Evening NEWS DIGEST
14 Dec.2017: 24 Rabial Awwal 1439:Vol:9, No:72
INDIA
25 pending and 14 new bills including Bill on triple talaq to be placed in Parliament winter session
http://www.livemint.com/Politics/6divIMAW2m6RgEBmAcwUAP/25-pending-and-14-new-bills-to-be-placed-in-Parliament-winte.html
New Delhi: As many as 25 pending bills and 14 new ones, including a bill providing Muslim women the right to seek maintenance in case of triple talaq, are expected to be placed in the winter session of parliament.The winter session, beginning from 15 Dec, will have 14 sittings. The session will come to an end on 5 Jan. According to a list compiled by think-tank PRS Legislative Research, some of the bills listed for consideration and passage at the session include Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016, Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2013 and Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2016.The surrogacy bill prohibits commercial surrogacy and allows its altruistic form.It also specifies criteria for the intending couple and a surrogate mother, the think-tank said.The new bills listed for introduction and passage include Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2017, Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriages) Bill, 2017 and Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to States Amendment Bill), 2017.PTI
Cannot escape petition on inheritance by Muslim women just because law commission is examining UCC: Delhi HC
http://www.livelaw.in/cannot-escape-petition-inheritance-muslim-women-just-lci-examining-ucc-delhi-hc-read-order/
The Delhi High Court, last week, refused to exempt the Centre from filing a counter-affidavit on a Petition challenging the laws of succession so far as entitlement to inheritance of Muslim women is concerned.The Bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C. Hari Shankar noted that the Centre had sought an adjournment submitting that the issue of framing of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) has been referred to the Law Commission of India (LCI). Court, however, opined that “this certainly cannot be a ground for not filing a counter affidavit to the petition”. It then directed that the counter-affidavit be filed within six weeks, listing the matter on 9 April, 2018. The LCI took up the examination of the viability of a UCC on the Centre’s request to look into the issue “in detail and submit a report”.Thereafter, in October, the LCI had sought public opinion on the exercise of revision and reform of family laws, in view of Article 44 of the Constitution of India which envisions a UCC for all Indian citizens. It had then prepared a questionnaire to solicit public opinion on ways in which family law reforms could be introduced in a manner that “does not compromise the diversity and plurality that constitutes the core of India’s social fabric.” livelaw
Muslim Law Board to discuss talaq at Hyderabad meet
http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/muslim-personal-law-board-to-discuss-triple-talaq-at-hyderabad-meet-117121301521_1.html
Hyderabad: The proposed legislation on triple talaq and Babri Masjid will be among the key issues to be discussed at the general body meeting of All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) scheduled to be held here in Feb.3-day meeting will be crucial in the wake of the recent developments on Babri Masjid issue and the proposed move by the Central Govt to make triple talaq a cognizable offence.The apex body of Indian Muslims is expected to take key decisions, especially on triple talaq.Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017 is expected to be tabled during Parliament's winter session starting Friday.If the bill is passed in the winter session and enacted by February, the board will chalk out an action plan to oppose the legislation, sources said. Board members have opposed the proposed legislation, saying this will lead to an increase in cases of husbands abandoning their wives.At a meeting held here on Tuesday to discuss arrangements for AIMBPLB conclave, AIMPLB Secretary Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani voiced concern over what he called attempts to interfere in 'Shariat'.Referring to the proposed law on triple talaq, the religious scholar said it would lead to more complications. He wondered how a man jailed for three years can provide maintenance to his wife and children. He said Muslim Personal Law had been under implementation since the British rule in the country. It was in 1937 that Shariat Application Act was made and the Constitution of India gave the right to all citizens to profess, practice and propagate their religion.Rahmani said some forces which had no respect for fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution were trying to enforce the directive principles, which were not obligatory.The meeting will also review the status of Babri Masjid case, which is set to come up for hearing in the Supreme Court on Feb.8. The board will also discuss the issue in the light of the statements by some VHP and RSS leaders that construction of Ram temple will begin in Oct. 2018.Rahmani pointed out that some communal groups had prepared a list to target 3,000 mosques. IANS
Move to allow women to go for Haj sans male companion giving positive results: Union Minister Naqvi
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/move-to-allow-women-to-go-for-haj-sans-male-companion-giving-positive-results-naqvi/articleshow/62068530.cms
Govt's decision to lift a ban on Muslim women undertaking Haj pilgrimage without 'Mehram' (a male companion) has generated "positive" results, Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said today. According to a statement, Naqvi made the comments while referring to a "large number" of applications the Haj Committee of India (HCoI) has received under the category. Under the category, Muslim women aged above 45 will be allowed to go for the pilgrimage without 'Mehram' in a group of at least four. "Modi Govt 's decision to lift the ban concerned has generated very positive results as Muslim women, from across the country, are applying in a large number under this category," the statement quoted Naqvi as saying. The minority affairs minister made the remarks while launching a portal for private tour operators (PTOs) here. The application process for Haj 2018 started on Nov. 15 and more than 1,000 women have applied under the category. More than 2.63 lakh people have applied for undertaking the annual Haj pilgrimage till Dec.13. Out of this,1.38 lakh applications have been received online. "It has given a boost to the ministry's decision to make entire Haj process digital. Besides, people are also applying through mobile app," he said. economictimes
Naqvi launches portal for private Haj tour operators
http://www.thestatesman.com/india/mukhtar-abbas-naqvi-launches-portal-for-private-haj-tour-operators-1502544986.html
Progressive Muslims should support draft bill on triple talaq:Bihar Dy CM Modi
https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/progressive-muslims-should-support-draft-bill-on-triple-talaq/1208774
