'If needed, Muslims of the country will fill jails in such a way that...': Muslim Law Board Chief calls stopping of Waqf bill 'matter of life and death'
New Age Islam News Bureau
27 October 2024
He also claimed that Waqf properties have faced widespread illegal occupation.
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· 'If needed, Muslims of the country will fill jails in such a way that...': Muslim Law Board Chief calls stopping of Waqf bill 'matter of life and death'
· 'He promises peace, not war' : Arab and Muslim leaders support Trump at Detroit rally
· Hindus in Bangladesh hold massive Chittagong rally demanding minority rights, TaslimaNasreen reacts
· Israeli army forces martyr 77 more Palestinians in Gaza Strip
· Six personnel among eight martyred in suicide blast on post in North Waziristan
· CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT: House says no to expansion of Sharia Law
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India
· University that faced ‘jihad’ attack from Assam CM Himanta marks milestone with Meghalaya CM in attendance
· At party colleague’s ‘Muslim politics’ book launch, Pinarayi treads cautiously: ‘Don’t necessarily agree’
· ‘Bishnoi’s brother coordinated Siddique murder from Canada’
· Throwback: When Dharmendra addressed rumors of converting to Islam to marry HemaMalini— "I am not the kind of man who will change"
· Institutionalized StatismAnd India’s Social Fabric – OpEd
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North America
· US presidential election updates: Michelle Obama gets personal, and Trump courts Muslim voters
· 'We want people, when they come to worship, to feel safe': Theft, vandalism hit West End mosque, church
· Trump Courts Muslim Votes
· Prince George Islamic Centre host open house
· Harris brings in Obama star power as Trump asks for Muslim vote
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South Asia
· Bangladesh's Hindus 'Should Not Flee', Says RSS Leader DattatreyaHosabale
· Deputy PM Mullah BaradarAkhund Unveils Second Lane on Kabul-Jalalabad Highway to Enhance Connectivity
· German media reports government transferred extremists in evacuation from Afghanistan
· Retirees protest in Kabul over three years of unpaid pensions
· Iran seeks to attract Afghanistan’s private investors, says envoy
· Bangladesh court orders report submission by November 28 in murder case against exiled ex-PM Hasina
· Amit Shah inaugurates passenger terminal along India-Bangladesh border in Bengal
· Bangladesh’s new outcasts: Students from ex-PM Hasina’s party now in hiding
· West Bengal: BSF tightens security along India-Bangladesh border
· 11 Bangladeshi nationals, 3 Indians held in separate operations in Tripura for trying to illegally enter India
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Mideast
· Israel kills 45 people in north Gaza as Iran mourns four soldiers
· Israeli army withdraws from Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza
· Israel strikes Iran: What we know so far and what’s next
· Israel strikes on Iran highlights: Four Iranian soldiers killed by Israeli airstrikes; Hezbollah launches drone strike at Israeli airbase
· Israel attacks Iran live: US cautions Iran against 'mistake' of retaliation to Israeli strikes
· Iran denies claims of air defense system damage at Imam Khomeini Inte'l airport
· Israel is destabilising the entire region
· Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Seriously Ill, Son Likely To Be Successor: Report
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Pakistan
· Four FC men injured in Duki IED attack
· President, PM reaffirm support to occupied Kashmir freedom struggle
· Fazl renews call for fresh elections
· PTI distances itself from plea filed in IHC on Imran’s behalf
· SHC orders Sindh govt to hold MDCAT afresh within four weeks
· 26th Amendment seals avenues of interventions: Rana Sanaullah
· Another challenge to 26th amendment lands in SHC
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Africa
· MNJTF Faults ISWAP Claims of Providing Protection, Enforcing Islamic Law in Lake Chad Communities
· Michelle Obama's fiery abortion pitch as Trump courts Muslim vote
· Police reveal identity of inspector who killed Nigerian musician
· How previously demolished building collapsed, trapped victims in Abuja – Police
· NNPP Sweeps Kano Local Government Election
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Southeast Asia
· Malaysian pharmacist found stabbed to death in newly-bought Melbourne home
· Not beneath an MCA president: Zahid says KaSiong’s appointment as Chinese investment advisor based on mutual understanding
· Higher education minister: Ministry will examine guidelines for Act 605 review
· PM Anwar: ‘SejatiMadani’ programme to be implemented in all villages nationwide
· Gobind: PM to launch national AI office on Dec 12
· ‘I’m just an encik’, Loke says as he reaffirms DAP’s policy on titles for elected reps
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Arab world
· Saudi Arabia sends 14th relief plane to Lebanon
· Saudi deputy foreign minister engages in key diplomatic meetings at donors’ conference in Jeddah
· KSrelief chief, UNHCR official meet on sidelines of Sahel donor conference
· Forgotten no more: global leaders confront Sahel and Lake Chad Basin crisis at Jeddah conference
· KSrelief, WFP agree to provide food aid to Yemen
· Saudi fund delivers 1,568 housing units in Tunisia
· Farmer preserves millet cultivation tradition
· Qatar Tech Firm Launches Platform for Tokenized Islamic Finance Contracts
· Demolition of Imam al-Shafi’i cemetery halts: Minister
· Moody’s Affirms Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) Aa3 Insurance Financial Strength Rating (IFSR) with Stable Outlook for the 17th Consecutive Year
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Europe
· Monumental mosques and a futuristic museum: Kazakhstan’s Astana was full of surprises
· Education Secretary admits Labour aren’t planning to rebuild more schools than previous Tory target
· Indian migrant dies attempting to cross English Channel to UK
· Supporters of far-right British figure rally as anti-racism demonstrators mount counter-protest
· Georgia’s ruling party celebrates victory but it's unclear who will form next government
· Thousands in Lisbon took part in a demonstration against police violence on Saturday after several nights of riots triggered by the death of a man shot and killed by police earlier this week.
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/muslims-country-jails-muslim-law-board/d/133561
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'If needed, Muslims of the country will fill jails in such a way that...': Muslim Law Board Chief calls stopping of Waqf bill 'matter of life and death'
Oct 26, 2024
He also claimed that Waqf properties have faced widespread illegal occupation.
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The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) President Moulana Khalid SaifullahRehmani declared that he would oppose the proposed Waqf bill "at all costs," even stating that AIMPLB members are willing to risk their lives for this cause. Speaking at an event in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Rehmani argued that the government aims to limit the board's rights. He also claimed that Waqf properties have faced widespread illegal occupation.
"It is a matter of life and death for us, and we should stop it (Waqf bill) at all costs. If needed, the Muslims of the country will fill the jails in such a way that the government will not have any place to house criminals," the AIMPLB chief said, adding, "If needed, we will not hesitate to give our own lives".
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was introduced in Parliament by the central government on July 28 but was sent to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) after strong objections from opposition parties. The bill aims to reduce the powers of Waqf boards, which currently have the authority to designate any property as "waqf property." Additionally, it proposes to include non-Muslims and Muslim women in the Central Waqf Council and state Waqf Boards.
Earlier this month, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren met with a delegation from the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). After the meeting, the AIMPLB released a statement saying that Soren would "never support the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 if it is presented in Parliament." The delegation, led by AIMPLB President Saifullah, met Soren on October 9 to explain their reasons for opposing the bill. They argued that the Waqf Act would allow for the takeover of Waqf properties and stated that this action by the central government goes against the Constitution, democratic values, federalism, and the country's pluralistic structure.
While speaking to the audience in Kanpur, Saifullah emphasized that the government's main goal is to take Waqf land from Muslims. He questioned, "If non-Muslims manage Waqf boards, will they care about your mosques and graveyards? The result will be that your land will be taken away. This is a very dangerous law."
He pointed out that Tamil Nadu has 478,000 acres of temple land, and Andhra Pradesh has 468,000 acres, totaling around one million acres of temple land in those two states. He noted that Muslims have six lakh acres of Waqf land across the country and asked, "What is the problem with that?"
Saifullah also claimed that the central government was "pressurizing" some Waqf Board members to lose cases in court and not submit necessary documents. He posed a question, saying, "If there's a dispute between the Waqf Board and the government, will the collector decide against the government? The collector works for the government."
In a different incident earlier this week on October 22, Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee had a heated argument with BJP's Abhijit Gangopadhyay during a meeting of the Joint Committee on the Waqf Bill. As tensions rose, Banerjee smashed a glass water bottle on the table in frustration, injuring his thumb and index finger. As a result, he was suspended for one day by the Parliamentary committee for his disruptive behavior during the meeting.
Source: Www.businesstoday.in
Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/if-needed-muslims-of-the-country-will-fill-jails-in-such-a-way-that-muslim-law-board-chief-calls-stopping-of-waqf-bill-matter-of-life-and-death-451692-2024-10-26
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'He promises peace, not war' : Arab and Muslim leaders support Trump at Detroit rally
Oct 27, 2024
Former President Donald Trump greets local Muslim leaders onstage at a campaign rally in Novi, Michigan, on October 26, 2024. Carlos Osorio/AP
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As the race for the US presidency intensifies with less than two weeks until the election, members of the Arab and Muslim community in Michigan endorsed Donald Trump during a rally in Detroit.
Speaking from the stage, a community leader highlighted the reasons for their backing: “As the President said, we just had a positive meeting with President Trump. We as Muslims stand with President Trump because he promises peace. He promises peace, not war.” This endorsement aligns with Trump’s recent claims that, if elected, he would work to end conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, areas plagued by long-standing turmoil.
The endorsement also touched on family values, with the leader saying, “We support Donald J. Trump for his commitment to promoting family values and protecting our children’s well-being, especially when it comes to curriculums and schools.” This focus on educational reform resonates with many voters who prioritise the welfare of their families in their electoral choices.
In a time when immigration remains a contentious topic, the community expressed agreement with Trump’s stance on border security. “We want a strong border… but anyone who wants to come to this country is welcome through a legal pathway,” the leader noted.
The rally also featured light-hearted predictions, with the speaker humorously forecasting the Detroit Lions’ victory in the Super Bowl alongside Trump’s potential election as the 47th president of the United States. “We are with President Trump to make America great again through peace and justice for all,” they concluded, invoking a vision of unity.
This endorsement comes amidst a backdrop of fierce campaigning, with Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris exchanging sharp critiques. Trump has warned that Harris’s presidency could lead the US into World War III, a claim she vehemently contests. Meanwhile, former First Lady Michelle Obama has been rallying support for Harris, condemning Trump’s previous tenure and urging voters to reconsider their choices.
Source: Times Of India.Com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/he-promises-peace-not-war-arab-and-muslim-leaders-support-trump-at-detroit-rally/articleshowprint/114644566.cms
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Hindus in Bangladesh hold massive Chittagong rally demanding minority rights, TaslimaNasreen reacts
Oct 26, 2024
The Sanatan Jagran Manch held one of the biggest rallies in a few months in Chittagong to demand minority rights for Hindus in Bangladesh(Taslima Nasreen/X)
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Thousands of people from Bangladesh's Hindu community gathered at the LaldighiMaidan in Chittagong to demand rights and security from the interim government.
The SanatanJagranManch, on Friday, organised a massive rally at the historic LaldighiMaidan in Chittagong where thousands of Hindus came together to demand minority rights and security from the interim government, reported The Times of India.
The group of Hindu activists have claimed that they will not cease their mass demonstration until the Bangladesh government, currently led by Muhammad Yunus, fulfills eight demands.
They have also demanded that the established Sanskrit and Pali education board be modernised and a 5-day holiday be announced for Durga Puja, reported The Times of India.
On Thursday, Bangladesh's environment minister Syed a Rizwana Hasan put out a statement saying that they hear the demands of the Hindu community and as a show of assurance enacted a 2-day Durga Puja holiday in Bangladesh for the first time in history.
This is one of the biggest gatherings, carried out by Hindu groups, since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina on August 5. Crimes against minorities such as vandalism, looting, bodily harm have increased, since the interim government came to power, despite assurances to secure minority rights.
Interim prime ministerYunus told news agency PTI in September, that the crimes had been “exaggerated” and were more political than communal in nature.
