After Land Invasion And Death From Above, A New Enemy In Gaza - Polio

A health official said a polio vaccination campaign began in Gaza on Saturday, while an aid worker said a large-scale rollout would begin on Sunday, coinciding with a "humanitarian pause" agreed by Israel and Hamas.

The vaccination drive was announced after Gaza recorded its first polio case in a quarter of a century earlier this month.

Local health officials along with the UN and NGOs "are starting today the polio vaccination campaign", Moussa Abed, director of primary health care at the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, told AFP on Saturday.

An unspecified number of children received the first dose of the vaccination, which involves two doses and is administered orally, at Nasser Hospital in the southern city of Khan Yunis.

Among them was Amal Shaheen's three-year-old daughter, who was already in the hospital being treated for pneumonia.

"We have been in the hospital for 17 days... I spend all my days worrying about her," Shaheen said.

"Today she was vaccinated against polio to protect her, like all the children in the hospital have been vaccinated."

The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday that Israel had agreed to a series of three-day "humanitarian pauses" in Gaza to facilitate vaccinations, though officials had earlier said the campaign was expected to start on Sunday.

'Not a ceasefire'

An international aid worker told AFP that Palestinian authorities had organised a launch event on Saturday and that the vaccination campaign was still expected to begin in full on Sunday.

COGAT, the Israeli defence ministry body which oversees civilian affairs in the Palestinian territories, said on Saturday that vaccines would be given daily from 6:00 am (0300 GMT) until 2:00 pm for three days in central Gaza, three days in southern Gaza and three days in northern Gaza.

"At the end of each regional vaccination campaign, a situational assessment will be conducted for the area," it said.

The Palestinian health ministry distributed a slightly different schedule, with the vaccine programme lasting four days in each location.

The ministry identified 67 vaccination centres -- mostly hospitals, smaller health centres and schools -- in central Gaza, 59 in southern Gaza and 33 in northern Gaza.

Poliovirus is highly infectious and most often spread through sewage and contaminated water -- an increasingly common problem in Gaza as the Israel-Hamas war drags on.

The media office of the Hamas-run government in Gaza said on Saturday that the vaccination campaign required an "immediate ceasefire".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said measures to facilitate polio vaccination in Gaza are "not a ceasefire".

The campaign aims to cover more than 640,000 children under 10 years old.

Michael Ryan, WHO deputy director-general, told the UN Security Council this week that 1.26 million doses of the oral vaccine had been delivered in Gaza, with another 400,000 still to arrive

The Ramallah-based Palestinian health ministry said earlier this month that tests in Jordan had confirmed polio in an unvaccinated 10-month-old baby from central Gaza.

Poliovirus is highly infectious and most often spread through sewage and contaminated water -- an increasingly common problem in Gaza as the Israel-Hamas war drags on.

The disease mainly affects children under the age of five. It can cause deformities and paralysis and is potentially fatal.

'100 per cent safe'

Bakr Deeb told AFP on Saturday that he brought his three children -- all under 10 -- to a vaccination point on Saturday despite some initial doubts about its safety.

"I was hesitant at first and very afraid of the safety of this vaccination," he said.

"After the assurances of its safety, and with all the families going to the vaccination points, I decided to go with my children as well, to protect them."

Abed, the health official, stressed on Saturday that the vaccine was "100 percent safe".

The war in Gaza was triggered by Hamas's unprecedented attack on southern Israel on October 7 which resulted in the deaths of 1,199 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

Israel's retaliatory military campaign has killed at least 40,691 people in Gaza, according to the territory's health ministry. The UN rights office says most of the dead are women and children.

Incessant Israeli bombardment has also caused a major humanitarian crisis and devastated the health system.

 

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

On CCTV, Cops Seen Planting Drugs On Man In Mumbai, Suspended After Probe

Four cops were suspended today in Mumbai, police said, after a video showed them allegedly planting drugs on a man went viral on social media. In the video, two officers can be seen frisking a man as two others can be seen standing a few steps away. 

Moments later, one of the them slips something into the suspect's hip pocket, the video shows. The four men then take him into custody for possessing 20 grams of mephedrone.

मासूम को कैसे फंसाएं? मुंबई पुलिस से सीखिए

मुंबई के खार पुलिस स्टेशन में तैनात चार अधिकारियों ने कलीन इलाके में एक व्यक्ति की जेब में अपनी जेब से निकालकर ड्रग्स डाल दिया और फिर उसे सीजर दिखाया. पुलिस वालों की इस कलाकारी की पूरी कहानी वहां लगे सीसीटीवी कैमरे में कैद हुई तब जाकर… pic.twitter.com/biPDglNyc2

— NDTV India (@ndtvindia) August 31, 2024

After an investigation was launched, it was confirmed that all the four men seen in the video are police personnel posted at Khar Police Station in Mumbai.

Those suspended included a police sub-inspector and three constables, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone XI) Rajtilak Roshan told news agency PTI.

According to sources, the man searched by the officers and in whose pocket the drugs were planted was identified as Daniel. The four policemen, attached to the Anti-Terror Cell of the Khar police station, raided an open plot of land in Kalina area of the city on Friday evening and detained him.

While speaking to a local news channel, Daniel claimed that the cops initially threatened to frame him in a drugs case but when they realised that their act was caught on a CCTV camera, he was allowed to go.

DCP Rajtilak Roshan told news agency PTI that disciplinary action was initiated against the four cops for not following set procedure and after their suspected actions were seen in the video, they were suspended pending inquiry.

"They reached the spot after getting information about drugs, but everything (they did) is seen in the CCTV," he said.

An associate of Daniel alleged that he was targeted at the behest of a builder over a dispute regarding the plot where the incident took place.

RBI Governor On Two Factors That Pulled GDP Growth Rate Down

The slowing of India's economic growth to a 15-month low of 6.7 per cent in the April-June quarter was due to "lower" government spending in the wake of the enforcement of the model code of conduct for the recent Lok Sabha polls, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said on Saturday.

The RBI had projected a growth rate of 7.1 per cent for the April-June quarter of this fiscal.

"The Reserve Bank projected a growth rate of 7.1 per cent for the first quarter. However, the first advance estimation data released by the National Statistical Office showed the growth rate at 6.7 per cent," Governor Das said.

The components and main drivers responsible for the GDP growth like consumption, investment, manufacturing, services and construction have registered a growth of more than 7 per cent, he said.

Only two aspects have pulled the growth rate slightly down. Those are—government (both central and state) expenditure and agriculture, the RBI governor pointed out.

He said the government expenditure was low during the first quarter perhaps due to elections (April to June) and operation of model code of conduct by the Election Commission.

"We would expect the government expenditure to pick up in coming quarters and provide the required support to growth," Mr Das said.

Similarly, the agriculture sector has recorded a minimal growth rate of around 2 per cent in the April to June quarter. However, the monsoon was very good and spread all over India except a few areas. So, everyone is optimistic and positive about the agriculture sector, he noted.

"Under these circumstances, we have reasonably confident expectations that the annual growth rate of 7.2 per cent projected by the RBI will be materialized in coming quarters," the governor asserted.

Das said that GST, inflation targeting framework and Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code (IBC) are the three major reforms made during the past 10 years.

Addressing a national conference of chartered accountants (CAs) here, he said, “The primary functioning of the RBI, as defined in its preamble, is to maintain price stability, while keeping in mind the objective of growth. This was a major structural reform made by the government in 2016 by amending the RBI Act.” With this amendment, the RBI is mandated by the law to maintain the price stability with keeping the inflation at 4 per cent, with a leeway of 2 percentage points on either side, he said.

When Covid hit, the RBI reduced the repo rate by 250 basis points. Similarly, after the Ukraine war started, due to various international factors and some domestic weather events, the inflation rose to 7.8 per cent. So, at that time, the central bank had quickly increased the interest rate, he pointed out.

Stating that quality of audit in any organization is very important Das advised the CAs to do a true diagnosis of the health of a company like doctors.

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

Behind Telegram CEO's Arrest, A Paris Cybercrime Unit With Big Ambitions

The investigation into Telegram boss Pavel Durov that has fired a warning shot to global tech titans was started by a small cybercrime unit within the Paris prosecutor's office, led by 38-year-old Johanna Brousse.

The arrest of Durov, 39, last Saturday marks a significant shift in how some global authorities may seek to deal with tech chiefs reluctant to police illegal content on their platforms.

The arrest signalled the mettle of the J3 cybercrime unit, but the true test of its ambitions will be whether Brousse can secure a conviction based on a largely untested legal argument, lawyers said.

In an unprecedented move against a major tech CEO, prosecutors argued Durov bears responsibility for the alleged illegality on his platform, placing him under formal investigation on organized crime charges. He is suspected of complicity in running an online platform that allows the posting of child sex abuse images, drug trafficking and fraud. 

Durov's lawyer said on Thursday it was "absurd" for him to be held responsible and that the app abided by European laws, echoing an earlier statement by Telegram itself.