Patna: Deputy CM Sushil Kumar Modi has called upon political parties and progressive Muslims to come out in support of the draft bill banning triple talaq and containing provisions for providing assistance to women affected by the practice."Govts, whether at the Centre or in the states, ought not to interfere in religious matters as far as beliefs and rituals are concerned. But intervention becomes necessary when it comes to social evils like untouchability, dowry, child marriage and triple talaq", Modi said at a meeting of the BJP's minorities front here."There are some people who oppose any type of social reform. Even the ban on the brutal practice of sati was met with opposition. Triple talaq has nothing to do with religion. It is a gross injustice meted out to women", he said.He also highlighted measures taken by Bihar Govt for welfare of Muslims like raising financial assistance for divorced women from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000, scholarships to meritorious madarsa students, equipping madarsas with computers, toilets, libraries etc.And removing encroachments from Wakf land.outlookindia
Will support BJP, RSS if they shun politics of hatred: Jamiat head Arshad Madani
http://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/india/will-support-bjp-rss-if-they-shun-politics-of-hatred-jamiat-ulema-e-hind-head/268919.html
Lucknow:Leading Muslim organisation Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind has said that its opposition to the BJP and RSS was only because of their “communal and divisive politics” and it can support them if they shun politics of hatred.Addressing a conference on national integration here last night, the national president of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind Maulana Syyed Arshad Madani said they have no lust for power, and that they oppose BJP only because of its sectarianism. "Neither the Jamiat nor the Muslims have any personal opposition to the BJP...If the BJP shuns its politics of hatred, catch hold of those spreading it, ensure punishment to them and encourage peace and brotherhood, people will support them," he said.Stressing that only a handful of people want to spread hatred and harm the country, Madni said peace loving people of the country will teach BJP a lesson in the 2019 elections, if it is seen giving them a free hand.Also, alleging that a large number of Muslim youths have been jailed without conviction for as long as 20 years, he said the aim behind this is to prove that "Islam does not espouse peace, and instead is a religion of separatism".On this occasion, Madani also talked about the Jamiat's decision to fight the case of a Muslim labourer in the apex court, who was allegedly hacked and burnt to death in Rajasthan on Dec.6, as he expressed his apprehension about the victim's family getting justice in a local court. PTI
Exit polls of various TV channels show BJP’s win in Gujarat, Himachal
http://indianexpress.com/elections/gujarat-assembly-elections-2017/exit-polls-live-updates-gujarat-himachal-pradesh-rahul-gandhi-narendra-modi-bjp-congress-virbhadra-singh-hardik-patel-patidar-prem-kumar-dhumal/
New Delhi:The exit polls of various TV channels for Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections are predicting BJP’s massive win in both the states. According to News 24, which got most of its predictions right in the past, BJP is expected to win 135 seats in Gujarat and Congress is likely to bag 47 seats. As per their survey, the BJP is also winning Himachal, bagging 55 seats while 13 seats will go in Congress pocket.Well-known psephologist Surjit Bhalla has predicted 125 seats for BJP in Gujarat and 57 for Congress. As per India Today-Axis My India, BJP will win 47-55 seats in Himachal while Congress could bag just 13 seats. Similarly, Times Now has predicted 109 seats for the BJP in Gujarat and 70 seats for Congress, others could get 3 seats. ABP CSDS figures, show Congress winning 64 seats while BJP once again ruling Gujarat winning 117 seats.According to IndiaTv-VMR Exit poll, BJP will win the Central Gujarat region with 23 seats, while Congress may be limited to 16 seats. They also predict 24-30 seats for BJP in South Gujarat while Congress is expected to bag 6-8 seats. In north Gujarat, India TV predicts 30 seats for the ruling BJP, while Congress may sweep 23 seats. Congress is currently ruling Himachal, while BJP has been in power in Gujarat for last 22 years.The elections were seen as a litmus test for both PM Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi was recently elevated as the president of Congress. Both the leaders did extensive campaign in Gujarat and Himachal. India Today-Axis My India: Congress (68-82), BJP (99-113) Others (1-4); Times Now: Congress (66), BJP (113) Others (3); India TV: Congress (65-75), BJP (104-114) Others (0-4); ABP: Congress (64), BJP (117) Others (1); News18 C voters: Congress (74) BJP(108) Others (-); News 24: Congress (47) BJP (135) Others (-). indian express
Gujarat polls: Exit polls predict BJP will cruise to comfortable win, Congress to make modest gains
http://www.firstpost.com/politics/gujarat-polls-exit-polls-predict-bjp-will-cruise-to-comfortable-win-congress-to-make-modest-gains-4258787.html
Gujarat exit polls: BJP likely to win, but Congress may improve tally: economictimes
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/gujarat-exit-polls-here-is-what-the-predictions-say/articleshow/62069616.cms
Nearly 69 % turnout, marginally less than 2012:
https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/gujarat-assembly-elections-2017-68-7-per-cent-polling-in-phase-2-says-election-commmission-1787878?pfrom=home-lateststories
Ahmedabad: 68.7% people voted in the second and final phase of the Gujarat assembly polls today, Election Commission has said. This is almost neck and neck with 68% voter turnout in the first phase on Saturday last.Voter turnout in the 2012 assembly election was 71.3%.NDTV
Gujarat: Voting for 2nd phase ends amid EVM malfunctioning, Congress protests
http://www.firstpost.com/politics/gujarat-assembly-election-2017-voting-for-second-phase-ends-amid-evm-malfunctioning-congress-protests-4258845.html
Congress brands EC Modi’s ‘puppet’, files complaint against PM’s ‘roadshow’ after voting
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/election-commission-trying-to-save-sinking-ship-of-pm-narendra-modi-s-gujarat-campaign-congress/story-WnlIHwwyqjvTgfwOHEyOQP.html
New Delhi: Congress on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission (EC), saying the “sinking ship of PM Narendra Modi’s campaign is being saved by poll panel”.In Ahmedabad, the party also filed a complaint with the EC against Modi for allegedly violating model code of conduct by holding a “roadshow” even as voting in the second phase of Gujarat elections was underway.Later in the day, Congress workers marched to the Election Commission to protest against Modi’s roadshow. They were stopped by the police outside Sardar Patel Bhawan near Patel Chowk in Delhi and many were detained.“Election Commission of India has set different standards for the BJP and the Congress. What is the reason for the poll panel to behave like a frontal organisation of BJP,” asked Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala at a press conference in New Delhi.“It is a great shame that PM Narendra Modi has turned all constitutional institutions into his puppets, the Election Commission of India being one of them,” added Surjewala.Achal Kumar Joti, the target of Congress’ diatribe, took over as chief election commissioner in July. A 1975-batch IAS officer, Joti was the chief secretary of Gujarat when Modi was CM. He was also a secretary in the industry, revenue and water supply departments in the state.Congress’ attack comes a day after the Election Commission sought an explanation from party president-elect Rahul Gandhi for appearing in TV interviews ahead of the second phase of voting in Gujarat, which it said was a violation of the model code of conduct.EC, on Wednesday, also filed FIRs against TV channels that aired the interviews, saying rules prohibit display of any “election matter” within 48 hours of the start of polling.Congress, however, accused the poll panel of favouritism and questioned why it has not taken similar action against Modi who allegedly made political statements at business meeting on Wednesday when he targeted the previous UPA Govt. hindustantimes
