami Swaroopananda ji about women's entry in Shani Shingnapur temple will bring ill luck to them and give rise to crimes against them; and attributing drought situation in Maharashtra to Shirdi Saibaba worship," Naidu said on Twitter.
On Sunday, the Shankaracharya had waded into a controversy by saying that entry of women in the Shani Shingnapur temple will lead to rise in crimes against them like rape.
"Women should not feel triumphant about visiting the sanctum sanctorum of Shani Shingnapur temple in Maharashtra. They should stop all the drum beating about what they have done. Worshipping Shani will bring ill luck to them and give rise to crimes against them like rape," he had told reporters in Haridwar on Sunday.
"Politely disagree with the views expressed by Swami Swaroopananda ji about women's entry in Shani Shingnapur temple will bring ill luck to them and give rise to crimes against them; and attributing drought situation in Maharashtra to Shirdi Saibaba worship," Naidu said on Twitter.
On Sunday, the Shankaracharya had waded into a controversy by saying that entry of women in the Shani Shingnapur temple will lead to rise in crimes against them like rape.
"Women should not feel triumphant about visiting the sanctum sanctorum of Shani Shingnapur temple in Maharashtra. They should stop all the drum beating about what they have done. Worshipping Shani will bring ill luck to them and give rise to crimes against them like rape," he had told reporters in Haridwar on Sunday.
18:45 Kolkata gets a new CP
Election Commission removes Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar. The new CP is Somen Mitra.
18:43 Gurgaon gets a new name
Just in: The Haryana government changes the name of Gurgaon district to Gurugram, which is believed to be its original name. The name of neighbouring Mewat district has been changed to Nuh. The name of Gurgaon city has however not been changed.
18:38
Belgian police arrest 3 Paris attacks suspects in new raid.
18:36 Get ready for TV channels from our Union ministries
Soon after a Union Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggested that his ministers start YouTube channels.
Arun Jaitley, Nitin Gadkari and M Venkaiah Naidu were quick of the block, and have already launched their ministries on YouTube, while others are doing a trial run.
That is not all. There is a proposal before the Cabinet Secretariat to direct the Union ministry of information and broadcasting to issue TV licences to almost all ministries, on the pattern of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha TV channels.
The finance and shipping ministries will soon launch a TV channel that will beam their policies and programmes and the speeches of their respective ministers. Instead of press releases, the ministers or officials will call up their dedicated TV news channel to give their bytes and joint secretaries will be authorised to participate in TV debates and discussions.
The Government of India may even provide a special satellite to exclusively beam these TV Channels.
18:34 Maharashtra Assembly passes Dance Bar Bill
The Maharashtra Assembly today unanimously passed the Dance Bar Regulation Bill, which has provisions for stringent actions against the violators. The Bill was cleared by the Legislative Council yesterday, paving the way for reopening of the dance bars.
18:16 No covered faces in Delhi Metro; security-hold area widened
Delhi Metro commuters will not be allowed to cover their faces using surgical masks or mufflers even as the security-hold area at close to two dozen stations has been expanded in view of the new security drills being deployed to more effectively guard the rapid rail network.
In the wake of a daring heist at the Rajinder Place station yesterday where two unidentified men stormed the control room and looted around Rs 12 lakh cash, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has issued a set of fresh instructions dis-allowing covering of the face by travellers using any kind of cloth or cover like surgical masks, mufflers, 'dupatta' or anti-pollution caps.
The two men, also captured on the CCTV, were wearing masks during their entry and exit at the station. "Only terminally ill or serious patients will be allowed to cover their faces using a mask or cover. Everyone else who uses a cover for a variety of reasons like to beat heat, pollution or for fear of contracting infection will have to remove the face cover while getting frisked.
In the wake of a daring heist at the Rajinder Place station yesterday where two unidentified men stormed the control room and looted around Rs 12 lakh cash, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has issued a set of fresh instructions dis-allowing covering of the face by travellers using any kind of cloth or cover like surgical masks, mufflers, 'dupatta' or anti-pollution caps.
The two men, also captured on the CCTV, were wearing masks during their entry and exit at the station. "Only terminally ill or serious patients will be allowed to cover their faces using a mask or cover. Everyone else who uses a cover for a variety of reasons like to beat heat, pollution or for fear of contracting infection will have to remove the face cover while getting frisked.
17:50 Consider moving IPL out of Pune and Mumbai, HC tells BCCI
Bombay HC asks BCCI if it could shift IPL matches out of Pune and Mumbai and have asked it to reply by tomorrow.
A forensic lab must confirm whether the water that was used for the opening match of the IPL tournament was potable or treatable for drinking, the Bombay High Court said today.
The judges said they wanted a verification of the Maharashtra government's claim that at a time when the state is devastated by drought, water is not being squandered on cricket pitches.
A few days ago, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had said "it would not bother me" if the IPL is moved out of Maharashtra. Repeating that stand, the government told the court, that is has no objection if matches are cancelled for Maharashtra "even though there is a loss of revenue."
This did not go down well. Judges tartly responded, "Loss of revenue - that's what they are worried about, not people."
The hearing will continue tomorrow.
A forensic lab must confirm whether the water that was used for the opening match of the IPL tournament was potable or treatable for drinking, the Bombay High Court said today.
The judges said they wanted a verification of the Maharashtra government's claim that at a time when the state is devastated by drought, water is not being squandered on cricket pitches.
A few days ago, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had said "it would not bother me" if the IPL is moved out of Maharashtra. Repeating that stand, the government told the court, that is has no objection if matches are cancelled for Maharashtra "even though there is a loss of revenue."
This did not go down well. Judges tartly responded, "Loss of revenue - that's what they are worried about, not people."
The hearing will continue tomorrow.
17:44 Twitter bats for Sachin
Three films on cricketers will be released this year: Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni and Mohammed Azharuddin.
The official trailer for the Tendulkar biopic, Sachin the movie, releases on the 14th and Twitter and his fans have been waiting...
Harbhajan Singh @harbhajan_singh tweets: Here's the film poster of the greatest son of India @sachin_rt's @SachinTheFilm. Watch #SRTteaseron14thApril 1 PM.
Sachin replies, "Thanks Bhaji. Fondly remember your blistering batting a year ago at Wankhede."
Yuvraj Singh @YUVSTRONG12 tweets: One Man... Multiple Generations... Countless Fans... @sachin_rt. Watch #SRTteaseron14thApril 1 PM @SachinTheFilm
Sachin responds with a warm, "You're a fighter and inspiration for a lot of people as well! Cheers to that and hope you recover soon!"
Yuvraj had suffered an ankle injury during the ICC World T20 match between India and Australia.
The official trailer for the Tendulkar biopic, Sachin the movie, releases on the 14th and Twitter and his fans have been waiting...
Harbhajan Singh @harbhajan_singh tweets: Here's the film poster of the greatest son of India @sachin_rt's @SachinTheFilm. Watch #SRTteaseron14thApril 1 PM.
Sachin replies, "Thanks Bhaji. Fondly remember your blistering batting a year ago at Wankhede."
