The Warner Bros. Discovery Zone at Jeddah Season has become a popular attraction, featuring live performances of the classic cartoon “Tom and Jerry.” Covering an area of 15,000 square meters, the zone offers an immersive experience that brings the iconic cat-and-mouse duo to life.

Visitors can enjoy a theme park dedicated to "Tom and Jerry," experiencing adventures and comedic chases between the characters. The zone includes interactive games, theatrical performances and creative workshops, providing entertainment for all ages.

Guests can watch classic "Tom and Jerry" clips on a large screen, accompanied by a live band playing the show's soundtrack. The Cheese City area features interactive exhibits, original artworks, and statues that showcase famous locations from the series, such as Jerry’s house and the kitchen.

The Warner Bros. Discovery Zone offers a unique blend of nostalgia and innovation, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the beloved cartoon.

The Director General of the Human Resources Development Fund, Turki bin Abdullah Al-Jawini, announced that the fund assisted more than 153,000 Saudi men and women in securing employment in the private sector during the first half of 2024.

During this period, the fund disbursed SR3.79 billion ($1 billion) to private sector establishments to support training, employment and empowerment programs, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.

Al-Jawini stated that 1.4 million Saudis and approximately 100,000 establishments in vital sectors benefited from these programs. He emphasized the fund's commitment to aligning with the Kingdom’s development goals, addressing the business sector's needs and meeting the demand for a skilled national workforce.

The fund aims to develop the skills of Saudis, increase their participation in the labour market, and encourage the private sector to contribute to workforce localization. It is also focused on strengthening partnerships with entities involved in training, employing and empowering the national workforce to enhance their competitiveness and continuity in the labor market.

Al-Jawini highlighted that the fund’s programs and services have increased benefits for individuals and establishments, stressing the fund’s efforts to adapt to labour market changes and requirements. The fund is working on developing training, empowerment, and guidance programs targeting national personnel, contributing to the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 for human capacity development and labour market strategy.

The UAE has announced a Dh15 million grant to support the development of women leaders by providing access to knowledge resources, support systems and a development network. This initiative aims to advance women's leadership skills and development across the country.

The grant will fund the Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi Chair in Women’s Leadership, established by the NAMA Women Advancement Establishment (NAMA) in partnership with the American University of Sharjah (AUS). This is the first endowed chair in the UAE dedicated to women's leadership and development, named in honour of Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi. She is the wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of NAMA, recognized for her contributions to advancing women's education.

Sheikha Jawaher emphasized the importance of the initiative.

She said, " When we pledged to support and empower female students and researchers around the world, we held great confidence in the exceptional women who are passionate about giving back to their communities."

Sheikha Jawaher also highlighted that the partnership with AUS marks a significant milestone in Sharjah’s efforts to advance women in the educational field.

"We will continue to promote initiatives that raise awareness about the benefits of education for women and persist in building and advancing research facilities," added Sheikha.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed grave concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where severe food insecurity has put more than 25 million citizens at risk. The situation has prompted the UAE to call for urgent international intervention.

In a recent statement, the UAE highlighted the alarming conditions in North Darfur, particularly in the Zamzam camp, which houses over half a million displaced people. The UAE expressed deep concern over the declared famine in parts of the region, as well as the looming threat of famine in the Abu Shouk and Al Salam camps.

Welcoming the United Nations Security Council meeting that focused on the urgent situation in Sudan, the UAE emphasized the necessity of sustained international attention to address the crisis. The UAE affirmed that the humanitarian emergency demands immediate action to secure a ceasefire and expedite the delivery of aid.

Humanitarian aid trucks, currently stalled at Sudan's borders, are desperately needed across the country, particularly in Zamzam Camp and Northern Darfur, where thousands are facing starvation. The UAE has called on the Sudanese Armed Forces to lift restrictions on humanitarian access and urged the Rapid Support Forces to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers, allowing them to operate without the threat of violence.

Condemning the use of starvation as a weapon of war and the denial of aid to civilians, the UAE reiterated that these actions are clear violations of international humanitarian law. The UAE stressed that the dire conditions on the ground necessitate an urgent increase in cross-border and cross-line humanitarian access to save millions of lives.

The UAE urged the international community to ensure that the people of Sudan are not used as political pawns and called on the Security Council to utilize all available tools to address the crisis.

Dr. S Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, emphasized that the Indo-US Axiom-4 mission will bolster, not delay, the Gaganyaan mission.

He reassured that the collaboration would enhance ISRO's capabilities, as Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla prepares to join the International Space Station (ISS) next year.

In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Dr. Somanath highlighted that Captain Shukla’s participation in the Axiom-4 mission will enrich India's expertise in human spaceflight, benefiting the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send humans to an orbit 400 km above Earth for at least one day.

"The progress of Gaganyaan remains on track, with delays unrelated to the ISS mission. The ISS mission will enhance our efforts, particularly in developing the first crew and service modules," Dr. Somanath explained.

He noted that India lacks experience in human spaceflight protocols, making international training invaluable. "Training under Russian and upcoming US models will add significant value to our processes. We are focusing on preparation, training, health monitoring, and crew module features," he added.

India has selected four candidates for the Gaganyaan mission, with Group Captain Shukla leading the Axiom-4 mission and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair as the backup. The Axiom-4 mission, affectionately dubbed 'Mission Akash Ganga,' signifies India's expanding space endeavors.

Dr. Somanath mentioned PM Narendra Modi's commitment to continuing the Gaganyaan mission, building a space station, and aiming for the Moon, necessitating a pool of trained astronauts. "Our current reliance on astronaut Rakesh Sharma and the new Gaganyatris will help us develop the necessary architecture and systems," he said.

When asked about the timing of India's human spaceflight efforts, Dr. Somanath asserted that India is progressing appropriately. "Our decision aligns with our technological readiness. Human spaceflight is crucial for our space program's evolution, and now is the right time to undertake this. Collaborating with other nations underscores that this is about humanity, not just technological prowess," he concluded.

Arjun Erigaisi, India's highest-rated player in the Classic Ranking, led Team MGD1 to clinch the silver medal in the inaugural World Blitz Team Championships held in Astana, Kazakhstan.

This club-based event, conceptualized by FIDE, saw Erigaisi achieve a stunning victory over former World Champion and World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen on the top board in Round 1.

Despite Erigaisi's triumph, Carlsen's teammates secured victories on the other boards, giving their team an early lead. Team MGD1 fought hard in the second round, holding the eventual champions WR Chess to a 3:3 draw, but it wasn't enough to force a play-off.

"Beating Magnus Carlsen in any format is special, and I really enjoyed playing against him. However, the collective performance of the team that helped us secure the silver medal was particularly special. The way we bonded and fought for each other makes this medal so significant," Erigaisi stated in a release by Team MGD1 on Tuesday.

The inaugural World Blitz Team Championships featured 40 teams competing in a group-cum-knockout format in a one-day event with a prize pool of 100,000 Euros. Each team included one female player and one amateur.

Team MGD1, which comprised GM Srinath Narayanan, SL Narayanan, B. Adhiban, former Women's World Championship bronze medallist D. Harika, and amateur Mihir Shah, dominated Pool B by winning all their seven matches. In Round 3, they defeated World Rapid Team Champions Al-Ain 4.5-1.5, solidifying their claim for a podium finish and meeting expectations in the knockout stages.

"It's a very proud moment for all of us that we have won a silver medal in the World Blitz Team Championships, defeating some of the best players in the world. At MGD1, we are committed to the development of chess in India, and that is one of the reasons we fielded an all-Indian lineup in Astana. The players rose to the occasion," said MGD1 co-founder Sreekar Chennapragada.

The Indian team advanced through the Round of 16 against Astana-2 and the quarterfinals against Israel's Ashdod Chess Club to reach the semifinals. Facing Al-Ain once again, they were taken to a tiebreaker after both rounds ended in a 3:3 draw. The Indians then raised their game in the play-off, winning 5.5-0.5 to set up the final clash against WR Chess.

Team MGD1 had also secured a bronze medal in the World Rapid Team Championships in 2023.

Taiwanese sports officials have threatened the International Boxing Association (IBA) with legal action following claims that Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-Ting, competing in the Paris Olympics women's competition, is "a man."

This controversy also involves Algeria's Imane Khelif, with both athletes assured of a medal after reaching the semi-finals.

The IBA had disqualified them from its world championships in 2023, but the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which is managing boxing in Paris due to issues with the IBA, cleared them to compete.

The IBA and IOC have been in a public dispute, leading the IOC to take over Olympic boxing due to financial, governance, and ethical concerns about the IBA.

In a chaotic press conference on Monday, IBA officials, including its president, Umar Kremlev, made contradictory statements. Kremlev claimed that genetic testing indicated Lin and Khelif were men and had "men's levels of testosterone."

In response, Taiwan's Sports Administration issued a "solemn protest" against the IBA, accusing it of spreading false information to mislead the public and interfere with the Games. The Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee (Taiwan) has hired a lawyer to send a warning letter to the IBA and is considering further legal action.

IOC President Thomas Bach, along with high-level officials from Algeria and Taiwan, defended Khelif and Lin, asserting that both athletes were born and raised as women and possess passports confirming their gender. Khelif and Lin also competed in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 without controversy, though neither won a medal.

Khelif is scheduled to fight in the semi-finals of the 66kg category on Tuesday, while Lin's semi-final bout in the 57kg division is set for Wednesday.

Bangladesh's Nobel Peace Prize winner, Muhammad Yunus, has expressed his readiness to head an interim government, following the military takeover in the country.

This development comes after the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid mass protests.

Yunus, 84, known for his pioneering work in microfinance, made the announcement in a statement to AFP, indicating his willingness to act in response to the country's needs and the courage of its people.

"If action is needed in Bangladesh, for my country and for the courage of my people, then I will take it," Yunus said, also calling for "free elections." His statement follows calls from student leaders for him to lead a caretaker government. Yunus has garnered significant respect from millions of Bangladeshis for his contributions to poverty alleviation, although he has faced opposition from the ousted Hasina.

Sheikh Hasina, who had been in power since 2009, faced accusations of election rigging and witnessed widespread protests demanding her resignation. Hundreds of lives were lost as security forces attempted to suppress the unrest, but the protests intensified, leading to Hasina fleeing the country by helicopter on Monday after losing military support.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the army chief, announced on Monday that the military would form an interim government, calling for an end to the violence. On Tuesday, President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved parliament, fulfilling a key demand of student leaders and the main opposition party, the Bangladesh National Party (BNP), which has called for elections within three months.

"In Dr. Yunus, we trust," wrote Asif Mahmud, a leader of the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) group, on Facebook.

The military has also made significant changes in its leadership, demoting generals seen as close to Hasina and dismissing Ziaul Ahsan, commander of the US-sanctioned Rapid Action Battalion. Former Prime Minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, a long-time rival of Hasina, was released from house arrest.

Following the military's takeover, Dhaka experienced a return to relative calm. Traffic resumed, shops reopened, and international flights at Dhaka's airport restarted, although government offices remained closed. The previous day's chaos had seen at least 122 people killed, as protesters launched revenge attacks on Hasina's allies, torched parliament, and destroyed TV stations.

Bangladesh's recent unrest began with protests against civil service job quotas and evolved into broader demands for Hasina's resignation. The military's intervention has now opened a path for potential political and democratic reforms. However, the international community, including key regional allies India and China, have called for calm and the restoration of stability.

Washington: Tim Walz, the Democratic governor of Minnesota, has reportedly been selected by US Vice President Kamala Harris to be her running mate. In recent days, Walz—60, a former schoolteacher, military veteran, member of the House of Representatives, two-term governor, and, in recent days, the man who coined the word "weird" to describe the Republican nominee for President, former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Senator J.D. Vance, and their campaign and their views that were quickly adopted by the Harris campaign and her allies.

The Harris campaign had not announced the pick till the filing of this report.

Walz is scheduled to make his first appearance along with Harris, who secured the official nomination of the Democratic party for President on Monday night, at an election rally in Philadelphia later on Tuesday and then go with her on a tour of battleground states.

"The window for delegates to vote in the virtual roll call has concluded, and that 99 per cent of the pledged and automatic delegates who fulfilled their responsibility by voting in the roll call cast their votes in support of Vice President Kamala Harris," the Democratic party said.

