BJP Leader Devender Singh Rana Dies At 59

Senior BJP leader and Nagrota MLA Devender Singh Rana, brother of Union minister Jitendra Singh, died on Thursday at a private hospital in Haryana's Faridabad. He was 59.

According to a senior BJP leader, Rana was undergoing treatment at the hospital. He is survived by his wife, Gunjan Rana, their daughters Devyani and Ketki, and son Adhiraj Singh.

As the news of Rana's death spread, hundreds of people, including political leaders, gathered at his residence in the Gandhinagar area of Jammu. Union Minister Jitendra Singh also rushed to his house.

Rana, who turned to politics from business as he built a multi-crore business from scratch, was a strong voice for Jammu's Dogra community.

Rana was recently re-elected to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly from the Nagrota segment of Jammu district, securing the seat for a second term.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed shock and grief over Rana's sudden demise. "In his passing, we have lost a patriotic and widely respected leader who was committed to the well-being of the people of J&K. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti," the LG's office posted on X.

Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary also expressed condolences. "This news is especially disheartening on an auspicious day (Diwali). My condolences are extended to his family and PMO @DrJitendraSingh ji on the loss of his younger brother. Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti," Mr Choudhary wrote on X.

PDP chief and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti also offered her condolences. "Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Devender Rana Ji. Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones," Mufti said on X.

The Jammu and Kashmir BJP said his untimely demise is a great loss to the party and to the people of J&K. "His contribution and dedication to society will always be remembered. May his soul rest in peace, and may God provide strength to his family to bear this irreparable loss," the party posted on X.

Congress National General Secretary and MLA Ghulam Ahmed Mir expressed his shock and sorrow over Rana's death.

"My heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, and friends of the deceased. Having interacted with him in politics and beyond, Rana was a great, supportive, and visionary leader, an entrepreneur whose business acumen created opportunities for many in J&K," Ghulam Ahmed Mir wrote on X.

Other political leaders including Sajad Lone, Junaid Matoo, Sunil Sharma, Tarun Chugh, Sham Lal Sharma, Choudhary Zulfikar Ali also offered their condolences on Rana's passing.

Once a trusted lieutenant of National Conference leader Omar Abdullah and his political advisor during his previous tenure as chief minister, Rana held considerable sway among Muslims, particularly the Gujjar community in Jammu.

Born into a Dogra family in Jammu's Doda district in 1965, he was the son of former bureaucrat Rajinder Singh Rana and the brother of Union Minister Jitendra Singh.

After earning a degree in civil engineering from NIT Kurukshetra, Rana ventured into business, founding his own automobile company. He led the creation of the Jamkash Vehicleades Group, a multi-crore enterprise, and a cable TV channel from scratch, establishing himself as a top entrepreneur in Jammu and Kashmir.

Rana began his political career with the National Conference (NC), where he rose to prominence as a key strategist and advisor, expanding the party's base in Jammu as Provincial President.

As a trusted aide to Omar Abdullah, he played a significant role in shaping party strategies in Jammu. In his debut bid for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Rana contested from the Nagrota assembly segment -- a BJP stronghold -- and won it for the NC, defeating the BJP's Jugal Kishore Sharma, a three-time MP.

This victory underscored his ability to connect with a diverse voter base. He had previously served as an MLC and as NC's Provincial President since 2009.

After the abrogation of Article 370, Rana became a vocal advocate for the Jammu Declaration, calling for statehood restoration specifically for the Jammu region. His stance clashed with the People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration, a coalition seeking the restoration of Article 370 and statehood for the entire Jammu and Kashmir region.

In October 2021, after more than two decades with the NC, Rana resigned and joined the BJP. His deep roots in the Jammu region and close connections with local communities made him a prominent figure in J&K politics, particularly for the BJP. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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पुरानी रंजिश को लेकर दिवाली पर युवक की बेरहमी से हत्या, पुलिस के फूले हाथ-पांव

Jhalawar News : झालावाड़ के पथरिया गांव में दिवाली के मौक पर आपसी रंजिश में एक युवक की बेरहमी से हत्या कर दी गई. वारदात की सूचना मिलते ही पुलिस सारे काम छोड़कर पथरिया गांव भागी और हालात को संभाला. आरोपियों का फिलहाल कोई सुराग नहीं लग पाया है. पुलिस उनकी तलाश कर रही है.

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इस पेड़ में है ब्रह्मा, विष्णु और महेश का वास, दवाइयों का है भंडार

धर्म विशेषज्ञ चंद्रप्रकाश ढांढण ने बताया कि ये पेड़ सुख समृद्धि देने वाला पेड़ माना जाता है. यह पेड़ अक्सर मंदिरों में लगाया जाता है. जैन धर्म में भी इस पेड़ का महत्व है तीर्थंकर ऋषभदेव बरगद के पेड़ के नीचे बैठकर तपस्या की थी.

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Belgian Paraglider Dies After Mid-Air Collision In Himachal's Bir-Billing

A Belgian paraglider was killed after colliding with another paraglider mid-air in Himachal Pradesh's Bir-Billing as his parachute failed to open after the crash, officials said on Wednesday.

The accident took place on Tuesday, four days ahead of the week-long paragliding World Cup 2024 commencing in Bir-Billing in Kangra district on November 2.

The two paragliders collided mid-air, leading to the death of Feyarets, a Belgian, while the other paraglider from Poland sustained injuries. Feyarets was a free-flying paraglider in his mid-60s, the officials said.

Ten paragliders were flying simultaneously and two of them crashed with each other mid-air. Feyarets died as his reserved parachute did not open after the crash, Vinay Dhiman, Deputy Director, Tourism, Kangra, told PTI.

Chances of accidents increase when free-fliers venture into high-risk zones or inner valleys with little knowledge of the topography and local wind conditions, Mr Dhiman said, adding, "We are in the process of documenting the thermals in the Bir-Billing area with the help of experts to reduce the probability of accidents while flying." This is not the first time that tragedy has struck the famed slopes of Bir-Billing, considered to be a paragliders' paradise.

In October last year, Polish paraglider Andrez died during a solo flight.

Kangra Superintendent of Police Shalini Agnihotri said police have directed authorities to register paragliders, adhere to the designated routes and ensure that they do not fly over military areas.

"A proposal to install special towers in high mountains to pin-point the crash sites in case of accidents is in the pipeline," said Avinash Negi, director of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS) in Manali.

The World Cup from November 2 to November 9 will see 130 paragliders from 50 countries participate. 

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"Most Difficult Stage": Russia Begins Nuclear Drill, West Plans Response

Russia's nuclear forces today began a special exercise after orders were received from President Vladimir Putin. The move comes at a critical point in the Ukraine war after senior officials in Moscow termed it the "most difficult phase".

This is the second such military exercise initiated by Putin in a fortnight and the West-led NATO alliance is still unsure of how to deal with the escalating situation. The rise in tensions began after western forces, led by the US were planning to allow Ukraine the use of long-range ballistic missiles to target territories deep inside Russia.

Moscow has made it clear to the 'West' that if such a move was made by Ukraine with the backing of the West, Russia would consider the use of its nukes to defend the motherland.

The Kremlin had said that its updated nuclear doctrine, approved by Putin last month, will allow Moscow to use nukes against non-nuclear states should be seen as a warning to the West.

Launching the nuclear weapons drill today, President Putin said, "We will work out the actions of officials to control the use of nuclear weapons with practical launches of ballistic and cruise missiles."

"We will work out the actions of officials to control the use of nuclear weapons with practical launches of ballistic and cruise missiles," President Putin said in a clip from the launch, adding that, "Using nuclear weapons would be an "extremely exceptional measure" but they need to be kept ready for use.

Putin, however, said that "We are not going to get involved in a new arms race, but we will maintain nuclear forces at the level of necessary sufficiency."

WHAT THE 'WEST' SAYS

The NATO has slammed Russia over reports that North Korea has sent troops to the western parts of the country to battle in Ukraine.

The Pentagon has said that North Korea is sending at least 10,000 troops to Russia while Ukraine's Zelensky claims the number could be well beyond 12,000.

"We believe that the DPRK has sent around 10,000 soldiers in total to train in eastern Russia that will probably augment Russian forces near Ukraine over the next several weeks," Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters.

"A portion of those soldiers have already moved closer to Ukraine, and we are increasingly concerned that Russia intends to use these soldiers in combat or to support combat operations against Ukrainian forces in Russia's Kursk Oblast," Sabrina Singh said.

Vladimir Putin has said that what Russia plans to do about its defence is purely "Russia's business". He also said that if Ukraine took a decision to join NATO, even Russia can choose to do "whatever it wants".

NUCLEAR DRILLS TODAY, NUCLEAR WAR TOMORROW?

The Russian military has started its latest drill today. This follows a similar exercise that happened in the country's Tver region, which lies to the northwest of Moscow. Among other equipment used, there was also a unit equipped with the Yars Inter-Continental Ballistic Missiles or ICBMs, which are capable of striking every corner of the US.

Russia is the world's largest nuclear power. Together, Russia and the US control 88% of the world's nuclear warheads. Vladimir Putin, who portrays the West as a decadent aggressor, and US President Joe Biden, who casts Russia as a corrupt autocracy, have both warned that a direct Russia-NATO confrontation could escalate into World War III. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has also warned of the risk of nuclear war.