Yuvraj Singh @YUVSTRONG12 tweets: One Man... Multiple Generations... Countless Fans... @sachin_rt. Watch #SRTteaseron14thApril 1 PM @SachinTheFilm
Sachin responds with a warm, "You're a fighter and inspiration for a lot of people as well! Cheers to that and hope you recover soon!"
Yuvraj had suffered an ankle injury during the ICC World T20 match between India and Australia.
17:19 2 killed as security forces open fire on protestors
Two people were killed and one wounded when security forces allegedly opened fire to disperse protestors in north Kashmir's Handwara town this afternoon.
After reports of an alleged molestation of a girl by an army jawan spread in the town, a angry mob took to streets and pelted stones at police and armymen.
Two persons were killed and another wounded in the town, said a senior police officer. He said another civilian was critically wounded and shifted to Srinagar for specialised treatment.
A defence spokesman in a statement said, "The Army deeply regrets the unfortunate loss of life. The matter will be investigated and anybody found guilty will be dealt with as per the law."
Inspector General of Police Kashmir zone, Syed Javaid Mujtaba Gillani told Rediff.com that there was stone pelting in the town following allegations of molestation.
Police reinforcements have been dispatched to Handwara town and the police is using tear gas to control the situation.
Mukhtar Ahmad in Srinagar/Rediff.com.
After reports of an alleged molestation of a girl by an army jawan spread in the town, a angry mob took to streets and pelted stones at police and armymen.
Two persons were killed and another wounded in the town, said a senior police officer. He said another civilian was critically wounded and shifted to Srinagar for specialised treatment.
A defence spokesman in a statement said, "The Army deeply regrets the unfortunate loss of life. The matter will be investigated and anybody found guilty will be dealt with as per the law."
Inspector General of Police Kashmir zone, Syed Javaid Mujtaba Gillani told Rediff.com that there was stone pelting in the town following allegations of molestation.
Police reinforcements have been dispatched to Handwara town and the police is using tear gas to control the situation.
Mukhtar Ahmad in Srinagar/Rediff.com.
17:06 Amazing toilets around the world in pictures
From eco-thrones in the wilds to high-rise loos with city views, Lonely Planet has compiled a book of more than 100 of the most striking lavs around the world. Take a look.
16:54 Indian 'spy' slapped with terrorism, sabotage charges in Pak
An alleged Indian 'spy' arrested in Pakistan has been charged with terrorism and sabotage in an FIR filed against him by the provincial Balochistan government, a media report said today.
Kulbhushan Jadhav was reportedly arrested in Balochistan after he entered from Iran and was accused by Pakistan of planning "subversive activities" in the country. Counter Terrorism Department, Quetta, has lodged a case against Indian "spy" Jadhav, the News International reported.
The Counter Terrorism Department lodged the case in provincial capital of Quetta, the report said without specifying on what date was the First Information Report (FIR) registered. The alleged "RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) agent" was arrested last month form Chaman area of Balochistan which lies near the border with Afghanistan.
Also read:Why Kulbhushan Jadhav couldn't be a R&AW spy
Kulbhushan Jadhav was reportedly arrested in Balochistan after he entered from Iran and was accused by Pakistan of planning "subversive activities" in the country. Counter Terrorism Department, Quetta, has lodged a case against Indian "spy" Jadhav, the News International reported.
The Counter Terrorism Department lodged the case in provincial capital of Quetta, the report said without specifying on what date was the First Information Report (FIR) registered. The alleged "RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) agent" was arrested last month form Chaman area of Balochistan which lies near the border with Afghanistan.
Also read:Why Kulbhushan Jadhav couldn't be a R&AW spy
16:47 Normal to excess monsoon this year, forecasts IMD
The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast a 94 per cent chance of normal to excess monsoon, this year, after two years of drought,
LS Rathore, DG IMD says "More or less, Monsoon 2016 is expected to be good."
With nine states facing drought like situation in the country, the IMD has decided to advance forecast for the 2016 Southwest Monsoon nearly by two weeks seemingly to build a positive atmosphere as there is a likelihood of country receiving good rainfall this year.
The IMD for past few years has been releasing forecast in the fourth week of April and the second one in June. But this time it has been decided to advance it as many parts in the country Bundelkhand and Marathwada reeling under acute shortage of water. Last year, the forecast was released on April 22 and in 2014 it was on April 24 and April 26 in 2013.
IMD officials, however, denied advancement of monsoon due to prevailing drought condition in the country.
Pic: Summer crops are wilting and reservoir water levels are at their lowest in at least a decade for the time of year. PM Modi faces growing criticism for failing to shield farmers from deepening hardship often leading to suicide. Reuters/Amit Dave.
LS Rathore, DG IMD says "More or less, Monsoon 2016 is expected to be good."
With nine states facing drought like situation in the country, the IMD has decided to advance forecast for the 2016 Southwest Monsoon nearly by two weeks seemingly to build a positive atmosphere as there is a likelihood of country receiving good rainfall this year.
The IMD for past few years has been releasing forecast in the fourth week of April and the second one in June. But this time it has been decided to advance it as many parts in the country Bundelkhand and Marathwada reeling under acute shortage of water. Last year, the forecast was released on April 22 and in 2014 it was on April 24 and April 26 in 2013.
IMD officials, however, denied advancement of monsoon due to prevailing drought condition in the country.
Pic: Summer crops are wilting and reservoir water levels are at their lowest in at least a decade for the time of year. PM Modi faces growing criticism for failing to shield farmers from deepening hardship often leading to suicide. Reuters/Amit Dave.
16:40 The REAL slumdogs Kate-Will did not meet
She was the real-life Slumdog, an eight-year-old girl plucked from a Mumbai shanty-town to star in a Hollywood blockbuster that won eight Oscars and grossed more than GBP 250 million worldwide.
So when Rubina Ali learned that the screen stars of Bollywood would be invited to a glittering gala to celebrate the India visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, she naturally assumed she would be invited. Instead, as the great and the good of Mumbai - including her Slumdog Millionaire co-star Anil Kapoor - arrived at the reception, she was at the humble apartment where she now lives with her aunt after a chaotic and distressing family breakup. Read more
So when Rubina Ali learned that the screen stars of Bollywood would be invited to a glittering gala to celebrate the India visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, she naturally assumed she would be invited. Instead, as the great and the good of Mumbai - including her Slumdog Millionaire co-star Anil Kapoor - arrived at the reception, she was at the humble apartment where she now lives with her aunt after a chaotic and distressing family breakup. Read more
16:18 Maneka wanted two reporters on blacklist, Govt said no such rule
If you don't like the message, shoot the messenger. That's what Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi wanted to do but the government shot down her request.
In a highly unusual move, Gandhi sought withdrawal of government accreditation -- its official recognition of journalists giving them access to government -- of two Reuters India reporters, Aditya Kalra and Andrew MacAskill, after the news agency refused to "amend or withdraw" an October 19, 2015 report headlined
Calling it "a rare public criticism of PM Modi's policies", Reuters quoted Maneka as saying that her ministry's budget, slashed by half to $1.6 billion, had hit her plans to strengthen the fight against malnutrition since the budget was only enough to pay salaries of 2.7 million health workers until January.