Source: Www.Hindustantimes.Com
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https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/hindus-in-bangladesh-hold-massive-chittagong-rally-demanding-minority-rights-taslima-nasreen-reacts-101729928311811.html
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Israeli army forces martyr 77 more Palestinians in Gaza Strip
Oct 26, 2024
TEHRAN, Oct. 26 (MNA) – The Zionist regime’s forces martyred 77 Palestinians and injured 289 others in the Gaza Strip over the past 24 hours, the Palestinian health ministry in the enclave said.
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The Palestinian Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip announced on Wednesday that 42,924 Palestinians have been martyred since the outbreak of war on October 7, 2023.
The ministry in a statement announced the latest number of martyred and wounded Palestinians in the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip since October 7 of the previous year.
The report put the total number of Palestinian people wounded in Israeli attack on Gaza Strip at 100,833.
The ministry added that 77 Palestinians were martyred and 289 others were wounded in Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip in the past 24 hours.
Israel waged a genocidal war on the besieged Gaza on October 7, 2023, after the Palestinian Hamas Resistance group carried out a historic operation against the occupying entity in retaliation for the regime’s intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people.
Israel has imposed a complete siege on the densely populated territory, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to the more than two million Palestinians living there.
Source: En.mehrnews.com
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https://en.mehrnews.com/news/223577/Israeli-army-forces-martyr-77-more-Palestinians-in-Gaza-Strip
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Six personnel among eight martyred in suicide blast on post in North Waziristan
Pazir Gul
October 27, 2024
Soldiers keep vigil from a post on top of a mountain in the North Waziristan district. — AFP/File
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NORTH WAZIRISTAN / PESHAWAR: At least eight people, including four policemen and two security officials, embraced martyrdom and several others were injured in a suicide bomb blast at a joint police and security forces checkpoint in the Eidak area of North Waziristan district on Saturday, officials said.
The attack took place when personnel were inspecting vehicles, they said, adding that the suicide bomber, travelling in a rickshaw, blew himself up at the Aslam checkpoint.
The attack follows a series of terrorist assaults over the past two days, which claimed the lives of 15 law enforcement personnel in various parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The deadliest of these occurred in the Darazinda area of Dera Ismail Khan district, where 10 Frontier Constabulary soldiers were martyred in an attack on a checkpoint.
A banned militant group claimed responsibility for that attack, describing it as “revenge” for a military operation in Bajaur earlier in the week, which saw nine militants, including a key leader, Said Mohammad alias Qureshi Ustad, killed on Wednesday.
On Friday night, militants targeted the residence of former JUI-F Senator Maulana Mohammad Saleh Shah in Upper South Waziristan’s Khaisoor area in Tiarza tehsil.
Mr Shah’s son, Shams, said the attackers wanted to assassinate his father. Armed men reportedly stormed the house and opened fire, but the family remained unharmed.
Police have launched an investigation into the incident, with sources suggesting the attack may be linked to extortion demands that Mr Shah had refused to meet.
In a statement, the JUI-F leader, who is also the president of the South Waziristan Upper Political Alliance, condemned the incident, urging the government and law enforcement agencies to take a decisive action against extortion and restore peace in the area.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed heartfelt grief and sorrow over the loss of lives of civilians and security personnel in the North Waziristan suicide attack.
“Terrorists will never succeed in their evil designs,” he said in a statement issued by the President House. He stressed the need to take all possible measures to eradicate terrorism.
KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur also strongly condemned the attack. “Such cowardly acts will never weaken the resolve of our forces. The people and security personnel have made immense sacrifices in the war against militancy,” MrGandapur said in a statement.
He assured the public that the government stands by its security forces, adding, “The militants will soon be defeated and peace will prevail in the country.”
Source: Dawn.Com
Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.dawn.com/news/1867900/six-personnel-among-eight-martyred-in-suicide-blast-on-post-in-north-waziristan
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CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT: House says no to expansion of Sharia Law
October 26, 2024
By Ripples Nigeria
The House of Representatives, on Friday, rejected a bill seeking to expand the provision for Islamic Law in the 1999 Constitution, sparking intense debate among lawmakers.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by AliyuMisau, aimed to amend sections 24, 262, 277, and 288 by removing the word “personal” from Islamic law references.
Misau argued that the inclusion of “personal” after “Islamic” restricts its application, particularly in Islamic commercial laws.
“The 1999 constitution provided for personal Islamic law. The constitution did not envisage the dynamism and development that may come into the country,” he said, citing the example of Jaiz Bank, which operates under commercial Islamic law.
However, lawmakers from Southern states vehemently opposed the bill. Representative Ahoada East/Abua/Odual Federal Constituency noted, “The implication is that if the word ‘personal’ is removed, Islamic law would have broader implications. The word ‘personal’ was put there for a reason.”
Conversely, Northern lawmakers showed support for the proposed legislation. Abdulhakeem Ado argued that Islamic Commercial Law needs to be sustained. SaiduAbdullahi and Ahmed Satomi also backed the bill.
Bamidele Salam warned against altering the constitution’s religious provisions, emphasizing Nigeria’s secular state status. “We must be careful with any changes to the constitution that could further widen divisions in Nigeria,” he cautioned.
The bill was ultimately rejected through a voice vote by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, with the majority of lawmakers present opposing the legislation.
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Source: Www.ripplesnigeria.com
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https://www.ripplesnigeria.com/constitutional-amendment-house-says-no-to-expansion-of-sharia-law/
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India
University that faced ‘jihad’ attack from Assam CM Himanta marks milestone with Meghalaya CM in attendance
bySukritaBaruah
October 27, 2024
Senior Meghalaya ministers, including Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, attended an event celebrating the National Medical Council (NMC) approving intake for 150 MBBS seats for a medical college in the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), which was in the news earlier this year for being targeted by Assam Chief Minister HimantaBiswaSarma.
The USTM is a top 200 university under the National Institutional Ranking Framework, run by a foundation owned by MahbubulHoque, a Bengali-Muslim from Assam, who is also the Chancellor of the institute. Earlier this year, Hoque was at the receiving end of several attacks from Sarma – ranging from accusations that he was responsible for flash floods in Guwahati because construction of the medical college to saying that the architecture of the university’s main gate, which has three domes, is a sign of “jihad”.
Source: Indian Express.Com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/assam/university-jihad-attack-assam-cm-himanta-meghalaya-cm-9640805/
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At party colleague’s ‘Muslim politics’ book launch, Pinarayi treads cautiously: ‘Don’t necessarily agree’
byShaju Philip
October 26, 2024
Chief Minister PinarayiVijayan, who released senior CPI(M) leader P Jayarajan’s book on Muslim politics in Kerala on Saturday, distanced himself from the personal views of the senior party leader in the book.
In his book, Keralam: Muslim Rashtreeyam – Rashtreeya Islam (‘Kerala: Muslim Politics – Political Islam’), Jayarajan blamed the 2008 Bengaluru blast accused and chairman of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Abdul Nasser Madani for luring Muslim youths in Kerala
Source: Indian Express.Com
Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kerala-pinarayi-vijayan-distances-cpim-leader-jayarajan-views-book-9640515/
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‘Bishnoi’s brother coordinated Siddique murder from Canada’
Oct 26, 2024
Mumbai: The crime branch on Saturday said that the plot to murder NCP leader and former state minister Baba Siddiqui was coordinated from Canada by gangster Anmol Bishnoi, the brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi.
Police said this came out during interrogation of two accused — RamphoolKanjoia and Nitin Sapre. Anmol Bishnoi coordinated the attack through another accused, SujitSushilsingh alias Dabbu, said police. According to sources, Dabbu arranged for weapons from Rajasthan and provided financial support to the attackers. He instructed the hired shooters to conduct recee of Siddiqui's residence and surroundings a month prior to the murder. Police claim they also recovered the fifth weapon from Sujit's possession.
It is suspected that Anmol provided the shooters with photographs of Baba Siddique and his son, Zeeshan Siddique, via Snapchat, to execute the murder. Anmol is facing 18 criminal cases and is holed up in Canada. In April, Anmol sent a post on Facebook taking responsibility for the firing at Salman Khan's Bandra flat. Anmol Bishnoi has been shown as absconding accused in the firing on Khan's house as well a conspiracy to kill him at his farmhouse in Panvel, registered by Navi Mumbai police. Anmol Bishnoi had also allegedly provided weapons and logistics support to the accused who killed Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala on May 29, 2022.
Police said while Dabbu and a few others who were arrested lately were further remanded to police custody, the first three accused, DharamrajKashyap, Gurnail Singh and Pravin Lonkar, were remanded to judicial custody. Dabbu, who was arrested from Ludhiana on Friday, played a crucial role as a middleman, linking Anmol Bishnoi's contract with the shooters. — Ahmed Ali
Source: Timesofindia.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/gangster-anmol-bishnois-alleged-role-in-baba-siddiqui-murder-plot-from-canada/articleshowprint/114631493.cms
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Throwback: When Dharmendra addressed rumors of converting to Islam to marry HemaMalini— "I am not the kind of man who will change
Oct 26, 2024
Amongst Bollywood's legendary love stories, Dharmendra and HemaMalini's 1980 marriage remains exceptional for the intrigue it caused at the time.
Already married to Prakash Kaur, with whom he had four children, Dharmendra's second union with Hema generated rumors that the two movie stars had converted to Islam to make the marriage possible in both religious traditions.
As Ram Kamal Mukherjee writes in HemaMalini's biography, HemaMalini: Beyond the Dream Girl, they were rumored to have assumed the names Dilawar and Ayesha Bi and even gone in for a nikaah ceremony before their Iyengar wedding.
Responding to the media at the time, Hema dismissed the claims, calling them untrue and emphasizing that their relationship details were private. “This is extremely personal between us,” she noted, adding that it wasn’t an issue for public concern.
The biography does reflect Dharmendra's strong stand on the issue. He had outrightly ruled out the possibility of ever converting, stating, "I am not the kind of man who will change." As far as both stars are concerned, these rumors were a mere challenge to be lived with in the eyes of the masses, but they did stay true to the personalism of their relationship.
This legendary pairing of 'Dream Girl' and Bollywood's 'He-Man' still inspires audiences and is reminiscent of the iconic love story.
Source: Times Of India.Com
Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/throwback-when-dharmendra-addressed-rumors-of-converting-to-islam-to-marry-hema-malini-i-am-not-the-kind-of-man-who-will-change/articleshowprint/114628086.cms
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Institutionalized StatismAnd India’s Social Fabric – OpEd
By Dr. Samit Gupta
October 27, 2024
India, once celebrated as a secular and pluralistic society, is increasingly becoming a nation defined by religious intolerance and communal divisions. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership, Hindutva, the political ideology advocating for Hindu dominance, has gained unprecedented momentum.
This shift has disproportionately affected India’s Muslim population, leading to systematic discrimination, state-backed violence, and social exclusion. The rise of such policies threatens India’s secular framework and has triggered global concerns about the erosion of human rights and minority safety in the world’s largest democracy.
In the past decade, Modi’s government has systematically implemented policies that marginalize Indian Muslims, portraying them as outsiders within their own country. Two Indian states, Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh, recently passed a policy mandating that restaurants publicly display the names of all their employees. While seemingly innocuous, this policy has been viewed with concern by Muslim business owners, who fear it will result in targeted attacks, economic boycotts, and even violence by extremist Hindu groups that operate in these states.
These fears are not unfounded. The increasing influence of Hindutva has empowered hardline groups to enact mob violence, often with little to no government intervention. Modi’s administration has promoted laws and policies that disproportionately target Muslims and other religious minorities, including Christians, Sikhs, and Dalits. Religious conversions, interfaith relationships, the wearing of the hijab, and even the slaughter of cows have all been restricted under the guise of “protecting Hindu values.” Such measures not only embolden Hindu extremists but also deepen social divisions, undermining India’s foundational principle of secularism.