Being placed under formal investigation in France does not imply guilt or necessarily lead to trial, but indicates judges consider there is enough evidence to proceed with the probe. Investigations can last years before being sent to trial or dropped. Durov is out on bail, but barred from leaving France.

Brousse's unit began investigating Durov earlier this year after seeing his app being used for countless alleged crimes, and growing frustrated by the "almost total lack of response from Telegram to judicial requests", Paris Prosecutor Laure Beccuau said on Wednesday.

Brousse declined to comment.

In an interview with newspaper Liberation in January, Brousse said her office was overseeing a growing number of probes involving Telegram and rival messaging app Discord, adding that tackling crime on them was "one of my battles". 

Jason Citron, Discord's CEO, did not respond to a request for comment. 

Brousse's J3 cybercrime unit is France's most important, with licence to prosecute nationwide. But it also is small, with just five prosecutors, well below the 55-60 cybercrime prosecutors in Switzerland, a 2022 parliamentary report found. With limited resources, they "prioritize the most serious crimes", Brousse told Le Figaro last year.

Brousse said in a 2022 podcast appearance she wanted to be tough "so cybercriminals believe that if they attack France, they will be judged and punished very severely".

"We want people to be prosecuted, either in their country ... or in France through arrest warrants," she said.

Her office was used to "extremely sensitive cases", she added. "Sometimes, legal and geopolitical issues intersect."

Patrick Perrot, who coordinates AI-assisted probes at the French gendarmerie and advises the Interior Ministry's cybercommand unit, said the J3 had been innovative in seeking to prosecute cases that set an international precedent. 

"I think it shows that you can't do whatever you want with these platforms," he told Reuters. "It's a real question for the future, because these platforms won't stop multiplying, so the challenge of regulation is essential."

TOUGH LEGAL GROUND?

Brousse has led the J3 since 2020, which has given her oversight of one of the most important - and controversial - French cybercrime cases ever. 

In late 2020, the J3 took charge of the probe into Sky ECC, which alongside Encrochat was one of the main encrypted communications services used by gangsters to buy drugs and weapons, or murder rivals. A few years earlier, French, Dutch and Belgian police had hacked into their servers, which were housed in northern France, giving French prosecutors jurisdiction over many of the resulting probes. 

There have been more than 6,500 arrests since the takedown of Encrochat in 2020, according to Europol, with the legality of the intercepts challenged in appeals courts across Europe.

Paul Krusky, the Canadian Encrochat boss, was extradited in February from the Dominican Republic to France, where he now awaits trial. Lawyers for Sky ECC's Jean-François Eap are contesting his French arrest warrant.

Stephane Bonifassi, Eap's lawyer, said his client was innocent, adding that "Sky ECC was not conceived as a tool for criminals, nor commercialized as such".

Krusky's lawyer, Antoine Vey, said his client was innocent.

"The service set up by Paul Krusky, like other services that have enjoyed global success, was only intended to protect the privacy and freedom of exchange of its users, and in no case to support criminal activities," Vey said in a statement.

Two other French lawyers who have worked on Sky ECC and Encrochat cases told Reuters that these earlier probes gave prosecutors the ambition - and a blueprint - to target Durov.

Robin Binsard, who has fought Encrochat cases at France's top court, said prosecutors would need to prove that Durov knew and approved of the criminality on the app, calling their argument "totally questionable".

The fact that Telegram didn't comply with law enforcement requests "does not automatically make one an accomplice to a criminal project", he added.

Binsard said it was clear "France is pursuing encrypted messaging providers", and that other operators of such apps, such as Signal, "should be concerned about whether or not they are in compliance with French regulations. Because the message is clear if they are not, legal action will take place".

Signal did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 

A source at the Paris prosecutor's office said the Sky ECC probe had no links to the Telegram investigation.

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

"Who Is Comparing Them?": Ex-Pak Star's Brutal Take On Virat-Babar Debate

There has been comparisons between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam for quite some time now and it is one of the debates that still remain quite popular among the cricket fans. While both batters had their fair share of ups and downs, the conversation over who is the better batter continues to rage even today. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes that there is no comparison between the two players and he thinks that Virat is clearly the superior player. In an interview with Sports Tak, Kaneria said that people should look at both of their records and it clearly shows that Virat is the better better.

“Who is comparing them? I am tired of hearing that people compare them. When you're talking about comparing, look at the runs Virat has scored. He has scored runs all around the world. He is a massive player,” Kaneria said.

Kaneria also said that the presence of Kohli is enough to have an impact on the field - something that Babar is currently missing. He added that the comparisons were mainly created by the media.

“Look at his stature, when he walks onto the field, his aura itself is different and he (Babar) does not come close, forget comparing them. All that is created by the channels to sell their product. I have had a lot of questions comparing them, but I have never done it. Look at the stats. When both of them retire, do take a look at the stats,” he mentioned.

Meanwhile, Kaneria said that India should not travel to Pakistan for the competition and insisted that Dubai will be the better venue.

"Looking at the situation in Pakistan, I have to say that the Indian team should not go to Pakistan, and Pakistan should think about it, and then the ICC will make its decision, and most likely, it will be a hybrid model, it will played in Dubai. The media gets hype, everyone's videos get likes because the big manjan is good so it will sell. So I think this is a reality and it will definitely be a hybrid model," he said.

राशिद खान ने टेस्ट से क्यों बनाई दूरी? सामने आई वजह, बोर्ड भी दे रहा साथ

राशिद खान लगभग एक साल तक टेस्ट क्रिकेट में दिखाई नहीं देंगे. उन्होंने पिछले साल पीठ की सर्जरी कराई थी. अफगानिस्तान क्रिकेट बोर्ड के एक सूत्र ने बताया कि राशिद और टीम मैनेजमेंट ने उनकी पीठ की समस्या को देखतेह ुए यह फैसला लिया है.

Doctors Remove Cricket Ball-Sized Hairball From 8-Year-Old's Stomach

In a rare case, doctors in Bengaluru removed a massive hairball -- as large as a cricket ball -- from the stomach of an 8-year-old girl, the hospital said on Wednesday.

The girl Aditi (name changed) had a rare case of trichophagia -- the compulsive habit of eating hair, also known as the Rapunzel syndrome.

Her parents were baffled by her repeated bouts of poor appetite and frequent vomiting over the last two years. They took her to many doctors including paediatricians, general physicians, and ENT specialists hoping to identify the problem and a cure for her condition.

They diagnosed Aditi's condition to be gastritis and prescribed pills accordingly.

However, doctors at Aster's Children and Women Hospital, Bengaluru, found that she had a trichobezoar -- a term that describes all the hair mass that had accumulated in her gastrointestinal tract.

"Trichobezoar is an extremely rare condition and especially very rare in a child as young as Aditi. It is often associated with trichophagia, a psychological disorder where individuals eat hair. While commonly seen in adolescent girls, finding this in a much younger child highlights the uniqueness of this case," Dr. Manjiri Somashekhar, Lead and Senior Consultant - Paediatric Surgery told IANS

An open stomach surgery, also known as laparotomy, had to be performed on Aditi because the hairball was very large and sticky and the situation was too complicated for an endoscopy to be performed.

This method, which was done in a total of two and a half hours, proved fruitful because it prevented any leakage into the peritoneal cavity, the doctor said.

If left undiagnosed, her condition could have led to severe malnutrition, anaemia, and significant bleeding from the stomach.

Following the surgery, she was placed on a special diet and continues to receive counselling and regular monitoring, the doctor said.

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

"Would Lose My Dignity": Malayalam Actor On Why She Filed #MeToo Complaint

Actor Sonia Malhar -- who filed a #MeToo complaint against a fellow actor amid a flood of complaints about longstanding sexual exploitation in Malayalam movie industry -- has told NDTV today that she has done it despite family pressure to "close all the things". "But I revealed the face of that hero, because otherwise it cause loss of my dignity also. If I close the case, that is not good for me," she added.

The actor has spoken to the Special Investigation Team formed to look into the matter. The name of the person she accused, has, however, not been revealed.

 "Maybe within two days I will reveal his name and discuss with my family and go through the cases like that," she said.

Ms Malhar is one of many women actors who have spoken up after the Justice Hema Committee report revealed the dark underbelly of Malayalam film industry, where sexual abuse and exploitation has been rampant for decades.

The women, including a Bengali actress, have gone public with allegations of sexual harassment against some of the best-known faces of Malayalam cinema, including eminent director Ranjith and actors Siddique and Mukesh.

Amid the outrage it provoked, Mohanlal, well-known actor and president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists, resigned alongside other top officials. AMMA said the administrative panel has resigned, taking moral responsibility for the allegations.

Asked if flagging such incidents and starting the legal process is any easier, given the number of women speaking up, Ms Malhar responded in the negative.

"It is not an easy process for victims, with the trauma, mental stress, money… All people want our body. They never consider that we have a soul or mind," she said.

"I recorded my statement yesterday as I feel justice is getting delayed… We are not sure if we will get 100 per cent justice here or not… In the Hema committee report, it is still not clear who are those heavyweights and politicians involved," she added.