"We still have problems because our cut has still not been restored. Literally, it's a month-to-month suspense on whether we can meet wages,' Reuters had quoted Gandhi. Read more
In a highly unusual move, Gandhi sought withdrawal of government accreditation -- its official recognition of journalists giving them access to government -- of two Reuters India reporters, Aditya Kalra and Andrew MacAskill, after the news agency refused to "amend or withdraw" an October 19, 2015 report headlined
Calling it "a rare public criticism of PM Modi's policies", Reuters quoted Maneka as saying that her ministry's budget, slashed by half to $1.6 billion, had hit her plans to strengthen the fight against malnutrition since the budget was only enough to pay salaries of 2.7 million health workers until January.
"We still have problems because our cut has still not been restored. Literally, it's a month-to-month suspense on whether we can meet wages,' Reuters had quoted Gandhi. Read more
15:52
Maharashtra government says BMC has initiated an inquiry to ascertain the source of water used for the first IPL match in Mumbai.
15:51 Indian man dies under mysterious circumstances in Pak jail
A 50-year-old Indian national who was languishing in a Pakistani jail for nearly 25 years on spying charges has died here under mysterious circumstances.
Kirpal Singh had allegedly crossed Wagah border into Pakistan in 1992 and was arrested. He was subsequently sentenced to death in a serial bomb blasts case in Pakistan's Punjab province.
"Kirpal Singh was found dead at his cell in early hours of Monday at Kot Lakhpat Jail," an official of Kot Lakhpat Jail said. He said the body of Kirpal has been shifted to the Jinah Hospital Lahore for an autopsy. A judicial magistrate was also called who recorded the statements of some prisoners about the death of Kirpal, the official said.
Asked if there were any signs of torture in Kirpal's death, he said, "The inmates of the jail near to Kirpal stated that he complained about pain in his chest and died instantly."
Kot Lakhpat Jail police station head Nafees Ahmed said the jail authorities had called police to shift the body to the morgue. "Apparently, it seems the Indian prisoner died of natural death. However, autopsy will tell the exact cause of death," he said.
Kirpal from Gurdaspur was reportedly acquitted of bomb blast charges by the Lahore High Court but his death sentence could not be commuted because of unknown reasons.
Kirpal Singh had allegedly crossed Wagah border into Pakistan in 1992 and was arrested. He was subsequently sentenced to death in a serial bomb blasts case in Pakistan's Punjab province.
"Kirpal Singh was found dead at his cell in early hours of Monday at Kot Lakhpat Jail," an official of Kot Lakhpat Jail said. He said the body of Kirpal has been shifted to the Jinah Hospital Lahore for an autopsy. A judicial magistrate was also called who recorded the statements of some prisoners about the death of Kirpal, the official said.
Asked if there were any signs of torture in Kirpal's death, he said, "The inmates of the jail near to Kirpal stated that he complained about pain in his chest and died instantly."
Kot Lakhpat Jail police station head Nafees Ahmed said the jail authorities had called police to shift the body to the morgue. "Apparently, it seems the Indian prisoner died of natural death. However, autopsy will tell the exact cause of death," he said.
Kirpal from Gurdaspur was reportedly acquitted of bomb blast charges by the Lahore High Court but his death sentence could not be commuted because of unknown reasons.
15:44 India, US logistics support in defence soon: Parrikar
India and the US are working on a key agreement that will give either country access to logistics support from the other besides refuelling and berthing facilities.
The pact, known as the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA) will be concluded "in the coming months," defence minister Manohar Parrikar told reporters in New Delhi today at a joint press conference with visiting US defence secretary Ashton Carter.
Parrikar announced a new maritime security dialogue and an upgradation of dialogue between the two navies to cover "submarine related issues."
Highlights from Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar's press briefing:
-- India-US Defence Technology and Trade Initiative. DTTI has provided an unprecedented platform for our two countries to strengthen bilateral cooperation in cutting-edge technologies and to address procedural delays in decision-making.
-- DTTI will focus on key areas such as Jet Engine technology and aircraft carriers.
-- Expand DTTI by introducing new and more ambitious projects under the Make in India initiative.
-- Even as India works with the United States to realize the full potential of India's Act East policy, it also seek a closer partnership with the United States to promote our shared interests in India's West, especially in the context of the emerging situation in West Asia.
-- Setting up a new bilateral Maritime Security Dialogue between officials from Defence and External Affairs Ministries in both countries.
-- Enhancement of on-going Navy-to-Navy discussions to cover submarine-related issues.
-- Cooperation in Maritime Domain Awareness by finalizing a 'White Shipping' Agreement.
-- In principle both countries have agreed to a Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement in the coming months.
-- Closer bilateral cooperation with the United States on counter-terrorism.
Pic: Defence minister Manohar Parrikar greets US defence secretary Ashton Carter during his visit to Naval Base Karwar, Karnataka on Monday. Photo: PTI
The pact, known as the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA) will be concluded "in the coming months," defence minister Manohar Parrikar told reporters in New Delhi today at a joint press conference with visiting US defence secretary Ashton Carter.
Parrikar announced a new maritime security dialogue and an upgradation of dialogue between the two navies to cover "submarine related issues."
Highlights from Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar's press briefing:
-- India-US Defence Technology and Trade Initiative. DTTI has provided an unprecedented platform for our two countries to strengthen bilateral cooperation in cutting-edge technologies and to address procedural delays in decision-making.
-- DTTI will focus on key areas such as Jet Engine technology and aircraft carriers.
-- Expand DTTI by introducing new and more ambitious projects under the Make in India initiative.
-- Even as India works with the United States to realize the full potential of India's Act East policy, it also seek a closer partnership with the United States to promote our shared interests in India's West, especially in the context of the emerging situation in West Asia.
-- Setting up a new bilateral Maritime Security Dialogue between officials from Defence and External Affairs Ministries in both countries.
-- Enhancement of on-going Navy-to-Navy discussions to cover submarine-related issues.
-- Cooperation in Maritime Domain Awareness by finalizing a 'White Shipping' Agreement.
-- In principle both countries have agreed to a Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement in the coming months.
-- Closer bilateral cooperation with the United States on counter-terrorism.
Pic: Defence minister Manohar Parrikar greets US defence secretary Ashton Carter during his visit to Naval Base Karwar, Karnataka on Monday. Photo: PTI
15:32 Drought vs IPL: HC resumes hearing
Hearing on PIL against holding of IPL matches in Maharashtra resumes in the Bombay HC. Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MGCM) files its reply in the Bombay HC about water provided to Wankhede stadium.
So far, two intervention petitions have been filed in the case. One by a Latur resident and other one by Prof HM Desarda.
Maharashtra Govt tells Bombay HC that in their preliminary report, BMC had informed them that it isn't giving any potable water to Wankhede.