Harris had narrowed down her search to Walz and Josh Shapiro, the popular Governor of Philadelphia in the final days.

Shapiro was seen as a favourite with the expectation that he could bring some of his popularity in the battleground state to help Harris. He had won the Governor's race in 2022 with a 15 percentage point lead and Harris currently trails Trump by 2 percentage points. Additionally, Shapiro was seen as a moderate whose appeal extended beyond the Democratic party’s base. And he had many Republicans, who were not happy with Trump, rooting for him.

Walz, who has been backed by labour unions, is seen as belonging to the progressive wing of the Democratic party, which could help Harris bridge the divide in the party over President Joe Biden’s tight embrace of Israel in its war against Hamas, which alienated the progressives.

He has emerged as a popular choice because of his folksy style and happy demeanour that has made some call him a "joyful warrior".

Walz’s bio on his website as Minnesota Governor said he was born in a small town in rural Nebraska and his parents "instilled in him the values of public service, generosity toward your neighbors, and working for the common good that guide his commitment to Minnesota today".

After graduating from high school, Walz enlisted in the Army National Guard. He studied social science at Chadron State College. He spent a year teaching abroad and joined the Army National Guard full time on his return and eventually accepted a high school teaching and coaching position. Walz met his future wife, Gwen Whipple, at the school they both taught at. He won his first election to the House of Representatives in 2006 and was re-elected for another five terms, and then ran for Governor in 2018 and won. He was re-elected in 2022.

Reacting to the pick, Karoline Leavitt, Trump's Campaign Press Secretary, said: "It’s no surprise that San Francisco Liberal Kamala Harris wants West Coast wannabe Tim Walz as her running-mate - Walz has spent his governorship trying to reshape Minnesota in the image of the Golden State."

"While Walz pretends to support Americans in the Heartland, when the cameras are off, he believes that rural America is ‘mostly cows and rocks’. From proposing his own carbon-free agenda to suggesting stricter emission standards for gas-powered cars, and embracing policies to allow convicted felons to vote, Walz is obsessed with spreading California’s dangerously liberal agenda far and wide. If Walz won’t tell voters the truth, we will: just like Kamala Harris, Tim Walz is a dangerously liberal extremist, and the Harris-Walz California dream is every American’s nightmare."

With inputs from IANS�

Suva, Fiji: The highest civilian honour in Fiji, the Companion of the Order of Fiji, was awarded to President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday. She praised the two nations' relationship and stated that India is prepared to work with Fiji to create a more powerful, resilient, and prosperous country.

"President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji upon President Droupadi Murmu. This is the highest civilian award of Fiji," the President's Office said in a post on X.

Murmu, who is on a two-day visit to Fiji, described the honour as "a reflection of the deep ties of friendship" between India and Fiji. This is the first visit by an Indian head of state to the archipelago nation.

President Murmu also addressed the Fijian Parliament.

"As India emerges strongly on the global stage, we stand ready to partner with Fiji, according to your priorities, to build a stronger, resilient, and more prosperous nation. Let us come together to unlock the full potential in our partnership for the mutual benefit of people of both our beloved countries," she said while addressing the Parliament.

She said that despite the vast difference in size, India and Fiji have much in common, including vibrant democracies. She recalled that almost 10 years ago, speaking in this same Hall, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had underlined some basic values that unite India and Fiji.

"These include, 'our democracy, the diversity of our societies, our creed that all human beings are equal, and our commitment to the liberty, dignity and rights of every individual'. These shared values are eternal, and shall continue to guide us ahead," she said.

"In my short time here, I can see that the rest of the world has so much to learn from Fiji. The gentle Fijian way of life, the deep-rooted respect for traditions and customs, and an open and multicultural environment make Fiji so special in an increasingly conflict-ridden world. No wonder, Fiji is the place where the rest of the world comes to find its happiness," she said.

She said she was confident that the newly announced projects, including the Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital to be established in Suva, would help to meet the priority needs of the people of Fiji and the wider Pacific region.

Earlier, President Murmu was warmly received by President Katonivere at State House where the two leaders discussed ways to deepen the bilateral ties.

"At State House, President Droupadi Murmu also witnessed the progress of the 'Solarisation of Heads of State Residences' project, an Indian initiative, which was inaugurated in February last year," her office said in a post on X.

From Fiji, Murmu will travel to New Zealand and Timor-Leste. Her six-day three-nation visit aims to take India's Act East Policy forward, according to the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.�

With PTI inputs�

Bangladesh's former Information and Technology Minister, Zunaid Ahmed Palak, was detained at Dhaka International Airport while attempting to leave the country.

The detention occurred a day after the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, as the military, which has established an interim government, tightened its control over the violence-stricken nation.

Reports indicate that Ahmed was approached by airport officials while waiting in the VIP lounge of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. He was subsequently detained by Air Force personnel.

According to sources, he was trying to fly to India, where former PM Sheikh Hasina also fled on Monday following violent protests that saw demonstrators breach her palace.

The unrest in Bangladesh, which began in early July as protests against civil service job quotas, has escalated into widespread violence and calls for Sheikh Hasina's resignation. Yesterday marked the deadliest day of the protests, with mobs launching attacks on the offices of her party, the Awami League, which were torched and looted nationwide.

Protesters also stormed parliament and burned TV stations, with some smashing the statue of Sheikh Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country's independence hero.

Sheikh Hasina arrived at a military airbase near New Delhi on Monday evening. Sources suggest she intended to travel onward to London, but there has been no confirmation of her schedule or current location. The UK government has stated that its immigration rules do not allow individuals to seek asylum or temporary refuge unless they do so in the first safe country they reach, as per a statement from the UK Home Office to NDTV.

The military's ultimatum reportedly forced Sheikh Hasina to resign, giving her only 45 minutes to step down.

The army chief met with President Mohammed Shahabuddin and key opposition leaders late Monday, and it was announced that an interim government would be formed immediately. President Shahabuddin also ordered the release of prisoners detained during the protests, including former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, a long-time rival of Sheikh Hasina.

Researchers continue to be baffled by the Antikythera mechanism, a highly intricate 2,000-year-old device often hailed as "the first computer."

This ancient astronomical calendar was unearthed from a Greek shipwreck in 1901, and its complexity has puzzled scientists ever since, according to a report by BGR.

The hand-operated mechanism utilized a wind-up system to monitor the celestial movements of the sun, moon, and planets. It also served as a calendar, tracking the phases of the Moon and the timing of eclipses. Remarkably advanced for its time, the device outstripped any other tool created over the next millennium.

Presently, the Antikythera mechanism exists in 82 fragmented pieces, with only about a third of its original structure intact. This includes 30 corroded bronze gearwheels. Researchers from University College London (UCL) employed 3D computer modeling to decipher the device's functionality, describing it as a "creation of genius."

Adam Wojcik, a materials scientist at UCL, commented, "We believe that our reconstruction fits all the evidence that scientists have gleaned from the extant remains to date."

The researchers suggest that the device mapped the movements of the sun, moon, and planets on concentric rings, in line with the ancient Greek belief that these celestial bodies orbited Earth. As detailed in Scientific Reports, "Solving this complex 3D puzzle reveals a creation of genius—combining cycles from Babylonian astronomy, mathematics from Plato's Academy, and ancient Greek astronomical theories."

The release date of the science fiction film Alien: Romulus, directed by Fede Alvarez, has been announced in India. One week after its US premiere, on August 23, the movie will open in Indian theatres.

Key characters in the movie are played by Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, Spike Fearn, and Aileen Wu. Along with Walter Hill of Brandywine Productions, Ridley Scott and Michael A. Pruss produced Alien: Romulus under the Scott Free Productions banner.

The movie, which takes place in between the events of Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986), follows a group of young space colonisers as they scavenge the deep corners of a derelict space station and encounter the most horrific living form in the universe, the New Indian Express reported.

Production design is done by Naaman Marshall, music is by Benjamin Wallfisch, editing is by Jake Roberts, and cinematography is by Galo Olivares. On August 23, 20th Century Studios India will release it in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, and English.

Paris: Veteran Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat defeated Oksana Livach of Ukraine in the last eight round of the Paris Olympics on Tuesday to advance to her first-ever Olympic semifinal in the 50kg division.

In a fierce battle, the 29-year-old Vinesh overcame Livach 7–5 to move one step closer to the coveted Olympic medal on her third try.�

This came after she stunned the defending gold medallist and four-time world champion Yui Susaki of Japan on points to advance to the quarterfinals, causing the biggest wrestling upset of the games, PTI reported.

Trailing 0-2 after conceding penalty points for passivity, the Indian wrestler came back brilliantly in the last five seconds to take down the top seed by clinching three points to win 3-2.

Vinesh had failed to win a medal in her two previous Olympic appearances.

Climate activists targeted Lionel Messi's mansion on the Spanish holiday island of Ibiza, spray-painting it to underscore the "responsibility of the rich for the climate crisis."

The action was undertaken by campaigners from Futuro Vegetal, who released a video showing two members standing in front of the house near Cala Tarida on Ibiza's western coast. They held a banner that read: "Help the Planet -- Eat the Rich -- Abolish the Police," before spraying the white facade of the building with red and black paint.

In a statement, Futuro Vegetal emphasized their intention to highlight the climate crisis's impact and the disproportionate responsibility of the wealthy. They pointed out that Messi's mansion, purchased in 2022 for approximately 11 million euros ($12 million), was allegedly constructed illegally, lacking a certificate of occupancy due to unauthorized construction of several rooms.

The group referenced a 2023 Oxfam report indicating that the richest one percent of the world's population generated the same amount of carbon emissions in 2019 as the poorest two-thirds, with vulnerable communities suffering the worst consequences of the climate crisis.

Futuro Vegetal, associated with similar international groups, has conducted numerous protests to draw attention to climate issues. In 2022, they glued their hands to the frames of paintings by Spanish master Francisco de Goya at Madrid's Prado Museum. Last year, they spray-painted a superyacht in Ibiza that reportedly belonged to Nancy Walton Laurie, the billionaire heiress of Walmart.

Spanish police arrested 22 members of Futuro Vegetal in January, including those involved in the Prado museum protest and the group's top three leaders.

New Delhi: A total of 53 confirmed cases of the Chandipura virus as of July 31, with 51 cases from Gujarat and two from Rajasthan. Union Health Minister J P Nadda informedRajya Sabha on Tuesday. Out of these, 19 people have died, all in Gujarat.

Elaborating on the steps taken to prevent the outbreak of the virus, Nadda said a National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) has been deployed to assist the Gujarat government for undertaking public health measures and for detailed epidemiological investigation into the outbreak.

Experts from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program, National Centre for Disease Control, Indian Council of Medical Research and National Institute of Virology Pune are part of the NJORT, Nadda said. A team from the NCDC, Delhi, and ICMR NIV Pune is undertaking an epidemiological investigation into the Acute Encephalitis cases and related deaths.

Besides, entomologists from National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are stationed at the affected areas for undertaking entomological investigation to ascertain the vector involved in transmission of CHPV to human beings.

Health rapid response teams and Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) and Auxiliary Nurse and Midwives (ANM) have conducted active surveillance for early identification of cases and timely referral of suspected cases to the nearby hospitals and medical colleges which are offering 24 hours specialist services and ventilator support. Nadda said indoor residual spraying for control of vector (sandfly) has been intensified in the areas from which cases have been reported and covers adjoining areas.

Information Education and Communication (IEC) activities have been initiated for awareness through media briefing, radio jingles and health education programs on Doordarshan and news bulletins. House-to-House interpersonal communication has also been initiated for direct communication with households to spread awareness and educate them about preventive measures.

A joint advisory has been issued by the NCDC and National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). The purpose of the advisory is to ensure proper vector control measures are taken by state governments, Nadda informed. Along with that it provides guidance to the states for ensuring timely referral of suspected AES cases to designated facilities for improving health outcomes. It also aims to create awareness among the community regarding prevention measures, he stated.

Public Health Emergency Operation Centre at the NCDC has been activated to coordinate the activities of the NJORT and provide requisite support to the field teams. "The Government of India is closely monitoring and reviewing the situation in coordination with state government," Nadda stated.

New Delhi: Data presented in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday indicated that the number of cases registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act increased dramatically after the Union government made changes to the law in 2019 to make it more stringent.

The Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, stated in a written response that 188 cases were registered in 2019 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

In 2020, there were 708 cases registered under the Act; this number rose to 1,166 in 2021, 1,074 in 2022, and 934 in 2023. According to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, officials have filed 397 cases so far in 2024.

In comparison, 170 cases were registered under the Act in 2016, 148 cases in 2015, and 195 cases under the Act in 2014. In 2017, the figure was 171, while in 2018, it was 146.

The Centre changed the law in 2019 to make it illegal to even possess money obtained through illegal activities, which resulted in a substantial increase in cases under the Act, scroll.in reported.

It also made the offence of money laundering “a continuing offence, irrespective of [the] time at which the predicate offence is included in the schedule”.�

This amendment gave the government the ability to prosecute cases involving crimes that were committed prior to the Act's passage on the grounds that the accused individual is still in possession of the money that was obtained illegally.

The figures were presented in response to a question from Hyderabad MP and head of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen Asaduddin Owaisi on Tuesday.

Owaisi had requested information from the government concerning the number of cases filed, as well as the individuals convicted or acquitted under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, between 2014 and 2024.

In addition, he requested the total number of accused individuals currently detained under both laws from the Union Home Ministry.

According to Rai's statement, 5,297 cases were registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act between 2014 and 2024. Just 40 of these have led to convictions in the last ten years.

According to Rai, 140 accused individuals are presently being held under the Act's provisions. The Centre reported that 8,719 cases were registered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act between 2014 and 2022. Out of the total cases, only 222 resulted in convictions.

The Indian men's table tennis team faced a formidable challenge and ultimately succumbed to China in the pre-quarterfinals, marking the end of their campaign at the Paris Olympics on Tuesday.

Despite veteran Achanta Sharath Kamal's efforts, India suffered a 0-3 defeat to the dominant Chinese team.

The match began with the Indian duo of Harmeet Desai and Manav Thakkar losing the opening doubles match 2-11, 3-11, 7-11 to the Chinese pair Ma Long and Chuqin Wang. In the first singles match, Sharath Kamal showed resilience by taking the first game 11-9 against Olympic champion Fan Zhendong. However, Zhendong regrouped and defeated Sharath in the next three games 11-7, 11-7, 11-5, putting India 0-2 behind in the tie.

In the second singles match, 24-year-old Manav Thakkar faced Chuqin Wang and struggled to keep up, losing 9-11, 6-11, 9-11, which sealed the 3-0 victory for China.

Meanwhile, on Monday, the Indian women's table tennis team, comprising Manika Batra, Sreeja Akula, and Archana Kamat, delivered a stellar performance by defeating higher-ranked Romania 3-2 in a thrilling tie to advance to the quarterfinals.

A recent report by the Israeli human rights organization B’Tselem has brought to light serious allegations of systematic abuse and torture of Palestinian detainees by Israel since the outbreak of the war in Gaza on October 7, 2023. The report claims that Palestinian prisoners have been subjected to a range of severe mistreatments, including arbitrary violence and sexual abuse, highlighting a troubling pattern of institutionalized abuse.

According to B’Tselem, the report is based on interviews with 55 Palestinians who were detained in Israeli prisons and detention centres since the conflict began. Many of these detainees were reportedly held without trial. The testimonies collected by the organization point to a coordinated policy of abuse that has been carried out systematically.

The findings come in the wake of a separate incident where nine Israeli soldiers were detained over accusations of severe abuse, including sexual violence, against a detainee in a military facility in the Negev desert. This case has added to the mounting scrutiny of Israel’s treatment of prisoners.

The Israel Prison Service (IPS) has responded by stating that all detainees are treated in accordance with the law and that any complaints of abuse are thoroughly investigated. They insist that basic rights are upheld and that all allegations are addressed through proper legal channels.

B’Tselem’s report details a wide range of abuses allegedly inflicted on Palestinian prisoners, including arbitrary beatings, degrading and humiliating treatment, sleep deprivation, and the repeated use of sexual violence. The organization argues that these practices are not isolated incidents but rather a reflection of a broader, deliberate policy of abuse, particularly under the direction of Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir.

The abuse described in the report reportedly includes severe beatings, starvation rations, denial of medical care, and deprivation of basic necessities such as water, sanitation, and adequate clothing. The organization’s investigation revealed that conditions in Israeli detention facilities have become so dire that they are now described as “torture camps.”

Interviews with former detainees corroborate the report’s findings, with accounts of severe mistreatment, including beatings, sexual violence, and inadequate living conditions. Former prisoners describe extreme overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and the denial of essential needs, which have contributed to a significant increase in deaths in custody since the war began.

The increase in detainee numbers has been attributed to intensified arrest waves following the Hamas attack on October 7. Prior to this date, approximately 5,200 Palestinians were held in Israeli jails, but this number surged to over 9,600 in the months following the conflict. Many detainees are held under administrative detention, which allows for indefinite detention without charge or trial.

The report’s revelations have drawn international criticism and added to the pressure on Israel regarding its conduct during the war. Despite the Israeli government’s denial of the allegations and claims of improved conditions for detainees, the B’Tselem report and other testimonies suggest a troubling and systemic pattern of abuse.

New Delhi: In an effort to demand the removal of the 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) from life and health insurance premiums, INDIA bloc parties organised a protest on Tuesday inside the premises of the Parliament.�

There was a demonstration on the steps leading up to the Parliament's Makar Dwar, which was attended by MPs from a number of parties, including the TMC, Congress, AAP, and NCP (SC).

Carrying placards reading "Tax terrorism", the protesting MPs raised slogans demanding that the GST on life and health insurance premiums be rolled back.

Trinamool Congress MPs have raised the issue in Parliament and party president and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on the matter.

Union minister Nitin Gadkari also wrote to Sitharaman and urged her to consider withdrawing the GST which, he said, amounted to taxing uncertainties of life and restricting the industry's growth.

With PTI inputs�

New Delhi: The situation in violence-stricken Bangladesh was discussed at an all-party meeting on Tuesday, which was presided over by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. He stated that India is closely monitoring events in the neighbouring nation.

EAM Jaishankar notified all political parties regarding the safety of Indian nationals living there and the actions taken by the Union government.

"Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended," the EAM said in a post on social media platform X.

The government informed that around 20,000 Indians are in Bangladesh, most of whom were students, of which around 8,000 have returned to their homeland following an advisory released by India, sources quoted EAM Jaishankar as saying.

The EAM also said that the government is in touch with the Bangladesh Army, and the situation there is constantly changing, and as the changes happen, the government will again give information about it.

Additionally, sources suggest that nothing has been decided on former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's future plans, and it was suggested that she should be given some time to decide where she wants to go.

Besides EAM Jaishankar, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju participated in the meeting.

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, T. R. Balu from DMK, SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav, TMC leader Sudip Bandopadhyay, BJD leader Sasmit Patra, along with other floor leaders of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, were present at the meeting.

On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting at his official residence, during which he was briefed about the entire crisis in the neighbouring nation.

On Monday, Hasina landed at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad hours after resigning as the country's Prime Minister and leaving Dhaka en route to Delhi.

Hasina arrived in India in a military transport plane of Bangladesh Air Force as thousands of protesters stormed and vandalised 'Ganabhaban' - the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka.

It was reported that over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the clashes that took place between police and the protesters on Sunday.

The student-led non-cooperation movement put immense pressure on Hasina's government over the past few weeks.

The students had been protesting against a 30 per cent reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters who wrested independence for Bangladesh from Pakistan in a bloody civil war in 1971 in which, according to Dhaka officials, three million people were killed in the genocide by Pakistani troops and their supporters.

With inputs from IANS

Dhaka is not far from New Delhi. The political turmoil and subsequent events in Bangladesh are a time of reflection for India, which had seen the fate of Sri Lanka before; any aggressive move by the ruling government is short-lived, no matter how powerful it is projected to be.

From day one in power, the government led by Sheikh Hasina had been engaged in a politics of vengeance, targeting political opponents of her Awami League Party using state machinery. Many were put behind bars, while top leaders of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami were executed on charges of sedition, and the government crushed opposition protests to ensure her invincibility in power.

Sheikh Hasina’s term in power was seen as all arrogance. She did what she wished, with least thought given to either the opposition or other parties. However, Bangladesh’s history is not without troubles and turmoil. In fact, it was formed after a bloodbath.� Just as Pakistan was born after independence from British rule in 1947, Bangladesh had been part of Pakistan, known as East Pakistan.

It split into East and West due to its diverse linguistic, cultural, and geographical diversity. It was the imposition of Urdu on the Bengali-speaking people of East Pakistan that primarily sparked unrest. What began as political unrest over language, which was later resolved by granting official status to the Bengali language in 1956 after much furore, continued to smoulder with the political significance of East Pakistan seeking autonomous governance, eventually culminating in its independence from Pakistan in 1971.

A similar kind of political power-grabbing can also be found in India. Since the Modi government took power in 2014, it has been exerting its dominance over all democratic institutions, undermining the constitutional values based on the country's diversity and federalism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been projected as the icon of a united India, seeking to identify the country with a single dogma through slogans like ‘Hindi, Hindu, Hindustan’ and ‘One India, One Election.’ This notion completely disregards the country’s diversity, which is its foundation. The North, South, East, and West of India each have their own unique identities based on culture, geography, and language. Any attempt to disrupt this equilibrium could result in chaos. Despite this, the ruling BJP, which is a political offshoot of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), continues its divisive politics, focusing on religion, faith, and language.

This dominance of the BJP over the country, idolizing Narendra Modi as its core figure and often identifying him as a special envoy of God, is seen by many as a sign of his exerting autocratic authority,� with the potential of leading to a democratic crisis similar to that seen in Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina was heavily criticized for her cronyism, favoring those who bowed before her while disregarding others, whom she accused of anti-nationalism, labeling them as Razakars and linking them to Pakistan, in her pursuit to remain uncontested in power.

The recent comment by India’s Home Minister and right-hand man of PM Modi, Amit Shah, that Modi will rule the country beyond 2029, is an example of how confident the BJP is about their strategic moves. The second term of Modi’s rule has been criticized for the excessive use of central agencies to target and undermine opponents, either compelling them to accept BJP dominance or crushing them in Modi’s pursuit of invincibility.

Unemployment was the trigger for the latest unrest in Bangladesh that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power. The lesson for India is how long a government can keep a large portion of its population at bay without addressing their key issues. Modi's India is not immune to the problems seen in Hasina's Bangladesh. Unemployment among youth is also a significant economic challenge in India, among other grave issues.� However, the government is confident that it can overcome any obstacle, even if it takes a serpentine form, by using its key weapon: religion.

The underlying message appears to be that the current Modi regime views itself as indispensable, a sentiment reminiscent of Sheikh Hasina’s increasingly insular leadership style in Bangladesh.

In Bangladesh, Hasina’s administration has faced accusations of undermining democratic processes. Her recent re-election, under circumstances deemed lacking in credibility, has drawn criticism for its lack of transparency and fairness. This situation mirrors concerns within India about the current government’s approach to democratic norms and electoral integrity.

In India, similar apprehensions have been voiced regarding the Modi administration’s grip on power. There are worries that the Modi regime, with its stronghold over institutions such as the Election Commission, might undermine democratic processes. Recent judicial decisions, including the Supreme Court's ruling on electoral bonds, have offered some reassurance to critics and to the people at large, yet scepticism remains about the fairness of electoral practices.

The political environment in India reflects a growing unease within the opposition and among democratic institutions. With an increasingly assertive opposition and visible discontent within the judiciary and bureaucracy, there is a palpable tension between the ruling party and other democratic stakeholders. The Modi regime’s response to criticism has often been dismissive, with allegations that it seeks to suppress dissent and control independent voices through digital platforms.

This situation has led to fears that India might be veering towards an autocratic model similar to that observed in Bangladesh under Hasina’s rule. Critics argue that the Modi government’s approach to governance—characterized by self-promotion and dismissiveness towards dissent—bears striking similarities to the traits seen in autocratic regimes. This includes a disregard for international standards and a tendency to label critical voices as destabilizing.

The broader concern is that such political arrogance could erode democratic institutions and processes. The Modi administration’s dismissive attitude towards dissent and its focus on consolidating power have raised questions about its commitment to democratic principles. There is a growing call for vigilance and a reaffirmation of democratic values to prevent any backslide into authoritarianism.