"Given the growing geopolitical tensions and the emergence of new external threats and risks, it is important to have modern and constantly ready-to-use strategic forces," Putin said, adding that Russia was moving to new "stationary and mobile-based missile systems" which have a reduced launch preparation time and could overcome missile defence systems.

"The US will not impose new limits on Ukraine's use of American weapons if North Korea joins Russia's war," the Pentagon has said.
 

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CEO Challenges Job Applicants With 3-Second Brain Teaser During Interviews

Brain teasers are widely enjoyed for their ability to stimulate the mind and keep it sharp. A recent Reddit post drew significant attention and sparked a lively discussion among users. The post, shared by Reddit user Back4breakfast, featured a screenshot from Dino Dionne, CEO of Genesis Capital Group.

Mr Dionne revealed that he poses a brain teaser to every job candidate during interviews. He said, "If you want the #Job, you have 3 seconds to give the correct answer. You wouldn't believe the excuses I've heard from people who either gave the wrong answer or couldn't answer at all! My 6-year-old solved it in 30 seconds."

The brain teaser presented was a mathematical expression: 3*3-3/3+3, labelled as "Only for Genius." This simple yet tricky equation has since become a hot topic across social media. 

Since the post's upload, it has received over 2.8k likes and generated more than 3.1k comments.

See the viral post here:

If you're able to work out this sum, you have a job! Simples!
byu/Back4breakfast inLinkedInLunatics

A user wrote, "Not knowing basic maths will get you all sorts of answers. I can't help but think of someone who gave the correct answer (11, if my quick look wasn't wrong) and were told "no, it's 1" mid-interview. Like, "is this a test? are you testing what I'll do when my boss is wrong about something? or are you just an idiot?"

Another user commented, "How low is the bar to work at that guy's company? I wish the technical questions asked of me in interviews amounted to 3rd grade math problems."

The third user wrote, "I can't believe I didn't get this right! How did I miss the order of operations?"

The fourth user commented, "Honestly, it's a bit unfair to give this under pressure- who can think clearly in 3 seconds?"

The fifth user wrote, "Oh look! It's Facebook but from 2010!"

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Premier League: Salah Scores Late As Liverpool Rescue A Point vs Arsenal

Arsenal vs Liverpool Highlights, Premier League 2024-25:  Mohamed Salah struck nine minutes from time as Liverpool twice came from behind to draw 2-2 at Premier League title rivals Arsenal on Sunday. Bukayo Saka opened the scoring for Arsenal but Virgil Van Djik equalised to bring Liverpool back into the game. Mikel Merino handed Arsenal the lead once again as he played his first goal for the club but Salah's goal meant that the points were shared. A point leaves Arsenal five points adrift of leaders Manchester City and four behind second-placed Liverpool. (Match-Centre)

Here are the Highlights of Premier League match between Arsenal and Liverpool -

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BJP MP Tejasvi Surya Completes Ironman Challenge. PM Modi Reacts

BJP MP Tejasvi Surya completed the Ironman 70.3 challenge today. The triathlon challenge that was held in Goa comprised 1.9 km of swimming, 90 km of cycling, and 21.1 km of running with the participants travelling up to 113 kilometres (or 70.3 miles) during the whole event. With the feat, the 33-year-old became the first parliamentarian to participate in the event.

The Bengaluru South MP credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Fit India' movement as the inspiration that led him to take up the challenge. The achievement drew praise from PM Modi himself who wrote on X, "Commendable feat! I am sure this will inspire many more youngsters to pursue fitness-related activities".

Mr Surya said he trained rigorously over the last four months to improve his fitness.

"As a young nation chasing big ambitions, we must nurture our physical fitness and become a more healthier nation. An endeavour to become fit also makes you more disciplined and confident, which improves chances of your success in any venture that you undertake," he posted on X.

Commendable feat!

I am sure this will inspire many more youngsters to pursue fitness related activities. https://t.co/zDTC0RtHL7

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 27, 2024

"As a finisher in this daunting challenge, I can attest to the young folks that fitness goals really push your boundaries, and make you a better individual. I appeal all fence sitters and perpetual planners to hop onto this journey and make progress," he added.

In 2022, Tejasvi Surya participated in the Ironman 70.3 Goa as part of a relay team, completing the 90 km cycling segment.

The premier event for athletes and fitness enthusiasts has attracted athletes from more than 50 countries. This year's race also featured over 120 competitors from Central and State Government services, with women making up 12-15 per cent of the athlete base. Remarkably, over 60 per cent of this year's participants are first-time competitors, underscoring the event's significant role in expanding the triathlon community in India.

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Jharkhand Minister Charged For 'Derogatory Remarks' Against Sita Soren

Jharkhand Additional Chief Electoral Officer Neha Arora on Saturday said that an FIR has been registered against Jharkhand Minister Irfan Ansari for allegedly making derogatory remarks about BJP leader Sita Soren in Jamtara district.

"An FIR has been registered in Jamtara district for violating MCC (model code of conduct) provisions. A strict advisory has also been issued to all the political parties in this regard," Neha Arora said.

Union Minister Annapurna Devi said the statement made by Irfan Ansari exposes the mentality of the Congress party.

"He (Irfan Ansari) has given a very wrong statement on Sita Soren. This exposes the mentality of the Congress party. The Congress party is anti-women and anti-youth...I condemn this statement...Will Rahul Gandhi take back the tickets given to people with such a low level of thinking? The Congress party should remove such people from the cabinet," Annapurna Devi said.

Sita Soren said she was unable to understand how people like Mr Ansari get the courage to make such statements.

"I am unable to understand where he gets the courage to make such statements. Who is giving him the courage to make such statements, because no one has ever made such statements against me in Jharkhand...The party has informed the Election Commission about his statement. We will not forgive him...The entire tribal population is angry," the BJP leader said.

Another BJP leader, Ragini Singh, said insulting women is the policy of the Congress party.

"This is his mentality. It is the policy of Congress to comment on a woman but BJP policy is to respect all the women whether they are from the Congress or the BJP," Ms Singh said.

Irfan Ansari, the Congress candidate from the Jamtara constituency, stirred controversy with his remarks about Sita Soren, his opponent from the seat.

On Friday, Sita Soren posted a video on X, claiming that the Congress leader referred to her as "rejected" and a "borrowed player" while responding to a journalist's question about competing against her in the upcoming election.

The BJP leader also demanded an apology from Mr Ansari for using "indecent language" against her, stating that the public would respond to him.

"Congress @INCIndia candidate Irfan Ansari must apologise for the indecent language he used against me in front of the media immediately after filing his nomination. He has previously made personal comments about me, but this time he has crossed all limits. Irfan ji @IrfanAnsariMLA, apologise, or be prepared for fierce opposition," she posted on X.

"The indecent words you used while holding such a respected position have alarmed women across society. If you can use such words for me, what must poor and vulnerable women face? As long as such leaders remain in power, women will remain unsafe. The time has come to remove them from power. The way you look at women is now before the public, and the public will respond," the BJP leader added.

The BJP will contest the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections in alliance with the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU), Janata Dal (United), and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP). The BJP will contest 68 seats, AJSU 10, JDU two, and the LJP from one seat.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"You Need To Score": Rohit SAnd Co. Delivered Strong Message By Management

The batters' constant failure in making runs in the first innings is costing the team dear, admitted bowling coach Morne Morkel even as India are in danger of losing the first Test series at home since 2012-13. After getting bundled out for an abysmal 46 in the first innings of the opening Test, India were skittled out for a mere 156 in the first essay of second Test in Pune on Friday as New Zealand took firm control of the match. "I never like to have a punch up between batters and bowlers but, in Test match cricket you need to score the first innings runs," Morkel told the media during the post-day press meet.

"If we put our hand up, we haven't been able to do that. There are world class players in our batting line up. I know that individually, they've got their processes and they know how to go about those things," he added.

Morkel hoped to see a better outing from Indian batters in the second innings.

“Hopefully, we can iron those mistakes out because it's costing us at the moment — not getting the runs on the board — but I'm pretty sure there's enough experience, enough knowledge amongst them to rectify that,” he added.

“I back the team (to come up) with a strong response in our second innings. I'm excited to see how they bounce back and how they play this situation and the conditions,” he said.

Morkel said India will have to maintain belief and back their knowledge of the conditions to avert losing the match and the series.

"We have to believe. This game is a funny game. Our guys are attacking players, there's guys that know these conditions well. Our talk before this game was that we are masters in these conditions, we know how to sum these conditions up,” he said.

“Let's be honest, it's going to be a tough task. But what an opportunity for somebody to really inspire and put in a fighting and a top performance — that's the way I see it.

“When conditions are tricky and tough you'll see real people stand up and fight and if we show that fight and somebody gets the momentum going in these conditions, you never know,” he said.

Morkel said the hosts wanted to see off the overs on Day One when they reached 16/1 in 11 overs and then find momentum on Day Two.

“I think they (New Zealand) bowled very well in partnership. Watching from the outside, it was very hard for us to rotate strike, to keep the scoreboard ticking,” he said.

“In these sort of conditions where the ball is turning and asking a lot of questions, it is important to do that.

"The pace that (Mitchell) Santner bowled today in particular, was spot on for this surface. On Day Two, arriving here this morning being one down, our camp was very confident that we were going to bat big but unfortunately we just couldn't get that momentum going,” he added.

Morkel praised New Zealand for coming to this tour well-prepared.

“I must give credit to New Zealand. The way they've adapted to conditions, the way they've sort of blocked out what is in front of them and just played the game, it's been incredible so far in this series,” he said.