So far, two intervention petitions have been filed in the case. One by a Latur resident and other one by Prof HM Desarda.
Maharashtra Govt tells Bombay HC that in their preliminary report, BMC had informed them that it isn't giving any potable water to Wankhede.
15:30
Just in: The Kerala high court has banned noisy crackers at night.
Details awaited.
Details awaited.
15:06 Revenge motive for NIA officer Tanzil Ahmed's murder, say cops
National Investigation Agency officer Tanzil Ahmed is likely to have been killed over a personal grouse -- one of the killers was unhappy as he did not get help from the officer regarding a case, the Bareilly police said today.
The police have arrested two men in the case -- both aged between 20 and 25 years -- but the main accused is still on the run.
Ahmed was shot dead on April 3 by two men on a bike as he was on way home in Uttar Pradesh's Shahaspur after attending a wedding. His wife, who was with him, was injured and is still fighting for life.The police said one of the arrested men, Reyaan, was driving the bike. His accomplice, Muneer, who fired the shots, is yet to be arrested. The police have announced an award of Rs 50,000 for information on him.
"During interrogation, it was revealed that Reyaan had sought help from Tanzeel ji in a case. But he was frustrated as the officer denied help," said Vijay Meena, Inspector General, Bareilly.
The police have arrested two men in the case -- both aged between 20 and 25 years -- but the main accused is still on the run.
Ahmed was shot dead on April 3 by two men on a bike as he was on way home in Uttar Pradesh's Shahaspur after attending a wedding. His wife, who was with him, was injured and is still fighting for life.The police said one of the arrested men, Reyaan, was driving the bike. His accomplice, Muneer, who fired the shots, is yet to be arrested. The police have announced an award of Rs 50,000 for information on him.
"During interrogation, it was revealed that Reyaan had sought help from Tanzeel ji in a case. But he was frustrated as the officer denied help," said Vijay Meena, Inspector General, Bareilly.
14:54
Priyanka shares her Padma moment... @priyankachopra Such a proud moment. To be back in my country.. My capital.. Rashtrapati Bhavan & receiving the PadmaShri. #blessed.
14:47
PM Modi hosted a lunch for Prince William and Kate Middleton at Hyderabad House in New Delhi today.
14:38 Shah Rukh welcomes Salman's 'Sultan'
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan praised the first teaser of his friend Salman Khan's much-awaited film "Sultan". The 50-year-old "Dilwale" actor retweeted the link of the teaser posted by Salman. "Kya baat hai... Haryana ka Sher aa gaya... Sultan Bhaijaan," Shah Rukh wrote.
Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, the movie features the "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" star as wrestler Sultan Ali Khan. The first teaser of the film has shots of Salman entering the wrestling field and defeating his rival with just a single move.
Produced by YRF, the movie also stars Anushka Sharma. "Sultan," which is releasing on Eid may have a box office clash with Shah Rukh Khan's "Raees".
Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, the movie features the "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" star as wrestler Sultan Ali Khan. The first teaser of the film has shots of Salman entering the wrestling field and defeating his rival with just a single move.
Produced by YRF, the movie also stars Anushka Sharma. "Sultan," which is releasing on Eid may have a box office clash with Shah Rukh Khan's "Raees".
14:32 Engineer returns Rs 1.40 lakh to man who lost it
Is gratitude the best reward for honesty? Read this story and tell us...
A 26-year-old engineer from Kendrapara whose monthly earning is about Rs 20,000 has set an example by returning Rs 1.40 lakh to a man who had lost it, for which he was felicitated by his village.
"Honesty is not dead. The act of honesty for which I got back the money leads me to believe that there are still good souls in the world. The boy gave me back the money which I was carrying for treatment of my ailing mother-in-law, who is suffering from kidney ailments", said Shatrughna Moharana, a petty shop owner in Niali area of Cuttack district.
"Rs 1.4 lakh was a huge sum for me. With great difficulty, I had arranged the sum from personal savings and partly from borrowing. On March 26, I lost the bag carrying the cash near sector-9 CDA in Cuttack", Moharana said.
Annada Prasana Ojha, a local resident of Derabish in Kendrapara district and posted as an engineer with a Cement Company in Cuttack, said he was on a motor bike and spotted the bag containing money lying unattended on the road.
"I was little scared initially but decided to wait with the hope to return it to its claimant. I stayed back for a half-an-hour but nobody turned up. Later I unzipped the bag and found hundred currency notes of Rs 1,000 denomination and 40 notes of Rs 500 denomination. While searching the bag, I found a bundle of prescriptions and medical bills. I could locate the man who had lost the money from one of the cell phone numbers from a medical bill, Ojha, who draws a monthly salary of Rs 22,000 from the private company said.
"The owner of the money bag broke down and sobbed like a child after I handed over the money. He blessed me and wished me success in life. That was worth more than the wads of currency notes", he concluded. Overwhelmed over his honesty, locals organised a function at Derabish to felicitate the Good Samaritan.
"He was not in favour of this felicitation function. But we decided to felicitate him so that others could draw inspiration from him", said Rabindra Samal, who presided over the function.
A 26-year-old engineer from Kendrapara whose monthly earning is about Rs 20,000 has set an example by returning Rs 1.40 lakh to a man who had lost it, for which he was felicitated by his village.
"Honesty is not dead. The act of honesty for which I got back the money leads me to believe that there are still good souls in the world. The boy gave me back the money which I was carrying for treatment of my ailing mother-in-law, who is suffering from kidney ailments", said Shatrughna Moharana, a petty shop owner in Niali area of Cuttack district.
"Rs 1.4 lakh was a huge sum for me. With great difficulty, I had arranged the sum from personal savings and partly from borrowing. On March 26, I lost the bag carrying the cash near sector-9 CDA in Cuttack", Moharana said.
Annada Prasana Ojha, a local resident of Derabish in Kendrapara district and posted as an engineer with a Cement Company in Cuttack, said he was on a motor bike and spotted the bag containing money lying unattended on the road.
"I was little scared initially but decided to wait with the hope to return it to its claimant. I stayed back for a half-an-hour but nobody turned up. Later I unzipped the bag and found hundred currency notes of Rs 1,000 denomination and 40 notes of Rs 500 denomination. While searching the bag, I found a bundle of prescriptions and medical bills. I could locate the man who had lost the money from one of the cell phone numbers from a medical bill, Ojha, who draws a monthly salary of Rs 22,000 from the private company said.
"The owner of the money bag broke down and sobbed like a child after I handed over the money. He blessed me and wished me success in life. That was worth more than the wads of currency notes", he concluded. Overwhelmed over his honesty, locals organised a function at Derabish to felicitate the Good Samaritan.
"He was not in favour of this felicitation function. But we decided to felicitate him so that others could draw inspiration from him", said Rabindra Samal, who presided over the function.
14:18 DMK chief Karunanidhi picks Tiruvarur for re-election
DMK president M Karunanidhi will be contesting the elections for the second time from Tiruvarur constituenc. He contested from this constituency for the first time in 2011.