Gujarat elections: Congress writes to EC, demands FIR against PM Modi for ‘roadshow’ on polling day
http://indianexpress.com/elections/gujarat-assembly-elections-2017/gujarat-elections-congress-writes-to-ec-seeks-fir-against-pm-modi-for-roadshow-on-polling-day-4982691/
Over 700 people deposited Rs 3 as Shambu Lal Regar tried to raise money with video of killing of Muslim: police
https://in.reuters.com/article/india-religion/hindu-man-tried-to-raise-money-with-video-of-killing-of-muslim-police-idINKBN1E811N
New Delhi: A Hindu man in Rajasthan tried to raise money for a campaign against minority Muslims by issuing an appeal for donations with a video he took and posted online showing him killing a Muslim, police said on Thursday.The killing last week is the latest to roil India’s minority Muslims who have faced attacks from mobs who accuse them of killing cows, which Hindus consider sacred. Hindu fringe groups also campaign against Muslim men marrying Hindus.Shambu Lal Regar has been arrested on suspicion of hacking and burning a Muslim labourer in Rajasthan, police said.Regar had posted a video of the attack along with his bank details for donations to finance his anti-Muslim campaign, police officer Anand Shrivastava said. More than 700 people from across India deposited 300,000 rupees ($4,665) into the account.“The accused wanted to become a Hindu hero after killing a Muslim man, his main aim was to collect money after committing the hate crime,” said Shrivastava.Regar’s video went viral on social media before authorities took it down. Police investigators had frozen the bank account and were tracking down donors, Shrivastava said.Shrivastava said the video had showed Regar claiming to be a proud Hindu trying to stop “love jihad” - a term used by Hindu hardliners who accuse Muslim men of entrapping Hindu women and girls on the pretext of love in order to convert them to Islam.Reuters
Rajasthan:Net suspended, curfew imposed in Rajasmand to thwart rally supporting killer of Muslim labourer
https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/internet-suspended-curfew-imposed-in-rajasmand-to-thwart-rally-supporting-man-wh/305514
Udaipur:To thwart a rally by Hindu groups in support of Shambhu Raigar, who hacked and burnt a Muslim labourer to death in Rajasmand, the Rajasthan police imposed Section 144 of IPC (unlawful assembly) and suspended internet services for 24 hours to prevent disturbances or incidents of communal disharmony.Udaipur Police on Wednesday issued a notice saying that Section 144 has been imposed in Rajsamand and Udaipur district for 24 hours from 8 pm on Wednesday night.The decision was taken after some Hindu groups planned to hold a rally in support of Raigar that could compromise the safety of people, reported India Today. Mohammed Bhatta Sheikh, resident of West Bengal, was killed by Raigar raising the bogey of “Love Jihad”-- a term publicised by the Hindutva groups to refer to Muslim men marrying Hindu women and converting them to Islam. Preliminary investigation however, ruled out 'love jihad' as motive of the murder. "The accused, Shabhu Lal Raigar, said that he committed the crime over 'love jihad', but it has not been established so far that any such motive was behind the killing of the labourer," IGP, Udaipur, Anand Srivastava said.outlook
UP: BSP corporator booked after he insisted on oath in Urdu
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/uttar-pradesh-up-bsp-corporator-booked-after-he-insisted-on-oath-in-urdu-4982872/
Aligarh: Lone BSP corporator of Aligarh Municipal Corporation, Musharraf Hussain, has been booked for trying to outrage religious feelings, after he insisted on taking the oath in Urdu. The case under Section 295A of IPC was registered against Hussain at the Bannadevi police station on Wednesday night, based on a complaint filed by BJP corporator Pushpendra Singh, police station in-charge Jitendra Dikshit said.Singh, in his complaint, alleged that the BSP corporator tried to disturb communal harmony on Monday, day of oath-taking. However, police were yet to register a case based on a complaint filed by Hussain, who alleged that he was beaten up on the day. Dikshit said they were looking into Hussain’s complaint.IPC Section 295A pertains to deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs. Unpleasant scenes marred the swearing-in of newly-elected members of Aligarh Municipal Corporation on Monday after BJP corporators allegedly created a ruckus when Hussain insisted on taking the oath in Urdu. Hussain was allegedly beaten up.PTI
BJP, BSP cross swords as fresh Vande Mataram row strikes a jarring note in UP
http://www.hindustantimes.com/lucknow/bjp-bsp-cross-swords-as-fresh-vande-mataram-row-strikes-a-jarring-note-in-up/story-q1H0jvW2rcRLYviMgdJcNN.html
Lucknow/Meerut: A fresh political controversy erupted in UP with former CM Mayawati accusing BJP of hounding her party’s Dalit mayor during the Tuesday’s oath taking ceremony in which BJP and BSP stood divided on singing Vande Mataram, national song.Sunita Verma, Meerut mayor belonging to the BSP, had refused to sing Vande Mataram during the oath taking ceremony. Her refusal angered the BJP corporators who started singing the national song in chorus. This was followed by chants of ‘Jai Sri Ram’. BSP corporators, who were outnumbered by those of BJP, retaliated with ‘Jai Bhim’, their party’s slogan.Some tension between BSP and BJP was also reported from Aligarh Municipal Corporation where also BSP defeated BJP for the mayor’s post. In Aligarh, BJP has demanded action against a BSP Muslim corporator for taking oath in Urdu.With numbers on their side, BJP corporators were angry at Verma’s announcement that she would reverse her predecessor Harikant Ahluwalia’s decision to make singing of the national song compulsory in the corporation.“We respect the constitution but the manner in which the BJP tried to create chaos during the oath taking ceremony was most reprehensible,” Mayawati said.The issue is expected to kick up political dust in the most populous state with BSP likely to take up the issue during the winter session of the UP assembly beginning Thursday.Yogesh Verma, a former BSP lawmaker and husband of the Meerut mayor, defended his wife’s decision not to sing Vande Mataram. He said in future too the proceedings of the Corporation would be carried on as per the constitution. hindustantimes
Union minister Athawale asks Dalits to renounce Hinduism, embrace Buddhism
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/athawale-asks-dalits-to-renounce-hinduism-embrace-buddhism/story-ThhOQZFsAsKkopEw57SMjM.html
Mumbai: Invoking Babasaheb Ambedkar, Union minister Ramdas Athawale said he embraced Buddhism only after he was convinced that Dalits would not get justice in the Hindu religion and asked all members of the community to do so.“Only when Babasaheb Ambedkar was convinced that Dalits would not get justice in Hindu religion did he convert to Buddhism. Lakhs of Dalits converted as well,” Athawale, the minister of state for social justice and empowerment, said in a statement issued here.According to the statement, Ambedkar had given opportunity to staunch “Hindutvavadis” to make amends but that did not happen, and hence he converted.“All Dalits should give up Hinduism and embrace Buddhism to stop atrocities against them,” Athawale said.PTI