Economic boycotts against Muslims have become a disturbing trend in India. In states like Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, Muslim business owners face systematic exclusion from the economy, with calls from extremist groups urging Hindus to refrain from buying goods from Muslim-owned businesses. These boycotts are a powerful tool of economic disenfranchisement and create a climate of fear and isolation. The situation worsened with policies like the employee disclosure mandate, which provides extremists with an easy means to identify and target Muslim workers and businesses.
Moreover, Muslim exclusion from housing in Hindu-majority areas, particularly in states like Gujarat, has led to modern-day apartheid-like conditions. In some communities, Muslim single mothers have been denied housing based on their religion, illustrating the depth of institutionalized discrimination that exists today. These acts of exclusion are not just societal but are often state-sponsored, as seen in the repeated demolitions of mosques and Muslim shrines under the guise of development projects.
One of the most visible forms of oppression against Indian Muslims is the targeted demolition of mosques, shrines, and dargahs. Between 2015 and 2024, several Muslim religious structures were demolished across India, including remnants of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, the Ahmad Shah Masjid in Ahmedabad, and multiple shrines in Delhi and Gujarat. The reasons cited by the authorities range from urban development to anti-encroachment drives, but the pattern of destruction is too consistent to ignore.
Beyond economic and social exclusion, violence against Indian Muslims has escalated under Modi’s tenure. The aggressive rise of the Hindutva agenda has emboldened religious extremists to commit atrocities with impunity. One particularly concerning instance was when BJP member Gyan Dev Ahuja openly incited violence by advocating for the killing of individuals involved in cow slaughter—an issue that has become a flashpoint for religious tensions.
This violent rhetoric is reflected in a spike in communal clashes across India. The Washington-based India Hate Lab (IHL) reported that in 2023, there were nearly two anti-Muslim hate speech events per day, with 75% of these events occurring in BJP-ruled states. Coupled with the state’s failure to intervene or punish perpetrators, this has created an environment where mob violence is increasingly normalized, especially against Muslims and other religious minorities.
Yet, despite this global attention, the Modi government continues to push policies that further marginalize minorities. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) were introduced with the clear aim of disenfranchising Indian Muslims. In Assam alone, over 700,000 Muslims are at risk of losing their citizenship, exacerbating fears of statelessness and mass displacement.
The rise of Hindutva under Modi’s regime has created an increasingly hostile environment for India’s Muslim population, with violence, discrimination, and exclusion becoming the norm. As these policies continue to unravel the fabric of India’s secular identity, it is imperative that the international community holds the Indian government accountable for its actions. Economic boycotts, mosque demolitions, and state-backed violence against religious minorities are not merely domestic issues—they are violations of human rights that demand global scrutiny and action. If left unchecked, the Hindutva agenda threatens not only India’s Muslims but the stability and unity of the nation as a whole.
Source: Www.eurasiareview.com
Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.eurasiareview.com/27102024-institutionalized-statism-and-indias-social-fabric-oped/
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North America
US presidential election updates: Michelle Obama gets personal, and Trump courts Muslim voters
27 October 2024
Michelle Obama excoriated Donald Trump in strikingly personal terms on Saturday, asking rally-goers in Michigan why Kamala Harris was being held to a higher standard than her opponent, citing his handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and his efforts to cling to power after losing the 2020 election.
“I hope you’ll forgive me if I’m a little frustrated that some of us are choosing to ignore Donald Trump’s gross incompetence while asking Kamala to dazzle us at every turn,” Obama said at an event for Kamala Harris in Kalamazoo.
It marks a significant change in tack for Obama, who inspired Democrats with the slogan “when they go low, we go high” when Hillary Clinton was running against Trump.
Saturday was the first day that early in-person voting became available across Michigan. More than 1.4 million ballots have already been submitted, representing 20% of registered voters.
Donald Trump said he deserved the support of Muslim voters because he would end conflicts and bring peace to the Middle East. “That’s all they want,” Trump said at a rally outside Detroit, adding he had just met a group of local imams. Trump fully backs Israel but has not said how he would end the conflict in the region. Trump appears to be gaining support from some Muslim Americans upset with President Joe Biden’s and Harris’ support of Israel, and despite Trump banning immigration from some Muslim-majority countries in his first term as president. Imam BelalAlzuhairi of the Islamic Center of Detroit joined Trump on stage, saying, “We ask Muslims to stand with President Trump because he promises peace.”
Trump’s lengthy discussion with Joe Rogan revealed a surprising amount about his disposition before descending into the usual Trump rambles, writes Sam Wolfson. Aside from his assertion that his biggest mistake he made during his presidency was hiring “disloyal people”, Trump responded honestly about the challenges of becoming president without having any political experience, saying it was more surreal than later being shot in the tip of one of his ears. He said that he “had made his money largely on luxury” and that he was amazed by how beautiful it was inside the White House. But then it was back to the regular targets: he demonised migrants, spoke warmly about Vladimir Putin and falsely claimed the 2020 election had been stolen from him. Rogan tried to push him on nuclear power and the environment, but Trump only wanted to discuss how ugly he finds windfarms.
Michelle Obama made her first appearance on the campaign trail since her blockbuster speech at the Democratic national convention in August. She urged voters to back Harris not because she’s a woman but “because Kamala Harris is a grown-up – and Lord knows we need a grown-up in the White House”. When Harris spoke at the Michigan rally, she promised to be a president who listened to the American people, unlike her opponent, whom she accused of “looking in the mirror all the time”. “Just imagine the Oval Office in three months,” she said. “It is either Donald Trump in there stewing over his enemies’ list – or me working for you, checking off my to-do list.”
Source: uk.news.yahoo.Com
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'We want people, when they come to worship, to feel safe': Theft, vandalism hit West End mosque, church
Oct 27, 2024
While theft and vandalism continue to affect businesses and retailers across Winnipeg, two places of worship in the West End say recent break-ins have left their members feeling unsafe.
Jennifer Rahman, the president of the mosque's board of directors, said the break-in has dampened the community's spirits and prompted conversations around how to deter crime.
"Businesses in the area are suffering because of this.… Many of them have had to already put shutters on their windows because of this type of a break-in, and now we're going to have to do the same," Rahman said.
The front door of the Ellice Avenue mosque was smashed around 4:30 a.m. on Oct. 19 and a small amount of money was stolen from a donation box, Rahman told Information Radio host Marcy Markusa in a Friday interview.
"We haven't had such a bad situation in all these years. There have been small instances, but not like this, and I think it speaks to a larger systemic problem in the community that we really have to look at and deal with."
"There's only so much our communities by ourselves can fund," Rahman said. "I would like to see more investment in programs and, you know, centres for youth to do things, productive things and to be able to have mentoring."
David Driedger, the leading minister at the First Mennonite Church on Notre Dame, says there's been an increase in break-ins since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
He also doesn't think his Notre Dame Avenue church was targeted for religious reasons, but he acknowledges the historical harm churches have caused within various communities, including Indigenous people.
Driedger also recognized the death of an Ethiopian couple who died last month in a fire in the apartment suites above the House of Covenant International Church, on Main Street at Atlantic Avenue, as a "sheer tragedy."
Police believe the fire was deliberately set. A 28-year-old man has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder and arson in connection with the fatal Sept. 14 blaze, which shook the Ethiopian and Eritrean communities who attend the church.
Driedger echoed Rahman's stance around the need for more funding and resources dedicated to supporting vulnerable people in the city's West End.
'We want people, when they come to worship, to feel safe here,' says David Driedger, the leading minister at the First Mennonite Church. (Zoom)
"We need to understand that other parts of the city are under-serviced, and folks need to be somewhere," he told Information Radio on Friday.
Earlier this week, the province announced it is extending funding for its anti-retail-theft initiative, which pays for overtime for police to target areas identified as theft hot spots, including the West End.
The funding extension will also add 12 more officers who will start patrolling next month as part of the initiative, which also includes the Osborne Village and Exchange District areas.
Source: cbc.ca/news
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https://cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/break-in-theft-winnipeg-church-mosque-1.7364772
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Trump Courts Muslim Votes
October 26, 2024
“When he ran for president eight years ago, Donald Trump floated the idea of creating a national registry of Muslims and proposed banning immigration from Muslim countries. So it was striking to see him on Saturday at a rally in suburban Detroit celebrating endorsements from a handful of Muslim and Arab American leaders,” the New York Times reports.
“It was a political turnaround that would have seemed unthinkable during Mr. Trump’s first campaign, when he frequently spouted anti-Muslim rhetoric. As president, Mr. Trump blocked travel from several predominantly Muslim countries, creating travel chaos. And at moments during this campaign, he has drawn on the anti-Muslim sentiments from earlier in his political career.”
“But in a tight election, Mr. Trump and his campaign have been trying to win the support of Arab American and Muslim voters who may be disaffected with Democrats over President Biden’s handling of the war in Gaza and the party’s positions on social issues.”
Source: Politicalwire.com
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https://politicalwire.com/2024/10/26/trump-courts-muslim-votes/
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Prince George Islamic Centre host open house
Oct 26, 2024
PRINCE GEORGE— The Prince George Islamic Centre hosted an Open House on Saturday, welcoming the community to teach more about the Islamic religion.
“It’s important because there’s a lot of perceptions of Islam that are out in the community that aren’t represented by who we really are,” said Nadia Mansour who has been practicing Islam at the Centre since it opened in 2011. “When we open up our doors to the community and we have people come in, we get to invite people to our faith and show them what we we’re really about.”
“We are seeing a substantial increase in the number of (Muslim) people coming to this city, and whenever they find a job, the first question they ask the employer is, is there any mosque there because they need that,” said SirajUl Islam, the secretary of the Prince George Islamic Centre on Saturday.
“As soon as I got to know there’s an Islamic Centre I was quite happy and when I came here, it was instant. The first day I was able to meet with a lot of friends who could relate, said Umair Haroon, who became a member of the Centre 14 months ago. “Since then, there’s a feeling of home and I have friends that I feel like I’ve known for years because of this Islamic Centre.”
Source: Ckpgtoday.ca
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Harris brings in Obama star power as Trump asks for Muslim vote
By Ben Mckelvey
October 27, 2024
Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump have conducted at rallies in key battleground states on Saturday, with Harris appearing on stage with Michelle Obama, and Donald Trump calling for American Muslims to vote for him.
At a rally outside Detroit, Donald Trump said that he had just met with group of local imams, arguing that he deserved the support of Muslim voters because he would end conflicts and bring peace to the Middle East.
NOVI, MICHIGAN - OCTOBER 26: Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump walks on stage during a campaign rally at Suburban Collection Showplace on October 26, 2024 in Novi, Michigan. Trump is scheduled to hold rallies in Michigan and Pennsylvania today, as well as a rally on Sunday at New York???s Madison Square Garden. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) *** BESTPIX ***
Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump walks on stage during a campaign rally at Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan. (Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
“That’s all they want,” Trump said in the Detroit suburb of Novi, also pledging to auto workers at the rally that he would reverse economic decline in the Detroit area and nationwide. Trump fully backs Israel and has not said how he would end the conflict there.
Trump appears to be gaining support from some Muslim Americans upset with President Joe Biden’s and Harris’ support of Israel, despite Trump banning immigration from some Muslim majority countries in his first term as president.
Imam BelalAlzuhairi of the Islamic Center of Detroit joined Trump on stage, saying, “We ask Muslims to stand with President Trump because he promises peace.” With some 8.4 million registered voters and 15 electoral college votes of the 270 needed to win, Michigan is one of seven competitive U.S. states that will decide the election. It is part of the “Blue Wall” that is considered Democrats’ best chance of electing Harris, along with Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
In the southern Michigan city of Kalamazoo, about 130 miles (210 km) away, Harris drew contrasts between her and Trump on issues such as abortion rights, taxes and healthcare after Michelle Obama fired up the crowd by drawing distinctions between the two candidates on personal character and qualifications.
“I hope you’ll forgive me that I’m a little frustrated that some of us are choosing to ignore Trump’s gross incompetence while asking Kamala to dazzle us at every turn,” the former first lady said, urging any undecided voters to “snap out of whatever fog they’re in.”