The process of filing nominations will begin on April 22. He will file his nomination and begin his campaigning soon after that. A van has been customized for Karunanidhi who is wheelchair bound.
The process of filing nominations will begin on April 22. He will file his nomination and begin his campaigning soon after that. A van has been customized for Karunanidhi who is wheelchair bound.
14:11 SC to RBI on bad loans: You are the regulator, you must act as a watchdog
The Supreme Court asked the Reserve Bank of India how people were running away from the country in spite of defaulting on loans amounting to crores of rupees. You are the regulator and you must act as a watchdog, the court told the RBI.
The court's observations come nearly two weeks after the RBI submitted a list of defaulters owing Rs 500 crore or more to public sector banks.
While submitting the list, the RBI had said it was "extremely necessary' to keep these names confidential due to their "fiduciary relationship'.
RBI's affidavit was filed in response to a reply sought by a bench led by Chief Justice T S Thakur, which had last month taken suo motu cognizance of The Indian Express report that Rs 1.14 lakh crore of bad loans had been written off by state-owned banks between 2013 and 2015.
The bench had ordered the RBI to share with it names of all defaulters who owe over Rs 500 crore and continue to lead a "lavish lifestyle'.
The court's observations come nearly two weeks after the RBI submitted a list of defaulters owing Rs 500 crore or more to public sector banks.
While submitting the list, the RBI had said it was "extremely necessary' to keep these names confidential due to their "fiduciary relationship'.
RBI's affidavit was filed in response to a reply sought by a bench led by Chief Justice T S Thakur, which had last month taken suo motu cognizance of The Indian Express report that Rs 1.14 lakh crore of bad loans had been written off by state-owned banks between 2013 and 2015.
The bench had ordered the RBI to share with it names of all defaulters who owe over Rs 500 crore and continue to lead a "lavish lifestyle'.
14:06
India and the US have agreed in principle for a logistics support deal to help each other's military: Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.
14:05 Stealing neighbour's WiFi against Islam: Dubai religious body's fatwa
Dubai's top religious authorities say that stealing WiFi from your neighbor would not be proper Islamic conduct. That is according to a fatwa from Dubai's Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department. It was available online on the department's website on Monday as a response to a question asked by an anonymous reader.
The edict says: "There is nothing wrong in using the line if your neighbors allow you to do so, but if they'd don't allow you, you may not use it."
Like!
The edict says: "There is nothing wrong in using the line if your neighbors allow you to do so, but if they'd don't allow you, you may not use it."
Like!
13:55 The world is a better place because of people like this pilot
A pilot who turned back a plane preparing to take off at Manchester Airport so a couple could say goodbye to their dying grandson has been praised as "truly amazing". Becky Stephenson, a travel agent, said her two customers were preparing to set off for Australia via Abu Dhabi when they received the news that the boy was seriously ill. Read more
13:44 Delhi's babus go the smart card way
Digitisation is on in full swing in the Union government, especially for officials in Rashtrapati Bhavan and the Prime Minister's Office.
Officials above the rank of joint secretaries in the President's mansion and a few blocks and bhavans that house many Union ministries have been given a smart card for entry purposes.
The age old 'taala-chaavi' system has thus been given the go-by in many government departments in Delhi, with smart cards being used to open the official chambers of secretaries, additional secretaries and joint secretaries.
So zealous is this drive that officials often carry two smart cards, one for their official chambers and the other for the 'corner room' toilets.
13:42 'Guilty conscience on Kerala temple tragedy'
Columnist Mohan Guruswamy posted this on social media: 'The district administration in Kollam denied permission to have a fireworks display at the Puttingal temple.
'The local temple committee was RSS dominated and deliberately disobeyed the district administration.
'The DC and Kollam police chief were both Muslims and the RSS tried to browbeat them by giving the denial a sectarian twist.
'The RSS would have then turned it into a political handle on the eve of the State elections.
'The Congress state government buckled under the pressure. The PM knows about this and his hurried visit was meant more to deflect attention from the RSS.
'And a guilty conscience too.
'The unasked questions are: How come banned Chinese firecrackers were allowed to be imported? Arun Jaitely and Nirmala Sitaraman must answer.
'How come Oomen Chandy and Ramesh Chennitala didn't back up the district administration against the RSS dominated temple committee?
'No wonder the RSS and Congress are steering clear of attacking each other.'
13:36
Congratulations, Sania Mirza! @MirzaSania tweets: Humbled. Honoured. And truly thankful... #PadmaBhushan
13:23 7 temple officials surrender; Police grill them
Crime Branch Police officials are questioning the seven managing committee members of the Puttingal Devi Temple, who surrendered early today after going absconding since the fireworks tragedy that claimed 109 lives. While temple trust President, Jayalal, Secretary, J Krishnankutty, Shivaprasad, Surendran Pillai, Ravindran Pillai, surrendered before the Crime Branch police, two others -- Surendranathan Pillai and Murugesan -- were picked up by police this morning.
Police said, "they are being questioned" and a case had been registered against at least 20 persons, including the managing committee members and contractors of the fireworks display that went awry on early Sunday.
The authorities of the 100-year old temple had gone absconding soon after the ghastly tragedy, that also left more than a 1000 people injured. The Crime Branch had registered a case under Section 307 of the IPC (attempt to murder), 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide) of IPC and under section 4 of Explosives Substances Act in connection with the accident.
Police said, "they are being questioned" and a case had been registered against at least 20 persons, including the managing committee members and contractors of the fireworks display that went awry on early Sunday.
The authorities of the 100-year old temple had gone absconding soon after the ghastly tragedy, that also left more than a 1000 people injured. The Crime Branch had registered a case under Section 307 of the IPC (attempt to murder), 308 (attempt to commit culpable homicide) of IPC and under section 4 of Explosives Substances Act in connection with the accident.
13:12 Heat wave hits election campaign in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is facing a heat wave -- two persons are already dead and 15 have been affected by the heat stroke -- which has left political parties confused as to how to tailor their election campaign around it.
Be it the AIADMK or Vijayakanth's DMDK, election rallies are organised during the day time between 12 noon and 3 pm, when the sun is at its blazing best.
The reason for this timing, despite the heat, is that political leaders use helicopters to move around the state and security regulations dictate that the choppers should compulsorily take off before 5.30 pm.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa, image alongside, who many cite as the front-runner in the elections, has adopted a pattern to her campaign. She takes off from Chennai by helicopter to the interiors, and gets back to her Poes Garden residence in the capital by 6 pm.
Of course, because of the daytime heat wave, this schedule has caused much inconvenience to both the AIADMK cadres and also the public that throngs her meetings.
With just a month to go for the voting, how will the political parties alter their campaign timings? Wait and watch.
13:11
Belgium charges two new Brussels attacks suspects: prosecutors.
13:08 Cheers amid 'thank you' posters as water train reaches Latur
It was 12 hours late, it was carrying a smaller load than promised, but to the parched residents of Latur, it was a sight for sore eyes. Cheers filled the air as the water train finally entered the city early this morning carrying five lakh litres of water.