Centre tells SC: Willing to extend deadline to link mobile to Aadhaar till March 31
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/centre-asks-supreme-court-to-extend-the-deadline-to-link-mobile-to-aadhaar-till-march-31-4982637/
New Delhi:A day after the deadline to link Aadhaar to a host of financial-related Govt services was extended to March 31 till next year, Centre on Thursday requested the Supreme Court to order an extension for linking mobile to Aadhaar to the same deadline. SC will pronounce its judgment, on pleas seeking a stay on Centre’s move of mandatory linking Aadhaar to mobile with various schemes, on Friday.The earlier deadline for linking mobile numbers to Aadhaar was Feb.6, 2018. indianexpress
ATMs not to be replenished with cash after 9pm: Govt
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/atms-not-to-be-replenished-with-cash-after-9pm-govt/story-h2KPC6M1fT1d04l6yCbs6K.html
New Delhi:Concerned over incidents of attack on cash carrying vans, the Govt has proposed that ATMs should not be replenished with cash after 9pm in cities and private cash transportation agencies must collect money from the banks in the first half of the day, officials said.The deadline for putting money in ATMs in rural areas would be 6pm, and 4pm in Maoist-affected districts. Also, specially designed cash vans, fitted with CCTVs and GPS, must not carry more than Rs 5 crore per trip.PTI
SC to Centre: Set up 12 special courts for cases against tainted MPs, MLAs by March 1
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/supreme-court-to-centre-set-up-12-special-courts-for-cases-against-tainted-mps-mlas-by-march-1/
New Delhi:The Supreme Court on Thursday approved Govt ’s proposal for setting up 12 special courts for trying pending criminal cases against 1,581 MPs and MLAs. The apex court granted the Centre two months to collate data of pending cases against tainted lawmakers and directed that the special court should become operational by March 1, 2018. The SC’s response was on an affidavit filed by the Centre on Tuesday following a PIL filed by Delhi BJP leader and advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, seeking a lifelong ban on convicted politicians from contesting elections. Govt had said it did not have data on how many of these cases have been decided and whether any new case had been filed against an MP or MLA between 2014 and 2017 and sought time to collect data.
Israel eases visa procedure for Indians
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/israel-eases-visa-procedure-for-indians/story-OxSR2cp9mqab58hHvwNqeK.html
Mumbai:To encourage more Indians to visit Israel, Tel Aviv has simplified its visa application procedures for visitors from the Sub-continent.The relaxed visa rule involves less documentation for Indians who have availed of visas of Schengen countries, the US, Canada, Australia or Israel and have completed their travel to these countries, a statement from the Israeli consulate said on Thursday.“This is an initiative we have been working very closely with interior ministry and foreign ministry to introduce in India and I am happy to see this change for the Indian travellers who wish to travel to Israel,” Israeli tourism ministry India director Hassan Madah said.He said, easing the visa requirements will not only make the application process faster, it will also increase the number of tourists to Israel as well.“We are also working on an express service with VFS, which will be introduced soon. In addition to this, we are working towards e-visa processing as well as easing the group visa process,” he added.PTI
Pakistan directs high commissioner in Delhi to issue visas to Kulbhushan Jadhav’s family
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pakistan-directs-high-commissioner-in-delhi-to-issue-visas-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-s-family/story-A4RB0mmHkDQUhA2aggay3O.html
Islamabad:Pakistan directed its high commission in New Delhi to issue visas to the wife and mother of Indian death row prisoner Kulbhushan Jadhav, official sources said. The directive was issued by the foreign ministry following its decision last week to allow Jadhav’s family to meet him on Dec. 25 in Islamabad, they said.The foreign office sources said that adequate security measures will be taken for complete safety of Jadhav’s family.An Indian high commission official will be allowed to accompany Jadhav’s family during their meeting.Jadhav, 47, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage and terrorism in April, following which India moved the ICJ in May.ICJ halted his execution on India’s appeal pending the final verdict by it.HT
ED summons Geelani in FEMA case
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/ed-summons-kashmiri-separatist-leader-geelani-in-fema-case/story-LLebFvKi3j0ZoarSvjjKQO.html
New Delhi: Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned hardline Hurriyat Conference leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani to appear before it on Dec.18 for adjudication proceedings related to a foreign exchange violation case involving $10,000 “illegally” possessed by him in 2002.The central probe agency, early this year, issued a notice under various sections of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) to the 87-year-old separatist leader based in Srinagar in J&K .The adjudication notice has asked him to “explain or produce documents or evidences, as may be useful for or relevant to the subject matter of enquiry”.PTI
China, Pakistan in contact over controversial dam in Gilgit-Baltistan: HT report
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china-pakistan-in-contact-over-controversial-dam-in-gilgit-baltistan/story-7lmfELkxyC8UvN57OttggN.html
Beijing:China has denied it demanded “full ownership” and the right to operate the Diamer-Bhasha dam in the disputed Gilgit-Baltistan region, the country’s top planning body has said, adding Beijing and Islamabad continue to be in contact over the project.National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) dismissed reports that China had not only claimed ownership of the dam but also wanted collateral security for the project in the form of another operational dam.India has raised objections to the construction of the dam as its site is in Gilgit-Baltistan, which is claimed by New Delhi as part of the undivided J&K state.In November, Pakistan withdrew its bid to include the dam in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with a senior official saying Chinese conditions for financing the dam were unacceptable.At the time, Chinese foreign ministry had denied any information on the development.CPEC is the flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a multi-billion dollar connectivity project that spans Asia.NDRC deputy director Wang Xiaotao told Pakistani counterparts that the question of China demanding ownership of the dam does not arise.“Currently, the two sides are maintaining contact on the cooperation project of the Diamer-Bhasha Dam. However, the project has not yet been included in the list of energy projects under the Economic Corridor, and the trade authorities of China and Pakistan also didn’t conduct any exchanges on the development plan of the Diamer-Bhasha Dam,” Wang was quoted as saying during the a meeting of the CPEC joint committee last month.