In light of the political unrest in Bangladesh and the ongoing debates in India, it becomes clear that democracies must be vigilant against the dangers of centralizing power and stifling dissent. The events in Dhaka serve as a sobering reminder of the perils of autocratic propensity and the importance of maintaining robust democratic institutions.

India’s political landscape is at a critical juncture. The Modi government’s actions and policies are under scrutiny, and there is a pressing need for democratic institutions to assert their independence and uphold accountability. The lessons from Bangladesh’s current crisis highlight the need for a balanced approach to governance, where power is not concentrated in the hands of a few and dissent is not suppressed.

Following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s sudden resignation, Bangladesh has plunged into chaos, with Muslims across the Bangla-speaking nation calling for communal harmony and the protection of religious structures.

A special announcement from a mosque, broadcasted via loudspeakers, urged citizens to safeguard the rights and properties of Hindus, who are minorities in the country. The appeal emphasized the collective responsibility of protecting Hindu communities from potential harm and ensuring communal unity during this period of unrest.

“Dear Citizens, We students against discrimination request that you maintain communal harmony during this period of unrest in the country. We should protect Hindu minorities. Protect their lives and their wealth from miscreants and evil forces. It is your responsibility, our responsibility, and everyone’s responsibility. Let’s all be vigilant.”

The political crisis began on August 5, when Hasina unexpectedly resigned and fled the country in a military aircraft. Her departure has led to widespread unrest, with anti-government protests resulting in over 300 fatalities in just two weeks.

In response to the power vacuum, the military has taken charge, and the country's President, Mohammed Shahabuddin, has announced plans to form an interim government. The interim government will be established following the dissolution of the Parliament, and Shahabuddin has also ordered the release of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who was under house arrest after multiple convictions.

Indian right-wing social media accounts have circulated claims that the Muslim majority is persecuting Bangladeshi Hindus. However, these claims have not been substantiated, and influential right-wing accounts and news channels have reported attacks on Hindus that lack credible evidence. The hashtag #AllEyesOnBangladeshiHindus has gained traction on social media, reflecting growing concern about the situation.

In response to the crisis, India has pledged support to the former Bangladeshi Prime Minister. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that India is providing assistance to Sheikh Hasina and has been in touch with the Bangladesh Army to ensure the safety of over 10,000 Indian students in Bangladesh. Hasina, who arrived in India on August 5, has been given time to decide her next steps.

Ahmedabad: Gujarat University in Ahmedabad asked students from Bangladesh not to leave the city without informing authorities alongside avoid reacting to rumours and social media posts, The Indian Express reported.

The university, which is one of the oldest in the state, issued the advisory in the wake of chaos in the neighbouring country with former PM Sheikh Hasina fleeing to India.

It is reported that a meeting was held with nearly 25 students from Bangladesh enrolled at the university and affiliated colleges under the Government of India’s Indian Council for Cultural Relations scholarship.

“Looking at the situation, we met the students and have issued an advisory to them. We have assured them that we are with them and they do not need to panic,” Dr Neerja Gupta, the Gujarat University Vice Chancellor told Indian Express.

The meeting was chaired by Dr Neerja Gupta and Nilam Panchal, director of the Study Abroad Programme (SAP).

Alongside requiring permission to leave the city, the students have to give an emergency number to the university.

It is reported that the University has set up two 24×7 emergency helpline numbers for the students to contact authorities anytime.

There are around 300 international students under Gujarat University’s SAP enrolled for the ICCR scholarship. Most of them are from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, and countries in Africa, according to the report.�

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has scheduled the hearing of a plea challenging the Bombay High Court's verdict, which upheld a Mumbai college's decision to ban the wearing of 'hijab', 'burqa', and 'niqab' within its campus.

The high court had on June 26 refused to interfere with the decision of the Chembur Trombay Education Society's N G Acharya and D K Marathe College imposing the ban, saying such rules do not violate students' fundamental rights. It had said a dress code is meant to maintain discipline which is part of the college's fundamental right to "establish and administer an educational institution".

Taking note of submission seeking urgent listing of the appeal, a bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said it has already assigned a bench for the matter and that it would be listed soon. Lawyer Abiha Zaidi, appearing for petitioners, including Zainab Abdul Qayyum, sought urgent hearing saying the unit tests in the college are likely to commence on Wednesday.

The top court is yet to conclusively decide the legality of such diktats issued by educational institutions. A two-judge bench of the top court, on October 13, 2022, had delivered opposing verdicts in the hijab controversy emanating from Karnataka. The then BJP-led state government had imposed a ban on wearing the Islamic head covering in schools there.

While Justice Hemant Gupta, since retired, had dismissed the appeals challenging the judgement of the Karnataka High Court which had refused to lift the ban, Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia had held there shall be no restriction on the wearing of hijab anywhere in the schools and colleges of the state.

The present controversy stems from the decision of a Mumbai college. The Bombay High Court trashed the plea against the ban and said the dress code was applicable to all students irrespective of religion or caste.

The students, who were in the second and third year of the science degree course, had moved the high court, challenging a directive issued by the college imposing a dress code under which students cannot wear a hijab, naqab, burka, stoles, caps and badges on the premises.

The students had claimed it was against their fundamental right to practice religion, the right to privacy and right to choice. The college's action was "arbitrary, unreasonable, bad-in-law and perverse", the plea had said.

The high court, however, had said it could not see how the prescription of dress code by the college violated Articles 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech and expression) and 25 (freedom to practice religion) of the Constitution.

"In our view, the dress code as prescribed cannot be held to violate the petitioners' rights claimed under Article 19(1) (a) and Article 25 of the Constitution of India," the HC had said.

The high court had also refused to accept the petitioners' contention that wearing a hijab, naqab and burqa was an essential practice of their religion.

"Except for stating that the same constitutes an essential religious practice on the basis of the English translation of Kanz-ul-Iman and Suman Abu Dawud, there is no material placed to uphold the petitioners' contention that donning of hijab and naqab is an essential religious practice. The contention in that regard, therefore, fails," the HC had said.

Prescribing a dress code should be seen as an "exercise towards maintaining discipline", and the right to do so flows from the fundamental right to establish and administer an educational institution under Article 19(1)(g) (right to practise any profession or run trade/business) and Article 26 of the Constitution, the HC had said.

The dress code was mandatory only within the college premises and the petitioners' freedom of choice and expression was not otherwise affected, it had said.

Input from PTI

New Delhi: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) raised concerns about the show cause notices issued to some foreign airlines operating in India regarding Goods and Services Tax (GST), warning that the issue could jeopardize the country's robust aviation sector.

Urging the government to resolve the matter, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said it is disappointed that the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) has proceeded to issue show cause notices to some foreign airlines operating to India despite a number of representations made by the industry on this matter.

IATA represents more than 330 airlines, including Indian carriers, and its members account for more than 80 per cent of the global air traffic.

"DGGI's assertion that GST should apply to expenses incurred by the headquarters of foreign airlines (with a branch office in India) in the course of providing air transport services is flawed. It does not take into consideration the nature and conventions involved in the provision of international air transport," Xie Xingquan, IATA's Regional Vice President for North Asia and Asia Pacific (ad interim), said in a statement.

He also said India is alone in its approach and that nowhere else around the world is this practised.

"Indian carriers operating to destinations outside India do not face similar situations or demand," he added.

As many as 10 foreign airlines are under the scanner of DGGI and the carriers received notices since October 2023.

IATA had also submitted a detailed representation to the Indian government on the matter.

"The international nature of air transport necessitates a clear and consistent policy framework globally. IATA continues to work closely with the government of India on this subject. IATA has also urged the government to urgently help resolve this matter, which can dampen and risk India's strong aviation potential," Xie Xingquan said.

At a briefing in Dubai in June, IATA Country Director for India Amitabh Khosla had said that for now, 10 foreign airlines have been picked up for investigation and the move was "unprecedented".

The statement from IATA also comes at a time when concerns have been expressed over GST demand received by IT major Infosys.

On August 1, apex IT body Nasscom said the latest tax demand reflects a lack of understanding of the industry's operating model and sheds light on sector-wide issues wherein multiple companies are facing avoidable litigation and uncertainty.

Input from PTI

New Delhi: Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen said the ousted Bangladesh premier Sheikh Hasina had thrown her out of the country in order to please ‘Islamists’ who now who forced Hasina to leave the country.

Taslima Nasreen, author of bestselling novel ‘Lajja’, was responding to Sheikh Hasina’s escape to India in the midst of seething student protest that claimed nearly 300 lives over several weeks.

"Hasina in order to please Islamists threw me out of my country in 1999 after I entered Bangladesh to see my mother in her deathbed and never allowed me to enter the country again. The same Islamists have been in the student movement who forced Hasina to leave the country today," Nasreen posted online.

Hasina who is currently in India is likely to fly to London seeking asylum in the UK.

Taslima Nasreen accused Hasina of allowing "Islamists to grow" and criticised the Army rule in her country, calling for democracy.

In her earlier post Nasreen said: "Hasina had to resign and leave the country. She was responsible for her situation. She made Islamists to grow. She allowed her people to involve in corruption. Now Bangladesh must not become like Pakistan. Army must not rule. Political parties should bring democracy & secularism".

Nasreen left Bangladesh in 1994 after fundamentalist outfits issued death threats to her over her 1993 book "Lajja", which was banned in Bangladesh.

The jailed leader Khaleda Zia was the prime minister at that time and the author has been living in exile since.

Nearly 100 people died in Bangladesh on Sunday when protesters clashed with police, which made Hasina eventually stepping down as the Prime Minister.

Protesters barged into the Prime Minister's residence on Monday, vandalizing and looting, just as Hasina resigned and left the country in a military plane.

Alongside, the country's army chief called a press conference and declared an interim government would be in place to run the country.

Wayanad: Schools in the landslide-hit Wayanad, currently being used as relief camps, will resume normal operations soon and the financial assistance will be provided to workers affected by the disaster, announced Kerala General Education and Labour Minister V. Sivankutty.

Sivankutty said that many schools were functioning as relief camps and after holding a meeting with teachers, PTA and other stakeholders it was decided to commence classes within 10-20 days. Prior to commencement of classes, all basic facilities will be improved in the schools.

This is in accordance with the directions of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to ensure that education of children in the landslides-hit areas is not affected or hampered in any way.

The Minister further said the Labour Board has decided to provide financial assistance to the labourers who got injured in the landslides and to the next of kin of workers who died in the disaster. The migrant workers will also be provided financial assistance, including for their treatment.

Sivankutty said Rs one lakh as a first instalment will be provided to families of labourers who died in the landslides. On Monday, the death toll due to the landslides rose to 226. Search and rescue operations are continuing in the landslides-hit areas.

Source: PTI

Washington: The Biden Administration has commented on the formation of an interim government in Bangladesh following the prime minister's resignation that the establishment of this government should adhere to democratic principles, uphold the rule of law, and reflect the will of the Bangladeshi people.

"We want to see the Bangladeshi people decide the future of the Bangladeshi government," State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters at his daily news conference.

Bangladesh descended into chaos as Prime Minister Hasina surreptitiously resigned and fled the country in a military aircraft while the army stepped in to fill the power vacuum by announcing an interim government.

As the news of Hasina’s departure spread, hundreds broke into her residence, vandalising and looting the interiors, providing dramatic expression to the anti-government protests that have killed more than 300 people in a fortnight.

The embattled Bangladeshi leader later in landed at the Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad as part of her plan to go to London.

Miller told the press conference here the United States is monitoring the situation carefully and calls for an end to violence and fixing accountability for the deaths that have occurred over the past few weeks.

"All decisions regarding the interim government should be made with respect to democratic principles, rule of law and the will of the Bangladeshi people," he said.

"Now, as to what accountability looks like, that's something that should take place under Bangladeshi law. Obviously, anyone responsible for acts of violence, acts that break the law should be held accountable for them," he said.

In response to a question, Miller said he is not aware if the former prime minister Hasina has sought an asylum in the United States.

"With respect to the violence over the past few weeks and the deaths that have occurred, it is vital that we have full and transparent investigations to ensure accountability for these deaths. As relates to the interim government, we think that it's important that we focus on the Bangladeshi people's democratic aspirations and see a path to democratic governance," Miller said.