Paralympics Opening Ceremony LIVE: Focus On Arrival Of Indian Contingent

Paralympics 2024 Opening Ceremony Live Updates: The opening ceremony of Paralympics 2024 is now underway at La Concorde in Paris. A total of 4,400 Paralympic athletes from 167 nations will march around Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysees. India have sent their largest-ever Paralympic contingent of 84 para-athletes and hopes to achieve a record medal tally as well. India won 19 medals, which included five gold, at the Tokyo Paralympics three years to attain their best finish on the medals tally, ranking 24th among 78 nations which won at least one medal at the Games.

"Jay Shah Bhai I Know...": Gambhir, Others React As ICC Gets New Chairman

India head coach Gautam Gambhir, BCCI president Roger Binny, and all-rounder Hardik Pandya led the long list of joyous members of the cricketing fraternity in lauding Jay Shah, who was on Tuesday elected unopposed as the ICC Chairman. BCCI secretary Shah was elected unopposed as the next ICC head, making him the youngest ever to reach the pinnacle of global cricket administration at the age of 35. 

"Congratulations to BCCI Honorary Secretary Mr. Jay Shah for being elected unopposed as the next Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council," the BCCI posted in its official 'X', formerly twitter, handle.

Congratulations to BCCI Honorary Secretary Mr. Jay Shah for being elected unopposed as the next Independent Chair of the International Cricket Council.@JayShah pic.twitter.com/sKZw4mdRvi

— BCCI (@BCCI) August 27, 2024

Gambhir, who has taken over as head coach from Rahul Dravid, said: "Many congrats @JayShah bhai! I know world cricket will grow tremendously under your exceptional leadership!"

Many congrats @JayShah bhai! I know world cricket will grow tremendously under your exceptional leadership! pic.twitter.com/4AubdEq8Cj

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) August 27, 2024

Pandya, who played a pivotal role in India's recent T20 World Cup triumph wrote: "Congratulations @Jay Shah bhai on being elected as the youngest chairman of ICC.

"Look forward to seeing you take cricket to even greater heights. Your vision and drive will help ICC, just like it did with BCCI."

Congratulations @JayShah bhai on being elected as the youngest chairman of ICC. Look forward to seeing you take cricket to even greater heights. Your vision and drive will help ICC, just like it did with BCCI. https://t.co/IxXWaSpP1b

— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) August 27, 2024

Binny, the 1983 World Cup winner, rated Shah as a "strong pillar" of BCCI. "I take this opportunity to congratulate Mr. Jay Shah on his appointment as the independent chair of the International Cricket Council (ICC). He has been a strong pillar as the BCCI Honorary Secretary and the President of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).

"He has been a cornerstone in ideating and implementing some of the pathbreaking initiatives in cricket. As he takes over as the ICC Chairman, I am sure his foresight and leadership will further enhance the reputation and well-being of our beloved game," he said.

Former Indian captain and head coach Anil Kumble said: "Jay Shah's election as ICC Chair marks a new chapter in global cricket. Congratulations and best wishes for the journey ahead!" Ravi Shastri, another former Indian captain and head coach, said: "Congratulations to @JayShah on being elected unopposed as ICC Chairman—the youngest ever at just 35! His experience running @BCCI will undoubtedly serve him well.

"The cricket community can be rest assured that Jay will work tirelessly to help World Cricket and @ICC to realize their full potential and take them to another level."

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla added: "I would like to wish Mr. Jay Shah all the very best in his new role at the ICC. He has been a visionary and has taken great pride in making sure that the game of cricket reaches newer heights and reaches a wider audience. His forthright approach and astute leadership means the game of cricket will continue to prosper across the globe."

Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara wrote in his 'X' handle: "Heartiest congratulations to @JayShah on being elected as the ICC Chair. Under your visionary leadership, cricket is set to touch new heights globally." Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh too hailed Shah's appointment.

"Congratulations to Secretary @BCCI Shri @Jai Shah Ji on your election, unopposed, as Chairman @ICC. Confident that the ICC will benefit from your experience of handling Indian cricket. Your leadership will guide world cricket to a new height. My best wishes."

Senior batter Ajinkya Rahane said: "Congratulations Jay bhai on your appointment as the ICC chairman."

Former sports minister and BCCI administrator Anurag Thakur too congratulated Shah on his new role.

"Congratulations to our BCCI Secretary, Sh. @JayShah on your new role and responsibility as the next Chairperson of the International Cricket Council (ICC), the supreme body of cricket.

"Your elevation as the youngest-ever cricket administrator is a moment of immense pride and celebration for all Indians, serving as a testament to India's rise on the international stage," he said.

India pacer Mohammed Siraj wished Shah success in his new stint.

"A massive moment. My best wishes to @Jay Shah Sir on being elected as the new ICC chairman. May you grow to greater heights and continue doing fine work for our sport. Congratulations."

With PTI Inputs

Rinku Singh Finally Reveals Rohit Sharma's Message After T20 World Cup Snub

Despite being a consistent run-scorer for Team India and boasting a remarkable average and strike-rate, Rinku Singh was left out of the nation's 15-man T20 World Cup 2024 squad after a patchy IPL 2024 with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). However, Rinku has now revealed the words of encouragement that India captain Rohit Sharma gave him after he was dropped. Despite winning IPL with KKR, Rinku was left out as India went for four spin options, instead including him as a travelling reserve.

"He (Rohit Sharma) came to me and said that it is okay, I'm still young, and there are many more tournaments to come. There is a World Cup every two years, so I shouldn't be disappointed by this but focus on my game instead," Rinku said in an interview to News24.

Immediately after the tournament, Rinku was included in India's five-match T20I tour of Zimbabwe, where he played in every single game as a middle-order batter. After that, he starred in the T20I series away at Sri Lanka, surprisingly impressing with the ball, picking up two wickets in the penultimate over of the final T20I to turn the game in India's favour.

Presently, Rinku boasts an average of nearly 60 and a strike rate of 174 in 17 T20I innings for India. Remarkably, he has stayed not out in 10 of the 17 innings.

Rinku also acknowledged Virat Kohli's style of leadership.

"I like Virat Kohli as well because aggression is very important while leading a team. So, his captaincy was also very good," he said. Rinku had recently revealed that he would like to play for Kohli's franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) if he is not retained by KKR.

Rinku is currently playing in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League (UP T20), where he is captaining Meerut Mavericks. He has not been included in any of the four squads for the Duleep Trophy to be held in September.

ICC चेयरमैन बने जय शाह, तैयार है प्लान, बताया पद संभालने पर क्या-क्या करेंगे

जय शाह इंटरनेशनल क्रिकेट काउंसिल के अगले चेयरमैन होंगे. मंगलवार 27 अगस्त को वह निर्विरोध इस पद के लिए चुने गए. साल 2019 से बीसीसीआई सचिव की भूमिका निभा रहे 35 साल के शाह 62 साल के ग्रेग बार्कले से एक दिसंबर को यह जिम्मेदारी लेंगे.

ICC चेयरमैन बनने के बाद शाह के सामने बड़ा चैलेंज, क्या पाकिस्तान बनेगा मुसीबत

Jay Shah ICC New Chairman: बतौर आईसीसी चेयरमैन जय शाह के सामने सबसे बड़ा चैलेंज क्या आने वाला है. आप कुछ भी कयास लगाएं, उससे पहले बता दें कि इसके जवाब से पाकिस्तान का कनेक्शन है.

हार के बाद पाकिस्तान को झेलनी पड़ी और शर्मिंदगी, WTC पॉइंट टेबल से छिन गए अंक

WTC Points Table: पाकिस्तान को बांग्लादेश के हाथों शर्मनाक हार के बाद डब्ल्यूटीसी पॉइंट टेबल में भी बड़ा झटका लगा है. भारतीय टीम डब्ल्यूटीसी फाइनल की रेस में पहले नंबर पर है.

Case Filed Against Filmmaker Ranjith After Fresh Sexual Abuse Allegations

The fallout from the Justice K Hema Committee report on harassment and abuse in the Malayalam film industry intensified on Monday as a case was charged against well-known filmmaker Ranjith, and several female actors stepped forward with disturbing accounts of the mistreatment they faced at the hands of their various male counterparts.

The case was charged against Ranjith after a Bengali actress filed a complaint on Monday with the Kochi City Police Commissioner.

The complaint, sent via email, alleged that Ranjith had touched her inappropriately with sexual intent after inviting her to act in the movie Paleri Manikyam in 2009.

Kochi Police Commissioner S Syamsundar said a case under IPC Section 354 (assault or criminal force on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty) has been registered against Ranjith.

Another actress, Minu Muneer, who has appeared in a few movies, levelled sexual abuse allegations against prominent actors M Mukesh, who is also an MLA, Jayasurya and Maniyanpilla Raju, as well as small-time actor Idavela Babu who has a prominent role in the actors' association.

A more well-known actress from the 1990s also came forward on Monday with allegations of misconduct from years ago against a noted filmmaker. She has expressed willingness to provide a statement to the police.