Delhi: Cracks found in Jama Masjid dome, shahi imam seeks PM’s help for urgent repair
http://www.hindustantimes.com/delhi-news/cracks-found-in-jama-masjid-dome-shahi-imam-seeks-pm-s-help-for-urgent-repair/story-s8C6gnffgmFfAyWhV35OYM.html
New Delhi: The iconic Jama Masjid is in urgent need of repair, with parts of its external facade and internal structure crumbling, according to the custodians of the grand 361-year-old mosque in old Delhi.The centrepiece of the heritage city of Shahjahanabad, the Masjid is being threatened by rampant water seepage, which has eroded the structural integrity of the main dome and peeled off layers of sandstone and plaster from its walls and intricate parapet carvings.The Shahi Imam of the Masjid, Syed Ahmed Bukhari, says he had written a letter last year to PM Narendra Modi, seeking help for the urgent repair of structure, and made several appeals to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) telling them that the situation is fast becoming dire.“I specifically told both the PM’s office and the ASI that lack of maintenance was resulting in permanent damage.In particular, the main prayer chamber and 3 domes require instant restoration,” Bukhari said.ASI spokesperson DM Dimri said the relaying of the mosque floor and a few other maintenance works were in the pipeline. However, he said ASI was not aware of serious damage to domes and parapets.“An estimate has been prepared for restoration of its flooring. The tendering process is going on, ASI will soon start work at Jama Masjid. As the mosque is not an ASI-protected monument, the responsibility of its regular monitoring and maintenance is not with us,” Dimri said.The responsibility of the management and protection of the mosque lies with Delhi Wakf Board. “We don’t have enough funds to restore the mosque and always need external assistance for this project,” said an official of the board who asked not to be named.HT
Who will repair Jama Masjid: Population, new structures mar ‘unprotected’ mosque
http://www.hindustantimes.com/delhi-news/who-will-repair-jama-masjid-population-new-structures-harming-unprotected-mosque/story-5PsYQtf44n0KZxo5aozTjN.html
Jama Masjid damage: ASI, disaster body teams inspect structure after HT report
http://www.hindustantimes.com/delhi-news/jama-masjid-damage-asi-disaster-body-teams-inspect-structure-after-ht-report/story-5VDEx5vmeelYprdY7dU3uI.html
Dadri : Drunk man creates ruckus in mosque, held
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/drunk-man-creates-ruckus-in-mosque-held/articleshow/62060698.cms
Greater Noida: A 24-year-old man was arrested for creating a ruckus and threatening locals while in an inebriated state in a mosque in Dadri on Tuesday.Residents gathered at the mosque and caught Amit Kumar, who was handed over to the police.Amit, who lives in the neighbourhood, came to the mosque with an accomplice who managed to escape, said locals. Haji Yamin, a resident, said two persons barged into the mosque at Amka Road in Dadri around 9 pm. "They appeared drunk and were creating a ruckus. They tried to vandalise the mosque property," he said.On receiving information, police and a team of LIU reached the mosque.Nishank Sharma, CO, Dadri, said Amit was confirmed to be under the influence of alcohol at that time. An FIR was registered against the duo.TOI
One held for ‘vandalising’ mosque in Dadri
http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/one-held-for-vandalising-mosque-in-dadri-4981695/
UP's Bijnor: Loudspeakers from mosque, temple removed after HC order
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/meerut/loudspeakers-from-mosque-temple-removed-after-hc-order/articleshow/62058712.cms
Bijnor: Tension prevailed in Bijnor's Madanpur village on Wednesday after the Allahabad high court ordered the administration to remove loudspeakers, installed without the requisite permission, from a mosque and Ravidass temple with immediate effect. The loudspeakers could be removed on Wednesday afternoon only after heavy deployment of police force. It should be noted that the villagers had gone to the high court in this regard as they had clashed with each other over loudspeakers installed at each other's religious sites. When the police started removing the speakers, there was hue and cry in the village initially and people started gathering on the streets but when they were made aware of the HC order, they did not oppose the police action, sources said.According to officials, there has been a long dispute between the two communities over the installation of loudspeakers on the mosque and the temple in the village. A few months ago, a villager, Shaukat Ali, filed a PIL in Allahabad high court against the installation of loudspeaker at the village temple without permission. During the hearing of the matter on Wednesday, HC ordered the administration to find out if the temple and the mosque had permission to install loudspeakers in their premises, and if not, these be removed. The administration was also directed to inform the HC about the action taken before 2 pm on the day. ASP Dinesh Kumar said,"Police had earlier in the day received an order from the high court for the removal of loudspeakers from the mosque as well as the temple if these were installed without permission. We followed the court order and met people of both the communities. When we told them about the order of the high court, they agreed to remove the loudspeakers from the religious places, saying they will get the required permission first."TOI
MCOCA in UP: After long wait, UPCOCA ready for action
http://www.hindustantimes.com/lucknow/after-long-wait-upcoca-ready-for-action/story-P3FkLYvLRJgyiW9Zz3Dr0K.html
Lucknow: UP Control of Organised Crime Act (UPCOCA), which was waiting to happen for a decade now, is likely to see the light of the day after the state cabinet on Wednesday gave its approval to the bill.Incorporating the provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) legislated in 1999, the bill will be tabled in the winter session of the state legislature commencing from Thursday.BSP Govt had in 2007 decided to bring UPCOCA to check organized crime. A team of senior officers was then sent to Maharashtra to study the implementation of MCOCA. In March 2008, the then CM Mayawati tabled the Bill in the legislative assembly. BSP Govt sent UPCOCA to the centre for presidential assent but the then Congress led UPA Govt opposed the Act fearing that it might be misused against the minority community. Denial of the President approval and scathing attack launched by arch rival Samajwadi Party terming the BSP anti-Muslim put Mayawati on the back foot. It was dumped silently before the 2009 Lok Sabha elections.A senior state Govt officer said the deliberation for the law actually started during BJP Govt under Kalyan Singh (Sept.1997- Nov.1999). hindustantimes
Hisar Minor Rape-Killing: Women's, students' groups demand punishment to culprits
http://www.indiatomorrow.net/eng/hisar-minor-rape-killing-womens-students-groups-demand-punishment-to-culprits?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=emailemail&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Indiatomorrownet+%28IndiaTomorrow.net%29