And then the posters appeared. Supporters of the ruling BJP climbed onto the train to plaster it with a poster thanking Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu for the intervention, reports NDTV.
Congress leaders, including the local mayor Akhtar Shaikh, who received the train said they deserve some recognition because the local corporation is run by their party.
At Latur station, the wagons were connected to plastic pipes which routed the water into a massive cement pipe freshly laid along the tracks. From there, the water flows into a massive well, owned by a local farmer and empty till this morning.
After filtering the water to make it fit for human consumption, the water will be sent in tankers to residents for whom this is much-needed relief. Nearly 50 lakh litres will be made available to five lakh residents of Latur.
Marathwada is facing one of its worst droughts in a century. Seven of the 11 major dams in the region have gone dry.
And then the posters appeared. Supporters of the ruling BJP climbed onto the train to plaster it with a poster thanking Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu for the intervention, reports NDTV.
Congress leaders, including the local mayor Akhtar Shaikh, who received the train said they deserve some recognition because the local corporation is run by their party.
At Latur station, the wagons were connected to plastic pipes which routed the water into a massive cement pipe freshly laid along the tracks. From there, the water flows into a massive well, owned by a local farmer and empty till this morning.
After filtering the water to make it fit for human consumption, the water will be sent in tankers to residents for whom this is much-needed relief. Nearly 50 lakh litres will be made available to five lakh residents of Latur.
Marathwada is facing one of its worst droughts in a century. Seven of the 11 major dams in the region have gone dry.
12:48 Hand grenade submitted as proof explodes inside Pak court
In an unusual incident, a hand grenade submitted as proof in a Pakistani anti-terrorism court on Monday accidentally went off in Karachi, injuring three persons.
The explosion took place in the court where the judge was presiding over a high-profile terror case.
The grenade was among weapons and explosives recovered from a suspect against which a case had been filed in the ATC for illegal possession of explosives.
"The police had submitted some explosive material in the court as property in the case and one hand grenade went off accidentally causing injuries and panic in the court when the policeman was recording his statement," he said.
The explosion took place in the court where the judge was presiding over a high-profile terror case.
The grenade was among weapons and explosives recovered from a suspect against which a case had been filed in the ATC for illegal possession of explosives.
"The police had submitted some explosive material in the court as property in the case and one hand grenade went off accidentally causing injuries and panic in the court when the policeman was recording his statement," he said.
12:33 Mythologising Veerappan...
First look at Ram Gopal Varma's 'Killing Veerappan', which sees Kannada star Shivaraj Kumar portray the role of a police officer while Sandeep Bharadwaj has played Veerappan. Varma tweets: He killed 97 policemen,184 people and 900 elephants..734 crores were spent to capture him @veerappanfirstlook
12:22 Afghan Taliban announce spring offencive
The Afghan Taliban have announced the start of their warm-weather fighting season, an annual declaration marking the launch of a violent summer. In an email to media organisations today, the militants said the so-called spring offencive had begun at 5 am.
The campaign, expected this year to be long and bloody, is called "Operation Omari" in honour of Taliban founder, Mullah Mohammad Omar, who died three years ago, the announcement said. It says waging jihad against the American invaders is a holy obligation. The war is in its 15th year. The group has been riven by infighting since Mullah Omar's death became public last summer.
New leader Mullah Akhtar Mansoor had run the insurgency in his name for more than two years. More than 11,000 civilians were killed or wounded in 2015.
The campaign, expected this year to be long and bloody, is called "Operation Omari" in honour of Taliban founder, Mullah Mohammad Omar, who died three years ago, the announcement said. It says waging jihad against the American invaders is a holy obligation. The war is in its 15th year. The group has been riven by infighting since Mullah Omar's death became public last summer.
New leader Mullah Akhtar Mansoor had run the insurgency in his name for more than two years. More than 11,000 civilians were killed or wounded in 2015.
11:55
Actor Priyanka Chopra was awarded the Padma Shri.
11:52
Tennis superstar Sania Mirza receives the Padma Bhushan.
11:52
President Pranab Mukherjee confers the Padma Vibhushan award on veteran actor Rajinikanth at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
11:44 Drought vs IPL: Will use treated sewage water, not tanker water, BCCI tells court
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday began hearing responses from Maharashtra and Vidarbha Cricket Association, the government of Maharashtra, and municipal corporations of Mumbai and Nagpur on a PIL filed against the use of water to maintain pitches for IPL tournaments.
In its reply in the Bombay HC, the Mumbai Cricket Association says only water provided by the Turf Club will be used. MCA's lawyer says, "This supply of water by RWITC will be sufficient for us to maintain pitches and will help us to tackle water crisis without using potable water. We have writted to the Turf Club to give us treated sewage water. Seven-eight tankers of treated water can be made available."
The lawyer representing the BCCI adds, "In 17 matches of IPL in Mumbai and Pune we will use recycled water. We will not use tanker water. As per some reports Kings XI Punjab franchise ready to shift three matches scheduled to be held in Nagpur to Mohali."
The State government says it will clear it's stand on IPL matches at 3 pm. Court asks petitioners to make Vidarbha Cricket Assn and Kings XI parties in the matter and has asked all petitioners to reply by 3pm today.
A total of 20 matches will be played in Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur. The final of the tourney, scheduled on May 29, will also be held at Wankhede Stadium.
The court was informed that nearly 60,000 litre water would be required every day to maintain pitches of stadiums where IPL matches were to be held.
In its reply in the Bombay HC, the Mumbai Cricket Association says only water provided by the Turf Club will be used. MCA's lawyer says, "This supply of water by RWITC will be sufficient for us to maintain pitches and will help us to tackle water crisis without using potable water. We have writted to the Turf Club to give us treated sewage water. Seven-eight tankers of treated water can be made available."
The lawyer representing the BCCI adds, "In 17 matches of IPL in Mumbai and Pune we will use recycled water. We will not use tanker water. As per some reports Kings XI Punjab franchise ready to shift three matches scheduled to be held in Nagpur to Mohali."
The State government says it will clear it's stand on IPL matches at 3 pm. Court asks petitioners to make Vidarbha Cricket Assn and Kings XI parties in the matter and has asked all petitioners to reply by 3pm today.
A total of 20 matches will be played in Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur. The final of the tourney, scheduled on May 29, will also be held at Wankhede Stadium.
The court was informed that nearly 60,000 litre water would be required every day to maintain pitches of stadiums where IPL matches were to be held.
11:21 If you have been lapping up news of the Will-Kate visit, remember this...
No amount of fawning media coverage of Prince Will and Kate's visit to India can cover up these sordid facts -- the Bengal famine of 1943 and the looted Kohinoor -- among others. Read
10:49 Terrorist linked to 26/11 attacks arrested in Europe posing as refugee
APakistani extremist linked to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks has reportedly been arrested in Austria on suspicion of planning attacks in Europe. The suspect is one of two men arrested in Salzburg, Austria posing as refugees on suspicion of planning attacks for Islamic State.