The filmmaker has denied the charges.

In a Facebook post, Minu Muneer said, "I am writing to report a series of incidents of physical and verbal abuse I suffered at the hands of 1 Mukesh 2 Maniyan Pilla Raju, 3 Idavela Babu, 4 Jayasoorya (Jayasurya), 5 adv Chandrasekaran, 6 production controller Noble and Vichu, in the Malayalam film industry." "In 2013, I was subjected to physical and verbal abuse by these individuals while working on a project. I tried to cooperate and continue working, but the abuse became unbearable," the actress, who signed as Minu Kurian in her Facebook post, alleged.

With the exception of Maniyanpilla Raju, none of the actors have reacted.

On the same day, a junior artist accused actor Baburaj, known for villain roles, of sexual assault.

Rejecting the allegations, Baburaj, an office bearer in the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (A.M.M.A), claimed it was an attempt by vested interests in the film industry to prevent him from becoming A.M.M.A general secretary, replacing Siddique, who resigned on Sunday amid similar charges.

Meanwhile, the serious and elaborate revelations of sexual harassment charges against two-time CPI(M) legislator M Mukesh brought embarrassment to the state government.

Though the opposition parties have accused the Left government of protecting the predators, its leaders put up a defence, saying a special investigation team has been formed to probe the allegations.

Yet, the continuing charges against Mukesh, who represents Kollam constituency in the assembly, have put the CPI (M)-led government under pressure.

A harassment allegation levelled by a woman against Mukesh years ago also resurfaced on Sunday.

Hours after Minu Muneer's allegations against Mukesh on Monday, workers from Yuva Morcha and Mahila Congress organised separate marches towards his residence in Kollam, demanding that a case be registered against him and that he resign as a legislator.

Opposition leader V D Satheesan said he expects that, like Ranjith and Siddique, Mukesh will also step down.

Reacting to the revelations against Mukesh, Higher Education Minister R Bindhu said any accusation against any person should be examined on factual grounds. "The wrongdoers should be punished. Innocent people should not be penalised," she told the media here.

Eminent writer Sara Joseph and Kerala Chalachitra Academy Vice-Chairman Premkumar raised objections against the reported inclusion of Mukesh in the film policy committee of the upcoming cinema conclave of the state government.

"The inclusion of Mukesh on the panel is ridiculous. He should resign as MLA if he has any self-pride," Joseph said.

Mukesh has claimed he is being deliberately targeted by vested interests as he is a CPI(M) MLA.

The female actor who accused him has also levelled sexual abuse allegations against three other prominent Malayalam actors.

Actor Maniyanpilla Raju has called for an overall investigation. "Some people will try to capitalise on the situation," he opined. "Among those accused, there will be both innocent and guilty parties. Therefore, a comprehensive investigation is necessary." Meanwhile, leading actor Prithviraj has called for corrective actions from A.M.M.A and a comprehensive investigation into the various allegations.

It came a day after director Ranjith and actor Siddique stepped down from their leadership roles in the Kerala Chalachitra Academy and A.M.M.A respectively, following sexual abuse allegations against them.

Amid mounting pressure on the government, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday announced the establishment of a seven-member special investigation team for the probe into the allegations made in the wake of the Hema Committee report being published.

There is however no move to conduct investigations on revelations made by women victims in the Hema Committee report.

The report by the Justice Hema Committee, constituted by the Kerala government after the 2017 actress assault case has revealed instances of harassment and exploitation of women in the Malayalam cinema industry, prompting calls for action against the guilty.

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

Champai Soren To Join BJP On Friday, Announces Himanta Biswa Sarma

Champai Soren, former Chief Minister of Jharkhand and veteran JMM leader, is set to join the BJP on Friday, announced Himanta Biswa Sarma in a late night post on X.

Last week, the 67-year-old leader, who had to quit as Chief Minister to make way for Hemant Soren upon his release from jail, said he would not quit politics, asserting that an option to float a new political outfit was always open to him.

Amid huge buzz about his big switcheroo, Mr Soren, two weeks ago, asserted "hum jahan par hain vahi par hain (I am where I am)".  The same week, he arrived in Delhi, claiming he was here for personal work. 

However, the rumors refused to die down. The BJP too played coy, calling him a senior leader and refused to attack him.

Earlier today, Mr Sarma, who is BJP's election in-charge for Jharkhand that will go to the polls later this year, said "I want Champai Soren to join the BJP and strengthen us".

The deal was finalised a few hours later, when Mr Sarma posted a picture of Champai Soren meeting Amit Shah and announcing the new inductee's date of joining. 

Former Chief Minister of Jharkhand and a distinguished Adivasi leader of our country, @ChampaiSoren Ji met Hon'ble Union Home Minister @AmitShah Ji a short while ago. He will officially join the @BJP4India on 30th August in Ranchi. pic.twitter.com/OOAhpgrvmu

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) August 26, 2024

Champai Soren had taken oath as the 12th Chief Minister of Jharkhand on February 2 this year. He then resigned from the post of Chief Minister on July 3, a day before JMM executive president Hemant Soren took oath as the 13th chief minister of Jharkhand on July 4.

UP Man Goes To Cops For Filing Complaint, Told To Get 'Jalebis' First

A man who went to a police station in Uttar Pradesh's Hapur to file a complaint was left shocked by an unusual demand from the cops. Chanchal Kumar, who lost his mobile phone, went to the police station to file a complaint but he was told by a police officer to bring one kilogram of 'jalebis' first. Upset over his lost cellphone, the man had no other option but to fulfil the cop's demand.

The incident happened in Kanaur village, around 91 kms from state capital Lucknow, under Bahadurgarh police station limits. On Saturday evening, Chanchal went out to purchase medicines when he lost his mobile phone. Despite a thorough search, he was unable to find it.

At the police station, after listening to his complainant, the cop asked him to either get Balushahi (a North-Indian sweet) or hot Jalebis for them.

When Mr Kumar sensed that the cop won't budge, he purchased Jalebis from the shop following which the police officer registered his complaint. 

ALSO READ | UP Man Fined For Driving Car Without Helmet By Noida Police

Earlier this month, a sub-inspector posted in UP's Kannauj was suspended for demanding "potatoes" as a bribe. Investigation revealed that the word "potato" was used as a code for bribe. The incident came to light after an alleged audio of the cop, Ram Kripal Singh, asking for a bribe to settle a case went viral on social media.

Days later, another police officer was suspended for demanding a cooler as a bribe in Uttar Pradesh. Manish Kumar Prajapati - posted in eastern Uttar Pradesh's Mau district - was accused by a man of asking for a cooler and ₹ 6,000 as a bribe from his wife. The man, Om Prakash Sharma from Katghara Shankar Village, also claimed Mr Prajapati abused his wife on a phone call.

ALSO READ | 9-Year-Old, Alone At Home, Allegedly Raped By Neighbour In UP: Cops

(With inputs from Mohammad Adnan)

कामिंडू के शतक पर रूट ने फेरा पानी, इंग्लैंड ने श्रीलंका को हराया

ENG vs SL 1st Test: इंग्लैंड ने मैनचेस्टर टेस्ट मैच में श्रीलंका को चौथे दिन ही 5 विकेट से हराकर सीरीज में 1-0 की बढ़त बना ली. श्रीलंका ने इंग्लैंड के सामने 205 रन का लक्ष्य रखा था जो उसने 5 विकेट के नुकसान पर हासिल कर लिया. जो रू ने नाबाद अर्धशतक जड़ा.

No Access To Food: Indian Migrants Stuck For Weeks At Brazilian Airport

Hundreds of migrants from India, Nepal and Vietnam have been stuck in Sao Paulo's international airport for weeks in alarming conditions, sleeping on the floor as they wait to enter Brazil, according to the Public Defender's Office and documents seen by Reuters on Friday.

A spokesman for the office said a 39-year-old migrant from Ghana died two weeks ago of unknown causes. It was not clear whether he died while retained at the airport or on the way to hospital.

At least 666 migrants without visas were waiting to enter Brazil at Guarulhos airport, the official said, with the added uncertainty that the government plans to tighten entry rules on Monday to stem a flow of foreigners using Brazil as a stopover to get to the United States and Canada.

The migrants are held in a restricted area where there is no access to a shower and their movements are limited, making it hard for them to obtain food and water, while children and adolescents are enduring winter cold with no blankets, the official said.

The Public Defender's Office found that the migrants' human rights were being violated with their health deteriorating.

The agency said conditions for the migrants need to be urgently improved while their status is being resolved, and urged authorities in a statement to comply with Brazil's legislation based on the humanitarian principle of accepting refugees and not returning them to their country of origin.

Starting on Monday, foreign travellers without a Brazilian visa who are headed for another country must travel straight on to their destination or return to their home country, Brazil's public security ministry told Reuters on Wednesday.

Brazil has seen a boom in foreign travellers, particularly from Asia, landing in the country for a supposed layover en route to North America, the ministry said in statement.