New Delhi: Anguished over the brutal rape and murder of a 5 year old in Haryana’s Hisar, several women rights groups and students on Tuesday held a protest outside Haryana Bhawan, New Delhi. Raising slogans against state’s BJP Govt led by CM Manoharlal Khattar they demanded immediate arrest of culprits to face the law and bring them to justice.They alleged that a culture of 'khap panchayat' prevails across the country and particularly in Haryana that perpetuates such violence against women and Dalits.Shalu Yadav, a student from Allahabad University said, “Cases of assault on women, mostly Dalits have increased in the country and central Govt is not doing anything.Haryana Govt supports patriarchy since beginning. Central and state Govt s both are unsuccessful to protect women and give then equality.”Jagmati Sangwan, central committee member, AIDWA said, “After every such incident, the ministers give absurd statements and accuse the victim instead. It has been five days since incident but no arrest has been made.” Citing the latest report of NCRB, Aman Saini, Delhi secretary, Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) said that atrocities against women, Dalits and religious minorities have increased in BJP ruled states.“In all the BJP ruled states crime has increased. Among them as per NCRB there are five such states where Dalits, Women and Muslims are being pointedly attacked,” Saini said.The protest was jointly organised by several women and students’ groups including AIDSO, AIDWA, AIPWA , AIDMAM, AIMSS, AISA, DYFI, NFIW,Pinjra Tod, Pragatisheel Mahila Sangathan, Purogami Mahila Sangathan, RDMA, Saheli, Swastik Mahila Samiti and WSS and Jagmati Sangwan.IndiaTomorrow
Migrant labourer sentenced to death in Jisha case; Ameerul says didn't get justice
http://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/-perumbavoor-murder-didn-t-get-justice-says-ameer-ul-islam-1.2457055
Kochi: Responding to the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court's pronouncement of death penalty to him for the murder of a law student in Perumbavoor, Ameer Ul Islam said that he did not get justice in the case. Ameer Ul Islam also accused the Kerala Govt of cheating him. Ameer Ul made the remarks while he was taken to the jail after the court delivered the verdict. “I do not have anything to say. I do not know why I was trapped in the case. The Kerala Govt cheated me,” Ameer Ul said.While delivering the death sentence, the court observed it is the rarest of rare case and termed it a brutal murder. The court also fined him with Rs 5 lakh Islam has been awarded life imprisonment for committing the rape of the woman after he was also found guilty under IPC Section 376 (A) (causing death or causes the woman to be in persistent vegetative state while committing rape). mathrubhumi
Framed or Nirbhaya-like convict? How defense & prosecution sparred over Ameer in Jisha case
http://english.manoramaonline.com/news/kerala/2017/12/14/defense-prosecution-sparred-ameer-ul-islam-jisha-case.html
Jisha murder: Glaring loopholes in case, activists say higher courts may spare Ameerul Islam the noose
http://www.firstpost.com/india/jisha-murder-glaring-loopholes-in-case-activists-say-higher-courts-may-spare-ameerul-islam-the-noose-4258847.html
Women's activists are not overly jubilant over the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court verdict awarding the death penalty to the lone accused in the sensational Jisha murder case – that they compared with New Delhi's Nirbhaya case.This is because of several grey areas they find in the case. Prominent women activist and advocate TB Mini pointed out many loopholes in the prosecution's case. She feels that these could come handy to the convict to escape harsh punishment when the case goes to the high court for confirmation of the death penalty or if he files an appeal.Sessions court judge N Anil Kumar awarded capital punishment to 24-year-old Ameer ul-Islam, a migrant worker from Assam, after finding him guilty of raping and murdering Jisha. Mini told Firstpost that the biggest lacuna in the case was the absence of witnesses. The court has convicted Ameer relying on scientific and circumstantial evidence. Mini said she had strong doubts whether the death penalty will stand before the court of law merely on the basis of the available evidence.Retired SP Subhash Babu also aired similar apprehensions. He said that he did not expect a capital punishment in the case considering the evidence available to the police. He said that it will be hard for the prosecution to defend the death penalty in a higher court.Firstpost
Woman stabbed to death by husband in Bihar for not leaving job:HT report
http://www.hindustantimes.com/patna/muslim-woman-stabbed-to-death-by-husband-in-bihar-s-purnia-for-not-leaving-teaching-job/story-ndPZFsFTi3KAkNL9bLG01O.html
Purnia:A Muslim woman teacher had to pay with her life for disobeying her husband’s diktat to leave her job in northeast Bihar’s Purnia district.Tabassum Ara, 26, a teacher at Govt -run Talimi Markaz school at Janta village in Baisi police station area of Purnia, 370 km northeast of state capital Patna, was stabbed to death allegedly by her husband on Tuesday.The incident took place when Ara, returning home Purnia on a motorcycle with her brother after taking her BA part-2 examination at Katihar, 28 km south of Purnia.Raza told the police that Ara was married to Mohammad Aslam of Panisadra village in 2010 but she was treated well by her husband. “On Tuesday, Aslam forced me to stop my motorcycle at Baisi Circle and attacked us repeatedly with a knife. We were taken to Purnia district hospital, where Ara died during treatment,” added Raza, whose condition was said to be stable.
Saleem Peerzada: leader of Parcham Party passes away
http://twocircles.net/2017dec14/419061.html
Saleem Peerzada, a popular leader among the AMU fraternity, passed away on Tuesday following a hemorrhagic brain stroke on Monday.Peerzada, popularly known by the name of Lovey Bhai or Lovey Peerzada, was admitted to AMU’s Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College soon after the paralytic attack. After he showed no improvement in the condition, he was transferred to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi and then was sent to Apollo hospital.Saleem Peerzada was born in Hardoi in 1954 to Late Peerzada Mashuq Husain Khan and Afsar Begum. His nephew, Omar Saleem Peerzada is the Public Relations Officer of AMU.Peerzada was the president of Parcham Party of India (PPI) which has been a famous organization among the AMU community for fighting against communalism.TCN
MCD polls: Court acquits woman Muslim candidate of defacing public property
http://www.ptinews.com/news/9316682_MCD-polls--Court-acquits-candidate-of-defacing-public-property.html
New Delhi: A city court has acquitted an RJD candidate for the Delhi civic polls earlier this year of the charge of defacing public property by pasting her posters on an electric pole, as complainant himself was the investigating officer in the case. CMM Manish Khurana absolved the woman, who had contested from the Zakir Nagar ward in South Delhi on a RJD ticket, of offence under Delhi Prevention of Defacement of Property (DPDP) Act.According to the prosecution, a campaign poster carrying candidate Kausar Imam Siddiqui's name and photograph appealing for votes were found pasted on an electric pole, a Govt property, in Jamia Nagar area.Acquitting woman of the charge, court said, "It is well-settled law that the complainant should not be the investigating officer in a case so as to rule out any ill will or bias against the accused." PTI
WORLD
Nearly 7,000 Rohingya Muslims Killed in 1st Month of Army Crackdown
https://www.voanews.com/a/report-rohingya-muslims-killed-in-first-month-of-crackdown/4163336.html