Noting that the US greatly values its relationship with the people of Bangladesh, he said, "We want to see that continued. I would just urge everyone with requests or questions about what the future may entail, we are not even 12 hours out from the reported resignation of the prime minister."

Miller said the United States is monitoring the situation in Bangladesh carefully. "The United States stands with the people of Bangladesh. We urge all parties to refrain from further violence. Too many lives have been lost over the course of the past several weeks and we urge calm and restraint in the days ahead," he said.

"We welcome the announcement of an interim government and urge any transition be conducted in accordance with Bangladesh's laws. Finally, we are deeply saddened about the reports of human rights abuses, casualties and injuries over the weekend and past weeks. We share our deepest condolences with those who have lost loved ones and those who are suffering," Miller said.

Earlier, a White House National Security Council spokesperson said, "We are monitoring the situation in Bangladesh closely."

"The United States has long called for respecting democratic rights in Bangladesh, and we urge that the interim government formation be democratic and inclusive," the spokesperson said.

The NSC spokesperson said the US "commend the Army for the restraint they have shown today. We encourage all parties to refrain from further violence and restore peace as quickly as possible".

"We express our deep concern and sadness about the reports of casualties and injuries over the weekend and past weeks, and we share our deepest condolences with those who lost loved ones and those who are suffering.

"It will be vital for the new government to carefully and credibly investigate all attacks, and provide accountability and justice for the victims," the spokesperson said.

Source: PTI

New Delhi: The National Council for Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is facing criticism for dropping the Preamble to the Constitution from texts book of Class III and VI, The Indian Express reported.

Professor Ranjana Arora who heads NCERT’s Department of Curriculum Studies and Development defended the decision claiming that the new textbooks highlight various aspects of the Indian Constitution including the preamble, fundamental duties, fundamental rights, and the national anthem.

Arora termed it a ‘misconception’ to consider the Preamble as the only representation of constitutional values.

"We give equal importance to all of these for the holistic development of children, following the vision of NEP 2020," she was quoted as stating.

The NCERT is revising textbooks after ruling BJP introduced the National Education Policy (NEP) in 2020.

Aligning with the new National Curriculum Framework, NCERT brought out textbooks for Class III and VI this year.

The Preamble is now incorporated selectively into a few books, where it was previously a fixture in the initial pages of several Class VI textbooks.

The Congress has come down on the decision with party spokesperson Dr Shama Mohammed alleging the BJP government is trying to dismantle the Constitution.

Dr Shama Mohammed also stated: ‘The Preamble to the Constitution has been dropped from several Class III and Class VI textbooks issued by the NCERT this year. The BJP government has launched a full-scale assault to destroy India’s Constitution. All parents must come together and object to this blatant attempt to erase our history.’

Mumbai: In an incident where a person was found dead in a bag at the Dadar railway station in Mumbai, police arrested two people who are suspected to have murdered the deceased, Asian News International reported.

Mumbai Police, who caught the suspects, who were identified as Jai Praveen Chavda and Shivjeet Surendra Singh, said that they were carrying the man’s body in the bag after committing the crime. The victim was identified as Arshad Ali Sheikh, a resident of Santacruz.

The body was discovered after the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) were conducting a luggage-checking operation. The caught suspects revealed, only during interrogation, that they killed the person at thePydhunie Police Station jurisdiction.

Police further said that there was a dispute between the accused and the victim over a female friend.

According to the police, the accused murdered the victim on Sunday night, and they were planning to travel by Tutari Express train to dispose of the body. Dadar police had arrested one of them at the railway station itself when the other escaped. However, the second was also caught shortly after.

The primary accused had invited the victim to his house for a party, and during this, they entered into a dispute, which escalated to the victim’s murder. A conflict was there between them over a female friend.

The accused wrapped the body in plastic and packed it in a suitcase, police said

Police then said that both suspects, as well as the victim, are deaf-mutes and communicate using sign language. Police have utilized the help of a sign language expert in the interrogation of the two accused.

Suva: As part of strengthening the bilateral ties with Fiji, President Droupadi Murmu addressed the Fijian Parliament on Tuesday, emphasizing the "close ties" and "shared values" between India and Fiji. President Murmu arrived in Suva on the first destination of her three-nation visit,

Starting her address with "Namaskar. Ni Sa Bula (Fijian greeting that means good evening)," the President said, "It is my honor to meet you all, the elected representatives of Fiji, in this temple of democracy. I bring to you the greetings of 1.4 billion of your brothers and sisters in the largest democracy in the world, India. I thank the honorable Speaker for giving me this opportunity. This is the reflection of the close relations between our two countries."

Earlier in the day, Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere conferred the 'Companion of the Order of Fiji', the highest civilian award in the country, upon the Indian President. Murmu expressed her gratitude for the conferment, saying it is a "reflection of the deep ties between the two nations." She also thanked President Katonivere for inviting her on her first visit to Fiji.

She highlighted the shared values of democracy, diversity, equality, and commitment to liberty, dignity, and rights that unite India and Fiji. "These shared values are eternal and shall continue to guide us ahead," she said.

Stressing the similarity between the two nations and "vibrant democracies" despite the "vast difference" in the size of India and Fiji, the President said, "Almost 10 years ago, speaking in this same hall, Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, underlined some basic values that unite India and Fiji. These include our democracy, the diversity of our societies, our creed that all human beings are equal, and our commitment to the liberty, dignity and rights of every individual. These shared values are eternal and shall continue to guide us ahead."

President Murmu praised Fiji's "gentle way of life, the deep-rooted respect for traditions and customs, an open and multicultural environment," noting that the world has much to learn from Fiji. "No wonder Fiji is the place where the rest of the world comes to find its happiness," she remarked.

Reflecting on the historical ties, she noted the arrival of "Girmitiya" workers (Indentured labourers) from India over 145 years ago. "Though their early life here was filled with danger and hardship, it is heartening to know how the "Girmitiyas" and their descendants have been embraced by this country. In return, they have contributed immensely to the building of their new homeland through their hard work and diligence," the President added in Hindi, jokingly saying, "I hope you understand Hindi."

She also announced new projects, including a Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital in Suva, to meet the needs of the Fijian people and the wider Pacific region.

President Murmu reiterated India's commitment, as a "powerful voice of the Global South," to climate justice, promising to push for climate finance and technology for developing countries. "We will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Fiji and other ocean states for climate justice," she added.

"As India emerges strongly on the global stage, we stand ready to partner with Fiji to build a stronger, resilient, and more prosperous nation," President Murmu said. Later, President Murmu also addressed the Indian Community Reception. On her arrival, President Murmu was accorded a ceremonial welcome by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister, Viliame Gavoka, the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, P.S. Karthikeyan, and other government officials at the airport.

This is the first-ever visit by an Indian President to Fiji. She will be in Fiji from August 5-7 at the invitation of President Katonivere.

Source: IANS

Gaza: The cruelties of Israel who shoot and kill Gazans, including children, in the chest and then smuggling the bodies to their country, has already been in the news. But now, another shocking piece of news is coming out from Khan Younis of Gaza.

Yesterday, a cargo container lorry arrived from Israel via the Karem Shalom border crossing to Khan Younis, Gaza, containing 89 dead bodies wrapped in blue plastic sheets. The bodies were brought to Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis.

The bodies were decayed and severely mutilated so that all of them went beyond the stage of identification through physical characters.

They might have been captured alive from Gaza and killed, or bodies kidnapped after being killed. But no one was able to identify these human bodies, even the faces were disfigured.

Israeli forces handed over the bodies to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Gaza and the Palestinian Civil Defense. Before their cremation, many, including elderly mothers, tore open each sheet to see if their children, parents or siblings who had gone missing during the war were inside these blue plastic bags.

However, the sight of them returning with their eyes closed and crying at the sight of the disfigured faces of the dead was heartbreaking.

One of those gathered to identify the bodies said that while everyone else was getting the bodies of their deceased kin, only her son's and uncle's mortal remains went missing. She cannot bear seeing her child killed, but she asks what is more sadder than not being able to see his mortal remains.

She further said that she keeps enquiring about her son with everyone who works in civil defence. She goes everywhere where bodies are kept for identification, she added.

It is the fourth time Israel has brought mutilated and decaying bodies in large numbers to Gaza. Since medical facilities are down, the option of DNA testing is also not available.

Following the latest handover of the dead by Israel, a mass grave was made in Khan Younis and buried.

New Delhi: It seems Bangladesh has slipped into complete chaos with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation on Monday.

Footage showed protesters storming into her residence, vandalizing, and looting precious possessions of the fugitive former prime minister.

A photo showed a woman emerging from Hasina’s residence with a luxury Dior suitcase, NDTV reported.��

Sharing the photo of the woman holding the luxury travel bag with a smile, journalist Pooja Mehta wrote, “Looted a Dior bag from Gono Bhaban.”

Many on social media criticised the woman with one user saying ‘See her joy, like something achieved’.

Another user said: “Unfortunately they are not taught morals by either their mothers or religion.”

A third user termed her looting the bag as “Jackpot mila hai (she won a jackpot),” while another said “Price of bag is Rs 47,000 in Indian rupees.”

Protesters were seen eating fish and biryani, resting PM Hasina’s bed, stealing television sets, tables, chairs, vandalizing the building, carrying off goats, ducks and more.

Protesters were seen climbing on a large statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s founder and Sheikh Hasina’s father.

It is reported that Hasina landed at Hindon Airbase in India after fleeing the country.

The protests by students, began in late June demanding to end quota system for government jobs, turned violent over the weeks, leading to several deaths.

Seoul: Samsung Electronics said that it has started the mass manufacture of the industry's thinnest mobile DRAM, LPDDR5X DRAM. The world's largest memory chip maker, Samsung, said that the said products are tailored to on-device artificial intelligence, IANS reported.

The new 12-nanometer (nm)-class 12 gigabyte (GB) and 16GB LPDDR5X DRAM packages are only 0.65 mm high, making them the thinnest LPDDR DRAM in the industry, according to Samsung Electronics, reports Yonhap news agency. The new chip, stacking four layers of 12nm-DRAM die, is 9 per cent thinner and 21.2 per cent more efficient in heat resistance compared to its predecessor. Samsung said the ultra-slim LPDDR5X DRAM packages can create additional space within mobile devices, enabling high-performance applications and advanced features like on-device AI.

"Samsung's LPDDR5X DRAM sets a new standard for high-performance on-device AI solutions, offering not only superior LPDDR performance but also advanced thermal management in an ultra-compact package," said Bae Yong-cheol, executive vice president at Samsung Electronics.

The company has also set up a unit dedicated to developing high bandwidth memory (HBM) in a bid to regain leadership in the AI semiconductor market. This move underscores the tech giant's commitment to enhancing its R and D structure for HBM, a high-performance DRAM in high demand, particularly for Nvidia's graphics processing units, which are key for AI computing. Samsung's second quarter (Q2) operating profit surged more than 15 times from a year earlier on the robust performance of its semiconductor business.

The company said its chip business earned 28.6 trillion won in sales for the three-month period through June, with an operating profit of 6.45 trillion won. The strong performance was driven by increasing demand for memory chips, including those for artificial intelligence servers and solid-state drives.

Guwahati: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's recent announcement about the Assam government's plans to introduce two new Bills—one to ban 'Love Jihad' and another to restrict the selling and buying of land between Hindus and Muslims—has sparked significant controversy. On Monday, All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) chief Badruddin Ajmal criticized Sarma's remarks, asserting that every citizen has the right to purchase land in Assam.

Ajmal told reporters on Monday, “Every citizen of this country has a right to buy land in Assam. It is unfortunate that the Chief Minister has proposed to bring a law to restrict a section of people from buying land in the state. This is a gross injustice to the general people. Our party will vehemently oppose any such move by the government.”

He also claimed that CM Sarma wants to bring such a law only to appease the Hindu voters which might help the BJP in the next Assembly elections scheduled in 2026.

The AIUDF leader also alleged that the Chief Minister has been trying to snatch the rights of the Muslim people which have been given by the Constitution of India.

“Majority of Hindu people in the country are secular and not communal. Himanta Sarma has repealed the Muslim Marriage Registration Act of 1935. This has made the citizens extremely unhappy. If any BJP leader asks the common people, he/she will understand the anger of the citizens,” he said.