To enter Brazil, they ask for refugee status, alleging persecution and threats in their home countries, but a majority travel north when they can, according to two reports from authorities seen by Reuters and a senior police source.

Now, those passengers arriving in Sao Paulo without a visa will not be allowed to stay in Brazil, the ministry said.

It was not clear whether the new rules will apply to migrants already at the Sao Paulo airport or apply only to those arriving after the rules go into effect.

Immigration experts are concerned that the proposed rules counter the 1951 UN Refugee Convention, to which Brazil is a party and which calls on countries to take in those at risk in their home country, even if they are undocumented.

The head of Brazil's refugee committee, Jean Uema, told Reuters the rules would apply specifically to Sao Paulo airport and there would be no change to Brazil's policy on asylum seekers.

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

NDTV's Weekly Quiz #8: Play Now

Get ready for a dive into NDTV's Weekly Quiz. In this week's quiz, test your knowledge of topics like athletics, cricket, movies and global affairs. Discover the latest headlines shaping India's news landscape. Are you up for the challenge? Take the quiz now!

India's news space was dominated by the Prime Minister's visit, the Diamond League and the Election Commission of India announcing polls in two states.

China's Rocket Debris May Stay In Orbit For Decades, Experts Warn

After accomplishing a noteworthy milestone of launching 18 Qianfan satellites, China's Long March 6A rocket broke apart on August 6, producing almost 300 pieces of trackable debris in low Earth orbit.

The first wave of these satellites was supposed to form China's "own version of Elon Musk's Starlink," the Qianfan ("Thousand Sails") broadband network. The rocket was launched from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre, located in the Shanxi Province of North China.

A report by The Wall Street Journal states that the breakup of the rocket generated a new concern over Beijing's attitude towards space junk.

Also Read | China Rocket Ends Up As 300-Piece Space Junk After Satellite Constellation Launch

The report quoted LeoLabs, a US space-tracking firm, as saying the event might create at least 700 fragments floating some 500 miles above earth, making it one of the largest rocket breakups in history. Starlink said the debris didn't pose significant immediate risks to its fleet, but the fragments are “likely to remain in space for decades due to the incident occurring at a high altitude."

#USSPACECOM statement on the break-up of a Chinese Long March 6A rocket: pic.twitter.com/Kf5cz0iZky

— U.S. Space Command (@US_SpaceCom) August 8, 2024

China and other countries are pressing ahead with plans to increase rocket launches, raising risks for humans and satellites in orbit. Yet there is little global policing of unsustainable practices.

“Who can enforce anything in space? It's a bit like the Wild West at times," Quentin Parker, director of the Laboratory for Space Research at the University of Hong Kong, told WSJ.

Darren McKnight, senior technical fellow at LeoLabs, said China's recent record on generating debris related to Long March 6 launches was worrisome. “I hope it's a wake-up call for them, and they'll be part of the international dialogue," he said.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman, Lin Jian, said last week that China “attaches great importance to space debris mitigation" and “has taken active efforts to fulfill relevant international obligations." Without giving details, he said China took necessary measures after the recent rocket breakup.

It also said in the report that the Chinese activities in space are pointing toward a worrisome tendency in the direction of space junk. In 2022, a rocket stage from China had an uncontrolled re-entry into the Sulu Sea, wherein NASA criticised it for less-than-adequate data provision. Major pieces of junk have been created by Chinese rocket launches, including Long March 6A missions, which are notorious for their bad history. While other countries did better, Chinese behavior was largely responsible for space debris that affects low-Earth orbit environments.

श्रीलंका का भारत पर जीत का खुमार उतरा, इंग्लैंड आते ही संकट में, हार का खतरा

वनडे सीरीज में भारत पर ऐतिहासिक दर्ज करने वाली श्रीलंका की टीम के लिए इंग्लैंड दौरा सिर मुंडाते ही ओले पड़े जैसा हो गया है. उस पर इंग्लैंड में पहले ही टेस्ट मैच में हार का खतरा मंडरा रहा है.

Watch: Hyderabad YouTuber Throws Money On Street In Viral Video

A YouTuber and Instagrammer tossing cash  into the air in the middle of a road has been widely distributed, drawing massive outrage. The video from Hyderabad's Kukatpally area shows the young man standing amid moving traffic. Then he tosses handfuls of notes in the air.

The traffic comes to a standstill as people get off bikes and auto-rickshaws and scramble to collect the money. The rush for the cash caused massive disruption of traffic and posed a serious risk of accidents. In one video he is seen throwing away cash while riding pillion on a two-wheeler.

The stunt, apparently  performed to gain traction on social media, has been condemned by many on social media. People have called for strict action against the content creator, who has been identified as Power Harsha alias Mahadev , known online as "its_me_power,".

At the end of the video, the YouTuber expressed his intentions to continue such stunts. He even encouraged viewers to join his Telegram channel, where he promised rewards to those who could accurately guess the amount of money he would throw in future videos.

"All that you need to do is to join my telegram channel. Link is in my bio. Many of you know that I have earned a lot of money. You can earn too. Meet me on Telegram channel," he is heard saying.

The Cyberabad Police are yet to take action about the incident.
While throwing away money is not illegal, the chaos it may cause comes under disturbing of peace. 

Bangladesh's Interim Government Revokes Sheikh Hasina's Diplomatic Passport

Bangladesh's interim government revoked the diplomatic passport of ousted premier Sheikh Hasina on Thursday, after she fled a student-led uprising by helicopter to India earlier this month.

The move to cancel Sheikh Hasina's documents leaves the former autocratic leader in potential limbo, and comes on the same day that a United Nations team arrived in Dhaka to assess whether to investigate alleged human rights violations.

More than 450 people were killed -- many by police fire -- during the weeks leading up to Sheikh Hasina's ouster, as crowds stormed her official residence in Dhaka and ended her iron-fisted 15-year rule.

The interior ministry said in a statement that Sheikh Hasina's passport and those belonging to former government ministers and ex-lawmakers no longer in their posts "have to be revoked".

It also poses a diplomatic dilemma for Sheikh Hasina's current host, regional powerhouse India.

'Disproportionate force'

Post the revolt and storming of her official residence on August 5, Ms Hasina fled to India

While India is hosting Sheikh Hasina, PM Modi has also offered his support to the new Bangladeshi leader, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who is heading the caretaker administration.

"The former prime minister, her advisers, the former cabinet and all members of the dissolved national assembly were eligible for diplomatic passports by virtue of the positions they held," Dhaka's home ministry said in a statement.

"If they have been removed or retired from their posts, their and their spouses' diplomatic passports have to be revoked."

Dhaka's new authorities said that Sheikh Hasina, and other former top officials during her tenure, could apply for a standard passport, but that those documents were contingent on approval.

"When the aforementioned people apply afresh for ordinary passports, two security agencies have to clear their application for their passports to be issued," the ministry added.

Sheikh Hasina's government was accused of widespread abuses, including the mass detention and extrajudicial killing of political opponents.

The UN rights office asessing the protest response had said in a preliminary report last week that there were "strong indications, warranting further independent investigation, that the security forces used unnecessary and disproportionate force".

Yunus has said his administration would "provide whatever support" UN investigators need.

Separately, a Bangladeshi war crimes tribunal set up by Sheikh Hasina has launched three "mass murder" probes into its founder over the recent unrest.

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

"Prosecute Manipur Chief Minister": 10 Kuki MLAs On 'Audio Clip' Leak Row

Ten Kuki-Zo MLAs who have been demanding a separate administration carved out of violence-hit Manipur have requested the Commission of Inquiry, formed by the Home Ministry, to expedite looking into a purported audio tape of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, which, the Kuki-Zo MLAs claimed, proved the Chief Minister was responsible for the outbreak of ethnic clashes in May 2023 in the state bordering Myanmar.

The 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs including from the state's ruling BJP in a statement on Wednesday said the commission must speed up its process and prosecute Mr Singh "for his crimes if his guilt is established."

"He must also be immediately debarred from the office of the Chief Minister so that he is prevented from influencing the outcome of the probe against him," the 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs said in the statement.

The Manipur government has refuted the allegations twice - on August 7 when the Kuki Students Organisation (KSO) released a part of the audio clip, and on August 20, when the news website The Wire reported about the matter. The state government has said it was a "doctored audio clip" meant to derail peace talks.

The KSO in a statement on Monday said it was "deeply shocked and outraged by the continued inaction of the government of India regarding the leaked audio recording of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh."

The 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs have also doubled down on their allegations citing a Facebook post by the Chief Minister's brother Rajendro Nong, who the 10 MLAs claimed was "seen threatening those who sold out such sensitive tapes to others."

Citing the purported audio tape, the 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs asked the Union government to expedite their demand for a separate administration in the form of a Union Territory with legislature, "as that alone is the path to lasting peace in the region."