“Definitely in Bangalore and here, playing those sessions, playing those important moments they've done it better than us at the moment.” “And that's one of the reasons why they're on top of this game at the moment. They're creating pressure with the ball. They're putting our bowlers under pressure by sweeping and reverse-sweeping well.

“They're a team that plans well, they go into tours and really leave no stone unturned so I'm not surprised by the way they're playing at the moment,” he added.

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156.7 Kmph Pacer To Play In Place Of Shami? Australia Great's Big Advice

Mayank Yadav should be on the plane to Australia if Mohammed Shami is not available for selection, asserted Brett Lee, one of the most devastatingly destructive bowlers, who has high hopes from the Indian pace sensation on the true, bouncy wickets Down Under. Aiming to qualify for a third successive World Test Championship (WTC) final, India will be travelling to Australia next month to defend the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and doubts remain over seasoned seamer Shami's selection in the squad for the five-match Test series. "I can tell you that batters are okay when you bowl that 135-140 kmph speed, but when you bowl high 150s, I don't care who it is, no one wants to face that."

"He looks like someone who is a complete package, if Mohammed Shami is not ready, at least get him (Mayank) in the squad. I think he would do pretty well on these Australian wickets," Lee told Fox Cricket.

Shami has not played since featuring in the final of the ODI World Cup last November, and even though he went full tilt at the nets recently, India skipper Rohit Sharma is averse to taking an "undercooked" version of the seamer to Australia.

Former Aussie pacer Lee knows a thing or two about batters' discomfort while standing up to express pace.

Lee said, "The great thing is with me that I get to work on the IPL and see a lot of good young Indian cricketers. Mayank Yadav, to watch his first IPL game recently, hit 157 kmph first up in his first game.

"Unfortunately, his franchise probably brought him a little early and he did his side again.

"They put him in cotton wool for a bit. The great thing about India is that they are not worried about how much cricket someone has played or hasn't played, if he is ready to go, get him in there. I actually love that theory," Lee added.

India boast of a world-class bowling attack that can trouble the Australian batters in their own den, and Lee acknowledged that.

"Ashwin is approaching 600 wickets, he has got that beautiful shape when he bowls spin. He can bowl with the new ball as well but I think if India have to win there, then Shami (provided he is fit) can definitely hold the key.

"Jasprit Bumrah, we all know how good he is, he can bowl both ways, he is a great exponent of reverse swing. Mohammed Siraj knows how to make the new ball talk.

"On wickets like Perth, Adelaide, for me it's the combination, these three fast bowlers with Ashwin as the spinner. Then they have got options with guys like who are part-time spinners. But you need to have those three quicks firing if India wants to win," Lee said.

'India don't want to bow down'

Lee described the Indian team as a "powerhouse that don't want to bow down" to anyone, cautioning his compatriots who will take on the Asian giants from November 22.

Lee's remarks came after India's eight-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the Bengaluru Test earlier this week.

"This day and age, India is a powerhouse that don't want to bow down. They know how to win, and they know they can beat Australia; they know they can beat the Kiwis. They know they can beat anyone on any given day," Lee said.

Commenting on India's outing in the Bengaluru Test against the Kiwis, Lee felt that they might have got influenced by 'Bazball', leading to playing some loose shots.

"India just didn't go into their shell. Maybe it's Bazball brushing off on other cricketers around the world," he noted.

"I know that India won't be proud of the way they played. They played some pretty loose shots." India's decision to bat first in overcast conditions raised eyebrows, as the team was bowled out for 46 in the first innings of the opening Test, its lowest Test score at home.

Lee said the side needs to "weigh up the risk factor" and added the Indians should have judged the conditions better.

"But, you've got to weigh up the risk factor as well. There are times when you've got to go, 'Okay, well, maybe the big shots aren't working today'.

"Maybe, just rein it in a little bit. I don't think they sort of summed up the conditions as quickly as what they should have done," Lee said.

India play two more Tests against New Zealand -- Pune (October 24-28) and Mumbai (November 1-5) -- before leaving for Australia.

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"BRICS Is For The Fairies Until China, India Get Serious," Says Mr 'BRICS'

The idea of the BRICS group ever challenging the US dollar is for the fairies as long as China and India remain so divided and refuse to cooperate on trade, the former Goldman Sachs economist who came up with the BRIC acronym told Reuters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is using the summit of BRICS leaders to show that Western attempts to isolate Russia over the Ukraine war have failed and that Russia is building ties with the rising powers of Asia.

Then-Goldman Sachs chief economist Jim O'Neill introduced the term BRIC in 2001 in a research paper that underlined the massive growth potential of Brazil, Russia, India and China - and the need to reform global governance to include them.

"The idea that the BRICS can be some genuine global economic club, it's obviously a bit out there with the fairies in the same way that the G7 can be, and it's very disturbing that they see themselves as some kind of alternative global thing, because it's obviously not feasible," O'Neill told Reuters.

"It seems to me basically to be a symbolic annual gathering where important emerging countries, particularly noisy ones like Russia, but also China, can basically get together and highlight how good it is to be part of something that doesn't involve the US and that global governance isn't good enough."

O'Neill, who admitted he would "have Mr BRICS stamped on my forehead forever", said the BRICS as a group had achieved very little over the past 15 years.

He added that it was not possible to solve truly global issues without the United States and Europe - just as it was not possible for the West to solve truly global issues without China, India and, to a lesser extent, Russia and Brazil.

The BRICS group grew out of meetings between Russia, India and China which then began to meet more formally, eventually adding Brazil, then South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia has yet to formally join.

The group now accounts for 45 per cent of the world's population and 35 per cent of its economy, based on purchasing power parity, though China accounts for more than half of its economic might.

Putin opened the summit on Wednesday by saying that more than 30 states had expressed interest in joining the group but that it was important to strike a balance in any expansion.

Bringing in more members into BRICS would make achieving anything even harder, O'Neill said.

Dollar challenge?

Russia is seeking to convince BRICS countries to build an alternative platform for international payments that would be immune to Western sanctions.

O'Neill, 67, said people had been talking about alternatives to the dollar since he started out in finance but that none of the countries with the potential to challenge the dollar had done anything to seriously do so.

Any BRICS currency, he said, would be heavily dependent on China while Russia and Brazil would not be significant parts of it, he said.

"If they wanted to be really serious about economic matters, why don't they genuinely pursue less tariff based trade between each other?" O'Neill said.

"I will take the BRICS group seriously when I see signs that the two countries that really matter - China and India - are actually really trying to agree on things, rather than effectively trying to confront each other all the time."

India has tried to curb Chinese investments in the country since a decades old border dispute erupted into a clash between border guards in 2020. The two countries pledged to enhance cooperation on Wednesday in their first formal talks in five years.

Chinese President Xi Jinping told Putin the international situation was gripped by chaos but that Beijing's strategic partnership with Moscow was a force for stability amid the most significant changes seen in a century.

O'Neill said the G20 had failed to become a sinew of truly global governance because the United States and China had both turned inwards since the middle of the last decade. BRICS, he said, lacked clear objectives and should take on major issues for humanity - such as finding vaccines or drugs against infectious diseases, or fighting climate change.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Archaeology Body Explains Stand On Jama Masjid As Protected Monument

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Wednesday told the Delhi High Court that declaring the historic Jama Masjid a "protected monument" would have a "substantial Impact" and no steps have been taken in this regard so far.

In an affidavit filed in response to PILs on the issue, the ASI said once a monument is declared a protected monument, certain regulations and prohibitions in the area around it come into force.

It further said that although the Mughal-era Jama Masjid is currently under the protection and guardianship of the Delhi Waqf Board, the ASI has been undertaking conservation and preservation work there.

A bench headed by Justice Prathiba M Singh orally said it was not inclined to declare Jama Masjid a "protected monument" in view of the stand of the ASI and ordered the petitioners to file their notes with respect to the steps that should be taken for the protection of the historic structure.

"They (ASI) are saying there is a hesitation. There is an impact of declaring it a protected monument," the court observed while dealing with PILs seeking directions to authorities to declare the Jama Masjid a protected monument and remove all encroachments in and around it.

The bench, also comprising Justice Amit Sharma, nonetheless added that it would look into the issue of streamlining the administration of the mosque and asked the Delhi Waqf Board to inform it about the status of the 9-member managing committee that was earlier appointed for the Jama Masjid.

"One thing is clear, even if it is not treated as a protected monument, its revenue cannot exclusively go to any private individual," the court said, while suggesting that some reimbursement could be given to ASI for the preservation work undertaken by it.

The ASI, represented by central government standing counsel Manish Mohan, stated in its affidavit that it has spent over 60 lakh on the conservation works carried out at the Jama Masjid since 2007.

The affidavit by ASI further said that since the Jama Masjid was not a "protected monument", it had no information about the generation and utilisation of its revenue.

"There is a substantial impact of declaring Jama Masjid as a protected monument. The provision of prohibited area will be applicable to the Jama Masjid, which is a 100-metre zone from a protected monument in which new construction is prohibited. Further, in regulated areas (200 metre zone beyond prohibited area) all construction-related activities are regulated and require prior permission from the Competent Authority and National Monuments Authority," the document said.

The authorities, also represented by the Centre's standing counsel Anil Soni, also said the "original file", containing the decision of the then prime minister Manmohan Singh that the Jama Masjid should not be declared a protected monument, could not be traced.

The court had sought production of the file before it on August 28.