Ajmal also advised Sarma not to make any statement targeting a particular community.

“Our country runs on democracy and the Chief Minister should not forget this,” he said.

Ajmal also said that CM Sarma has failed to bring any development in Assam during his tenure, claiming that all government works are being run on money given by the World Bank.

Expressing his opposition to the Chief Minister's remarks on 'Love Jihad', Ajmal said many inter-religious marriages have taken place among the top actors in Bollywood which nobody questioned.

CM Sarma on Sunday claimed that a law prohibiting 'Love Jihad' with a life sentence will soon be introduced by the state government.

Additionally, he said the state government will use several policies to limit the state's land sales to Muslims.

Source: IANS

Bangladesh's Awami League government of Sheikh Hasina has finally abdicated after trying to quell the high-profile student and youth protests against the state violence that denied equality of opportunity and social justice in a country where unemployment and poverty are rampant. Sheikh Hasina left the country as the student movement, which started as a non-cooperation strike against the move to introduce 30 per cent reservation in government services for the descendants of freedom fighters, began a Dhaka March on Monday and attempted to storm the Prime Minister's official residence, Ganabhaban. Hasina's escapade was after calling hundreds of protesters terrorists, killing them in a brutal manner and ordering them to be dealt with harshly. According to reports, they escaped to India by helicopter and will move to London. As the protest which erupted against the government swelled into violence against the Awami League, and the opposition also started retaliating in a similar manner to the intervention of the police and the army, the army took control of the capital. Addressing the nation on Monday evening, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-uz-Zaman announced that an all-party interim government would soon be in place and would ensure justice by investigating the killings that accompanied the student agitation. At the same time, the ring leaders of the student movement have stated that the military rule in Bangladesh is not acceptable and that a government supporting fascism is not acceptable either.

Also Read:Violent conflict: Sheikh Hasina steps down as Bangladesh PM

The student uprising that shook Bangladesh started in early July. Campuses were in turmoil after a court order reintroduced the decision to reserve 30 per cent of the country's government jobs for the descendants of those who participated in the 1971 Bangladesh independence struggle. Due to strong protests, the court restored the reservation, which had been cancelled in 2018. At a time when the youth are suffering due to inflation and rampant unemployment, the government reserved 50 per cent of the jobs and reserved three-quarters of that for the descendants of the freedom fighters. The students allege that this reservation in the name of freedom struggle is being used as a means of inducting Awami League cadres, who were its main organizers, into government service. It affirms the privileges and rights enjoyed by the ruling Awami Party in its fourth term. As a result, everyone except the ruling party came out in support of the student strike. Teachers, lawyers, various bureaucrats, writers and artists all came out against the government's nepotistic decision. After a week, the Supreme Court suspended the reservation move, but the students filled the streets with the demand that quotas should be given up permanently. They brought the country to a standstill with agitation. Instead of listening to the demands of the protestors, the Hasina administration grown up to ridicule and threaten them, not only the army and the police but also incited the ranks of its own student organization, Bangladesh Chhatra League, to suppress the protest.

Also Read:Sheikh Hasina may seek asylum in the UK, mob loots her home

It can be said that Hasina has pushed the country into a civil war, as alleged by the country's Left Democratic Alliance.� She tried to escape by blaming Khaleda Zia's Bangla Nationalist Party and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, which were the main opposition parties. Jamaat-e-Islami was banned at the height of the agitation against her regime. However, none of this could stop the student agitation and the anger among the people. Left parties, including Hasina's earlier allies, declared their support for the Non-Cooperation Movement and asked workers and women to take to the streets until the government resigns. This Sunday alone, around 100 people were killed in Dhaka and its suburbs. Hasina fled the country as thousands flocked to the capital in response to student agitation leaders' announcement that they would march on Dhaka on Monday. Sheikh Hasina,� celebrated as a symbol of democracy when she assumed power moved towards dictatorship when events changed and she got well-entrenched in power.� She was in her fifth term as prime minister and won her fourth consecutive term in January in a vote boycotted by the opposition. Hasina has come under fire from international agencies such as Human Rights Watch for suppressing dissent. The international community warned her every time she went ahead with labelling her political opponents one by one as terrorists and putting them in prisons, subjecting them to severe torture, setting up kangaroo courts and sentencing them to death. Everyone outside the ruling party says that Hasina's reign has been tied to a single agenda of consolidating her position in power. The proof of this is the various sectors of employment that have been plunged into the protests in the last one or two years. Amidst these disturbances, the move to pledge government services to the kin was enough to spark the agitation. Giving shoot-at-sight orders to the army and the police and leaving her ranks to go wild with weapons, Hasina followed the usual style of a dictator. Finally, she followed the same path in her fall.

Also Read:Violence rage in Bangladesh, 90 killed: India issues advisory to citizens

Marseille: In a thrilling semifinal football match between Spain and Morocco, the former won 2-1, confirming a medal at the Paris Olympics 2024 here on Monday. As a 2020 silver medallist, Spain made a dramatic comeback against Morocco at the Stade de Marseille, IANS reported.

Both teams were quite even on the field, with Morocco taking more shots than Spain (18-16), and both sides also shared possessions 48-52% in favour of the Spaniards. Spain kept knocking until the 66th minute when Fermin Lopez scored a curling effort into the bottom right corner to equalise the game and rejuvenate Spain's attack. La Roja left it late but managed to get there in the end as Lopez, the FC Barcelona forward, was instrumental in the comeback and assisted substitute Juanlu Sanchez, who scored the 85th-minute winner.

Morocco and Spain had previously met in the 2O22 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 stage when they caused an incredible upset, eliminating the Spaniards 3-0 in penalties after a goalless 120 minutes. Spain is aiming to follow up on their success at Euro 2024 with a gold medal in France, and they have impressed so far in the competition. The Euro 2024 winner will face the winner of the second semifinals between France and Egypt.

Meanwhile, Morocco still has a chance to secure its first medal at the Games when it plays the loser of the second semifinal in the bronze medal match. Both sides come into this game on the back of superb quarterfinal wins, as Spain beat Japan 3-0, while Morocco cruised to a 4-0 victory over the United States. But in the end, Spain's experience and cohesive play helped them overcome the Moroccan challenge and emerge victorious.

New Delhi: Waking up at the blast of an alarm in the morning is not a nice experience. Many of us set multiple alarms in order to avoid sleeping through the first or second or third. Experts now advice waking up to each alarm can be taxing on your health greatly.

For instance you want to wake up at 6 am but set 5.30 am on the phone as the first and 5.45 am as the second and 6.55 am the third and wake at each time only to sleep again.

Eventually when you wake to live your new day, you are exhausted and groggy with a feeling of heaviness.

Where you should have been ready for the day with a smile, feeling nourished by healthy sleep, you must be in weariness from sleep deprivation.

The New York Post reported citing the TikTok user, Jordan Bruss that setting multiple alarms is unhealthy, with Bruss saying: "If you're somebody who sets multiple alarms I have bad news. Don't come for me. Just trying to help."

The health expert advised people not to cause for them extra physical and mental stress by waking up to multiple alarms.

Jordan Bruss added: "Good sleep hygiene is a big part of my physical and mental health. I promise I would not be in the shape I am in without serious research in the deep sleep department. Don't cause yourself extra physical and mental stress."

The final phase of sleep, known as rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, is very crucial for digesting memories and stimulating creativity and if broken, it could affect the brain function, according to the report.

Jordan Bruss revealed that "Waking to multiple alarms every morning really disrupts your rapid eye movement (REM) cycle frequently this actually causes sleep inertia, increased drowsiness, fatigue, mood swings and it also raises your cortisol levels."

She explained that each time alarm goes off your body turns into a ‘fight or flight response’, which is highly stressful leading to serious issues overtime.

It is reported that ‘Over time, a chronic morning 'fight or flight' adrenaline response can cause long-term stress, depression, and cardiovascular problems.’

Lack of consistent sleep can lead to building up tension in the body, which in turn causes weight gain and ‘Excess cortisol levels make you gain and hang on to weight. So when the alarm goes off, it's time, get up. You'll look and feel better!’

Setting one alarm according to Bruss is ideal, adding: "Don't keep traumatizing yourself! When that alarm goes off in the morning, get up!"

Where somebody wants to wake up at 7 am but sets alarm at 6 am as a first, the person will get an hour of bad-quality sleep, according to Dr Alicia Roth, a clinician at Cleveland Clinic's Sleep Disorders Center in Ohio.

Chennai: The aircraft carrying Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled the country amid escalating protests, became the most tracked flight on its way to India on Monday afternoon.

According to Flightradar24, a website that displays real-time air traffic, the Bangladesh Air Force aircraft AJAX1431 was tracked by more than 29,000 people, making it the most tracked aircraft globally at that time.�

Reports indicated that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left Bangladesh on Monday. Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman confirmed her resignation and announced that an interim government would be established to assume power.

In related news, protesters were seen looting utensils and rugs from Sheikh Hasina's residence amid the ongoing unrest.

Washington: The Joe Biden administration in the United States said on Monday that it is putting all efforts into avoiding an all-out war in the Middle East as tensions escalate between Israel and Iran, Agence France-Presse reported.

The recent escalations between the two stemmed from Iran and its allies pledging to avenge the deaths of Lebanese militant group Hezbollah’s top leader, Fouad Shukr, and Hamas Political Bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh. AFP reports that President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken are engaged in frantic diplomacy to decrease tensions in the region, particularly between the Zionist nation and the Islamic Republic.

AFP reports that Biden called King Abdullah II of Jordan, who had helped in downing Iranian drones and missiles in April, while Blinken reached out to top officials in Qatar and Egypt, who are prime intermediaries who worked for a ceasefire in the Israelp-Hamas war.

Blinken later said that the US is engaged in intense diplomacy round the clock with the simple message that all parties must refrain from escalation.

He said that it is critical that they break the cycle of attacks to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. He spoke to his G7 counterparts as well as Iraq’s prime minister after Saturday.

In a Monday rocket attack on a base in Iraq, multiple US personnel were injured.

Biden, who called Qatar and Egypt, is in all efforts to end the Gaza war and reach a landmark deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. He wanted to be done with this before his term ended in months. He boosted the US military presence in the Middle East in a bid to exhibit the US’s military strength to Iran.

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday convened a critical meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg in response to the unrest in Bangladesh.

The meeting was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.

Sources indicate that EAM Jaishankar provided a comprehensive briefing to PM Modi and the CCS members regarding the situation in Bangladesh and its potential impact on India.

Prior to the CCS meeting, PM Modi had separately discussed the political and social crisis in Bangladesh with the EAM

The EAM detailed the current developments in Dhaka and their possible implications, sources told IANS.

NSA Doval briefed the Prime Minister on the security implications of the situation, sources said.

Following her resignation as Prime Minister of Bangladesh amid significant unrest in Dhaka, Sheikh Hasina arrived in India. She was transported by a Bangladesh Air Force military plane and landed at the Hindon Air Force base in Ghaziabad, roughly 30 km from Delhi. Upon arrival, Hasina was greeted by the NSA.

Earlier, thousands of protesters had stormed and vandalised 'Ganabhaban,' the official residence of the Prime Minister in Dhaka.

Reports suggest that Hasina is expected to travel to London soon.

In response to these developments, a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) was chaired by PM Modi, where the situation was extensively discussed.

There is currently no confirmation on whether PM Modi will meet with Hasina.

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar is anticipated to address Parliament on Tuesday regarding the situation in Bangladesh.

On Monday, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, met with Jaishankar to discuss the developments. Gandhi inquired about Hasina's arrival, to which Jaishankar responded that the Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and will provide official details at an appropriate time, Congress sources told IANS.

The unrest in Bangladesh reached a peak on Sunday, with at least 94 people killed, including 14 police officers, marking the deadliest day of the violence. Protesters and government supporters clashed with sticks and knives, while security forces used live fire. This brought the total death toll since protests began in early July to at least 300.

On Monday morning, jubilant crowds waved flags and danced on a tank in the streets, broke into Hasina’s residence, and vandalised a statue of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the nation's independence hero.

IANS�

New Delhi: The weeks-long unrest in Bangladesh over a quota-related issue took an unprecedented turn on Monday with protesters running amok on the streets of Dhaka, vandalising properties and disfiguring the statue of 'Father of Nation' Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, compelling his daughter Sheikh Hasina to step down as Prime Minister and flee the country.