"The complicity of the CM in the state-sponsored ethnic cleansing, which we have always maintained since day one, has now been established beyond an iota of doubt. The CM can be clearly heard reassuring his audience, which from his tone and tenor can safely be assumed to be members of his militia, that they (central agencies) have to arrest him first before any of them, and that they should not promptly show up when summoned to give him time to intervene," the 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs said in the statement, alluding to the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol, or AT, whose members say they were compelled to take up arms soon after May 3, 2023 due to attacks allegedly by heavily armed Kuki insurgents and in the absence of effective law-and-order enforcement.

The Chief Minister, who belongs to the BJP, is from the valley-dominant Meitei community.

In the early days of the ethnic clashes after May 3, AT chief Korounganba Khuman was seen in visuals walking with a bamboo stick, while in the distance smoke was seen rising from a village behind a treeline. More visuals purportedly of May 3, 2023 showed at least three men in camouflage battledress and body armour, carrying AK series assault rifles, walking towards a field with slogan-shouting protesters from the Kuki tribes. In these visuals too, smoke can be seen rising from huts in the distance.

Some Kuki civil society groups have denied any knowledge of the Chief Minister's comment in the state assembly that leaders from the Meitei community and Thadou, Paite, Hmar tribes, among others, have been talking about peace at different levels.

These Kuki civil society organisations, the 10 MLAs, and 25-odd Kuki-Zo insurgent groups that have signed the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement (a ceasefire of sorts, yet to be renewed) - all of them have been demanding nothing less than a separate administration, bringing them together on a common platform.

The SoO groups have been in talks for a separate administration - a political settlement - for many years before May 2023, and so the claim by some Kuki leaders that the violence led to their call to break away from Manipur was a lie, since the intention for separation was always there, two leaders in the Manipur government told NDTV, requesting anonymity.

"Thousands of Meiteis and Kukis are living in relief camps. The question everyone should be asking is, why are the displaced people who are living in miserable conditions not being allowed to return home safely? Look at who all are opposing the return of displaced people to their homes. It is not difficult to see," one of the two leaders told NDTV on phone from the state capital Imphal.

The 10 Kuki-Zo MLAs who requested the commission to act against the Chief Minister have not attended the state assembly sessions since May 2023. They have cited threats to personal safety, and have declined to share space with the Chief Minister citing the violence broke out under his watch and it led to an exodus of people from the Kuki tribes from Imphal. Meiteis also had to leave their homes in Kuki-dominated hill districts and some foothills.

The clashes between the Meitei community and nearly two dozen tribes under Kukis - a term given by the British in colonial times - who are dominant in some hill areas of Manipur, has killed over 220 people and internally displaced nearly 50,000.

The general category Meiteis want to be included under the Scheduled Tribes category, while the Kuki tribes who share ethnic ties with people in neighbouring Myanmar's Chin State and Mizoram want to have a separate administration, citing discrimination and unequal share of resources and power with the Meiteis.

DPL: अर्पित राणा की शानदारी पारी, नवनीत सैनी की टीम की करारी हार

DPL: पुरानी दिल्ली 6 ने दिल्ली प्रीमियर लीग में बुधवार को अपनी पहली जीत दर्ज कर ली. दिल्ली 6 की जीत के हीरो अर्पित राणा रहे.

Bengal Governor Dials RG Kar Doctor's Parents, Seeks Meeting

Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose, who has shredded the Mamata Banerjee government repeatedly over the young doctor's rape and murder, spoke to her parents today, assuring them that he would make every effort to get them justice. In response to the parents' complaint that they did not even receive a copy of the First Information Report, he said he would look into the matter. He also requested for a meeting, saying he would visit them at their convenience on his return from Delhi.

There was also a message for Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, posted on X by his office soon after the Supreme Court hearing on the matter. 

"The nation, the entire nation, hear with great relief the pronouncements of the Supreme Court. Remember, every saint has a past. Every sinner has a future. Anybody listening? Will Mamata Banerjee please raise her hand?" he said.

Later, from his newly initiated mobile control room for the ongoing agitation over the rape-murder, the Governor spoke to the father of the woman, and said the entire country is standing by them.

"We all are with you. You will get justice. Today I am in Delhi, I held discussions in detail about the matter. I will go to your residence as per your convenience," he was seen telling the father in a video message released by his office.

Mr Bose was in Delhi today, where he met President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.  He reached Cuttack in the evening, from where he dialled the doctor's mother.

His move, though, was strongly criticized by the Trinamool Congress. Party MP Derek O'Brien posted: "Your video today disrespects the high constitutional post you hold... The telephone call you had with the father of the rape victim was recorded by you and then publicized. Tasteless. Unethical. Please do not use your high office and a gruesome tragedy for self publicity."

The mobile control room, the Governor's office said, was meant for the ongoing agitation in connection with the alleged rape and murder of a 2nd year PGT female resident doctor of R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital Kolkata. "Anyone may call up the numbers if they wish to convey anything to HG (Governor of Kolkata)," added the post.

टी20 वर्ल्ड कप में बल्लेबाजों की कब्रगाह बनी पिचों पर आईसीसी की आई रिपोर्ट

टी20 वर्ल्ड कप 2024 के कुल मुकाबले न्यूयॉर्क में खेले गए थे. यहां के विकेट बल्लेबाजों के लिए कब्रगाह साबित हुए थे. आईसीसी ने इन पिचों की रिपोर्ट जारी की है. न्यूयॉर्क के नासाउ काउंटी मैदान पर खेले गए 8 में से 6 पिच को संतोषजनक बताया गया है.

Biden To Pass Torch To Kamala Harris At Democratic Convention: 10 Points

1. The four-day event, which will end on August 22, will officially nominate Kamala Harris's Vice President pick, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, in the presidential elections.
2. Former US Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton are expected to speak at the National Convention and bid adieu to Joe Biden. The Democrats will also honour Hilary Clinton, their official candidate who lost to Donald Trump in the 2016 US Presidential Elections.
3. Last month, Mr Biden dropped out of the Presidential race just 100 days before the election, an unprecedented move in modern US political history. Concerns over the 81-year-old's health surrounded the Presidential campaigns, with rival Republicans targeting the Democrats over the issue. The concerns were aggravated after Biden's presidential debate with Trump in June.
4. To designate a formal nominee, delegates chosen from 50 US states, the US capital and overseas territories attend their party's nominating convention to officially anoint the candidate. Biden backed Kamala Harris as the candidate which was later endorsed by several leaders including former US President Barack Obama.
5. Joe Biden will give a prime-time address and make a case for his incumbent deputy, Kamala Harris, who is up against Donald Trump, the former US President, with multiple court cases and survivor of an assassination attempt.
6. In the Primary Election, a poll where parties select their candidates for the general election, Joe Biden won overwhelmingly with 87.1 per cent votes. The 26th Democratic National Convention will serve as a farewell for Mr Biden as he hangs up his boots. In 1968, President Lyndon B Johnson declared in the middle of the Vietnam War that he would not run for re-election.
7. Kamala Harris, the first Black and South Asian US Vice President, is expected to share the stage with Mr Biden. Kamala Harris, who considers herself an "underdog" in the race against Trump, earlier said, "A lot of work has to be done to earn the vote of the American people,"
8. Security has been increased near the convention centre in Chicago after an array of possible threats, including tens of thousands of protesters opposing Biden's support for Israel's actions in Gaza. They are expected to march through the city outside the security perimeter.
9. The Secret Service, FBI and the local police reportedly spent a year formulating a security plan and cordoning off areas near the United Center Arena where the convention will take place. Musicians and Hollywood celebrities are expected to attend the event.
10. Last week, Biden and Harris had put up a show of unity in Maryland when they made their first joint trip since the change of the Democratic Party's plans for the Presidential Elections.

9 छक्के 13 चौके, भारतीय टीम ने जिससे मुंह मोड़ा, उसने टी20 में ठोका आतिशी शतक

टीम इंडिया से बाहर चल रहे ट्रिपल सेंचुरियन करुण नायर ने महाराजा टी20 ट्रॉफी में धमाल मचा दिया है. करुण ने 48 गेंदों पर 124 रन की पारी खेली. करुण लंबे समय से टीम इंडिया से बाहर हैं. उन्होंने अपना आखिरी इंटरनेशनल मैच खेला था. उन्होंने मैसूर वॉरियर्स की ओर से खेलते हुए चौकों और छक्कों की झड़ी लगा दी.

Panel Report Reveals Stories Of Harassment Women Face In Malayalam Cinema

The much-awaited Justice Hema Committee report on harassment faced by women in the Malayalam cinema industry has recorded explosive accounts of harassment, exploitation and ill-treatment of female professionals, and has alleged that a "criminal gang" was controlling the industry where unyielding women are squeezed out.

The panel report also alleged there was a "power nexus" consisting of a handful of producers, directors, actors and production controllers.

The Kerala government constituted the panel after the 2017 actress assault case involving actor Dileep to study issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality in Malayalam cinema.

The report released on Monday sheds light on the widespread and persistent sexual harassment faced by women in the Malayalam cinema industry, with many alleging they were subjected to unwanted advances even before commencing work.