During the hearing, senior advocate DP Singh, appearing for one of the petitioners, raised concerns with respect to the utilisation of the revenue generated by the Jama Masjid.

He said the Jama Masjid in Pakistan is a world heritage site.

Another petitioner objected to the use of the title "Shahi Imam" by the religious head in the Jama Masjid.

The bench, however, said it was not concerned with the title but actual benefit to the people.

"This happens in a lot of temples also. We are not concerned with the title but the actual benefit to the people," it said.

Listing the matter for hearing in December, the court said the Centre was free to place on record its views with respect to the streamlining of the revenue utilisation as well as the managing committee appointed by the Waqf board.

It also asked the ASI to carry out a survey of the mosque and place it a sketch along with photographs of its premises.

The PILs, filed by Suhail Ahmed Khan and Ajay Gautam in 2014, have objected to the use of the title 'Shahi Imam' by Jama Masjid's Imam Maulana Syed Ahmed Bukhari and the appointment of his son as the Naib (deputy) Imam.   The pleas have also questioned why Jama Masjid was not under the ASI.

The ASI had in August 2015 told the court that former prime minister Singh had assured the Shahi Imam that the Jama Masjid would not be declared a protected monument. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Delhi Can Play A Part": Iran President Meets PM Modi Over West Asia Crisis

With the conflict in West Asia escalating significantly after Israel and Iran threatened each other of an endless series of retaliations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Russia on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in the city of Kazan.

India has expressed "deep concern" over the current situation in West Asia and has been calling for "dialogue and diplomacy" to de-escalate the tension in the region also known as the Middle East.

The meeting between the two leaders came amid the year-long Israel-Hamas war and the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, and after Iran's ballistic missile offensive against Israel led to Tel Aviv vowing a massive retaliation.

INDIA'S ATTEMPT TO BROKER PEACE

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasised the need for peace in the region and the "role that New Delhi could play in de-escalating the Middle East crisis," given its good relations with all the parties involved.

India, which has friendly relations with almost all nations, finds itself in a unique position to be able to mediate between Israel and Iran. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu three weeks ago and has met the Iranian President today.

This is not the only case where New Delhi is trying to broker peace between conflicting sides. PM Modi is also trying to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine which have been at war since 2022. Here too, Prime Minister Modi shares a strong bond with both Vladimir Putin and Ukraine's Zelenskyy.

PM Modi has visited Russia twice in three months and went to Ukraine as well in this period. He also reportedly sent a "peace plan" for President Putin last month when National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met the Russian President in Moscow.

CHABAHAR PORT AND INST CORRIDOR

During the meeting PM Modi and President Pezeshkian also discussed the India-Iran bilateral ties and ways to strengthen it. Among several key areas of cooperation, the two leaders discussed strategic projects like the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor or INSTC.

After the meeting, PM Modi shared a post on social media platform X, in which he wrote "Had a very good meeting with the President of Iran, Mr. Masoud Pezeshkian. We reviewed the full range of relations between our countries. We also discussed ways to deepen ties in futuristic sectors." He shared the same post in Persian too.

WHAT MORE WAS DISCUSSED

The Ministry of External Affairs gave more details about what the two leaders discussed, as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held a press briefing in which he said that PM Modi and President Pezeshkian held "fruitful discussions", adding that "Both the leaders discussed the situation in West Asia. Prime Minister Modi expressed his deep concern over the escalating conflict and reiterated India's call for the protection of civilians and the prevention of harm to civilians. He emphasised the need for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate the tensions."

Mr Misri further said that "President Pezeshkian emphasised the need for peace and harmony in the region and the role that India could play in de-escalating the conflict given its good relations with all the parties involved."

The foreign secretary went on to say that PM Modi congratulated President Pezeshkian on his electoral victory and also welcomed Iran to the BRICS forum, which it has joined officially from this year.

Speaking about the millenia-old ties between the two countries, the foreign secretary said, "Both leaders emphasised the shared historical and civilisational ties between the two countries and discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation."

"The discussion focused on key areas of cooperation, particularly the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) which are crucial for enhancing regional connectivity and economic partnership," Mr Misri said.

REDEVELOPMENT OF AFGHANISTAN

In a statement about the bilateral talks, the Ministry of External Affairs said in its statement that the two leaders noted that "The signing of the long-term contract of Chabahar Port is an important milestone in bilateral relations."

It further stated that the two leaders reaffirmed its significance for reconstruction and redevelopment of Afghanistan and enhancing trade and economic linkages with Central Asia."

INDIA'S SUPPORT TO IRAN

President Pezeshkian acknowledged India's role in Iran's accession to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO and BRICS forums. "They agreed to continue their cooperation in various international forums," the foreign secretary said at the press briefing.

The foreign ministry said that "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Iranian President Pezeshkian to visit India at an early date," adding that "President Pezeshkian has accepted the invitation."

This was their first meeting after Mr Pezeshkian became President of Iran in July. He succeeded President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash in May.
 

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Video: Priyanka Gandhi's Meet And Greet In Wayanad Day Before Nomination

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was seen meeting residents of Wayanad this evening, a day before marking her electoral debut by filing her nomination for the bypoll in the Lok Sabha constituency.

Ms Vadra was greeted warmly by locals and she was seen shaking hands with people, asking their names and clicking selfies with them.

She also visited a local family in Wayanad. "Her hearty visit was greeted joyously by the locals and the mother of the house presented her with a rosary, which she used for years, as a symbol of her love & blessings," the Congress party posted on X.

Congress General Secretary Smt. @priyankagandhi ji made a heartwarming visit to a local family in Wayanad on her way to Sultan Bathery.

Her hearty visit was greeted joyously by the locals and the mother of the house presented her with a rosary, which she used for years, as a… pic.twitter.com/jndddaKJwL

— Congress (@INCIndia) October 22, 2024

Both Priyanka and veteran Congress leader and her mother Sonia Gandhi reached Wayanad by road after landing at Mysore airport where they were greeted by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, chief ministers of other Congress-ruled states and various senior party leaders are expected to reach the hill district ahead of the roadshow which will be held at Kalpetta on Wednesday morning prior to the filing of nomination.

On Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi - who won the seat in Lok Sabha polls but vacated it to hold on to the family constituency Raebareli - said that his sister will emerge as a passionate champion of Wayanad's needs and a powerful voice in Parliament.

"The people of Wayanad hold a special place in my heart, and I can't imagine a better representative for them than my sister, Priyanka Gandhi. I'm confident she will be a passionate champion of Wayanad's needs and a powerful voice in Parliament. Join us tomorrow, 23rd October, as she files her nomination for the Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency. Together, let's ensure Wayanad continues to be represented with love," Rahul Gandhi wrote on X.

The CPI has fielded veteran former legislator Sathyan Mokeri who finished a close third during the 2014 General Elections in Wayanad while the BJP has brought in Kozhikode Corporation Councilor Navya Haridas, a former software engineer who quit her job and entered full-time politics.

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Baba Siddique's Shooters Practiced Firing Near Maharashtra Waterfall: Cops

The three gunmen involved in the killing of NCP leader Baba Siddique in Mumbai practiced firing near a waterfall in adjoining Raigad district before executing the murder, police officials said on Tuesday citing their investigation.

The city police's crime branch, investigating the October 12 murder, said interrogation of the arrested accused persons has revealed that shooters Dharmaraj Kashyap, Gurmail Singh, both arrested, and Shivkumar Gautam, who is on the run, practiced firing near a waterfall in Palasdhari under Karjat tehsil, on Mumbai's outskirts, in September, an official said.

The shooters had found a secluded place near the waterfall, where they practiced firing for a day, he said.

A five-member Thane-based contract killing module led by Nitin Sapre and Ram Kanoujia initially got the deal to kill the former Maharashtra minister (66). Pistols used in the crime were brought by Kanoujia and another accused, Bhagwat Singh Om Singh, from Rajasthan, according to the official.

The module backed out of the contract over disagreement on demanding a sum of Rs 50 lakh for executing the crime and given the clout of the late politician, but decided to provide logistical support and other help for carrying out the hit, he said.

Shooters Gautam and Kashyap, both hailing from Uttar Pradesh, were in Mumbai in the middle of August and were kept in the Karjat area by the module. During investigation, it also came to light that Sapre and Kanoujia were in direct contact with two wanted accused in the case, Shubham Lonkar and Mohammed Zeeshan Akhtar, the official informed.

As the two shooters were aware of the topography of Karjat, a small hill town surrounded by forests which is dotted with waterfalls during the monsoon, they went for firing practice in the area along with the third gunman, Gurmail Singh, he said.

So far, the crime branch has arrested ten persons in connection with Siddique's sensational murder in Mumbai's Bandra area.

Police teams have fanned out in search of wanted accused Gautam, Shubham Lonkar and Akhtar against whom a look-out circular has been issued to prevent them from fleeing the country.

Investigators have not yet established the motive behind the murder and are probing the crime from different angles, including contract killing, business rivalry or threat over a slum rehabilitation project in Mumbai.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Experts Call For Stronger Education-Industry Links To Combat Job Disruption

At the NDTV World Summit, a key session titled "The Role of Education in Shaping India's Century" brought forward discussions on how technology and education can shape India's workforce, with a particular focus on preparing students to be industry-ready. Educationists from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham highlighted how the integration of real-world problems, interdisciplinary research, and technological advancements are central to their educational approach.