Amid the rapidly developing situation in the neighbouring country of which India has also taken note, IANS spoke to Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who expressed apprehensions of Bangladesh becoming another Pakistan if the BNP-Jamaat combine attains power, making the life of minorities (Hindus) difficult.

Here are some excerpts:

IANS: What are your overall thoughts on the current situation in Bangladesh?

Sajeeb Wazed Joy: Bangladesh was a poor country and a failed state, but my mother Sheikh Hasina turned it into an 'Asian Tiger'. However, the opposition, fundamentalists, and probably some foreign forces conspired... they have been trying to get Sheikh Hasina out for years.

They boycotted every election. They carried out attacks on civilians during the past elections, and this time, they used student protests as cover. People get the leadership they deserve and now Bangladesh will see... it will probably go back to being like another Pakistan.

The current situation is quite out of control. They are not demonstrators anymore, they are heavily armed because the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat are behind it.

Students are in the front... but they have vandalised everything, including the Parliament, they have burned down factories, they have burned people's houses, and they are hunting our leaders. There is complete anarchy (in Bangladesh) right now.

IANS: There are reports that hundreds of people have been killed and the PM's residence has been looted...

Sajeeb Wazed Joy: They have set my grandfather's home, where my entire family was murdered in the coup of 1975 and which was a museum, on fire... there's complete anarchy in the country right now. There is no law and order. This is not a demonstration, this is violence and terrorism.

IANS: When Sheikh Hasina landed at the Hindon Air Base (near Delhi) today, India's NSA Ajit Doval met her. What hopes do you have from India?

Sajeeb Wazed Joy: We appreciate India's support. We appreciate India's help in keeping my mother safe and letting her go there. The Indian government has always been a good friend. At this point, it will depend on how things play out in Bangladesh. If the BNP-Jamaat ends up in power, Bangladesh is going to become another Pakistan. Jamaat will keep terrorising India on its eastern side.

So the only hope is if India can bring international pressure to ensure that we have free and fair elections. At this point, the BNP-Jamaat is hunting our people - the Awami League leaders and activists... they are killing them.

Most of them are running for their lives so that even if there are elections, Awami League cannot participate. Awami League is still the largest party... the most popular party.

IANS: Some videos are showing Hindus are under threat in Bangladesh now... Do you think Hindus are safe there?

Sajeeb Wazed Joy: With BNP-Jamaat running free, Hindus are definitely not safe. The Hindus have always been Awami League supporters. Sheikh Hasina's government kept them safe.

Hindus were trageted in the past as well. They are being targeted again along with other people, so it's a very unfortunate situation.

There is no rule of law in Bangladesh right now. Firstly, the rule of law has to be established. The last time the BNP was in power, the minorities were targeted. If they come to power again, it will be a very sad day for Bangladeshi minorities.

IANS: Bangladesh Army chief has said an interim government will be formed soon. What's your view...

Sajeeb Wazed Joy: Unfortunately, that is the only option available to him. Under the Constitution, the Parliament continues till new elections are held, but the Parliament has been attacked, so there is no effective Parliament in Bangladesh anymore. Legally there is, but it is not able to function because of BNP-Jamaat terrorists.

IANS: What is the likely decision Sheikh Hasina is going to take in the future?

Sajeeb Wazed Joy: I think she will retire. The current term was going to be her last term (as PM) anyway. She has accomplished what she wanted to accomplish. They are trying to terrorise and kill Awami League leaders so that if elections are held, Awami League can't participate. That's what the BNP and Jamaat are trying to do.

IANS: Will Sheikh Hasina return to Bangladesh?

Sajeeb Wazed Joy: Probably not...

IANS�

The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced the first-ever 'Sharjah Beach Festival,' set to take place at Al Heera Beach from August 15 to September 15, running daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The festival aims to transform the beach into a lively hub for individuals and families, offering various activities across multiple zones.

The festival's Water and Beach Sports Zone will feature activities like paddleboarding, beach volleyball, soccer and obstacle courses. The Health and Wellness Zone will offer yoga, aerobics, Zumba classes and sunset meditation sessions. Expert-led workshops on holistic health and well-being will also be available.

In the Entertainment Zone, visitors can enjoy daily musical performances, an outdoor beach cinema, reading sessions, puppet shows, interactive games and workshops for all ages. The festival will also feature a traditional crafts and artisan market, as well as restaurants and cafes serving both international and local cuisines.

Khalid Al Ali, Manager of Al Heera Beach and Al Montazah Parks, emphasized the festival's role in enhancing Sharjah's appeal as a top tourism destination.

He said, "Our commitment to hosting exceptional events not only underscores Sharjah's appeal as a premier tourism destination but also celebrates its vibrant community."

Al Ali highlighted the festival's aim to capitalize on Sharjah's tourism potential, particularly its pristine beaches, a popular summer destination. He expressed hope that the festival will boost tourism activity in the emirate and showcase its diverse attractions.

The Sharjah Beach Festival reflects Shurooq's dedication to providing unique experiences for residents and visitors throughout the year, especially during summer, while celebrating the emirate's beachfront offerings.

In response to the tragic landslides that have claimed many lives in Wayanad, Kerala, of southern India, Kuwait's top leadership has extended their heartfelt condolences to India. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah each sent cables to Indian President Droupadi Murmu expressing sympathy and support.

His Highness the Amir expressed his deepest condolences for the lives lost and wished for the swift recovery of those injured. He also conveyed his hopes for the success of ongoing rescue and search efforts for missing individuals, emphasizing the importance of overcoming the challenges posed by natural disasters.

Similarly, His Highness the Crown Prince conveyed his sorrow over the fatalities and extended his best wishes for the rapid recovery of the injured. He highlighted the importance of rescue operations and search efforts in mitigating the impact of disasters.

His Highness, the Prime Minister, echoed these sentiments, offering condolences to President Murmu and expressing solidarity with the Indian government and its people during this difficult time.

The leadership of Kuwait has demonstrated strong support and solidarity with India, stressing the friendship and cooperation between the two nations as India grapples with the aftermath of this natural disaster.

Washington: The interim government that is going to be formed in Bangladesh should follow democratic principles, the rule of law, and the will of the Bangladeshi people, according to the United States government. Following the intensified conflict and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fleeing the country to India, the army was informed that an interim government would be formed.

US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Millers said that the US wanted to see Bangladeshi people decide the future of their government.

The People's Republic of Bangladesh fell into chaos after the student protests turned violent, killing more than 300 over a fortnight; PM Hasina stepped down from the post and fled the country. Following her departure, the army stepped in to fill the power vacuum and announced an interim government.

Following Hasian's fleece, hundreds of protesters broke into her residence, vandalized, looted, etc.

A stepped-down PM and Awami League party chief, Hasina, landed at the Hindon airbase in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad in India, and it was learned that she was waiting for the UK to offer asylum.

At the US capital, Matthew Miller told reporters that the Biden administration is monitoring the situation carefully and is seeking an end to violence. It also calls for accountability for deaths that have occurred over the recent weeks.

He said that all decisions regarding the interim government must be made under the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and the interests of the Bangladeshi people.

"Now, as to what accountability looks like, that's something that should take place under Bangladeshi law. Obviously, anyone responsible for acts of violence, acts that break the law, should be held accountable for them," Agence France-Presse quoted Miller.

Muscat International Airport in Oman has announced stricter rules for passengers travelling to or via the country, effective August 4, 2024. These changes involve adjustments to the timings in the boarding pass system (PBS) area, located after the check-in counters and before passport control.

Under the new rules, passengers will not be allowed to pass through the PBS checkpoint less than 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Meanwhile, departure gates will continue to close 20 minutes before the departure time, as was previously the practice.

The airport released a notice informing travellers of these changes, stating that they have been implemented "to ensure smooth processing of procedures as well as the timely departure of flights." The adjusted timing aims to facilitate more efficient completion of passport control and security checks.

Travellers are advised to adhere to the new rules to ensure a smooth journey.

Oman Air, the Sultanate's local airline, also issued a notice following the airport's announcement, reiterating that "check-in procedures remain unchanged and will close 60 minutes before flight departure time."

Abu Dhabi police have issued a warning about new scam methods circulating online, particularly on social media platforms. Authorities used social media to alert residents about the evolving tactics scammers use to deceive victims.

The latest scams include:

Fake Vehicle Number Sales: Scammers ask for payments to sell non-existent vehicle numbers.

Real Estate Scams: Photos of properties are posted online to lure buyers into paying for fake listings.

Counterfeit Websites: Fraudsters create websites mimicking famous restaurants and shops, offering special deals. Once victims make payments with credit cards, their accounts are drained.

Job seekers are also cautioned about fake hiring ads on social media. Scammers are organizing events that appear legitimate for fake companies, posing as authorized recruitment agencies. They charge applicants fees for these non-existent jobs. Residents are urged to avoid these fake job ads to prevent falling victim.

Residents are reminded not to share confidential information, such as bank account details, online banking passwords, ATM PINs and CVV numbers. Authorities emphasize that bank staff will never request this information.

Abu Dhabi police advise the public to report any calls from anonymous individuals asking to update bank details. Reports can be made at the nearest police station or by contacting the security service number 8002626. Residents can also send text messages to 2828 or email reports to aman@adpolice.gov.ae.

The International Social Responsibility Forum, organized by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, is scheduled to take place in Riyadh from October 28-29, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The forum is a significant global platform for discussing social responsibility and underscores Saudi Arabia's leadership in this field, as outlined in Saudi Vision 2030.

The event aims to facilitate engagement among decision-makers from the private sector, government representatives, development organizations and experts. It will focus on addressing challenges and exploring development opportunities, encouraging innovation and contributing to shaping the global future of social responsibility.

A key aspect of the forum is promoting excellence and competition among participants and fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors and the non-profit sector. Additionally, the forum seeks to create opportunities for global collaborations.

Participants will have the chance to exchange experiences, success stories and best practices through dialogue sessions, workshops and an accompanying exhibition. The forum highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to social responsibility and its increasing influence on the international stage as one of the world's fastest-growing economies.

Further, the event emphasizes Saudi Arabia's dedication to tackling global challenges, as reflected by its ranking of 16th globally in the Social Responsibility Index in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the launch of a new tourist bus service, named ‘On & Off,’ set to begin in September. This service is designed to help tourists and residents explore Dubai's key attractions.

The 'On & Off' bus will start its journey from Dubai Mall and make stops at eight of the emirate's landmarks: Dubai Frame, Heritage Village, Museum of the Future, Gold Souk, Dubai Mall, La Mer Beach, Jumeirah Mosque and City Walk.

Operating hours for the bus service are from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with departures every 60 minutes from Dubai Mall. The entire journey will take approximately two hours. The fare is set at Dh35 per person, allowing passengers unlimited travel on the service for the entire day.

Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of the Public Transport Agency, highlighted that the 'On & Off' bus service will connect with other modes of public transport, including the metro, marine transport and public buses, particularly at Al Ghubaiba station. This integration aims to provide a seamless travel experience for both tourists and residents, enhancing the accessibility of Dubai's attractions.

Dubai-headquartered Emirates has suspended flights to Dhaka due to the ongoing civil unrest in Bangladesh.

Passengers scheduled to connect on flights to Dhaka on August 6 will not be accepted for travel from their point of origin.

Emirates is closely monitoring the situation and advises customers who booked directly to contact local offices for rebooking options, while those who booked through travel agents should seek alternative arrangements.

The airline recommends checking the 'Manage Your Booking' page for updates.

Etihad Airways had already ceased operations in Dhaka in 2023.

On Monday, Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country, ending her 15-year rule after widespread protests on Sunday killed nearly 100 people.

Bangladeshi missions in the UAE have urged citizens to exercise restraint and adhere to local laws.

Lakshya Sen's dream of securing an Olympic medal in his debut appearance was dashed as he lost in a three-game thriller to Malaysia's Lee Zii Jia during the bronze medal playoff on Monday.

Despite winning the first game and holding an 8-3 lead in the second, the 22-year-old from Almora could not maintain his momentum, ultimately succumbing to world number 7 Lee, who rallied to a 13-21, 21-16, 21-11 victory.