The 34-year-old man, who has not previously been identified, was named as Muhammad Ghani Usman by the Sunday Times. He is said to be a former bombmaker for Lashkar-e Tayiba, the Pakistani group behind the 2008 attacks in Mumbai, in which 164 people were killed.
10:37 Maharashtra farmers resort to distress sale of cattle
The Sunday markets in the villages bordering Beed and Aurangabad in Maharashtra are witnessing distress sale of cattle, with farmers resorting to desperate measures to cope with the acute shortage of fodder and water.
For some, the sale of cattle is important to wipe off debt, and others need money to perform marriages at home. Most farmers arriving at the markets had already lost some of their cattle to the searing drought, while others had run out of fodder and water.
Read more HERE
10:16 Jaish chief praises China, slams Nawaz Sharif
Referring to The Panama Papers, Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar has slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, saying "the ruling family has been exposed in its financial dealings in such a way that everybody is cursing them'.
The Al Qalam magazine of the Jaish-e-Mohammed has also praised "friend' China for "saving Masood Azhar' by blocking India's move at the United Nations to put him on a list of global terrorists.
When India and its paid agents were going after him, when Sharif government had registered a case against him in Gujranwala and was arresting his associates, when pro-India media (in Pakistan) was running a campaign against him, when supporting Masood Azhar inside Pakistan meant support for terrorism, China intervened and declined the Indian request to put him on the list of terrorists, Qari Naveed Masood Hashmi has written in an article headlined Moulana Masood Azhar se Darul Uloom Deoband Tak (from Masood Azhar to Darul Uloom Deoband).
09:51 No problem saying Bharat Mata Ki Jai: Delhi L-G Najeeb Jung
Lieutenant governor Najeeb Jung said he had no problem in saying Bharat Mata Ki Jai but argued that refusal to chant the slogan doesn't make any Indian 'anti-national'.
Making a distinction between worshipping God and one's country, Jung said: "We are happy to say 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' or 'Madre Vatan''. But one may refuse to chant Bharat Mata Ki Jai, that doesn't make one anti-national.'
Jung said politicians who say Indians not chanting Bharat Mata Ki Jai had no right to live in this country needed to be ignored.
Read more HERE
09:18 Massive fire at residential complex in Mumbai, 80 feared trapped
A massive fire has broken out in a residential complex in Bhiwandi area of Mumbai. More than 80 people are feared to be trapped inside the four-storey building.
More details are awaited.
09:15 Indias 2016 monsoon rains seen above average: Skymet
India's annual monsoon rains are likely to be above average, the country's only private weather forecaster said on Monday, snapping two straight years of drought that cut farm output and farmers' income.
The July to September monsoon delivers nearly 70 per cent of annual rains and waters half of India's farmlands that lack irrigation facilities. Monsoon rains are expected to be 105 per cent above a long-term average, with a 35 per cent probability of above average rainfall, Skymet said in a statement.
09:10
JUST IN: US Defence Secretary Ash Carter to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today.
08:41 Veenu Paliwal, Indias top woman biker, dies in road accident in MP
Veenu Paliwal, one of the top woman bikers in the country, died in a road accident in Madhya Pradesh's Vidisha district on Monday evening.
The 44-year-old Jaipur resident was on a nationwide tour on her Harley Davidson motorcycle along with fellow biker Dipesh Tanwar, who was on another vehicle.
Paliwal died after her bike skid off a road near Gyaraspur, 100 km from state capital Bhopal. She was rushed to a primary health centre and then to the Vidisha district hospital, where doctors declared her brought dead, police said.
08:29 India to raise its first Tejas squadron in July
India will get its Tejas fighter squadron -- indigenously built Combat Aircraft -- on July 1, with two planes. The squadron will be based in in Tamil Nadu's Sulur.
Another two fighters are expected in the next financial year, 2016-17, a senior Air Force commander was quoted as saying.
The first two Tejas fighters, however, won't be used for operations now. They will undergo test flights to resolve certain flaws. The clearance for operations is expected in December.
07:58 'Water Express' reaches parched Latur after 18 hour journey
A special train carrying around five lakh litres of water for parched Latur in Marathwada region,which is battling the worst drought ever, reached the destination after 18 hours this morning.
The 'water train' with 10 wagons carrying water for Latur had left from Miraj in western Maharashtra at around 11 am yesterday and reached Latur at 5 am today, taking 18 hours to traverse a distance of around 350 kilometres.
"The first batch of ten wagons, each with a capacity of around 50,000 litres, were filled with water at Miraj railway station in Sangli district," said Chief spokesperson ofCentral Railway Narendra Patil.
The district administration has acquired a huge well located near Latur railway station to store the water which will then be supplied to Latur town.
07:40 Kollam fire: 5 temple office-bearers who had gone missing surrender
Five officials of Kerala's Puttingal Devi temple, who were reportedly missing after a massive fire ravaged the crowd during a fireworks display in Kollam district, have surrendered.
Hundred and nine people were killed in the tragedy. Over 10,000 people were present at the temple, about 70 kilometres from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram, to watch a fireworks display at a major annual festival late on Saturday night, which went awry and led to a massive blaze.
Police have registered a case of attempt to murder against the five officials.
03:53 'My worst mistake was lack of planning after toppling Gaddafi in Libya'
United States President Barack Obama said on Monday that the worst mistake of his presidency was a lack of planning for the aftermath of the 2011 toppling of Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi.
"Probably failing to plan for the day after what I think was the right thing to do in intervening in Libya," he said in a Fox News interview aired on Monday.
This is not the first time in recent weeks he has talked about Libya and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation-led intervention, which resulted in Gaddafi's death in October 2011, months after the NATO first intervened.
Read full report HERE.
"Probably failing to plan for the day after what I think was the right thing to do in intervening in Libya," he said in a Fox News interview aired on Monday.
This is not the first time in recent weeks he has talked about Libya and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation-led intervention, which resulted in Gaddafi's death in October 2011, months after the NATO first intervened.
Read full report HERE.
03:09 Here's the Donald Trump guide to the rest of world
World leaders tend to stay out of United States presidential elections; they rarely comment on candidates yet even to receive their party's nomination.
But previous elections didn't feature Donald Trump, the man who during a presidential debate made an impassioned defense of his penis.
The irony is that Trump is a true man of the world: quite simply, other countries are essential to his businesses, his personal life, even his birth.
It's time to visit the nations that have made The Donald such a unique American.
C'mon, everyone, hop aboard Trump Air -- actually, it's probably best to find analternative form of transportation -- and see the world Trump-style!
Read HERE
But previous elections didn't feature Donald Trump, the man who during a presidential debate made an impassioned defense of his penis.
The irony is that Trump is a true man of the world: quite simply, other countries are essential to his businesses, his personal life, even his birth.
It's time to visit the nations that have made The Donald such a unique American.
C'mon, everyone, hop aboard Trump Air -- actually, it's probably best to find analternative form of transportation -- and see the world Trump-style!