Dr Balakrishnan Shankar, Dean of the School of Engineering at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, detailed the university's unique "Living Lab" programme, where students are actively involved in solving critical problems in rural areas across India. "Our parent organisation has adopted around 100 villages, where students identify real-life issues, work on cost-effective solutions, and deploy them," Dr Shankar said. This hands-on approach, he explained, has resulted in 200 patents being filed by students and faculty, with 100 of them already accepted.

He further shared a key example of the university's impact when they set up a wireless network centre in Munnar, a region prone to landslides. "We identified a village, deployed sensors, and predicted landslides, leading to the evacuation of villagers twice, ultimately saving lives. This centre is now recognised for excellence in detecting landslides," Shankar added.

Highlighting the role of compassion-driven research, Dr Shankar noted, "Our motive is to solve the common man's problems through interdisciplinary efforts, leveraging AI and other technologies." 

Suresh Kodoor, Director of Academia-Industry Partnership at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, said that AI has emerged as a major disruptor in today's world, driving the need for a workforce with new, future-ready skills.

Reinforced this point by discussing AI's profound impact on the job market, he said, "AI is estimated to replace 85 million jobs in the next two years while creating 100 million new ones requiring different skill sets. Automation has always replaced jobs, but this time, it's targeting roles that require cognitive ability," Mr Kodoor explained. He stressed that educational institutions must collaborate closely with industries to prepare students for the jobs of the future.

In line with this vision, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham has signed over 100 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various industries, including the automotive, energy, IT, and construction sectors. "Our students work on real-time industry projects, go for internships, and gain practical exposure to what's happening in the business world," Mr Kodoor said.

On fostering entrepreneurship among students, both Dr Shankar and Mr Kodoor emphasised the need for universities to move beyond just being centres of knowledge dissemination. "Universities need to become knowledge creators," Mr Kodoor noted, explaining that innovation is crucial for addressing emerging challenges. 

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भादरिया महाराज ने बनवाया भूमिगत पुस्तकालय, लेकिन विश्वविद्यालय का सपना रह गया अधूरा

भादरिया गांव, जो जैसलमेर से 80 किलोमीटर दूर है, का यह भूमिगत पुस्तकालय संत हरिवंश सिंह द्वारा बनाई गई योजना का हिस्सा था. संत ने 1971 से 1986 तक एकांतवास में रहते हुए इस पुस्तकालय की रूपरेखा तैयार की थी.

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India Should Be On UN Security Council Permanently: Russia's Top Diplomat

Russia's top diplomat has said that his country believes that India, Brazil and African countries should be represented in the UN Security Council on a permanent basis to ensure the representativeness of the global majority, state-owned TASS news agency reported on Sunday.

"Countries such as India, Brazil, as well as representatives of Africa should have been on a permanent basis in the Security Council for a long time. This is necessary to ensure representativeness, representation of the global majority," Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told aif.ru. in an interview, TASS reported.

India has been at the forefront of years-long efforts calling for reform of the Security Council, including expansion in both its permanent and non-permanent categories, saying the 15-nation Council, founded in 1945, is not fit for purpose in the 21st Century and does not reflect contemporary geo-political realities. Delhi has underscored that it deserves a permanent seat at the horse-shoe table.

Last month, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer joined US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron in backing India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

India last sat at the UN high table as a non-permanent member in 2021-22. There has been a growing demand to increase the number of permanent members to reflect the contemporary global reality. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Raise A Glass To International Gin And Tonic Day With These G and T Recipes

A gin and tonic is a classic, refreshing summer cocktail-so classic that the combination is over 100 years old. It has a crisp, slightly bitter flavour and is quite easy to make. A classic G and T cocktail is made with gin and tonic water poured over a large amount of ice. Most recipes call for a ratio between 1:1 and 1:3. Gin and Tonic fans celebrate October 19 every year as International Gin and Tonic Day. The day is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy this historic drink and celebrate gin distillers and tonic producers worldwide. If you, too, are a Gin and Tonic fan, read on to learn about its history and some fabulous ways to spruce up your favourite cocktail.

Origin of Gin and Tonic:

The classic gin and tonic combination has a complex history. One of the first known instances of this combination was drinking it to help combat malaria in Holland in the 1840s. Tonic water contains quinine, the bitter element of this drink, which was believed to treat malaria. In the 19th century, the British Army in India also added gin to tonic water to improve the taste of this remedy drink.
Also Read: Unlock The Secrets of Gin - History, Types, And Tips For Perfect Gin Cocktails

Who Started International Gin and Tonic Day?

A woman named Jayne Withers launched Gin and Tonic Day in 2012 in honour of her grandmother, Mary Edith Keyburn, who loved G and T. Jayne writes, "Mary Edith was a remarkable woman who loved to have the occasional tipple of Gin and Tonic. She passed away in the hospital on October 19, 2010, at the age of 95, with a Gin and Tonic at her side that was smuggled into the hospital in a water bottle and served in a teacup," quoted The Gin Guide.

^{Photo: iStock}

Celebrating International Gin and Tonic Day 2024:

This October 19, host a Gin and Tonic tasting and gather all your friends and family for a fun evening. You can also take pictures from the event and post them on social media using the hashtag #internationalginandtonicday. For your special tasting, here are some fun ways to upgrade the classic Gin and Tonic.

5 Fun Ways to Jazz Up Your Good Old G and T:

1. Cool as a Cucumber

Cut a cucumber into thin ribbons and arrange them in a highball glass. Add a handful of ice cubes. In a cocktail shaker, squeeze the juice of half a lime, then add gin, a splash of elderflower liqueur, a few basil leaves, and some cucumber chunks. Muddle the mixture thoroughly, then add ice. Shake well and strain the mixture into your glass. Finish by topping it with tonic and garnishing with more basil leaves.

2. Berry Berry Tasty

^{Photo: iStock}

Wash the strawberries and cut off the tops. Next, cut them in half or into quarters. Muddle the strawberries with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Transfer the mixture to a glass filled with ice. Stir in the gin and top with tonic. Garnish with a strawberry and enjoy.

3. Mint Meets Chocolate

Pour herbal-style gin into a glass and add a few leaves of fresh mint. Add a tablespoon of chocolate liqueur. Pour in the tonic and garnish with a few sprigs of mint and grated dark chocolate. Your mint-meets-chocolate G and T is ready.
Also Read: The Ultimate Guide To 2024's Gin Trends: How India Is Changing The Sipping Game

4. Peachy Not Preachy

If you like the fruity peach flavour, this cocktail is for you. Pour your gin and tonic over ice and add the peach slices. Garnish with a sprig of thyme. For a more pronounced peach flavour, you can blend the fruit and strain it into the glass before adding the other ingredients. Stir until the drink is infused with the juice.

5. Pine-ing for the Apple

^{Photo: iStock}

Smoky, caramelized, and grilled pineapples make a fantastic G and T. Begin by grilling the pineapple wheels for 5 minutes until lightly browned. Cut one wheel of pineapple and muddle it into a cocktail shaker. Add ice, gin, lemon juice, and pineapple juice. Shake for two minutes. Strain it into a glass with ice. Top with tonic water. Garnish with another grilled pineapple wheel and serve!

What is your favourite Gin and Tonic cocktail? Share with us in the comments section. Happy G and T Day!

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BJP Blames Delhi Government For Yamuna Pollution, AAP Hits Back

East Delhi MP Harsh Malhotra on Saturday blamed the Aam Aadmi Party government for pollution in the Yamuna, saying cleaning the river has never been its priority.

Responding to the BJP's allegations, the AAP in a statement said, "The BJP is only indulging in dirty politics. The Aam Aadmi Party government is working at a war level against pollution... The BJP government is polluting the Yamuna by sending dirty water from Uttar Pradesh while their leaders are merely putting on a show in Delhi," AAP said.

Mr Malhotra made the remark after going to the banks of the river at Kalindi Kunj, accompanied by BJP spokesperson Anil Gupta and local councillor Brahm Singh.

Referring to the thick white froth covering the Yamuna River said, "The Arvind Kejriwal government has only spread lies and illusions about cleaning the Yamuna. When the Lieutenant Governor initiated steps to clean the Yamuna, the Kejriwal government approached the Supreme Court to block them. Cleaning the river has always been a political issue for AAP, not a priority."

He said that despite a decade of promises, pollution in the Yamuna has only worsened, posing serious health risks to people living near it.

Since Friday morning, the Yamuna River has been covered with a thick layer of white froth. Experts have warned against taking a dip in the river, even as people gear up for the Chhath Puja.

The Delhi government on Friday said it is closely monitoring the situation.

Mr Malhotra also questioned the AAP government's handling of the Rs 1,000 crore collected as pollution cess, intended for tackling air and water pollution.

"The Delhi government should clarify what happened to these funds," he said.

The MP also highlighted the severe drop in oxygen levels in the Yamuna as it flows through Delhi and the absence of sewage treatment plants at critical drainage points.

The oxygen content of the river's water drops from 9 units when it enters Delhi to zero as it leaves, making it hazardous for both residents and the environment, he told PTI Videos.

AAP leader Reena Gupta said, "Whether it's the issue of water pollution or air pollution, these issues cross administrative boundaries. There is an airshed within approximately 300 kilometres of Delhi, and the Supreme Court has consistently stated that all state governments need to work together to address this issue."