Doctors Without Borders says at least 6,700 Rohingya Muslims were killed in the first month of a brutal army crackdown on Rohingya rebels.Geneva-based international aid group, commonly known by its French acronym MSF (Médecins Sans Frontières), says Thursday it came up with its estimate after conducting a survey of several Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh. The group says its estimated death toll includes at least 730 children younger than 5.Myanmar’s military has been accused of launching a scorched earth campaign against Rohingya villages in northwestern Rakhine state in August, in response to attacks on Myanmar police outposts. The campaign led to a mass exodus of 600,000 Rohingyas into neighboring Bangladesh, who told human rights groups of serious atrocities committed by Govt security forces, including random shootings, rapes and burning down homes and entire villages.MSF medical director Sidney Wong said the group’s findings were “staggering, both in terms of the numbers of people who reported a family member died as a result of violence, and the horrific ways in which they said they were killed or severely injured.”VOA News
Israeli intelligence ministers wants Saudi crown prince to visit
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/israeli-intelligence-ministers-wants-saudi-prince-to-visit/story-xbEsoCR6sZnJufvOcNzvXO.html
Jerusalem:Israeli intelligence minister Yisrael Katz wants Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit, his spokesperson said on Wednesday, in what would be a historic trip involving two nations with no official diplomatic ties.Israeli leaders have repeatedly spoken of improving ties with the Arab world and hinted at behind-the-scenes cooperation, particularly involving their efforts to limit their common enemy Iran.Katz issued the call during an interview with Elaph, a news website run by a Saudi businessman, his spokesperson Arye Shalicar said.The call was not included in the final version of the interview published online. Shalicar could not comment on why, but said Katz had indeed made the comments. “He said that he asks the king to invite (PM) Netanyahu officially to Riyadh, and he asks MBS, Mohammed bin Salman, the son, to come and visit Israel,” Shalicar said of Katz, who is also transportation minister.Katz made the call because “he wants regional peace - that’s part of his three-layered programme,” his spokesperson said, referring to security and economic cooperation leading to eventual peace.He referred to Saudi Arabia as a leader in the Arab world. Netanyahu has spoken repeatedly and with pride about growing rapprochement with “moderate Arab states” without naming them, although he is assumed to be referring to Saudi Arabia and other Gulf monarchies.HT
China supports Palestine with E. Jerusalem its capital
http://aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/china-supports-palestine-with-e-jerusalem-its-capital/1004868
BEIJING:China supports an independent Palestine on the basis of the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, its foreign ministry spokesperson has said.Speaking after an extraordinary summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held in Istanbul on Wednesday, Lu Kang said Beijing understoods the concerns of Muslim countries over the status of Jerusalem.OIC countries issued a declaration on Wednesday recognizing East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine.Kang called on the two sides to resume dialogue in order to find a “comprehensive and fair” solution to the long-standing crisis between Palestine and Israel.Anadolu Agency
Netanyahu rejects OIC's East Jerusalem declaration
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/12/netanyahu-oic-jerusalem-statement-fails-impress-171214061517952.html
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a declaration by Muslim leaders that East Jerusalem is the capital of Palestine.In reaction to the declaration by OIC on Wednesday, Netanyahu said that "all these statements fail to impress us"."Truth will win in the end and many countries will certainly recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and also move their embassies," he added in response to the comments made by Muslim leaders during the OIC's emergency summit.aljazeera
Indonesia urges OIC members to reconsider Israel ties
http://www.worldbulletin.net/headlines/196871/indonesia-urges-oic-members-to-reconsider-israel-ties
Indonesia on Thursday asked member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to rethink their relationship with Israel.The suggestion came after President Joko Widodo’s speech at the OIC summit in Istanbul the previous day."We ask that countries belonging to the Islamic cooperation who have close ties to Israel take necessary diplomatic steps, including reconsidering that relationship," the president said upon his return to Jakarta.World Bulletin
Trump receives ‘Friends of Zion Award’ in White House ceremony
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20171214-trump-receives-friends-of-zion-award-in-white-house-ceremony/
US President Donald Trump received a “Friends of Zion Award” on Tuesday, in a White House ceremony attended by Vice President Mike Pence and Jared Kushner, reported the Jerusalem Post.Trump was presented with award by founder of Jerusalem-based Friends of Zion Museum, Mike Evans, who hailed the president’s support for Israel as unprecedented.“No president in history has ever built such an alliance for the State of Israel and the Jewish people, and no president has courageously stood up for the State of Israel on the global stage as you had Mr. President,” Evans said. middleeastmonitor
US Vice-President postpones visit to Israel amid Jerusalem tensions
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20171214-us-vice-president-postpones-visit-to-israel-amid-jerusalem-tensions/
US Vice President Mike Pence is postponing his trip to Israel amid on-going tensions, following the US recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel last week, Walla News reported today.A Knesset spokesman confirmed that Pence’s arrival, originally scheduled for this Sunday, was postponed until at least Wednesday. Whilst Israeli media has reported that the delay is due to tax reform issues in US Congress, sources close to US officials told Haaretz that the Trump administration is “stuck” on how to handle the fallout from their announcement on Jerusalem. middleeastmonitor
In major BDS win, South Africa university officially cuts ties with Israel
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20171214-in-major-bds-win-south-africa-university-officially-cuts-ties-with-israel/
South Africa’s Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has officially endorsed the Palestinian call for an academic boycott of Israel, and imposed a ban on ties with Israel and Israeli institutions.With a 60,000-strong student body, Tshwane is the largest residential higher education institution in South Africa.In a statement released last week, officials revealed that a 24 November meeting of the university council had formally approved a recommendation to cut ties.“As a progressive University in a democratic South Africa, we want to affirm that TUT will not sign any agreements or enter into scientific partnerships with any Israeli organisation or institution until such time that Israel ends its illegal occupation of Palestinian territory.” the statement said. Middleeastmonitor
Israeli authorities shut down crossing points with besieged Gaza
https://english.palinfo.com/news/2017/12/14/Israeli-authorities-shut-down-crossing-points-with-besieged-Gaza
GAZA, (PIC) The Israeli occupation authorities said on Wednesday evening that the crossing points of Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) and Erez to Gaza would be closed for "security concerns" as of Thursday.Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee said in a statement that the crossings would not be open as of Thursday in light of the latest escalations.Adraee also claimed that Israel’s Iron Dome intercepted two missiles fired from Gaza into Sderot.The Israeli army attacked at daybreak Thursday four Palestinian resistance sites in the blockaded Gaza Strip with 15 missiles, inflicting heavy material damage on the sites and on nearby civilian homes.