The women actors who are ready to compromise are given code names, and those who are not ready to yield are pushed out of the field, as per the report.

The report highlighted the widespread nature of the issue, sparking concerns about the safety and well-being of women in the industry.

"It has come out in evidence that certain men in cinema, who are well-known and well-reputed for their ability as artist, director or whoever he be in the film industry have shocked certain women in cinema by sexual harassment and physical advances made by them towards them," the expert panel report said.

A copy of the report was given to the media under the RTI Act after five years of its submission to the government.

In a series of shocking and shameful revelations, the report stated that female actors faced harassment, including instances where the doors of their rooms were knocked on by intoxicated individuals in the film industry.

Many of them, who suffered sexual harassment, were reluctant to complain about this to the police due to fear, it said.

"The sky is full of mysteries, with the twinkling stars and the beautiful moon. But scientific investigation revealed that the stars do not twinkle, nor does the moon look beautiful," the report said.

"Do not trust what you see; even salt looks like sugar," the opening lines of the report said.

As per the report, submitted by the three-member panel, the major issue which women face in the film industry is sexual harassment.

"It is the worst evil which women in cinema face in the film industry. The women in cinema are most reluctant to speak out about the sexual harassment which they are subjected to, even to other women or close relatives," it said.

The commission said it was "shocked to hear the sexual harassment stories" revealed to it by women working in the Malayalam film industry.

"The offer to act or for doing any other job in cinema comes to a woman coupled with demand for sexual favours. As I already mentioned, the woman would be asked to adjust and compromise, thereby she is asked to surrender to sexual demands," the report said.

"In most of the hotels, where they are staying, the doors are knocked by the men working in cinema who could be mostly under intoxication. Many women have stated that knocking will not be polite or decent but, they repeatedly bang the door by force," the report detailed.

The panel said even though many sexual acts committed against women in cinema come under the IPC and under the definition of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, prohibition and redressal) Act (POSH), the women who suffered the atrocities prefer to keep silence.

"An artist added that if they take up the matter before the court or the police, they will face worse consequences, including threat to life. The artist added that threat to life will not only be against the victims but even their close family members will be in danger," the report said.

The report has categorically mentioned that the police should register FIRs against crimes that are being committed in the industry, and many are not coming out fearing for their lives.

The publication of the report, initially scheduled for July 24, was put on hold by the Kerala High Court following a plea from a Malayalam film producer.

The court later dismissed the plea on August 13 and directed the government to release the report within a week.

However, the publication was delayed again due to a plea from an actress, which was heard by the High Court on Monday. The government finally released the report on Monday evening.

State Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan said the government has taken note of the findings and recommendations of the Justice Hema Committee.

The government would convene a cinema conclave in the next two months to discuss and resolve the issues in the film industry, he said.

The opposition Congress expressed shock over the findings of the committee and sought to know whom the government tried to protect by keeping the report without releasing it.

"The action of the government and the chief minister who kept the report in cold storage so far was a criminal offence," Leader of Opposition in the State Assembly V D Satheesan told reporters in Kochi.

Actor Siddique, who is also the president of actor outfit AMMA, said they would study the report in detail and take necessary steps to address the issues.

Women in Cinema Collective, an outfit of women professionals in the industry, expressed happiness over the releasing of the report and thanked the panel members, media, women organisations and the lawyers.

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

Broadcast Ministry Requests GST Exemption On Digital News Subscription

The Information & Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry has urged the Ministry of Finance to reduce the GST on digital news subscriptions. In a letter dated July 22, I&B secretary Sanjay Jaju requested his revenue counterpart Sanjay Malhotra to either exempt the GST on digital news subscriptions or reduce it from 18 per cent to five per cent.

He cited that newspapers were exempted from GST because the significance of giving "correct and factual information" to citizens was recognised. He also said that a similar disparity between printed books and e-books was addressed in 2018 when the GST Council reduced the GST rate on e-books from 18 per cent to 5 per cent.

"The number of paid subscribers for online news in India is very small as compared to the overall number of users accessing news on the internet. In this regard, it is observed that a higher rate of GST on digital news subscriptions may skew further growth of the online news sector towards an advertising model which may impact the quality and credibility of the news content on the internet through practices such as the use of clickbait and sensational headlines, and fake and misleading news, etc," the letter read.

"Recognizing the significance of the availability of correct and actual information for the citizens of the country, printed newspapers are exempted from GST. With the growing internet penetration in India and the nascent stage of the online news industry, it may be
appropriate that online news subscriptions are treated at par with printed newspapers or ebooks for the purpose of GST," Mr Jaju said.

He stated that the 18% GST on the Rs 120 crore online news subscriptions industry brings tax revenue of about Rs. 21.6 crore and that if the GST on digital newspaper subscriptions is brought down from 18% to nil, or to 5% at par with e-books, it may not lead to substantial revenue forgone by the Government exchequer.

Why Neeraj's Last 4 Throws In Paris Were Fouls? Paralympic Medalist Says...

Neeraj Chopra produced a season best throw of 89.45m at the Paris Olympics 2024 men's javelin event but it was not enough to clinch the gold medal. Neeraj had to settle for the silver as Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem clinched gold with a mammoth 92.97m throw. Arshad broke the Olympic record with his second attempt and it left both fans and experts stunned. While Neeraj's best also came on the second attempt, his last four throws were all fouls. In an interview with Times of India, three-time Paralympic medalist Devendra Jhajharia explained that Neeraj was trying to put extra effort in his throws in order to beat Nadeem's effort and that possibly resulted in all four throws ending in fouls.

"When Nadeem threw 92.97 meters, there was, of course, pressure on Neeraj. He threw over 89 meters. In his remaining four attempts, Neeraj wanted to throw over 93 meters. Neeraj knew he had already thrown over 89 meters and was in second position, and another 89-meter throw wouldn't have made any difference. He wanted to throw over 93 meters and put in extra effort so that he could beat Nadeem. His extra effort resulted in four fouls. For outstanding performances, you need to put in extra effort," he said.

Neeraj won the gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics and at the 2028 edition of the competition at Los Angeles, he will have the chance to complete a sensational hat-trick of medals. When asked if Neeraj will be able to win another medal in 2028, Jhajharia called him "very passionate" and added that he is sure Neeraj will complete a hat-trick of Olympic medals in Los Angeles.

"I have seen Neeraj grow up. I have also trained with him. He is a very passionate sportsperson. He is crazy about javelin. He is so focused, very humble. I am sure he is going to make a hat-trick of Olympic medals in Los Angeles," Jhajharia further added.

After Rahul Gandhi's Attack On Lateral Entry, BJP's "UPA's Time" Reminder

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's criticism of the lateral entry concept has had a boomerang effect on him, according to the BJP, as the ruling party leaders pointed out that it was the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government which developed the concept in the first place.

Mr Gandhi had in a post on X alleged the Modi government is trying to recruit officers loyal to the BJP's ideological mentor Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh through lateral entry, and not via the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

"Reservation of SC, ST and OBC categories is being snatched away by recruiting through lateral entry for important posts in various ministries of the central government," Mr Gandhi alleged in the post.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw was among BJP leaders who shot back.

"INC hypocrisy is evident on the lateral entry matter. It was the UPA government which developed the concept of lateral entry. The second Admin Reforms Commission (ARC) was established in 2005 under the UPA government," Mr Vaishnaw said in a post on X.

"Shri Veerappa Moily chaired it [ARC]. UPA-period ARC recommended recruitment of experts to fill gaps in roles that require specialised knowledge. The NDA government has created a transparent method to implement this recommendation. Recruitment will be done through UPSC in a transparent and fair manner. This reform will improve governance," Mr Vaishnaw said.

Lateral entry

INC hypocrisy is evident on lateral entry matter. It was the UPA government which developed the concept of lateral entry.

The second Admin Reforms Commission (ARC) was established in 2005 under UPA government. Shri Veerappa Moily chaired it.

UPA period ARC...

— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) August 18, 2024

Sources said the ARC identified that certain government roles needed specialised knowledge not always available within the traditional civil services, and it had recommended recruiting professionals from the private sector, academia, and public sector undertakings to fill these gaps.

The ARC had proposed the creation of a talent pool of professionals who could be inducted into the government on a short-term or contractual basis, bringing fresh perspectives and cutting-edge expertise in areas such as economics, finance, technology, and public policy, sources said.

The ARC also stressed the importance of integrating lateral entrants into the existing civil services in a manner that maintains the integrity and ethos of the civil service while leveraging the specialised skills they bring, sources said.

The lateral entry scheme was formally introduced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure, driven by the recognition of the need for domain experts to enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of India's administrative machinery.

In 2018, the government took a significant step by announcing vacancies for senior positions such as joint secretaries and directors, marking the first time that professionals from both the private and public sectors were invited to apply for these high-level roles. The selection process was rigorous, emphasising candidates' qualifications, experience, and suitability for these strategic positions.