Harris was several minutes into an upbeat address when she was interrupted by a demonstrator who repeatedly yelled, “No more Gaza war.” After Harris supporters shouted down the interruption, Harris responded, “On the topic of Gaza, we must end that war,” then picked up where she left off, asking voters to “turn the page on the fear and the divisiveness.”
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump appears on stage with Penn State University’s wrestling team members at a campaign event, in State College, Pennsylvania (Photo: Hannah McKay/Reuters)
After leaving Michigan, Trump traveled to Pennsylvania, where he tried to reel in young voters with a rally on the campus of Penn State University, at one point bringing the school’s wrestling team on stage with him.
Source: Inews.co.uk
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South Asia
Bangladesh's Hindus 'Should Not Flee', Says RSS Leader DattatreyaHosabale
October 26, 2024
RSS leader DattatreyaHosabale on Saturday said Bangladesh’s Hindu community ”should stay there and not flee” and called on the United Nations to ensure their security.
Speaking to reporters at the concluding day of the RashtriyaSwayamsevakSangh’s (RSS) two-day national meet in Mathura, the organisation’s ’sarkaryawah (general secretary)’ said, ”The government of India has said that it would protect all the minorities (in Bangladesh), including Hindus. The Sangh also issued a statement that the Hindu community there will stay there. The Hindu community of Bangladesh should not flee, they should stay there.” ”It is their motherland. India played an important role in that (Bangaldesh’s 1971 independence from Pakistan). We say there is a ’shaktipeeth’ there. That part has contributed a lot in the history of our independence. That is why we want the Hindu community not to flee from there. For this, they should be protected,” Hosabale said.
He added that the United Nations (UN) and other organisations would have to make arrangements for their security to give everyone a chance to live with respect in a democracy.
According to the 10-page report by the UN Human Rights Office, nearly 400 deaths were reported between July 16 and August 4 while around 250 people were reportedly killed following the new wave of protests between August 5 and 6, leading to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina as prime minister.
The Bangladesh National Hindu Grand Alliance said the minority community faced attacks and threats in 278 locations across 48 districts since the Hasina government fell, terming it as an ”assault on the Hindu religion”.
According to a report in The Dhaka Tribune, quoting Inspector General of Police MdMoinul Islam, 17 persons were arrested and about a dozen cases registered after Bangladesh witnessed nearly 35 untoward incidents related to Durga Puja.
The minority Hindus, constituting about 8 per cent of the population in Bangaldesh, have faced regular vandalism of their businesses, and properties and destruction of temples during and since the student-led violence erupted that led to Hasina’s ouster.
Source: Www.news18.Com
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https://www.news18.com/india/bangladeshs-hindus-should-not-flee-says-rss-leader-dattatreya-hosabale-9100549.html
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Deputy PM Mullah BaradarAkhund Unveils Second Lane on Kabul-Jalalabad Highway to Enhance Connectivity
2024-10-26
KABUL(BNA): The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has officially commenced the construction of the second lane of the Kabul-Jalalabad highway. Mullah Abdul Ghani BaradarAkhund, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, inaugurated the project at a ceremony attended by prominent officials, including the Acting Minister of Public Works.
Deputy PM Mullah BaradarAkhund emphasized the project’s significance in enhancing connectivity between Kabul and Nangarhar, which will facilitate trade and transportation. He noted that the new lane is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and improve the safety of goods transport, thereby supporting small and medium enterprises along the route.
The construction will be carried out according to established standards, with toll fees collected for highway use being managed transparently by the Ministry of Public Works. The 150-kilometer highway will link the Bagrami district of Kabul with Nangarhar, passing through several key districts. The initial phase of the project, covering 22 kilometers, has already begun construction.
Source: Www.bakhtarnews.af
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German media reports government transferred extremists in evacuation from Afghanistan
By Fidel Rahmati
October 26, 2024
A German media outlet has reported that several dangerous Islamist extremists from Afghanistan have been brought to Germany as part of the country’s evacuation program.
Following the collapse of the Afghan government and the Taliban’s return to power, the German government had pledged to accept 45,000 at-risk individuals from Afghanistan. However, contrary to its initial commitment, a smaller number have been transferred to Germany.
The Welt newspaper reported that investigations revealed some radical Islamists, considered threats to Germany’s security, had entered the country legally.
After the threats were uncovered, the German government halted the evacuation process. Currently, thousands of individuals in neighboring countries are waiting for German visas.
These individuals were previously included in the evacuation list, but the German government has effectively suspended the process without providing them with any response.
The suspension came after an Afghan citizen in Mannheim, Germany, stabbed a police officer to death and injured several civilians. The attack sparked widespread reactions.
On Saturday, Business Insider also reported that the evacuation process was non-transparent, with people who faced no real threats being brought to Germany instead of eligible individuals.
The situation of Afghan refugees remains dire, with many facing an uncertain future. The halt in Germany’s evacuation program has left thousands stranded in neighboring countries, with no clear path forward.
Moreover, the ongoing expulsion of Afghan refugees only deepens their plight, forcing them back into a country gripped by instability and economic collapse. Urgent international intervention and transparent refugee policies are crucial to addressing this escalating crisis.
Source: Www.khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/german-media-reports-government-transferred-extremists-in-evacuation-from-afghanistan/
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Retirees protest in Kabul over three years of unpaid pensions
By Fidel Rahmati
October 26, 2024
A group of retirees blocked the street leading to the Ministry of Finance in Kabul on Saturday, protesting the non-payment of their three-year pensions by the Taliban.
The demonstration reflects the widespread dissatisfaction among retirees who are suffering from the current harsh conditions due to the economic crisis and neglect of their basic needs.
Over the past three years, retired government employees in Kabul and other cities have staged protests. These retired employees say that they have not received their pensions for the last three years.
Earlier, in March this year, Taliban leader HibatullahAkhundzada had issued a decree to halt the deduction of pension contributions from employees’ monthly salaries, effectively ending the pension system in Afghanistan.
The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan remains dire, with severe poverty gripping the population. The lack of adequate financial support, such as unpaid pensions and decreasing salaries, especially for teachers, adds to the mounting concerns.
The situation is exacerbating everyday hardships for citizens, reflecting a country struggling to meet the basic needs of its people. As economic conditions worsen, the cries for aid and relief grow louder, demanding urgent attention from the international community.
Source: Www.khaama.com
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Iran seeks to attract Afghanistan’s private investors, says envoy
By Fidel Rahmati
October 26, 2024
Hassan KazemiQomi, Iran’s ambassador and special envoy to Afghanistan, stated that Iran is seeking to attract investments from Afghanistan for large-scale projects within the country.
Iranian media reported on Friday, October 25, that he made these remarks on the sidelines of the first “International Export Exhibition to Central Asia and Afghanistan.”
According to Qomi, Tehran and Kabul can create a North-South and East-West transit corridor by developing the Chabahar port.
The ambassador and special envoy emphasized that improving Afghanistan’s economy positively impacts the region.
He added that the Islamic Republic aims to facilitate conditions and remove barriers to attract private Afghan investors.
Based on statistics from the Iran-Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce, Afghan traders have invested over three billion dollars in Iran.
However, in recent months, the forced deportation of Afghan migrants and the restrictions imposed on them by the Islamic Republic have increased.
As Iran continues to pursue economic cooperation with Afghanistan, the plight of Afghan refugees remains dire.
Reports indicate that Afghan refugees in Iran face not only forced deportation but also harassment and, in some cases, killings amid an escalating humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.
With the harsh winter approaching and economic challenges deepening, the refugees’ situation is becoming increasingly critical, raising urgent concerns for international humanitarian organizations.
Source: Www.khaama.com
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Bangladesh court orders report submission by November 28 in murder case against exiled ex-PM Hasina
Oct 27, 2024
A Bangladesh court on Saturday ordered the police to submit the investigation report of a murder case against former premier Sheikh Hasina and 23 others by November 28, according to media reports.
The murder case was filed over the death of an 18-year-old college student in Mirpur, Dhaka, during a crackdown by the Hasina-led Awami League government on student-led mass protests that led to her ouster.
On August 5, Hasina, 77, fled to India in the face of the violent protests against a controversial quota system in government jobs, which led to the death of hundreds of people since mid-July.
Dhaka Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate MdZiadur Rahman ordered the submission of the probe report by November 28 after the case was presented in his court, The Daily Star newspaper reported.
The case was filed on August 15 by the victim's brother, who asserted that the accused were directly involved in or facilitated the violence that led to his brother's death and injuries to other students.
Apart from Hasina, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan, Awami League General Secretary ObaidulQuader, former law minister AnisulHuq, and former inspector general of police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun are among those accused in the case.
Hasina is now facing 225 cases, including 194 for murders, 16 for crimes against humanity and genocide, three for abduction, 11 for attempted murder and one for an attack on a Bangladesh Nationalist Party procession, according to the report.
Source: Economictimes.com
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https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/bangladesh-court-orders-report-submission-by-november-28-in-murder-case-against-exiled-ex-pm-hasina/articleshow/114648922.cms?from=mdr
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Amit Shah inaugurates passenger terminal along India-Bangladesh border in Bengal
Oct 27, 2024
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday inaugurated a newly constructed passenger terminal and a cargo gate at the India-Bangladesh land border crossing in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. The crossing at Petrapole is the largest land port in South Asia and a vital gateway for trade and commerce between the two countries.
Petrapole (India)-Benapole (Bangladesh) is one of the most important land border crossings between the two countries, both in terms of trade and passenger movement.
Nearly 70 per cent of land-based trade (by value) between India and Bangladesh occurs through this facility, which is under the administrative control of the Land Ports Authority of India, a wing of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
It is also the eighth largest international immigration port of India and facilitates the movement of over 23.5 lakh passengers annually between India and Bangladesh.
The new passenger terminal at Petrapole is a significant addition to the region's infrastructure and is set to enhance the travel experience between the two countries, the statement said.
Source: Economictimes.com
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https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/amit-shah-inaugurates-passenger-terminal-along-india-bangladesh-border-in-bengal/articleshow/114650015.cms?from=mdr
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Bangladesh’s new outcasts: Students from ex-PM Hasina’s party now in hiding
By Mehedi Hasan Marof
27 Oct 2024
Dhaka, Bangladesh – Since early August, Fahmi*, 24, who used to be a dominant figure on the sprawling campus of Dhaka University in Bangladesh’s capital, has been in hiding.
Fahmi was a member of the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), the student wing of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League (AL) party that ruled over the South Asian nation with an iron fist for more than 15 years before she was ousted and forced to flee to neighbouring India following a student-led movement in August.
On Wednesday, Bangladesh’s interim government, led by its only Nobel laureate, Muhammad Yunus, declared the BCL a “terrorist organisation” and banned it. The Ministry of Home Affairs said the BCL had a history of serious misconduct over the past 15 years, including violence, harassment and exploitation of public resources.
“Not long ago, I was a voice of authority here,” Fahmi, an undergraduate student of applied chemistry, told Al Jazeera. “Now, I am running around like a fugitive with no probable future.”
Fahmi’s story mirrors that of thousands of students formerly affiliated with the AL, whose once-powerful hold over Bangladesh’s campuses collapsed overnight. The former powerbrokers on campuses and the AL’s muscle on the streets now face eviction, retribution and even imprisonment for their role in trying to suppress the popular revolt against Hasina and for the rights violations they allegedly committed while she was in power.
Fahmi maintains he did not directly participate in the government’s deadly crackdown against people during the anti-Hasina demonstrations. “My sisters were part of the protests,” he said. “I also believed in the cause but was trapped by party obligations.”
The deadly protests began in July after college students demanded the abolition of a controversial reservation system in government jobs that they said favoured supporters of the governing party. Though Bangladesh’s top court scrapped the quota, the protests soon morphed into a wider call for the removal of Hasina’s “autocratic” regime, marked by allegations of widespread rights violations.
The government’s response was one of the bloodiest chapters in Bangladesh’s history as security forces beat the protesters, and fired tear gas and live ammunition on peaceful demonstrators, killing more than 1,000 people in three weeks and arresting thousands of others.