Hamas marks 30-year anniversary with Gaza rally
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/12/hamas-charts-30th-anniversary-171214100002588.html
As the struggle for a Palestinian state continues, Hamas, one of the main Palestinian factions, is marking its 30th anniversary with celebrations in the Gaza Strip.Thousands of Palestinian men, women and children, brandishing Hamas' green flags or sporting green scarves, gathered on Thursday at the al-Katiba Square in Gaza City.Born out of the first Palestinian uprising, or Intifada, in 1987, Hamas was created in response to Israel's illegal occupation of West Bank and the Gaza strip.Its founder and spiritual leader, Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, was a hero to many Palestinians who were frustrated with the lack of results from the peace process.Almost blind and quadriplegic, Yassin was blamed by Israel for a series of suicide bombings and rocket attacks on Israeli targets. Aljazeera
Palestinian minors suffer 'detention, abuse' by Israel
http://aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/palestinian-minors-suffer-detention-abuse-by-israel/1005016
JERUSALEM:Amjad, a 15-year-old Palestinian boy, cannot forget the moment he was detained by Israeli soldiers in the occupied West Bank two months ago."I remember the incident as if it were yesterday," Amjad, whose family preferred not to give his second name, told Anadolu Agency.The Palestinian boy was detained while participating in a rally in the West Bank village of Nabi Saleh."I was held in a military vehicle and blindfolded for more than two hours, during which soldiers kept insulting me," he recalled.Anadolu Agency
UAE delegate 'storms out' of UN human rights meeting
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/12/uae-delegate-storms-human-rights-meeting-171214074155921.html
Activists have accused Emirati officials of refusing to address criticism of the UAE's human rights record and storming out of a UN organised meeting with civil society groups.Rights groups presented Emirati officials with evidence of alleged abuses happening in the country at the UN Universal Periodical Review (UPR) pre-session in the Swiss city of Geneva on Wednesday.Each year, 48 UN member states undergo the UPR to assess the human rights situation in each and to allow officials from those countries to set out what, if anything, they will do to address allegations of human rights violations. Aljazeera
US airstrike against IS kills 23 civilians, including 8 children, in Syria: Monitor
http://www.firstpost.com/world/us-airstrike-against-islamic-state-kills-23-civilians-including-eight-children-in-syria-monitor-4258091.html
Beirut: Air strikes by a US-led coalition killed 23 civilians Wednesday in a village held by the Islamic State group in Syria's eastern Deir Ezzor province, a monitor said."At least 23 civilians, among them eight children and six women, were killed Wednesday before dawn by air strikes carried out by the US-led coalition, targeting a village controlled by Islamic State on the eastern banks of the Euphrates river," the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.The observatory, which gathers eye-witness reports from the ground, said the civilians were hiding inside a house and were all members of the same extended family.AFP
Proportional representation votes stop Left from 2/3 majority in Nepal:HT
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/nepal-proportional-representation-votes-stop-left-from-2-3-majority/story-Bk4t0i4IhmZBX4Nya3nNPK.html
Votes under Nepal’s proportional representation system stopped the left alliance from securing a two-thirds majority in the federal Parliament despite an impressive showing in elections under the first-past-the-post system.This has ended fears of the Constitution being rewritten and the introduction of social and economic reforms that would suit the alliance forged by the CPN-UML and CPN-Maoist Centre.The voting under the proportional representation system also stopped any political party from gaining an absolute majority, but the two communist parties will have a majority in the lower house.A total of 165 members of the 275-strong federal Parliament are being elected under the first-past-the-post system, while the remaining 110 seats will be filled under the proportional representation system. hindustantimes
Indonesian Constitutional Court rejects a move to Outlaw, Adultery , homosexuality: nytimes
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/14/world/asia/indonesia-court-ban-sex.html
JAKARTA— Indonesia’s Constitutional Court on Thursday narrowly rejected a petition asking it to criminalize all sex outside marriage, in a blow to religious conservatives who have been gaining influence in the secular, Muslim-majority country.The court’s nine justices voted 5-4 to reject a suit filed in March 2016 by the Family Love Alliance, a group of conservative scholars. The group had asked the court to dramatically expand an existing law that bars married people from having sex with anyone but their spouse, arguing that it should apply to all sex between unmarried people.Such a ban would also have effectively criminalized homosexuality, since Indonesia does not recognize same-sex marriage. nytimes
May loses Brexit vote in parliament before EU summit
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/12/uk-theresa-loses-crucial-brexit-parliament-vote-171213192208956.html
British politicians have voted to give parliament the final say on any withdrawal deal with the European Union, dealing a blow to Prime Minister Theresa May on the eve of a crucial summit in Brussels.MPs on Wednesday voted for an amendment to demand parliament pass a separate bill to approve any final agreement signed with the bloc.May lost by a narrow margin of 309 to 305 votes. The UK is scheduled to leave the EU on March 29, 2019.The prime minister had promised legislators a "meaningful vote" on the UK's deal for its departure from the EU, or Brexit.Rivals, however, said that the pledge did not go far enough. Aljazeera
FLASH: VIEWS & NEWS
The missing Muslim representation in Gujarat assembly election 2017:TOI
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/the-missing-muslim-representation-in-gujarat-assembly-election-2017/articleshow/62068800.cms
Dalit and Muslim are Coming Together in Gujarat:Aaquib Khan, newsclick
https://newsclick.in/dalit-and-muslim-are-coming-together-gujarat
Trump’s Muslim ban is working. Muslim immigration slumps:DAVID BIER, newsweek
http://www.newsweek.com/trumps-muslim-ban-working-muslim-immigration-slumps-747922
Trump's Jerusalem move: Obstacles for US embassy plans;Alan Fisher, aljazeera
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/12/trumps-jerusalem-move-obstacles-embassy-plans-171214070755397.html
'Not In My Name': Activists fighting hate in India:by Zeenat Saberin, aljazeera
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/12/activists-fighting-hate-india-171213160144358.html
China Overtakes India as Sri Lanka’s Largest Trading Partner:P.K.BALACHANDRAN, thecitizen
http://www.thecitizen.in/index.php/en/NewsDetail/index/5/12511/China-Overtakes-India-as-Sri-Lankas-Largest-Trading-Partner
A Dangerous Bill on Banks:Where Depositors Are Made to Pay For Corporate Defaulters:PRABHAT PATNAIK
http://www.thecitizen.in/index.php/en/NewsDetail/index/4/12507/A-Dangerous-Bill-on-BanksWhere-Depositors-Are-Made-to-Pay-For-Corporate-Defaulters
Compiled and edited by Anwarulhaq (Released at: 8:00 PM)
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