Reflecting on his performance, a disappointed Sen said, "I had my chances in the second set and could have definitely done better. But credit to him, he played a really good game. I think at the moment I'm just not able to think right now."

Sen added, "I came well prepared for this match as well. It has been quite a tough week overall. But yeah, the fatigue kept on building. But I mean, I was ready to give my 100 percent in this match."

With Sen's loss, India will be returning from the Olympics without a badminton medal for the first time in 12 years. However, the young shuttler achieved a significant milestone in his maiden Olympic outing, becoming the first Indian male badminton player to reach the semifinals.

Sen previously won a bronze medal at the 2021 World Championships and a gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met with India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Monday evening after landing at the Hindon Air Force base in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, approximately 30 km from Delhi.

This meeting followed her forced resignation earlier in the day amidst violent protests over a government job quota, which left over 300 people dead.

Sheikh Hasina, the 76-year-old leader who has served five terms as Prime Minister, is expected to travel to London soon, sources told NDTV. Her plane, a Bangladesh Air Force C-130 military transport, will be stationed near Indian Air Force hangars.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been updated on the situation in Bangladesh by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, though it is unclear if he will meet Hasina.

India has heightened security along its 4,096 km border with Bangladesh, with Border Security Force commanders taking "on-ground" positions. Indian Railways has halted all trains to Bangladesh, and Air India has canceled its two daily flights to Dhaka. IndiGo has suspended all flights for the next 30 hours, citing the situation in Dhaka.

The Bangladesh Army, which gave Hasina 45 minutes to resign after her government failed to control the violence, has taken control.

Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced the formation of an "interim government" and urged protesters to cease their actions. He assured the public of protection and promised to address their demands.

Earlier, protesters had stormed Gonobhaban, the Prime Minister's residence in Dhaka. Reports indicated around 400,000 protesters were on the streets, overwhelming barricades set up by soldiers and police.

Sunday's clashes resulted in 100 deaths and over 1,000 injuries. The protests initially erupted over a quota system reserving up to 30% of government jobs for families of veterans from Bangladesh's 1971 war against Pakistan. Although the Supreme Court reduced this quota to 5%, protests intensified after student leaders claimed their demands were ignored, leading to calls for Hasina's resignation.

Images and videos showed jubilant protesters looting Hasina's residence, taking items like sarees, tea cups, TV sets, and paintings. Protesters were also seen celebrating and relaxing on furniture inside the compound.

The protests, which began in July, escalated despite the Supreme Court's intervention, culminating in the military taking control and ending Hasina's 15-year rule. During her tenure, Bangladesh experienced significant economic growth, but it was also marked by the mass arrest of political opponents and human rights violations by her security forces.

Sheikh Hasina's latest term, won in January amid an opposition boycott over election fairness, promised to transform Bangladesh into a "prosperous and developed country." However, the country faces high unemployment among its youth, with 18 million young Bangladeshis out of work according to government figures.

Bangladesh has a history of coups, with the military previously declaring an emergency in January 2007 and installing a caretaker government for two years.

Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has directed the seizure of 100 million shekels ($26 million) of tax funds meant for the Palestinian Authority (PA), declaring that the money will be used to compensate Israeli victims of terrorism.

The finance ministry, in a statement released on Sunday, justified the confiscation as a measure to combat terrorism.

Smotrich accused the PA, which administers parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, of reallocating the funds to support the families of those involved in acts of violence against Israel. Israeli officials have consistently criticized the Ramallah-based PA for providing financial aid to the families of Palestinians killed or imprisoned for attacks on Israelis.

This marks the fifth instance of Israel withholding funds it collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority. The PA has yet to respond to requests, reported AFP.

In the wake of Hamas's attack on October 7, which ignited the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Israel has implemented various economic restrictions on the Palestinian Authority, frequently withholding tax revenues.

On social media site X, Smotrich reiterated that the withholding of Palestinian funds is part of a broader strategy to thwart the establishment of a Palestinian state and ensure security for Israelis. He emphasized efforts to bolster Israeli settlements in the West Bank and maintain full Israeli control over the area, while combating what he termed "terror funds" of the Palestinian Authority and its leaders.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced its intention to contest all 36 seats in Mumbai for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, as confirmed by party leader Preeti Sharma Menon on Monday.

During a press conference, Menon emphasized that AAP is gearing up for a robust campaign across Maharashtra, with volunteers and colleagues actively preparing.

Menon clarified that while AAP is part of the opposition INDIA alliance for the Lok Sabha elections, the party will independently contest the state assembly elections. She highlighted AAP's transformation from a people's movement to a national party under Arvind Kejriwal’s leadership, with successful governance models in Delhi and Punjab, and representation in Goa, Gujarat, and the Parliament.

In just a decade, AAP has showcased the "Delhi model" of development, which provides free quality education, healthcare, water, and electricity, all achieved without corruption or accruing debt, according to Menon.

Menon criticized the current BJP-Shinde Sena-led Maharashtra government, accusing it of corruption and a lack of political will for public welfare. She described the BJP as an anti-Maharashtra and anti-Mumbai party, alleging that the Shinde government prioritizes looting the exchequer over public service.

She claimed that the government has failed on multiple fronts, including managing unemployment, inflation, agrarian distress, and farmer suicides. Menon also accused the government of failing to address issues related to Maratha reservation and the overall deterioration of Mumbai’s infrastructure.

Menon further alleged that the BJP is deliberately undermining Mumbai's status as India's financial capital by redirecting projects to Gujarat. She accused Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis of placing Gujarat's interests above Maharashtra's.

Ruben Mascarenhas, AAP's working president, stated that Maharashtra deserves better governance and that AAP is not just an alternative but a solution for the state’s challenges.

Adani Energy Solutions has successfully raised $1 billion through a share sale, attracting bids from US investors and sovereign wealth funds, the company announced on Monday.

This qualified institutional placement (QIP) marks the Adani Group's first equity market fundraising since the $2.5 billion share sale was canceled in February last year.

The issue saw significant interest from US investors with a focus on utilities, who are entering the Indian market for the first time, as well as from sovereign wealth funds, Indian mutual funds, and insurance companies. The names of the specific investors were not disclosed by Adani Energy.

According to a report by Reuters last week, investment firm GQG Partners, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, and Qatar Investment Authority were among those who participated in the share sale.

"The QIP received an overwhelming response, garnering bids approximately six times the base deal size," Adani Energy stated in a press release.

The proceeds from this fundraising will be allocated to investing in the company's power transmission assets, smart metering business, and debt repayment, Adani Energy added.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma continued his impressive form in ODI cricket, achieving a significant milestone during the second match against Sri Lanka.

With a half-century in the first ODI and another scintillating 66 off 44 balls in the second, Rohit has overtaken Sachin Tendulkar to record the most fifty-plus scores for India in international cricket.

Rohit's latest innings featured five fours and four sixes, scoring at a strike rate of over 145. This performance places him fourth on the list of India's highest run-scorers in ODIs, surpassing Rahul Dravid. In his 264-match career, Rohit has amassed 10,831 runs at an average of 49.23 and a strike rate of 92.29, including 31 centuries and 57 fifties.

His top score remains 264.

As an opener, Rohit now holds the record for the most fifty-plus scores for India in international cricket, surpassing Tendulkar's tally. Rohit has 121 fifty-plus scores (43 centuries and 78 fifties), compared to Tendulkar's 120 (45 centuries and 75 fifties).

This marks Rohit's fourth fifty in ODIs within the first 10 overs, closing in on Virender Sehwag's record of seven such fifties. Since January 2023, Rohit has hit 54 sixes in the first 10 overs of ODIs, leading significantly over Australia's David Warner, who has 24 sixes in the same period. In these 28 innings, Rohit has scored 1,377 runs at an average of 52.96, including two centuries and 11 fifties, with a top score of 131.

In the match against Sri Lanka, the visitors won the toss and chose to bat first. Contributions from Avishka Fernando (40 off 62 balls), Kamindu Mendis (40 off 44 balls), and Dunith Wellalage (39 off 35 balls) helped Sri Lanka reach 240/9 in their 50 overs.

For India, Washington Sundar (3/30) and Kuldeep Yadav (2/33) were the standout bowlers, with Mohammed Siraj and Axar Patel each taking a wicket.

The Supreme Court has declined to stay a Calcutta High Court order that annulled the inclusion of 77 castes in the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category by the West Bengal government.

The High Court's decision, issued on May 22, overturned a series of state orders from 2010-2012 that had added these castes to the OBC list, with 75 of them being Muslim.

As a result of the High Court's ruling, all OBC certificates issued in Bengal post-2010 have been invalidated.

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, leading a bench that includes Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, has issued a notice in response to a petition from the Bengal government challenging the High Court's order. The Supreme Court has requested the state to provide details of the survey conducted to assess the social and educational backwardness of the 77 castes before their inclusion in the OBC category.

Additionally, the state must clarify if any consultations were held with the State Backward Classes Commission regarding these inclusions. The bench has also asked for data on the alleged under-representation of these communities in state government services.

The Bengal government has been given a week's time to file an affidavit with the required information.

Amid Iran's vow of retaliation for the killing of its guest and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, reportedly by Israel, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has issued a warning to the G7 allies about a possible combined attack on Israel by Iran and Hezbollah within the next 24 to 48 hours.

The warning follows the assassination of senior Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, an act that has prompted Tehran and its allies to vow retaliation. In a recent conference call with G7 counterparts, Blinken conveyed that while the exact timing and nature of the potential attacks are unclear, there is a significant risk that both Iran and Hezbollah are preparing to strike Israel soon.

The US is reportedly seeking to de-escalate the situation by encouraging restraint from both sides and has called on other nations to apply diplomatic pressure to avoid further conflict.

The G7, comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom, has expressed serious concern about the escalating tensions in the region. The group has urged all parties to exercise restraint, emphasizing that further escalation would be detrimental to all involved.

In response to the heightened threat, the US has bolstered its military presence in the Middle East, describing the additional forces as defensive. General Michael Kurilla, the head of US Central Command, is expected to arrive in Israel soon to coordinate with the Israeli military and prepare for potential retaliatory actions.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, now approaching its 10-month mark, has seen intermittent hostilities involving Iran and Hezbollah, among other Tehran-aligned groups. Despite the current high-risk environment, there is widespread belief that neither side is fully prepared for an all-out war. However, the increasing tension has heightened the risk of a large-scale conflict.

In light of the volatile situation, several countries have advised their citizens to leave Lebanon immediately. Japan, Saudi Arabia, and France have joined the US and various European governments in urging their nationals to evacuate while commercial flights are still available.

The French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs has specifically urged against travel to Lebanon and recommended that those already in the country depart as soon as possible to avoid potential danger.

Dhaka: Amid unprecedented student-led protests, Sheikh Hasina has reportedly resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and fled the country. Jubilant crowds waving flags filled the streets of Dhaka, and scores of agitators stormed 'Ganabhaban,' the official residence of the Prime Minister.

A section of the crowd also vandalised a statue of former Bangladesh President and the country's independence leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the father of Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka.

According to the local media, as many as 4 lakh protesters were on the streets of Dhaka, though the exact numbers were yet to be ascertained. Earlier in an address to the nation, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that Sheikh Hasina has resigned as the Prime Minister, and an interim government will be formed soon to run the country,

General Waker-Uz-Zaman also urged the citizens to keep their trust in the Bangladesh Army, asserting that the defence forces will ensure peace in the coming days. The Army chief also said that he will be meeting President Mohammed Shahabuddin soon.

The developments followed after over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the clashes that took place between police and protesters on Sunday. "With yesterday's count, the death toll in anti-government protests crossed 300 in just three weeks, making it the bloodiest period in the history of Bangladesh's civil movement," Bangladesh's leading daily 'The Daily Star' reported.

The student-led non-cooperation movement put immense pressure on the government led by Prime Minister Hasina over the past many weeks. The students had been protesting against a 30 per cent reservation in government jobs for relatives of freedom fighters who wrested independence for Bangladesh from Pakistan in a bloody civil war in 1971 in which, according to Dhaka officials, 3 million people were killed in the genocide by Pakistani troops and their supporters.

After the Supreme Court slashed the reservations to 5 per cent, student leaders put the protests on hold but the demonstrations flared up because the students said the government ignored their call to release all their leaders, making the resignation of Hasina their primary demand.

Source: IANS