On August 5, as defiant Bangladeshis stormed prominent government buildings, including Hasina’s residence and the parliament, the 77-year-old prime minister fled the country in a military helicopter and sought refuge in New Delhi.
The violence, however, did not end with Hasina’s fall. The former perpetrators of state atrocities became the new targets as hundreds of AL politicians and members, including students, were attacked or killed. Many went into hiding or were detained while attempting to flee.
Fahmi said the anti-Hasina protesters set fire to his family’s home and cold storage business in Noakhali district, 173km (107 miles) from Dhaka. “They threatened to make my younger brother disappear if he didn’t disclose my whereabouts,” he said. So far, they haven’t acted on the threat, said Fahmi, though his younger brother has been bullied at the madrasa [a Muslim educational institution] where he studies.
Reflecting on his BCL involvement, Fahmi admitted, “I was a good student who cared little for politics, but at Dhaka University, hall politics was unavoidable. You either joined, or you suffered.” He admitted that being a BCL leader would improve his prospects of landing a government job – an appealing incentive in a shrinking job market – especially since his responsibilities towards his mother, two unmarried sisters, and younger brother grew after his father’s death two years ago.
On August 15, 2022 – just a day after his father’s passing – he left his grieving family in Noakhali to attend an event in Dhaka marking the anniversary of the death of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Hasina’s father and the leader of Bangladesh’s movement for independence from Pakistan.
Now, while his erstwhile leader Hasina is safe in India, he faces the constant threat of violence or arrest, a scenario that he says made him feel that he has been abandoned by the party he once represented and the university he is a student of.
“The salam [peace] I offered and hours I invested buttering up our leaders and arranging party rallies … now seem meaningless,” he said bitterly. “The party used us as its political pawns but offered no protection when we needed it most. The regime fell suddenly; saving myself from the angry mob was the hardest thing I ever faced that evening. Yet, neither top party leaders nor BCL’s student leaders have checked on me.”
With his final year exams under way, he cannot attend classes or complete his degree. “I wanted to join the civil service and serve the nation,” he said. “But stepping on campus could lead to my arrest on dubious charges – or worse, I could be beaten to death.”
Fahmi’s situation is far from unique. The Awami League estimates that at least 50,000 of its student affiliates across the nation are now in limbo, struggling to continue their tertiary education.
Shahreen Ariana, a BCL leader from Rajshahi University, was arrested on October 18 on “forged charges,” according to her family. She was detained while trying to sit for a term-final exam. SaikatRaihan, another BCL leader at Rajshahi University, was arrested on the same day.
The district police, however, claimed that both faced prior cases, but refused to provide documents to back their claim. Meanwhile, the university’s proctor, Mahbubur Rahman, told Al Jazeera, “Other students refused to sit with any BCL leader during the exam.” To prevent any “mob justice,” Ariana and Raihan were handed over to the police. “We had to intervene,” he said. “Otherwise, things could have gotten worse.”
On October 25, two more BCL leaders — Abul Hasan Saidi, a finance student and KaziShihab Uddin Taimur, an anthropology student — were arrested while appearing for exams at Dhaka University. “There were existing cases against the two students, and they were arrested accordingly,” said university Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed.
The wave of violence against Awami League-affiliated students has spread across campuses. On the outskirts of the capital, former Jahangirnagar University BCL activist Shamim Ahmed was beaten to death on September 18, while Masud, another BCL leader, was killed by a mob in Rajshahi on September 7.
“These are just the reported cases,” says Redwanul Karim Sagor, who goes by the name Sujon and was a senior BCL leader who is now in hiding. Sujon, nearly six feet tall, was wearing a crumpled black shirt and unpressed pants, his hair untrimmed. During our interview, he repeatedly asked if anyone else knew about the meeting. “There have been more killings, arrests and fabricated cases against us, often in areas we’ve never even visited,” he said.
The interim government that took over after Hasina fled, led by Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, issued a gazette on October 23, officially banning the BCL under the Anti-Terrorism Act 2009 – a law that was brought, ironically, by Hasina’s government soon after it came to power in 2009.
This decision came after nationwide protests led by Students Against Discrimination (SAD), the student group that mobilised the students against the Hasina government in July, and other groups demanding BCL’s ban.
Abdul HannanMasud, a founding member of SAD, who earlier demanded this ban, said, “The Chhatra League cannot operate in Bangladesh. All their operatives will be identified nationwide and brought to justice.”
Meanwhile, police filed a major case over the July 15 BCL-led attack on protesters, incriminating 391 individuals, including then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and several BCL leaders. It also names up to 1,000 unidentified individuals.
Since the ban on the student body on October 23, officers in the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) confirmed to Al Jazeera the arrest of at least 10 BCL leaders from the city. More than 100 student activists were arrested from across the country.
“Almost all of these arrests are under cases filed over July protests,” said a senior DMP official, seeking anonymity, “based on no specific charges but under suspicion, and largely because of their affiliation with Chhatra League.”
We met on October 21 in a small, rundown cafe made of wood and bamboo over a canal along a desolate road, far from any neighbourhood, where passing cars would occasionally stop. We sat at a corner bench under dim lighting as Sujon constantly shifted his gaze towards the window, his eyes betraying his anxiety, as he kept downing glasses of water.
At one point, two cars pulled up outside, their occupants stopping briefly for water. As a broad-shouldered man stepped out, Sujon’s face tensed up, his voice stopping for a moment before he managed to continue sharing his story.
Sujon was pursuing a bachelor’s degree in physics at Rajshahi University and was one final-term exam away from graduation before the August upheaval forced him into hiding.
Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury, a former minister in Hasina’s cabinet, now in exile in India, criticised the interim government for the insecurity faced by BCL students. “This government claims to be building a discrimination-free Bangladesh,” he told Al Jazeera. “Yet it’s depriving thousands of students of their right to education.”
He argued that sidelining the BCL, the country’s largest student organisation with an estimated 100,000 members, could have consequences for all of Bangladesh. “How can DrYunus hope to build a better future for Bangladesh while excluding such a significant segment of its youth?”
Chowdhury emphasised that his party remains loyal to its members. “When the time is right, we will fight for their rights,” he asserted, “and ensure they can complete their education without fear.”
Azad Majumder, Muhammad Yunus’s deputy press secretary, told Al Jazeera that “everybody is free to join regular academic activities unless there are any criminal charges against him or her”.
However, when asked about the government’s measures to protect students from mob violence or arbitrary arrests, he said, “I have nothing to add.”
Rahman, the university proctor, stressed that the campus violence that was common when the BCL dominated should not be repeated in “new” Bangladesh. “Authorities aim to ensure all students graduate without facing violence,” he stated, noting that investigations are under way to identify the perpetrators of violence on the university’s campus from July 15 to August 5.
For more than a decade, the BCL ruled campuses with an iron grip. The Chhatra Dal, the student wing of the biggest opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, managed to maintain a presence but was often on the defensive. Meanwhile, the IslamiChhatraShibir, the students’ body of the Jamaat-e-Islami, Bangladesh’s largest Muslim party, was forced underground.
Numerous media reports over 16 years show students being forced out of campuses – tortured, or even gruesomely murdered – by BCL members on suspicion of ties to the Shibir, which in August this year was banned by the Hasina government under the same anti-terror law now used against the BCL.
The ban on the Shibir was lifted by the Yunus government. And now, the tables have turned on the BCL more broadly, with opposition student wings reclaiming control across campuses.
“BCL created a system of modern slavery,” said Abu Shadik, president of the ChhatraShibir’s Dhaka University unit — the first publicly declared Shibir committee in decades. “Students had to align with BCL to secure dorms; dissenters faced a living inferno. Some joined for survival, others for personal gain.”
“All BCL operatives who repressed students or joined the July violence must face justice. The common students have rejected them from society,” he told Al Jazeera. “Even those who didn’t attack but remained silent are culpable. To reconcile, they must admit to BCL’s 16 years of brutality, the July ‘genocide,’ and seek forgiveness. Only then can reintegration be considered.”
In a separate conversation, NahiduzzamanShipon, general secretary of the BNP’s Dhaka University unit, recalled the reign of violence on campus when the BCL dominated. “Awami League turned BCL into a force to rig votes, suppress dissent, and bypass the law,” he stated.
Shipon added that the BCL used sickles, machetes and firearms against their peers. “After 2009, many Chhatra Dal [BNP] members were tortured and forced off campuses, their education cut short.”
“Any student without criminal charges is welcome back to campus, regardless of their political affiliations,” he said. “But those who used brutality as political enforcers must be held accountable under Bangladeshi law.”
Source: Www.Aljazeera.Com
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https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/10/27/once-powerful-student-members-of-hasinas-party-bangladeshs-new-outcastes
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West Bengal: BSF tightens security along India-Bangladesh border
Oct 26, 2024
SILIGURI: In view of the present situation in Bangladesh, the Border Security Force and North Bengal Frontier has tightened the security arrangements along the Indo-Bangladesh border
Speaking to the media, Suryakant Sharma, IG, BSF North Bengal Frontier, said the BSF has activated the intelligence wing along the border. The forces are on high alert to stop any infiltrations and migrations.
"We have our Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to closely monitor the situation and as per the law they take the necessary steps. The government is acting on the issue of activation of anti-India elements," he said.
India shares a 4,096km border with Bangladesh of which West Bengal shares 2,216. North Bengal frontier shares 936km of which 110km is unfenced.
Meanwhile, three hundred eighty-five new women constables of BSF took an oath to serve the country at the BSF Assistant Training Center in Baikunthapur, Siliguri on Saturday.
BSF North Bengal Frontier IG Suryakant Sharma administered the oath to them. During this time, he inspected the grand passing out parade presented by the new conservators. Apart from BSF officers and their families, other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/west-bengal-bsf-tightens-security-along-india-bangladesh-border/articleshowprint/114621934.cms
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11 Bangladeshi nationals, 3 Indians held in separate operations in Tripura for trying to illegally enter India
byDebraj Deb
October 26, 2024
The Border Security Force (BSF) apprehended eleven Bangladeshi nationals and three Indian citizens from different places of Tripura on Saturday. A majority of the Bangladeshi nationals were held at the Badharghat Railway Station in Agartala, officials said.
A Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the BSF said that the BSF Mobile Check Post (MCP) near the Agartala Railway Station detained nine people on suspicion around 8.30 am.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/india/bangladeshi-nationals-indians-held-tripura-illegally-enter-india-9640516/
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Mideast
Israel kills 45 people in north Gaza as Iran mourns four soldiers
By MaziarMotamedi
27 Oct 2024
Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, says “the entire population of Gaza is at risk of dying in a genocide that has been announced and executed under our watch.”
Israeli forces bombed six buildings in Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza, killing at least 45 people, as the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) called on the United States to stop the “systematic extermination of an entire population” in the Palestinian enclave.
Iran’s President MasoudPezeshkian mourned four soldiers killed in the wave of Israeli attacks across Iran on Saturday. Tehran insists the assault caused “limited damage”.
In Gaza, at least 42,847 people have been killed and 100,544 wounded in Israeli attacks since October 7, 2023. An estimated 1,139 people were killed in Israel during the Hamas-led attacks and more than 200 were taken captive.
Source: Www.Aljazeera.com
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https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/10/27/live-systematic-extermination-35-killed-as-israel-bombs-north-gaza
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Israeli army withdraws from Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza
Ramzi Mahmoud
26.10.2024
The Israeli army withdrew on Saturday from Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, one of the few remaining medical centers serving the area, after wreaking havoc and destruction on the facility.
Eyewitnesses told Anadolu that as the Israeli army withdrew, it left behind Palestinian casualties and extensive damage both inside and outside the hospital.
The witnesses said patients, the injured, and displaced Palestinians at the hospital went without food, water, or medication for two days during the incursion.
Further, they reported that Israeli forces bulldozed the hospital’s walls, along with makeshift shelters for the displaced inside and around the facility, and fired shells in the hospital courtyard.
On Saturday morning, the ministry confirmed that Israeli forces had detained male medical staff, along with patients, during the raid on the hospital.