"However, only the AAP governments in Delhi and Punjab are actively tackling it. In Haryana, there has been a 30 per cent increase in stubble-burning incidents, while Uttar Pradesh has seen a 70 per cent increase. In contrast, Punjab has experienced a 30 per cent reduction in such incidents, she claimed. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Watch: Stokes Suffers Funniest Dismissal Of All Time, Internet In Splits

England suffered defeat to Pakistan by a mammoth 152 runs in the second Test in Multan, failing to chase down a target of 297. But despite the middle order failing, England's captain Ben Stokes -- returning from injury -- held strong with 37 at one end, at a rate of more than run-a-ball. However, his knock came to a rather hilarious end, as not only did he lose his wicket, but also flung his bat out of control into the air as he attempted the shot.

Trying to step out and slog Pakistan spinner Noman Ali for six, Stokes miscalculated it completely. As he attempted his shot, he lost control of his bat, which ended up flying a long way apart. Sadly for Stokes, he lost his balance too. Being outside his crease, he was promptly stumped by wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan.

Watch: Ben Stokes loses bat, loses balance and loses his wicket against Pakistan

Ben Stokes lost his bat, his balance and his wicket in a single ball. pic.twitter.com/3Gns0SDXvu

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 18, 2024

Stokes was the seventh English batter to depart and the last of the recognized batters. His dismissal left England at 125/7, still needed 172 runs.

It wasn't the happiest return to Test cricket for Stokes, who had missed England's previous series against Sri Lanka due to injury.

Pakistan scripted victory thanks to the efforts of their newcomers. Ahead of the game, the decision to drop Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah faced backlash. However, each of their replacements impressed in the second Test.

Babar's replacement -- debutant Kamran Ghulam -- made a century in the first innings. With the ball, spinners Sajid Khan and Noman Ali picked up all 20 England wickets. Sajid was the star of the first innings getting seven, while Noman picked up eight in the second.

At the age of 38, Noman shone on his return to the Test side. He picked up 11 wickets in total. However, it was bowling partner Sajid, who picked up the Player of the Match award after his first innings heroics.

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"Beaten For Not Removing Clothes": UP Student Files Case Against 8 Seniors

An FIR was registered on Thursday against eight final-year engineering students of Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU) on the charge of attempt to murder for allegedly beating their juniors when they did not adhere to their instructions to "remove clothes".

The FIR has been registered against the seniors by a third-year student of BTech Electronics at Nawabganj police station, under BNS sections 109 (attempt to murder), 115 (2) voluntarily causes hurt, 125 (an act so rashly as to endanger human life), 191 (2) rioting, 351 (3) criminal intimidation and 352 (intentionally insults) apart from ragging charges in this connection, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Dinesh Tripathi said.

All those named in the FIR are fourth-year students.

In his FIR, the student alleged that his classmate got a call from seniors to come with him and another classmate to Abdul Kalam Hostel to enjoy a 'birthday party" which is a "code language" for ragging.

The situation escalated when the seniors asked them to take off their clothes, which they refused. "We told them that they should be spared as they had already faced ragging in the first year of their admission. Angry over the refusal, the seniors came with sticks, belts, and iron rods and started beating them," the FIR said.

Instructions have been issued to call the accused students. They will be questioned to work out the case, the DCP said.

The HBTU administration has also started the inquiry into the matter to ascertain whether it was a ragging case or not, said an official.

In ragging, generally, first-year students are victims but in this case, the FIR was lodged by the third-year student against final-year students, he said. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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PM Modi Chairs NDA Chief Ministers' Meet, Discusses Governance Issues

Chief Ministers from 19 NDA-ruled states met in Chandigarh today for a long pending meet to discuss issues relating to governance and upcoming events of the government, including one to celebrate the Constitution -- Samvidhan ki Amrut Mahotsav. The meeting -- held shortly after the oath ceremony of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini -- was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 

In a post on X, PM Modi shared pictures from the meeting. "Chaired a meeting of NDA Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers. We had extensive discussions on aspects of good governance and ways to improve people's lives. Our alliance is committed to furthering national progress and empowering the poor and downtrodden," his post read.

"The PM gave his observation that since Independence it was the first time yesterday that the oath ceremony in Jammu and Kashmir was held as per the Indian constitution. Before this, the oath ceremony in J&K used to take place as per the Constitution of Jammu & Kashmir," said BJP chief JP Nadda, who was present at the meet along with Union ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath.

"Amit Shah ji moved a proposal that in 2025 we will discuss how democracy was murdered with the imposition of Emergency... Next year, we will celebrate 150 years of Birsa Munda and Sardar Patel and the 100th birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee," he added. 

"Deliberations in this meeting will have a structured agenda covering national development issues. It will also discuss subjects like observance of Samvidhan Ka Amrut Mahotsav and the Year of 50th anniversary of attempt to murder democracy," read a statement from the government released ahead of the meeting.

With the BJP and its allies set to take on opposition alliance in next month's Maharashtra and Jharkhand polls, the ruling bloc is looking to draw momentum from its Haryana win to charge at its rivals.

Thirteen Chief Ministers and 16 Deputy Chief Ministers from the BJP participated, along with allies -- Chief Ministers from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, Nagaland, and Meghalaya, which are governed by NDA partners.

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House Help In Ghaziabad Arrested For Allegedly Mixing Urine In Dough

A house help working for a real estate businessman for eight years has been arrested for allegedly mixing urine in the dough used to make rotis, police said.

The help, identified as Reena (32) from Shanti Nagar Colony here, was caught on camera committing the alleged act, police said.

The incident came to light when Rupam, house owner Nitin Gautam's wife, noticed her family members experiencing liver problems. Suspecting a foul play, she began monitoring the help's activities in the kitchen. Gautam secretly recorded a video using his mobile phone, which captured the help allegedly mixing urine in the flour.

Based on the complaint and evidence filed by the family, police lodged an FIR regarding the matter on Monday and arrested Reena on Tuesday.

"During interrogation, the help initially denied the allegations. However, upon being confronted with the video, she confessed to her actions. The help claimed she was motivated by revenge after being frequently scolded by her employer for minor mistakes," said ACP Wave City Lipi Nagaich.

Reena has been booked under Section 272 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) of the BNS, said the officer.

Similar incidents of human waste, including urine and spit, being added to food items have been reported from several places in the state.

In wake of such incidents, the Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday announced it will soon introduce a new law against sellers who "hide their identity" and mix human waste or inedible material in food items and beverages.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Decade Of No Dialogue, Then A 20-Second Greeting, India, Pak De-Hyphenated

S Jaishankar, who is in Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO Summit being hosted by Islamabad, had a brief interaction with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif today at an official dinner held for all the summit attendees.

The two leaders shook hands and exchanged a courtesy greeting as Mr Sharif welcomed Mr Jaishankar for the official dinner for SCO leaders. Few worlds were spoken during the interaction that lasted less than twenty seconds.

Ties between India and Pakistan have nearly been non-existent in the last decade since Pak-based terrorists targeted Indian military establishments in a series of terror attacks in 2015 and 2016. India, which has for long aimed for peace and stability in the region, has made it amply clear to Pakistan that "terror and talks cannot go hand-in-hand", and that "dialogue and diplomacy can only move forward in an environment free of terrorism."

NEARLY A DECADE OF NO DIALOGUE

Mr Jaishankar's visit to Pakistan is the first by an Indian minister in nearly ten years. The last visit by an Indian foreign minister was when Mr Jaishankar's predecessor, Sushma Swaraj, had visited Islamabad for a conference on Afghanistan. Mr Jaishankar, who was then the foreign secretary had accompanied the then minister on her official visit.

Sushma Swaraj's visit was followed in quick succession by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who pushed for peace in the region by taking the initiative and giving a surprise visit to then Pakistani prime minister Nawaz Sharif at his ancestral home. But despite sincere efforts by India, talks were yet again derailed by a series of terror attacks on Indian soil by terrorists harboured and sheltered in Pakistan.

Before he reached Islamabad, Mr Jaishankar said at a press conference in New Delhi that his visit to the neighbouring country was only for the SCO summit and that no bilateral talks with Islamabad will be taking place.

| Watch: NDTV World Summit on October 21-22. Get All The Details Here.

Mr Jaishankar had said, "Like with any neighbour, India would certainly like to have good relations with Pakistan, but that cannot happen by overlooking cross-border terrorism and indulging in wishful thinking." The decision to send the senior minister to Pakistan, which is the host nation for the SCO Summit this time, is seen purely as a display of India's commitment to the forum.

Pakistan is hosting the two-day SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) summit on October 15 and 16. "The SCO CHG meeting is held annually and focuses on the trade and economic agenda of the Organisation," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had said.
 

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Veteran Actor Atul Parchure Dies At 57

Veteran actor Atul Parchure has died at the age of 57. He breathed his last on Monday following a battle with cancer.

His death has sent shockwaves through the film fraternity, leading to an outpouring of tributes on social media.

He was a well-known Marathi actor who appeared in numerous Hindi television shows and films, including a memorable stint on Kapil Sharma's comedy show.

In a previous talk show appearance, he disclosed his cancer diagnosis, revealing that doctors had discovered a 5 cm tumour in his liver.

In an interview, he expressed the gravity of the situation, stating: "I was told I have a tumour about 5 centimeters long in my liver and that it is cancerous."

However, Atul Parachure's treatment took a significant toll on his health due to a misdiagnosis.

He recounted: "My first procedure after the diagnosis went wrong, affecting my pancreas and leading to various complications. The incorrect treatment actually aggravated my condition. I was unable to walk and struggled to speak clearly. In that state, the doctor advised me to wait for a month and a half.