Read HERE
02:07 Canada to formally apologise for 1914 Komagata Maru tragedy
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday said he will 'formally apologise' for Canada's refusal to allow entry to Komagata Maru, a ship carrying 376 immigrants, mostly Sikhs, from India in 1914 due to 'discriminatory laws of the time'.
Speaking at the Baisakhi celebration in Ottawa, Trudeau said that the Komagata Maru's passengers were seeking refuge and better lives, 'like millions of immigrants to Canada since'.
"With so much to contribute to their new home, they chose Canada. And we failed them utterly," the prime minister said, adding that the passengers were refused entry to Canada due to 'discriminatory laws of the time'.
"As a nation, we should never forget the prejudice suffered by the Sikh community at the hands of the Canadian government of the day. We should not and we will not," Trudeau said at the Gurdwara Sahib Ottawa Sikh Society.
He further said that he will 'formally apologise' on May 18 in the House of Commons, 102 years after the infamous incident, Toronto Star reported.
The Japanese steamship Komagata Maru, carrying 376 immigrants, mostly Sikhs, from India was denied entry by the Canadian government in May 1914 and was forced to return to India.
Two months later, the ship arrived in Calcutta where British soldiers fired upon the disembarking passengers in which 19 people died.
Speaking at the Baisakhi celebration in Ottawa, Trudeau said that the Komagata Maru's passengers were seeking refuge and better lives, 'like millions of immigrants to Canada since'.
"With so much to contribute to their new home, they chose Canada. And we failed them utterly," the prime minister said, adding that the passengers were refused entry to Canada due to 'discriminatory laws of the time'.
"As a nation, we should never forget the prejudice suffered by the Sikh community at the hands of the Canadian government of the day. We should not and we will not," Trudeau said at the Gurdwara Sahib Ottawa Sikh Society.
He further said that he will 'formally apologise' on May 18 in the House of Commons, 102 years after the infamous incident, Toronto Star reported.
The Japanese steamship Komagata Maru, carrying 376 immigrants, mostly Sikhs, from India was denied entry by the Canadian government in May 1914 and was forced to return to India.
Two months later, the ship arrived in Calcutta where British soldiers fired upon the disembarking passengers in which 19 people died.
01:15 Ex-army chief J J Singh gets highest French civilian honour
Former army chief General J J Singh (retd) was on Monday conferred with the highest French civilian distinction, Officer of the Legion of Honour.
Singh was chosen for the honour in recognition of his 'stellar role' in modernising the Indian Army and initiating robust exchanges between the Indian and French armies leading to 'unprecedented' levels of cooperation and inter-operability and creation of enduring ties and promotion of mutual understanding between the two countries, the French Embassy said.
'Officier de l'Ordre national de la Legion d'Honneur' is the highest civilian award given by the French Republic for outstanding service to France, regardless of the nationality of the recipients.
Singh was conferred the honour by French Ambassador to India Francois Richier. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy and holder of a master's degree in Defence Science, Singh was commissioned into the 9th Maratha Light Infantry on August 2, 1964.
In January, 2003, he was appointed as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army Training Command and took over as Army Commander - Western Command in January, 2004.
On January 31, 2005, Singh assumed the office of Chief of Army Staff.
Singh was chosen for the honour in recognition of his 'stellar role' in modernising the Indian Army and initiating robust exchanges between the Indian and French armies leading to 'unprecedented' levels of cooperation and inter-operability and creation of enduring ties and promotion of mutual understanding between the two countries, the French Embassy said.
'Officier de l'Ordre national de la Legion d'Honneur' is the highest civilian award given by the French Republic for outstanding service to France, regardless of the nationality of the recipients.
Singh was conferred the honour by French Ambassador to India Francois Richier. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy and holder of a master's degree in Defence Science, Singh was commissioned into the 9th Maratha Light Infantry on August 2, 1964.
In January, 2003, he was appointed as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army Training Command and took over as Army Commander - Western Command in January, 2004.
On January 31, 2005, Singh assumed the office of Chief of Army Staff.
00:43 Curfew clamped in Tinsukia, tea tribes' body calls bandh
Indefinite curfew was imposed in Pangeree police station area in upper Assam's Tinsukia district on Monday following the death of 11 persons after a high voltage electric wire fell on them when police fired in air to disperse them.
District Deputy Commissioner Puru Gupta has issued the order promulgating curfew from 5 pm until further notice.
Meanwhile, a 48-hour Tinsukia district bandh from 7 am on Tuesday has been called by the All Assam Tea Tribes Students Association to protest against the incident where the victims were from the tea tribe community.
Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident and appealed the people to exercise restraint and maintain peace and tranquility, besides asking the Tinsukia deputy commissioner to maintain law and order.
District Deputy Commissioner Puru Gupta has issued the order promulgating curfew from 5 pm until further notice.
Meanwhile, a 48-hour Tinsukia district bandh from 7 am on Tuesday has been called by the All Assam Tea Tribes Students Association to protest against the incident where the victims were from the tea tribe community.
Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident and appealed the people to exercise restraint and maintain peace and tranquility, besides asking the Tinsukia deputy commissioner to maintain law and order.
00:09 RSS, not BJP, runs the country, says Rahul in Nagpur
Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi on Monday took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government, saying that it is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh which is running the nation and not the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Rahul, while addressing a rally in Nagpur, said, "Look at the whole bureaucracy, nowadays it is not the ministers who are running the nation but it is the RSS appoints OSDs (officers of special duty) in ministries and runs the nation."
"They attack me because they know I will never surrender before the ideology of the RSS and Manu," he added.
Rahul was addressing a rally marking the 125th birth anniversary celebrations of the architect of the Indian Constitution Dr B R Ambedkar later in the day.
The BJP, meanwhile, hit back at Rahul, saying that despite his family's 'campaign' against the Hindutva organisation it has gone from strength to strength.
It also asked him to introspect on the electoral reverses of Congress and why party leaders were leaving the organisation and did not have 'faith' in his leadership.
"The RSS has been attacked for decades by Rahul Gandhi's family. They ran a campaign against it but RSS has only gone from strength to strength. The more he will target it, the more it will grow. Rahul suffers from RSS phobia," said BJP national secretary Shrikant Sharma.
Rahul, while addressing a rally in Nagpur, said, "Look at the whole bureaucracy, nowadays it is not the ministers who are running the nation but it is the RSS appoints OSDs (officers of special duty) in ministries and runs the nation."
"They attack me because they know I will never surrender before the ideology of the RSS and Manu," he added.
Rahul was addressing a rally marking the 125th birth anniversary celebrations of the architect of the Indian Constitution Dr B R Ambedkar later in the day.
The BJP, meanwhile, hit back at Rahul, saying that despite his family's 'campaign' against the Hindutva organisation it has gone from strength to strength.
It also asked him to introspect on the electoral reverses of Congress and why party leaders were leaving the organisation and did not have 'faith' in his leadership.
"The RSS has been attacked for decades by Rahul Gandhi's family. They ran a campaign against it but RSS has only gone from strength to strength. The more he will target it, the more it will grow. Rahul suffers from RSS phobia," said BJP national secretary Shrikant Sharma.
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