Over the course of its over one-year offensive on Gaza, the Israeli army has frequently targeted hospitals, houses of worship, and schools – civilian facilities that are off-limits under the rules of war.
The Gaza Government Media Office has said more than 820 Palestinians have so far been killed in Israel’s 22-day military operation in northern Gaza, which Gaza officials describe as a "campaign of genocide and ethnic cleansing.”
Flouting a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire, Israel has continued a devastating offensive on Gaza since an attack last year by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas.
Source: Www.aa.com.tr
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https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/israeli-army-withdraws-from-kamal-adwan-hospital-in-northern-gaza/3375552
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Israel strikes Iran: What we know so far and what’s next
26 Oct 2024
Israel has attacked Iran, killing four Iranian soldiers. It also launched simultaneous strikes on Iraq and Syria, ostensibly targeting Iran-linked interests.
Israel conducted airstrikes on military sites in central and southern Syria early Saturday, reported Syrian state news agency SANA, though Israel hasn’t confirmed this. Explosions were also reported in Basra, Iraq, while there was a temporary closure of Iraqi airspace; officials later said the blasts happened across the border in Iran.
Iran’s air defence headquarters said military bases in Tehran, Ilam and Khuzestan were hit but attacks were “successfully countered … though minor damages were caused in some areas, and the extent of the incident is currently under investigation”.
The main focus of Saturday’s attacks was Tehran, Al Jazeera’s Serdar said, adding that they “primarily aimed at Iran’s air defence systems, missile bases, and drone facilities”.
In a recorded statement released during the attack, Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari said: “The regime in Iran and its proxies in the region have been relentlessly attacking Israel since October 7.”
Earlier in October, Iran launched a barrage of missiles at Israel in response to Israeli attacks on Gaza and Lebanon, as well as the assassinations of top IRGC, Hamas and Hezbollah leaders.
“Furthermore, it affirms its responsibilities toward regional peace and security, while reminding all countries in the region of their individual and collective duties to protect regional peace and stability,” the statement said.
Analysts say the potentially limited damage of Saturday’s strike gives Iran “plausible deniability” and the room to not strike back, according to Al Jazeera’s NourOdeh, reporting from Amman.
Some unnamed Israeli officials have told Israeli media that this was intended, to allow the situation to be contained going forward, said Al Jazeera’s Mohammed Jamjoom reporting from Amman.
Source: Www.aljazeera.com
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https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/10/26/israel-strikes-iran-what-we-know-so-far-and-whats-next
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Israel strikes on Iran highlights: Four Iranian soldiers killed by Israeli airstrikes; Hezbollah launches drone strike at Israeli airbase
October 26, 2024
Israel pounded Iran with a series of airstrikes early Saturday (October 26, 2024), saying it was targeting military sites in retaliation for the barrage of ballistic missiles the Islamic Republic fired upon Israel on October 1, 2024, in which around 200 ballistic missiles were fired at Israel, Iran’s second direct attack on Israel in six months.
Following the airstrikes, Iran’s Foreign Ministry said it had a right to self-defense, and “considers itself entitled and obligated to defend against foreign acts of aggression.” Israel’s military said it targeted facilities that Iran used to make the missiles fired at Israel as well as surface-to-air missile sites. There was no immediate indication that oil or nuclear sites were hit — which would have marked a much more serious escalation — and Israel offered no immediate damage assessment.
The United States warned against further retaliation, and Britain said Iran should not respond. Saudi Arabia was one of multiple countries in the region condemning the strike, calling it a violation of Iran’s “sovereignty and a violation of international laws and norms.” Following the airstrikes, Iran’s Foreign Ministry said it had a right to self-defense, and “considers itself entitled and obligated to defend against foreign acts of aggression.”
Source: Www.Thehindu.com
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https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/israel-strikes-iran-retaliation-west-asia-crisis-reaction-live-updates-oct-26-2024/article68798867.ece
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Israel attacks Iran live: US cautions Iran against 'mistake' of retaliation to Israeli strikes
Oct 27, 2024
In a separate statement on X, posted military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, said it had "fully mobilised" its offensive and defensive capabilities ahead of the attack. Hagari also asked for people to remain “vigilant”, as Israel has placed its defense systems on high alert after the attacks.
reported on Friday that The White House was notified shortly before Israel carried out air strikes on Iran. The US had no involvement in Israel's strikes in Iran early on Saturday, a US defence official told the BBC, adding that Washington had been informed of the operation beforehand.
The Israeli offensive comes amid US secretary of state Anthony Blinken's visit to Israel to mediate between the countries in the Middle East and achieve a ceasefire.
Israel also conducted strikes in Syria on early Saturday, with explosions heard in Damascus. Since late September, Israeli forces have carried out raids in Syria and Lebanon in an alleged attempt to wipe out Hezbollah “terror targets”.
Israeli military also drew backlash after they launched a strike at 3 am in a journalist compound and killed three journalists in southeast Lebanon on Friday.
Source: Www.Hindustan Times.com
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https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/israeli-iran-war-live-updates-military-conducting-airstrikes-military-targets-tehran-idf-october-26-2024-101729900229563.html
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Iran denies claims of air defense system damage at Imam Khomeini Inte'l airport
26 Oct 2024
An informed Iranian source has categorically denied reports that the air defense system at Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran was targeted or damaged, labeling such claims circulated by some media outlets as false.
According to the Tasnim International News Agency, the source clarified that Imam Khomeini Airport is primarily a civilian airport and does not possess an air defense system. Normal flight operations have resumed, with all flights expected to proceed according to schedule soon. Five foreign airlines—Fly Dubai, Jazeera, Air Arabia, Cham Wings Airlines, and Salam Air—are set to resume flights starting tonight.
In a related development, the Iranian Air Defense Headquarters issued a statement regarding recent Zionist aggression against several military sites in the country early Saturday morning, confirming a successful response by its comprehensive air defense system.
The statement indicated that, despite prior warnings to the "criminal and illegitimate" Zionist entity to refrain from provocative actions, the entity launched attacks on military centers in Tehran, Khuzestan, and Ilam.
These aggressive actions were successfully intercepted, resulting in limited damage to some points, with investigations ongoing to assess the full extent of the incident.
The Air Defense Public Relations office urged citizens to remain calm and unified, advising them to stay informed through official national media outlets and to disregard unverified rumors about the incident.
Source: Www.saba.ye
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https://www.saba.ye/en/news3388512.htm
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Israel is destabilising the entire region
Oct 27, 2024
Israel's strikes in Iran on October 26, which it justifies as retaliation against Tehran's strikes on Israel earlier this month, gives rise to fears of further escalation between the two countries and the region. Meanwhile, Israel's genocide in Gaza is unrelenting with a death toll of over 42,000 people, most of them women and children. In the pretext of targeting Hezbollah, the Israeli Army killed more than 700 Lebanese in airstrikes across Lebanon between September 23 and September 27. Among those killed were 50 children and 94 women, according to Al Jazeera. Beirut authorities report that the offensive has resulted in over 2,500 deaths and displaced more than 12 million people.
Thus, we seem farther away from the ceasefire that we had hoped would put an end to these senseless killing of civilians and total destruction of Gaza's infrastructure. Undoubtedly, the US's unconditional support of Israel and lukewarm efforts to broker a ceasefire have given Israel cart blanche to continue its genocide in Gaza and continuously bomb the region without facing any consequences. Despite widespread condemnation from many countries around the world and appeals from the UN Secretary General for an end to the killing of Palestinians and now Lebanese, until the US and its Western allies take a strong and decisive step by stopping its support of Israel's military actions, there will be no end to this genocide. The US has moved its anti-missile defences to Israel along with around 100 soldiers to operate them. US President Joe Biden has made it clear that should Iran choose to strike back after this latest attack by Israel, the US will aid in Israel's "defence."
The double standards of the US and many of its Western allies in how they view strikes by Israel and those by Iran makes it clear that the blatant human rights abuses and crimes against humanity committed by Israel will continue to be white-washed as "defence" operations. History will judge these nations for allowing one of the biggest genocides against an occupied people. But right now, the dangers of greater escalation in the region—even including nuclear powers—is far too close to home for the US and its allies to continue their blind support of Israel. The aftermath of not stopping Israel's aggression and violation of international law could be catastrophic.
Source: Www.Thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/opinion/editorial/news/israel-destabilising-the-entire-region-3736991
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Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Seriously Ill, Son Likely To Be Successor: Report
By:Oindrila Mukherjee
27-10-2024
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is reportedly “seriously ill” and a quiet battle of succession has emerged. This comes as the country mulls its response to the Israeli strikes early on Saturday (October 26).
According to a report published by The New York Times, Khamenei’s second oldest son, Mojtaba Khamenei (55), is likely to succeed him. The 85-year-old’s condition is said to be serious, with even the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps weighing to have a say in who will succeed him.
Khamenei has served as the supreme leader since 1989 after the death of Ruhollah Khomeini. There have been concerns over the succession after Iranian President EbrahimRaisi was killed in a helicopter crash last year. The Times said there has been “internal disquiet” over the possible succession ever since Raisi’s death.
The leader’s illness makes the situation more complicated in the aftermath of Israel’s response to Iran’s ballistic missile attack on military sites. Iranian officials have said they do not want any further escalation. Not only Iran, Israel has also struck targets in Iraq and Syria.
Iran’s military issued a carefully worded statement on Saturday night suggesting a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon trumps any retaliation against Israel. While saying it had the right to retaliate, the statement suggested Tehran may be trying to find a way to avoid further escalation.
Iran’s military further said Israel used so-called “stand-off” missiles over Iraqi airspace to launch its attacks, and that the warheads were much lighter in order to travel the distance to the targets they struck in three provinces in Iran. The statement said Iranian military radar sites had been damaged, but some already were under repair.
Source: Www.News18.com
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https://www.news18.com/world/irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-seriously-ill-son-likely-to-be-successor-report-9100692.html
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Pakistan
Four FC men injured in Duki IED attack
SaleemShahid
October 27, 2024
QUETTA: Four Frontier Corps (FC) personnel were injured when a bomb exploded near their vehicle in Duki district of Balochistan on Saturday, officials said.
An improvised explosive device (IED) planted by unknown miscreants at the roadside in the Mandaytak area detonated when the FC patrol was passing through the area.
“Four FC soldiers were injured in the blast,” a senior security official said, adding that they were patrolling for the security of trucks carrying coal to Punjab from Duki coal fields.
Later, a bomb disposal squad visited the scene of attack and collected evidence. Initial investigation showed the IED was detonated with remote control.
On Oct 11, armed assailants killed 21 coal miners and left six others injured in the coal field area. The assailants also destroyed ten mines and burnt equipment and machinery.
Authorities were alerted by the locals about the presence of the bodies. After receiving the information, Levies personnel arrived at the site, took the bodies into custody and shifted them to the district hospital.
Source: Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1867897/four-fc-men-injured-in-duki-ied-attack
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President, PM reaffirm support to occupied Kashmir freedom struggle
BakhtawarMian
October 27, 2024
ISLAMABD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif have reiterated their resolve to continue extending full moral, diplomatic and political support to Kashmiri brothers and sisters until they achieve their inalienable right to self-determination according to UN Security Council resolutions.
They urged the international community to take serious notice of Indian atrocities on, and human rights abuses of, the people of Kashmir and prevail upon the aggressor to implement the world body resolutions.
“We urge the international community to pressurise India to halt its human rights abuses in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), alleviate the suffering of Kashmiris, and implement UN Security Council resolutions. Pakistan will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with its Kashmiri brothers and sisters until they achieve their inalienable right to self-determination,” President Zardari said in his message on the occasion of ‘Kashmir Black Day’ being observed on Sunday (Oct 27).
For decades, the people of IIOJK have endured brutal repression by Indian forces. Over the years, India has transformed IIOJK into one of the most militarised regions in the world.
Thousands of innocent Kashmiris have been killed, while their legitimate leaders remain imprisoned, and local media is heavily censored, the message said.