"They warned that undergoing surgery could result in long-term jaundice or severe liver complications, potentially jeopardising my survival. Eventually, I sought a second opinion, switched doctors, and received the appropriate medication and chemotherapy."

Atul Parchure was known for his work in both films and television, particularly recognized for his comic performances.

He gained popularity through various projects, including notable works like "Vasu Chi Sasu", "Priyatama", and Tarun "Turk Mhatare Arka".

His filmography boasts appearances in movies such as "Navra Mazha Navsacha", "Salaam-E-Ishq", "Partner", "All the Best: Fun Begins", "Khatta Meetha" and "Bbuddah Hoga Terra Baap" among others.

His versatility as an actor made him a beloved figure in the Marathi entertainment industry.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Criminal Pours Hot Oil On Chhattisgarh Cop, Slaughters Family Of Another

Chhattisgarh's Surajpur has been engulfed in chaos after a brutal double murder - the victims were the wife and daughter of a Head Constable, Talib Sheikh. The incident, which has sent shock waves through the region and led to violent protests that included arson on the property of the accused. The matter escalated and the town shut down after a strike was called. 

Reports in the local media claim that Kuldeep Sahu, a known criminal of the area, had entered the house of Talib Sheikh in his absence and killed his wife and daughter with a sharp weapon. Their partially clothed bodies were later discovered in a field about five kilometers away. 

The violence started during a Durga idol immersion ceremony on Monday night, when Kuldeep Sahu reportedly poured a pan of hot oil on a constable during a dispute in the city's Chowpatty area, severely burning the officer. 

Head Constable Talib Sheikh attempted to catch Kuldeep at the time, but he escaped, and later targeted the policeman's family. When the police attempted to arrest Kuldeep, he opened fire at them and managed to escape, abandoning his vehicle.

Angry residents, incensed by the murders and the escape of Sahu, hit the streets. They called for a city-wide bandh and torched vehicles parked outside Kuldeep Sahu's house and warehouse. 

The Sub-Divisional Magistrate of the area, who had arrived with the police team to control the situation, faced the wrath of the mob. A video of the incident is being widely circulated. It shows the magistrate fleeing after being attacked by the crowd. The police had to intervene and rescue him. 

Four police teams have been deployed to catch Kuldeep Sahu. The cybercrime division is working to find his whereabouts. 

The brutal killings and subsequent unrest have drawn sharp political reactions. 

Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel expressed his outrage, stating, "What is happening in our Chhattisgarh? It seems that the rule of law no longer exists in this state, which was once called an island of peace".

He added that the incident highlighted a deep loss of public faith in law enforcement and governance.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Saw lashed out at the Congress, accusing them of contributing to the lawlessness in the state. 

"The Congress party need not worry about the law-and-order situation. The state government is taking strict action, and wherever negligence by officials is found, they are being held accountable," he said.

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Body Of Ex Professor GN Saibaba To Be Donated Like He Wanted: Family

The body of former Delhi University (DU) professor and rights activist GN Saibaba who passed away in Hyderabad, will be donated to a hospital as he wished, said a statement issued by his family on Sunday.

Saibaba, 58, was released from the Nagpur Central Jail after 10 years of incarceration after the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court set aside the life sentence given to him by a trial court, in an alleged Maoist links case in which the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) was invoked.

Saibaba's body will be kept at his brother's house in Jawahar Nagar, Hyderabad, for his relatives, friends and well-wishers to pay homage, on Monday. Afterwards, his body will be donated to state-run Gandhi Medical College. His eyes have already been donated to LV Prasad Eye Hospital, the family said in a statement.

The former professor who taught English at Ram Lal Anand College of Delhi University (DU) passed away on Saturday due to post-operative complications, seven months after he was acquitted.

Saibaba was suffering from gall bladder infection and was operated on two weeks ago in Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), but developed complications subsequently.

His daughter Manjeera told PTI Videos that he had Covid twice, his health was in abysmal condition while he was in jail and he recovered every time. Hence, she said that family was hoping that he would come back this time too. Neither Saibaba nor family members expected his death, she said, adding that he expressed hope during the last conversation she had with him.

Ms Manjeera said, "His body had borne too much all these years."

"I miss him. I still cannot believe he is not with us. I still feel that I will go and open the door and he will be there sitting on his wheelchair telling me to do this and that. I still feel that way. I still feel that he is with us," she said.

Ms Manjeera said they were aware that his condition was severe since Saturday afternoon, but at around 8 pm, doctors told the family that his heart had stopped beating and they were trying to perform CPR on him. They pronounced him dead at 8.30 last night, she added.

Saibaba was terminated from service by the DU and his official accommodation was taken away after he was arrested in 2014.

Saibaba's death will continue to weigh heavily on public conscience, said Prof Saikat Ghosh, one of the few DU teachers who raised his voice against his imprisonment and the way he was treated in the jail.

"The sad thing is that nobody will be held accountable for pushing him and his family to such a catastrophic end," he said.

Saibaba was a popular colleague in the Literature fraternity of Delhi University. The popularity stemmed from his dedication as a teacher and his devotion to the issues of democratic rights and civil liberties, Mr Ghosh said.

It took Saibaba 10 years to prove that he was not guilty. He inspired many and his demise is a "big loss," said DU Professor Abha Dev.

"One can only try to imagine his hardships with 90 per cent disability. The country does not know how to celebrate these stories to inspire others but they fear the truth that he was speaking," said Ms Dev.

Another DU Professor, Monami, said Saibaba's friends and well-wishers were disheartened by the news of his demise.

"He just came out a few months ago and left so soon. But he was mentally a strong person," she said.

Saibaba was lodged in the Nagpur Central Jail since 2017 after his conviction by a trial court in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district. Before that, he was in prison from 2014 to 2016 and was subsequently granted bail.

Following his acquittal, the wheelchair-bound Saibaba walked out of the Nagpur Central Jail after 10 years.

Saibaba had alleged in August this year that he was not taken to a hospital for nine months by authorities despite the left side of his body getting paralysed and was just given painkillers in the Nagpur Central Jail.

A native of Andhra Pradesh, Saibaba had earlier claimed that he was warned by the authorities that if he did not stop "talking", he would be arrested in some false case. 

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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खाटूश्याम मंदिर के नाम फिर एक और उपलब्धि, 3 दिन में आए इतने लाख श्रद्धालु

KhatuShyam Ji News: विश्व प्रसिद्ध खाटू श्याम जी मंदिर में शनिवार, रविवार और एकादशी के अवसर पर भक्तों की भारी भीड़ रहती है. इस बार वीकेंड होने के कारण दिल्ली, मुंबई, नोएडा और कोलकाता सहित विदेशी भक्त भी बाबा श्याम के दरबार में आ रहे हैं.

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When Baba Siddique Helped End SRK-Salman Khan Feud

Former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique was shot dead in Mumbai's Bandra today. A political veteran in Maharashtra, Mr Siddique left Congress, after nearly five decades of association with the party, and joined the ruling BJP's ally Nationalist Congress Party in February this year.

He had served as a minister when the Congress and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP coalition government was in power.

Mr Siddique was known not just for his political connections across party lines but also for hosting lavish parties. In one such party in 2013, Mr Siddique inadvertently played a role in uniting two of Bollywood's megastars, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan.

Despite occasional conflicts and publicised disagreements, the two actors have maintained a bond over the years. One significant moment in their relationship unfolded at Baba Siddique's Iftaar party in 2013, bringing an end to a five-year-long cold war.

The Iftaar party hosted by Mr Siddique became the backdrop for the much-anticipated reconciliation between the Khans. Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, who had previously avoided each other following a heated argument at Katrina Kaif's birthday party in 2008, finally came face to face. The tension that had overshadowed their relationship dissipated as they warmly greeted each other and shared a heartfelt hug. A photo capturing that moment went viral across social media and news channels alike.

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In Daring Assam Prisonbreak, 5 Men Scale 20-Foot Wall With Bedsheets, Lungis

Five undertrial prisoners, charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, escaped from a prison in Assam after breaking rods and scaling a 20-foot wall using bedsheets, blankets and 'lungis' (a piece of clothing worn around the waist). 

The prisoners escaped from the Morigaon District Jail between 1 and 2 am on Friday, prompting the district administration to order a magisterial probe. The jailer, Prashanta Saikia, has been suspended, and two assistant jailers from Guwahati have been temporarily assigned to manage the prison.

Inspector General (Prisons) Pubali Gohain will also conduct a separate departmental inquiry into the incident.

The escaped prisoners, identified as Saifuddin, Ziarul Islam, Nur Islam, Mafidul, and Abdul Rashid, managed to break the rods of their barracks and used blankets, lungis, and bedsheets to scale the 20-foot compound wall. 

Morigaon Superintendent of Police Hemanta Kumar Das confirmed that a manhunt has been launched to track down the five undertrials. "We will interrogate some of the jail inmates tomorrow. Everything will come out in the investigation," Mr Das said.

Morigaon District Commissioner Devashis Sarma said the prisoners are residents of Tezpur in Sonitpur district and Lahorighat and Moirabari in Morigaon district.

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बाड़मेर में मथुरा के सुलेमान बना रहे रावण, कुंभकर्ण और मेघनाद के पुतले

Barmer News : उत्तरप्रदेश की मथुरा की गलियों से निकल कर राजस्थान के कोटा, जयपुर, जोधपुर, बीकानेर, उदयपुर में रावण दहन के लिए पुतलों का निर्माण कर चुके है. वही सुलेमान गुजरात के अहमदाबाद, पालपुर, डीसा, मेहसाणा, वापी, नवसारी में भी भव्य रावण का निर्माण कर चुके हैं.