Dawood's Daughter's Gown And A Kidnapping: A Fresh Look At MP Underworld

A new book by a retired IPS officer claims to reveal the chilling connection between the bridal gown of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim's daughter and a high-profile kidnapping case in Indore in 2005. The book by Dr Shailendra Srivastava, titled "Shackle The Storm", threads together the details of how the seemingly unrelated events are linked, shedding light on a dark chapter of Madhya Pradesh's criminal history.

The story begins with the bridal gown worn by Dawood's daughter, Mahrukh, during her wedding in Mecca in July 2005. The gown was crafted by a tailor named Ismail Khan, a resident of Shivpuri district in Madhya Pradesh.

Barely a month later, on August 17, 2005, Nitesh Nagori, the 20-year-old son of a prominent cement manufacturer in Indore, was kidnapped. A ransom of Rs 4 crore was sought for him. The police caught some of the accused and managed to release him before the ransom was paid.

Investigation indicated that Ismail Khan was involved in the abduction.

Ismail Khan was closely associated with Aftab Alam, one of Dawood Ibrahim's trusted lieutenants. Dawood Ibrahim was to get a share of the ransom.

The police believe that Ismail, who had fled after the kidnapping, was promised a lucrative commission and a job in Dubai for his role in the crime, along with Rs 1 crore for stitching the gown.

Ismail and Aftab have both been on the run since the incident, evading capture for nearly two decades.

In September 2005, the police arrested Nitesh Nagori's friend Dhruv, and another associate, Gaurav, for allegedly assisting Ismail in the kidnapping.
 
During interrogation, Dhruv identified Ismail as the mastermind, leading the police to unravel the connection between Ismail and the infamous underworld network.

The investigation also revealed that Aftab Alam, who had escaped Mumbai in 1997, was operating from the Gulf during the kidnapping.

Aftab's involvement complicated the case. The Interpol was alerted and warrants issued for the arrest of Ismail, Aftab, and other suspects, including Randhawa and Ibrahim, who are on the run.

Dr Srivastava's book goes beyond the kidnapping case to delve into the underworld's operations in Madhya Pradesh, particularly the covert activities of Dawood Ibrahim and his notorious rival, Chhota Rajan.

The narrative reveals a previously untold story of Vicky Malhotra, a key member of Chhota Rajan gang, who was arrested after inadvertently alerting the Mumbai Police by using a phone number linked to a previous ransom threat in Indore.

Malhotra, whose real name is Vijay Kumar Yadav, provided an in-depth account of his life in the underworld, including his involvement in multiple assassination attempts on Dawood Ibrahim. The book uncovers chilling details, such as a failed attempt to target Dawood during his daughter's burial in Karachi and another botched plan in Dubai.

One of the most intriguing stories in the book is the transformation of Vijay Yadav into Vicky Malhotra, a feared don in Chhota Rajan's gang.

Dr. Srivastava explores how this petty thief from Murshidabad rose to prominence in the underworld and came close to assassinating Dawood Ibrahim on three occasions.

Shackle The Storm is more than just a crime thriller; it is a compilation of 14 gripping stories that traverse the murky world of crime, justice, and the underworld in Madhya Pradesh.

The book also recounts Dr Srivastava's experience as the IG of Indore Range during the 2006 Bhojshala riots, where he played a crucial role in managing communal tensions and exposing the activities of the banned terrorist organization SIMI.

As Dr Srivastava reveals, these stories are not just about crime but also about the courage of those who stand against it, offering readers a glimpse into the untold tales of Madhya Pradesh's fight against terrorism and the underworld.

ऋषभ पंत की टीम आखिरी ओवर में हारी, होमग्राउंड पर अर्धशतक चूके कप्तान

DPL 2024: पुरानी दिल्ली 6 ने पहले बल्लेबाजी करते हुए 3 विकेट पर 197 रन बनाए. ओपनर अर्पित राणा ने सबसे ज्यादा 59 रन की पारी खेली जबकि विकेटकीपर ऋषभ पंत ने 32 गेंदों पर 35 रन बनाए. वंश बेदी नाबाद 47 रन बनाए जबकि ललित यादव ने 34 रन का योगदान दिया. आयुष बदोनी की कप्तानी वाली साउथ दिल्ली सुपरस्टार्स ने 5 गेंद बाकी रहते 3 विकेट से मुकाबला जीत लिया.

Thar, Scorpio SUVs Inside Restricted Zone In Ranthambore Tiger Reserve Seized

Fourteen SUVs believed to be on an off-roading experience trip from five states were caught in Zone 8 - an area not open to public access via vehicles - of Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan's Sawai Madhopur, forest department officers said.

The vehicles came from Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan, the officers said.

The forest department has suspended two rangers for the lapse.

On August 15, at least 12 Mahindra Thar and two Scorpio SUVs managed to sneak into the ecologically fragile tiger reserve for a private safari led by a tour organiser called Adventure Tours.

When visuals of the SUVs inside the zone where personal vehicles were not allowed went viral on social media, the forest department swung into action. It was suspected some forest rangers had illegally allowed the private vehicles into the park.

"It is a matter of illegal entry. We have seized the vehicles. We are further investigating the matter," divisional forest officer Ramamnand Bhakkar told NDTV.

During monsoon, the wildlife park is shut for all safaris, which makes it all the more surprising that private vehicles were found inside the park, sources said.

A video of the vehicles inside the park also shows the visitors walking around in Zone 8. It appeared one of the vehicles got stuck. This video was taken by a local. It exposed the illegal entry of private SUVs inside the tiger reserve.

Off-roader and rally driver Rattan Dhillon also posted visuals of the incident on X.

Over 10 vehicles were seized after an adventure drive organized by the official Mahindra team in Tiger Zone 8 of Ranthambore.

The forest department is now pursuing legal action against Mahindra Adventure officials.

It's alarming that such an event could occur under the watch... pic.twitter.com/f24Kki1vl3

— Rattan Dhillon (@ShivrattanDhil1) August 17, 2024

Under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 violators could be fined up to Rs 1 lakh.

Watch: Russian Woman Travels In Mumbai Local Train, Chats With Passengers

A Russian woman recently took to social media to share her travel experience in a Mumbai local train which is often hailed as one of the most crowded trains in the country. The content creator, who goes by the name Mariia Chugurova on social media, shared two videos on Instagram capturing her trip in a general coach on the train. While in the first clip, she was seen outside Mahim railway station, in the second video, she was seen interacting with the local travellers on the train. 

"Russian kudi chats with Indians on the local train," she wrote in the caption of one of the clips. In the video, the content creator revealed that there is a separate ladies' coach on the train. But instead of going to that coach, she travelled in the general coach and interacted with a few local travellers. After getting off the train, she said that her experience of the Mumbai local train was good. She even thanked the Indian railways for the safety of women in the trains. 

Watch the video below: 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mariia Chugurova (@mariechug)

"Surprisingly not packed like a can of sardines this time, so I had the luxury to chat with the sweetest souls on board.  And can we talk about the special place for women? India, you know how to treat your ladies right! Grateful for the hospitality and the unforgettable train ride experience!" Ms Chugurova wrote while sharing the clip. 

Ms Chugurova shared the video a few days back. Since then, it has accumulated more than 1.1 million views and over 77,000 likes. 

Also Read | Retired Colonel Recalls How Daughter Was Eve-Teased On Her Way To Delhi College. See Post

Reacting to the clip, one user wrote, "After a few years when she goes back to Russia... She will introduce herself to Russians 'Hi, I'm Marie from India'". "Respect for Russian kudi," commented another. 

"This is such a sweet video," expressed a third user. "This is amazing girl. She is more Indian than Indian. I love her," said another user. 

Trouble In PBKS? Report Claims Preity Taking Legal Route On Fellow Co-Owner

Are Punjab Kings going through a problem? A recent report by Cricbuzz has raised a speculation that all is not right among the IPL team owners. Bollywood actor Preity Zinta, industrialists Mohit Burman and Ness Wadia are the co-owners of the franchise. The report has claimed that Preity Zinta has filed an appeal in the Chandigarh High Court seeking to restrain co-owner Mohit Burman from selling a portion of his shares to another party. The report also said that Preity holds 23 per cent share of PBKS while Mohit Burman has 48 per vent. Ness Wadia has 23 per cent. The remaining shares are held by Karan Paul. 

The report further said that Preity Zinta's court appeal is regarding the Burman's reported plans to sell part of his shares. Burman has denied the speculation. "I don't have any plans to sell my shares," Burman told Cricbuzz. Officially, the Punjab Kings have not spoken or released a statement on the issue anything on the issue. 

A report in Tribune said: "Preity Zinta said Burman holds approximately 48 per cent of the shareholding and is also on the board of directors. She has filed the petition under Section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act-1996 seeking interim measures and direction in view of the disputes and differences between her and respondent Mohit Burman."

The Cricbuzz report further claimed "it is understood" that according to their arrangement a particular co-owner can't sell a share their share to a third party without first offering it to fellow old co-owners. The shares can only be sold once the other co-owners decline to purchase the shares.

Punjab Kings are yet to win the IPL.