The United Nations Security Council has repeatedly affirmed the right of the Kashmiri people to self-determination through a fair and impartial plebiscite. Yet, India continues to defy these resolutions and deny Kashmiris their fundamental rights.
Since August 5, 2019, India has further escalated its occupation by stripping IIOJK of its special status and implementing measures to alter its demographic and political landscape.
“We strongly condemn India’s ongoing atrocities and reaffirm our unwavering moral, diplomatic, and political support for the Kashmiri people’s just cause. The recent developments in the Middle East are a stark reminder that long-standing disputes should not be allowed to fester. Violating international law and pushing disputes under the rug does not guarantee lasting peace. Three generations of Kashmiris have waited for the world, especially the United Nations, to deliver them their right to self-determination. The world can no longer ignore its responsibility,” President Zardari said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif in his message said, “On this day, 77 years ago, Indian forces landed in Srinagar. India has since stifled the legitimate aspirations of the Kashmiri people to determine their own destiny. It has failed to fulfill its obligations under the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. The people of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have suffered countless hardships during the last seventy-seven years. However, their resolve to realize their inalienable right to self-determination remains as firm as it was in 1947.”
He praised the sacrifices made by the Kashmiri people in their continued struggle for the right to self-determination. Undoubtedly, their sacrifices will not go in vain.
India has been taking successive steps to tighten its grip over IIOJK since 5 August 2019. India’s nefarious designs are aimed at undermining the disputed status of IIOJK and denying the Kashmiri people their democratic right to decide their own future, the message said.
Today, the Kashmiri people are enduring the most egregious and painful curbs on their daily lives and livelihoods. The number of political prisoners remains in the thousands. The Indian occupation forces act with impunity under draconian counterterrorism laws.
He mentioned his recent address to the United Nations General Assembly saying that Pakistan has consistently maintained that peace and stability in South Asia remain contingent upon peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the relevant UNSC resolutions and aspirations of the Kashmiris. India must realize that it cannot suppress the genuine aspirations of the Kashmiri people by its coercive tactics.
Pakistan has always expressed its unwavering solidarity with Kashmiri brothers and sisters. It will continue to extend its full moral, diplomatic and political support to them until the final resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
Source: Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1867862/president-pm-reaffirm-support-to-occupied-kashmir-freedom-struggle
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Fazl renews call for fresh elections
SajjadAbbassNiazi
October 27, 2024
SARGODHA: JUI-F emir MaulanaFazlurRehman on Saturday reiterated his call for fresh elections, declaring that the present assembly is not legitimate.
Speaking to party workers in Khushab, he stressed the need for new elections, arguing that the country was being mismanaged. “At present, it’s a case of putting the cart before the horse,” he said.
MaulanaFazl reaffirmed JUI-F’s position as part of the opposition, stating that the party would remain in that role. He stressed that the party had participated in discussions on the recent constitutional amendment as a key stakeholder alongside other opposition parties.
On the recent change of command in the Supreme Court, the JUI-F chief expressed hope for a “constructive term” under Chief Justice Yahya Afridi.
However, he refrained from commenting on the tenure of the outgoing CJP QaziFaez Isa, stating, “Since he has completed his term, further comments serve no purpose.”
Earlier in Sargodha, while speaking to workers and the media, the JUI-F emir stressed that the Federal Shariat Court’s ruling on implementing an interest-free economy was final and the country would positively transition to this system by 2028.
MaulanaFazl also praised the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting, describing it as a positive step from an economic perspective. He urged all political parties to unite to improve the economy.
When asked about government’s potential plans for a new constitutional amendment, the JUI-F chief stated that he was unaware of any such developments. He made it clear that his party would oppose any attempt to include the text of the 26th Amendment in future legislation.
Source: Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1867883/fazl-renews-call-for-fresh-elections
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PTI distances itself from plea filed in IHC on Imran’s behalf
Malik Asad
October27, 2024
ISLAMABAD: In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf on Saturday distanced itself from a petition filed in the Islamabad High Court by Advocate Faisal Hussain Chaudhry on behalf of its founding chairman Imran Khan challenging the withdrawal of certain facilities in prison.
Interestingly, Advocate Faisal claimed that the petition was filed with the consent of PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan. But the PTI chairman reportedly said on Saturday night that Faisal Chaudhry had filed the petition on his own and used an outdated wakalatnama (power of attorney) of Imran Khan.
Just a day ago, Faisal Chaudhry was reportedly excluded from the PTI’s legal team, with the party’s Secretary General Salman Akram Raja instructing him to disassociate from all cases related to the PTI founder. He has also been removed from PTI lawyers’ WhatsApp groups. Barrister Gohar also confirmed this on Saturday night.
There are allegations that Faisal Chaudhry, alongside IntizarPanjutha, was working to facilitate the return of certain leaders to the party, indicating possible internal dynamics within PTI’s legal and leadership circles.
Notably, Advocate Faisal’s brother, Fawad Chaudhry, previously served as a cabinet minister in the PTI government, but left the party during the crackdown on its leaders following the regime change in 2022.
The petition filed in the IHC claimed that Imran Khan’s political opponents are determined to undermine his commitment to democracy, rule of law, Constitution and the people of Pakistan, alleging that he has been subjected to inhumane treatment since Oct 3 this year by the prison authorities. It said the PTI founder has been denied his legal rights and made to endure severe conditions that violate prison rules.
The petition said the former premier “has been subjected to mental torture by the respondent authorities and he was kept in a tiny cell measuring 8x6 feet death cell throughout the day and not allowed exercise or walk. The electricity of his cell was disconnected for many days and he was made to sit in a pitch dark room all alone from 12 to 14 hours, putting his life and security on utmost down to the illegal and unlawful command of the incumbent government”.
The petition cited some news reports about the poor quality of food provided to Mr Khan, which has caused him acute stomachaches and vomiting. “The petitioner has also not been provided newspapers or other reading material since Oct 3, to keep him oblivion from the ongoing hostilities and brutal crackdown on his family and his workers.”
Meanwhile, the indictment of Imran Khan and his spouse Bushra Bibi in the Toshakhana case was postponed again, as Special Judge Central ShahrukhArjumand was on leave.
Previously, the judge was set to formally indict them concerning allegations of retaining an expensive Bulgari jewellery set from Toshakhana at a minimal cost. With Judge Arjumand unavailable, the court staff postponed the proceedings until later this month.
The next court session will be held in Adiala Jail, though prior security and legal considerations have influenced the scheduling and location of hearings for this high-profile case.
Source: Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1867885/pti-distances-itself-from-plea-filed-in-ihc-on-imrans-behalf
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SHC orders Sindh govt to hold MDCAT afresh within four weeks
IshaqTanoli
October 27, 2024
KARACHI: The Sindh High Court on Saturday directed the authorities to hold afresh the Medical and Dental Colleges Admission Test (MDCAT) within four weeks after a probe committee unanimously concluded that the entire test procedure was compromised.
A two-judge bench comprising Justice SalahuddinPanhwar and Justice Amjad Ali Sahito also declared that no fresh fees of any nature will be charged from the students/candidates as they have already paid such dues.
It asked the Sindh government to meet all expenditures required to retake MDCAT and to hire the services of IBA Karachi/IBA Sukkur for such a purpose.
The bench passed these directives while disposing of a set of petitions filed by various candidates asking the SHC to declare the MDCAT held on Sept 22 in the province as null and void as well as to issue a directive for respondents to retake the exam.
An official of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) also filed a report in which it initially named DrSajidMehmoodAlvi and Dr Vinod Kumar as suspects.
The FIA in its report disclosed that the suspects had sharing the leaked MDCAT paper in different WhatsApp groups on Sept 21 around 14 hours before the exam. It said that around 75 per cent of the questions of the test paper were leaked before its commencement.
It added that the involvement of over 42 staff members in printing, binding and sorting process of the test paper over a 10-day period significantly weakened the security surrounding the test paper and its contents.
The report also said that the data of 1,186 students, who scored 187 or higher in MDCAT 2024, was analysed and compared with their percentage scores in board exams and the resulting correlation coefficient of 0.06 indicates a very weak positive correlation between the MDCAT scores and the percentage marks obtained in the board exams.
The bench noted that as per reports filed in court, the committee held its meetings and took all necessary measures including the use of digital tools by the cybercrime wing of FIA as well as evidence through various means including freezing of the mobile phones and recovering such data.
It said that the committee found that the entire conduct of the MDCAT organised by the Dow University Health Sciences (DUHS) in the province was compromised at all the given stages.
The bench in its order also said that the committee unanimously concluded that sufficient evidence had come on record and there was no other option except to retake the examination.
It said that all government representatives as well as officials of DUHS and PMDC “have collectively agreed that this is a fit case of a retake of the subject entry test”.
“Accordingly, the Secretary, Universities and Boards Department, Secretary Health Department, and Chief Secretary, Government of Sindh, shall ensure that the retake of the MDCAT examination is conducted within four weeks from today,” the bench ruled.
The bench noted: “DUHS has been conducting the test for the last two years with having no question bank above than 400 questions and if this validation was permitted for the recent test, which will be conducted by a reputable testing institute with a substantial question bank, fresh candidates will be penalised for no fault of their own.
“Accordingly, for this retake test only, this rule will not penalise the fresh candidates and the validation of last year’s result will not be considered for this year’s admissions while the procedure provided for the reduction of 10pc of marks for improver candidates must not be applied in the present retake and therefore the repeaters shall be considered as fresh candidates in order to safeguard their basic rights and prevent any prejudice against them,” the bench ruled.
“The admission test to be conducted following the relevant guidelines framed by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) and from the syllabus taught by the Sindh Textbook Board and other boards of the federation and universities in Sindh while keeping in view that there are different boards in the province with varying syllabi. The MDCAT must be based on the syllabus being taught by the government of Sindh to private and public sector institutions without any discrimination and with structure, weightage and difficulty levels given under MDCAT Curriculum 2023,” the order said.
The bench also noted that “it has been established on record that 18 colleges and Aga Khan University along with other private universities are exempted from the MDCAT test, which is contrary to the law and basic principles governing equality of citizens as provided under Article 25 of the Constitution,” it noted.
It directed the PMDC to revisit and amend the law with regard to validation of tests and must ensure that there must not be any discrimination between public and private universities.
The bench further ordered the provincial government and the PMDC to must ensure that they shall depute vigilance committees for all the test retake venues across the province.
It also asked the probe committee to continue its mandate and fix liability on the delinquent individuals involved in this serious crime and the FIA inquiry must also be completed within two months in accordance with the law including an earlier inquiry pending against last year paper leak in the MDCAT.
Earlier, various candidates through their lawyers ShoaibKhatiyan, Nabeel Ahmed Khan and others filed four identical petitions impugning the result of MDCAT.
Source: Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1867817/shc-orders-sindh-govt-to-hold-mdcat-afresh-within-four-weeks
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26th Amendment seals avenues of interventions: Rana Sanaullah
Zulqernain Tahir
October 27, 2024
LAHORE: Former law minister and PML-N’s Punjab chapter president Rana Sanaullah has said that with the passage of the 26th constitutional amendment, Pakistan is now safeguarded against “backdoor interventions”, as those channels have been permanently closed.
While addressing a press conference on Saturday, the PML-N stalwart said former chief justice SaqibNisar played an “unconstitutional role” in the ouster of an elected leader, Nawaz Sharif.
“After Nisar’s intervention, the project (Imran Khan) was imposed by the establishment and judiciary, which brought Pakistan to the verge of economic default,” he said.
The PML-N leader said the original draft of the constitutional package presented by the government and the final one passed were markedly different.
“Flexibility was introduced to promote unity. The final draft, which was approved, was crafted in collaboration between MaulanaFazlur Rahman and PTI. We agreed to this for the sake of national solidarity. To reach a national consensus, we set aside our own 10 points.”
“With the 26th Constitutional Amendment, Pakistan will no longer suffer from such backdoor interventions, as those avenues have been sealed,” he said.
Commenting on the appointment of the chief justice, MrSanaullah said it was initially proposed that the prime minister should appoint the CJP from among the three senior judges.