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India "Concerned" As Israel Hits UN Facility In Lebanon, IDF Puts Out Map

India has expressed grave "concern" over the abysmal conflict situation in West Asia as Israel intensifies its resolve targeting Hezbollah hideouts. New Delhi issued a statement today after UN peacekeepers stationed in south Lebanon came under fire from Israeli forces.

Among the UN peacekeepers stationed in Lebanon, there are approximately 900 Indian soldiers. It is important to note that they were not at the United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon or UNIFIL headquarters at the time it was attacked by Israeli forces. Besides the soldiers, there are around 25 staff officers, including medical experts deployed there.

"We are concerned at the deteriorating security situation along the Blue Line," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement, adding that "We continue to monitor the situation very closely."

New Delhi underscored the importance it attaches to United Nations' peacekeeping initiatives saying UN premises cannot be allowed to be targeted, and respecting its sanctity is a mandate.

"Inviolability of UN premises must be respected by all, and appropriate measures taken to ensure the safety of UN peacekeepers and the sanctity of their mandate," the foreign ministry said.

Israel however, has defended its actions, with the Israeli Defense Forces or IDF claiming that "Since the beginning of the war, Hezbollah has fired more than 130 rockets in close proximity" to 26 United Nations facilities."

The IDF also put out a map in which it has identified these places as being "less than 300 meters" from the UN facilities.

WHAT THE UNITED NATIONS SAID - UNIFIL STATEMENT

The UN has said, "Recent escalation along the Blue Line is causing widespread destruction of towns and villages in south Lebanon, while rockets continue to be launched towards Israel, including civilian areas. In the past days we have seen incursions from Israel into Lebanon in Naqoura and other areas. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers have clashed with Hizbullah elements on the ground in Lebanon."

It further said that "UNIFIL's Naqoura headquarters and nearby positions have been repeatedly hit," adding that on Thursday "two peacekeepers were injured after an IDF Merkava tank fired its weapon toward an observation tower at UNIFIL's headquarters in Naqoura, directly hitting it and causing them to fall. The injuries are fortunately, this time, not serious, but they remain in hospital."

Speaking about the Israeli offensive, the UN statement asserted that "IDF soldiers also fired on UN position (UNP) 1-31 in Labbouneh, hitting the entrance to the bunker where peacekeepers were sheltering, and damaging vehicles and a communications system. An IDF drone was observed flying inside the UN position up to the bunker entrance."

It further highlighted that on Wednesday "IDF (Israeli) soldiers deliberately fired at and disabled the position's perimeter-monitoring cameras. They also deliberately fired on UNP 1-32A in Ras Naqoura, where regular Tripartite meetings were held before the conflict began, damaging lighting and a relay station."

Reminding Israeli forces that its attacks on UN facilities is a grave violation of international humanitarian law as well as UN Security Council resolution 1701, the UN said, "We remind the IDF and all actors of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property and to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times. UNIFIL peacekeepers are present in south Lebanon to support a return to stability under Security Council mandate. Any deliberate attack on peacekeepers is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and of Security Council resolution 1701."

WHAT IS UN SECURITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION 1701

United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 is a resolution that was adopted with an intention to resolve the 2006 Lebanon War.

The resolution has been the linchpin of peace between Israel and Lebanon for almost two decades and the 10,000 UN peacekeepers who are tasked with implementing it on the ground.

Adopted unanimously by the UN Security Council in 2006, the purpose of resolution 1701 continues to be about ending hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, with the Council calling for a permanent ceasefire to be based on the creation of a buffer zone.

WHAT IS 'THE BLUE LINE'

The 'Blue Line' is a United Nations-recognised demarcation line to indicate that Israel had withdrawn its military from southern Lebanon. It separates Lebanon from Israel and the Golan Heights, but it is not an official international border.

Stretching for 120km along Lebanon's southern frontier and Israel's northern border, the so-called "Blue Line" is "a key to peace in the region" and one of the central elements of resolution 1701 since the war in 2006, with UNIFIL peacekeepers being its temporary custodian, according to UN Peacekeeping.

Based on various historical maps, some dating back almost a century, the Blue Line is not a border, but a temporary "line of withdrawal" set by the UN in 2000 for the practical purpose of confirming the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon.

Whenever Israeli or Lebanese authorities wish to undertake any activities close to the Blue Line, UNIFIL requests that they provide advance notice, allowing the UN mission to keep authorities on all sides informed, to minimise any misunderstandings that could lead to increased tensions.

ISRAEL'S LETTER TO THE UNITED NATIONS

Israel's Minister of Foreign Affairs has written a letter to the United Nations clarifying its stance amid the ongoing and escalating crisis in the Middle East (West Asia), especially with regard to its operations in Lebanon.

In its letter, the minister wrote that "On Ictiber 8, 2023, Hezbollah, a terrorist, Iranian-backed organisation, launched an unprovoked attack on Israel, joining the war initiated by Hazas on October 7, 2023. Since then they have fired over 13,000 projectiles, 1500 anti-tank missiles and hundreds of explosive drones at Israeli communities, forcing more than 63,000 people to evacuate their homes."

The minister further said that "This war which was imposed on Israel has so far resulted in 51 casualties and over 372 injuries, besides causing severe damage ot Israeli towns and villages."

The minister said that as a result of Hezbollah's unilateral and unprovoked actions, "One year later, on October 1, 2024 the IDF initiated a targeted, limited raid operations in southern Lebanon aimed at Hezbollah military assets and infrastructure along the Blue Line, with a goal of dismantling them and neutralising the ongoing threat."
 

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Rajasthan News : Transfer की मांग, Third grade teachers CMO तक करेंगे पैदल यात्रा | Top News

Rajasthan News : Transfer की मांग, Third grade teachers CMO तक करेंगे पैदल यात्रा | Top NewsRajasthan में तेज हुई थर्ड ग्रेड टीचर्स के Transfer की मांग, Third grade teachers झालावाड़ से CMO तक करेंगे पैदल यात्रा.

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Infighting, Alliances, EVMs In Focus As Congress Reviews Shock Haryana Loss

Still reeling from its shock defeat in Haryana, the Congress held a high-level review meeting on Thursday to assess the possible reasons for the loss with a focus on learning lessons, given the impending elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. Sources said infighting, the impact of not allying with the AAP and complaints of "discrepancies" in electronic voting machines (EVMs) were all discussed. 

The meeting was attended by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal and senior observers for the polls Ashok Gehlot and Ajay Maken, among others. The Congress' Haryana in-charge Deepak Babaria joined the meeting via video link.

"All of us discussed the Assembly elections in detail. There was a lot of difference between exit polls and actual results. Not just us, even you will agree that the results were unexpected and nobody thought they would turn out this way. This, and the possible reasons for it, were also discussed," Mr Maken said after the meeting.

To a question on infighting within the Congress and whether that could have been a reason for the party failing to dislodge the BJP in Haryana, Mr Maken said, "There are various reasons, from the Election Commission to internal differences, we have discussed all that. Such a big upset...we cannot discuss everything in an hour and a half," he added.

The Congress has also set up a technical team to look into the EVM discrepancies.

'Plain Speaking'

Party sources told NDTV there was plain speaking on the part of Mr Kharge, Mr Gandhi and others who attended the meeting. Some of the key talking points were the role of Independents, the impact of the AAP - with which alliance talks fell through at the last moment - and other coalitions, as well as the infighting within the Congress.

Ahead of the elections, there were signs of factionalism between the camps of former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, who reportedly got a say in picking most of the candidates, and senior leader Kumari Selja, whose absence from a chunk of the campaign raised eyebrows. There was also talk of Ms Selja jumping ship and joining the BJP.

The factionalism is seen as having played a key role in the Congress remaining restricted to 37 seats in the 90-member Assembly despite the contest proving to be largely bipolar. The BJP, which had been in power in Haryana for 10 years, won a record third term and put in its best-ever performance in the state despite battling anti-incumbency and perceived anger from certain sections, including farmers, sportspersons and armed forces aspirants. It won 48 seats, crossing the majority mark on its own. 

Looking Ahead

Sources said the party realises that the upcoming elections in Jharkhand and, especially,  Maharashtra are critical. This, they said, was reflected in Mr Kharge and Mr Gandhi meeting Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to discuss election strategy. The Congress is in an alliance with Mr Soren's Jharkhand Mukti Morcha at the state as well as national levels as part of the INDIA grouping. 

Some of the important lessons from the Haryana defeat, according to sources, were that the party cannot afford to be overconfident and that secular forces have to remain united. They added that given its much-improved showing in the Lok Sabha elections, the party is confident that it can learn the right lessons and approach the Maharashtra and Jharkhand polls with the right strategy and mindset.

EVM Issue

After the election results were declared on Tuesday, the Congress had said that the outcome in Haryana was a victory for "manipulation and subverting the will of the people" and the party cannot accept it. 

"We have received very serious complaints about the process of counting and the functioning of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in at least three districts in Haryana... There are serious questions on the integrity of the instruments of this system, namely EVMs, and the extraordinary pressure that has been brought to bear on local administration officials," senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh had said.

A delegation of senior Congress leaders, including Mr Venugopal, Mr Ramesh, Mr Hooda and Ashok Gehlot met Election Commission officials on Wednesday and handed over a memorandum with specific complaints received from Haryana. 

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