In response to a question about the bail of the spouse and sisters of PTI founder Imran Khan, the PML-N leader dismissed the notion of any deal. “This perception is completely baseless. Any deal would be made with us, as we are the legitimate authority. Unfortunately, the practice of targeting women in legal cases began during PTI’s tenure, when Shehbaz Sharif’s family women were dragged into court and Maryam Nawaz was imprisoned,” he said.
In Saturday’s meeting, discussions focused on the upcoming local government elections. “We are gearing up for local government elections in Punjab, and once elected, we aim to strengthen the local bodies,” he concluded.
Source: Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1867882/26th-amendment-seals-avenues-of-interventions-rana-sanaullah
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Another challenge to 26th amendment lands in SHC
IshaqTanoli
October 27, 2024
KARACHI: A petition filed in the Sindh High Court (SHC) on Saturday challenged the 26th Constitutional Amendment and asked the court to declare it against the Constitution.
This is the second petition in the SHC against the constitutional amendment passed last week. A challenge has also been submitted to the Supreme Court.
The recent petition, filed by two lawyers, asserted that the amendment was liable to be struck on the grounds of procedural impropriety as well as interference in the independence of the judiciary.
The petitioners contended that the amendment was “not passed” by the two-thirds majority in both houses of parliament as required by Article 239 of the Constitution.
The petitioners asserted that certain clauses of the 26th Constitutional Amendment have “violated” the salient feature and basic structure of the Constitution.
This would also allow the executive to “influence” the judges since “non-judicial members” have now been inducted into the Judicial Commission of Pakistan.
A few days earlier, another lawyer had filed an identical petition in the SHC and asserted that the amendment was “contrary to the principles of judicial independence and separation of powers”.
While addressing the protesters, KBA president Amir Nawaz Warraich and Sindh High Court Bar Association vice president Zubair Ahmed Abro called the amendment “a direct attack” on the independence of the judiciary.
Source: Dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1867880/another-challenge-to-26th-amendment-lands-in-shc
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Africa
MNJTF Faults ISWAP Claims of Providing Protection, Enforcing Islamic Law in Lake Chad Communities
27-10-2024
The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), yesterday dismissed claims by ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists that they have peaceful coexistence with communities in the Lake Chad region.
MNJTF described as false and misleading information a footage by ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists on the TikTok account of Albanarwy 1446, also known as ibn AbubakarAlbanarwy.
The MNJTF also averred that these terrorist groups have been propagating a distorted narrative, falsely portraying a harmonious relationship between the communities in the Lake Chad region and themselves.
Chief Military Information Officer, HQ MNJTF, N’Djamena, Chad, Lieutenant Colonel OlaniyiOsoba, said the terrorist groups claimed to offer protection and enforce strict Sharia law, which misrepresents the reality of their actions and intentions.
According to him, “the manipulated footage features farmers, herders and fishermen speaking in Hausa, falsely emphasising their purported harmonious relationship with ISWAP/ Boko Haram terrorists. The report also contained some unimaginable and not well-couched falsehoods targeted at whipping up emotions and creating the illusion that the terrorist groups are protecting lives and property in the Lake Chad region.
“The MNJTF wishes to state categorically that the footage is intended to mislead and manipulate public opinion while concealing the horrific acts they have been committing against innocent populace in the region”.
Osoba revealed that the MNJTF had documented numerous instances of forced displacement, brutal killings, kidnappings, and other heinous acts perpetrated by ISWAP/Boko Haram Terrorists, which inflicted fear and suffering among the local communities.
He averred that contrary to the false portrayal of peaceful coexistence, the MNJTF is actively engaged in stabilising the area, providing genuine protection to civilians, and creating conditions conducive to sustainable peace and development.
“Additionally, the ISWAP/Boko Haram terrorists, rather than acting as protectors, have devastated local economies by restricting freedom of movement and disrupting farming, fishing, and trade. In contrast, the MNJTF is actively collaborating with regional partners and national forces to stabilize the region, provide genuine civilian protection, and create conditions conducive to sustainable peace and development,” the MNJTF spokesperson said.
According to him, MNJTF has recorded significant progress, adding that more than 30,000 refugees and internally displaced persons have been successfully repatriated to their communities.
He added that normalcy has been restored in places like Kirawa, Banki, Cross Kukawa, Baga, and other smaller communities, while efforts were made to support IDPs in Baraou in Niger, Amchide in Cameroon, and Bagatolorom as well as Litri in Chad.
Source: Www.Thisdaylive.com
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https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2024/10/27/mnjtf-faults-iswap-claims-of-providing-protection-enforcing-islamic-law-in-lake-chad-communities/
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Michelle Obama's fiery abortion pitch as Trump courts Muslim vote
27 October 2024
In her first appearance on the campaign trail alongside Vice-President Kamala Harris, former First Lady Michelle Obama urged Americans to cast their votes to protect the country from the "dangers" of Donald Trump.
At another event in Michigan, Donald Trump vowed to breathe fresh life into the state's automotive industry and met with Arab-Americans he said could "turn the election".
Polls show the two locked in a tight race in Michigan, with Harris holding an extremely narrow lead 10 days before the 5 November election.
President Joe Biden won Michigan by a narrow margin of 2.78% in 2020 - about 150,000 votes - helping to propel him to the presidency.
Speaking to a crowd of thousands at an events centre in Kalamazoo, Obama made repeated jabs at Trump, pointing to what she termed his "erratic behaviour" and "obvious mental decline".
The bulk of her speech, however, focused on a "genuine fear" of how a Trump administration could impact abortion rights, telling an enthusiastic crowd of voters that she believes a failure to elect Kamala Harris could have deadly consequences.
Many abortion rights advocates have raised concerns that abortion bans have threatened women's lives by denying them life-saving medical treatment.
"I'm deeply concerned that so many people are buying into the lies of people who don't have our best interests at heart," Obama said, adding that "ugliness will touch all of our lives".
"We are supporting Donald Trump because he promised to end war in the Middle East and Ukraine," MrBazzi said. "The bloodshed has to stop all over the world, and I think this man can make it happen."
The state is home to the 'Uncommitted' movement, which does not support Trump, but has refused to endorse Harris for what they see as a failure to take a more firm stance against Israel during the war in Gaza, such as committing to a weapons ban.
At the Democratic rally in Kalamazoo, however, some voters said they were much more preoccupied with abortion rights and perceptions that Trump is "undemocratic", than they were about conflicts abroad.
Kelly Landon, a resident of Canton, Michigan, said that her primary motivation in this election was allowing female relatives to be safe and be in charge of their bodies and their own futures."
Ms Landon said, in her view, other issues are secondary to the health and safety of women, as well as "their right to live the way they want to live".
National polling averages tracked by the BBC show Harris with a slight lead nationally, although with Trump narrowly ahead in five of the seven battleground states that could decide the election.
Source: Www.Thisdaylive.com
Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.the-star.co.ke/world/2024-10-27-michelle-obamas-fiery-abortion-pitch-as-trump-courts-muslim-vote
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Police reveal identity of inspector who killed Nigerian musician
October 27, 2024
The police in Enugu State have disclosed the identity of the inspector who shot dead a popular Nigerian musician, ChikezieMba, in the state.
The musician, popularly known as Igbo-Jah, attended an event at the police facility when operatives began shooting indiscriminately.
The police authorities claimed the musician was leaving the facility after a “friendly” visit when the inspector fired his rifle at him “for reasons yet to be ascertained.”
In a statement on Saturday night, the police spokesperson in Enugu State, Daniel Ndukwe, identified the inspector as Joseph Ozonwanji.
“He is currently in custody and will be made to face the full weight of the law upon the conclusion of the investigation,” said MrNdukwe, a deputy superintendent of police.
MrNdukwe also said the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, KanayoUzuegbu, later on Saturday visited the musician’s family in the company of officials of the Enugu State Government.
He assured the people of Enugu State that the ongoing investigation into the case would be concluded speedily and justice would be duly served.
The commissioner stressed that the Nigeria Police Force remains a disciplined organisation where erring police officers are usually punished for their misconduct.
Source: Www.Premiumtimesng.com
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https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/ssouth-east/749158-police-reveal-identity-of-inspector-who-killed-nigerian-musician.html
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How previously demolished building collapsed, trapped victims in Abuja – Police
October 27, 2024
The Federal Capital Territory, FCT Police Command has thrown more light on the building collapse incident that occurred at the Vidaz Estate, within the SabonLugbe extension area of the nation’s capital.
Confirming the unfortunate incident on Sunday, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, explained that the building was “previously demolished by the FCT Authorities due to its location in an illegally-acquired area”.
According to her, the structure was further compromised by scavengers popularly known as baban bola, who tampered with the remnants of the building for scrap metal, leading to its secondary collapse and trapping of the victims.
The PPRO confirmed that a total of five persons have successfully been rescued from the debris, stating that there were no fatalities reported.
“In light of this incident, we urge the public to respect the boundaries of demolished structures and construction sites, ensuring their safety and preventing similar occurrences in the future,” the statement added.
Source: Dailypost.ng
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https://dailypost.ng/2024/10/27/how-previously-demolished-building-collapsed-trapped-victims-in-abuja-police/
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NNPP Sweeps Kano Local Government Election
By SadiqIliyasu
October 26, 2024
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has secured all the chairmanship and councillorship positions in the just concluded local government elections across the 44 local government areas of Kano State in a sweeping victory.
This was announced by the Chairman of the Kano Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC), Sani Malumfashi, at the commission’s headquarters, declaring the NNPP as the winner in every local government contested.
Speaking during the press briefing, Malumfashi praised the peaceful conduct of the election, noting that there were no reports of violence or electoral malpractices.
“We are pleased to announce that the NNPP has won all the chairmanship and councillorship seats across the 44 local government areas. The election was conducted in a transparent and orderly manner, and we did not receive any reports of violence,” he said.
Meanwhile, observers have hailed the election as a significant achievement for the state, praising the seamless organization and security arrangements that ensured the elections were conducted without incidents.
On Friday, the Kano State High Court granted the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) the authority to proceed with the local government elections, nullifying all attempts by political parties to stop the exercise.
Justice SanusiMa’aji who presided over the case, ruled that KANSIEC is empowered by the Constitution to conduct, supervise, and oversee local government elections across the 44 local government areas (LGAs) in Kano State.
Our correspondents who monitored the process on Saturday, reported that local vigilante groups and officials of Kano Road Transport Agency, Karota provided security at the polling units.
This was after the Kano State Police Command said it would comply with a court order, restricting it from taking part in the election.
Source: www.channelstv.com
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https://www.channelstv.com/2024/10/26/just-in-nnpp-sweeps-kano-local-government-election/
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Southeast Asia
Malaysian pharmacist found stabbed to death in newly-bought Melbourne home
By Malay Mail
27 Oct 2024
MELBOURNE, Oct 27 — A Malaysian-born pharmacist was found dead in his home in a Melbourne suburb on Wednesday (October 23).
Australia’s 7News reported that Leong ‘KC’ Kum Chuan, 29, was found dead by a friend at his Davidson St townhouse in Bellfield and is believed to have died from multiple stabbings on Tuesday night.
His accused killer Simon Hunter, 54, was arrested just across the road from Leong’s house, near a toilet block in a park.
The accused murderer had appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court via a video link during which he flew into fits of rage and started rambling incoherently as well as pacing.
His lawyer said Hunter had been previously diagnosed with schizophrenia and had not taken his medication in two weeks.
Source: Www.malaymail.Com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/10/27/malaysian-pharmacist-found-stabbed-to-death-in-newly-bought-melbourne-home/155017
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Not beneath an MCA president: Zahid says KaSiong’s appointment as Chinese investment advisor based on mutual understanding
27 Oct 2024
TEMERLOH, Oct 27 — Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the appointment of Datuk Seri Dr Wee KaSiong as the investment advisor for the Chinese community in Malaysia does not affect Wee’s image or position as MCA president.
Ahmad Zahid, also the Deputy Prime Minister, said the appointment was based on a mutual understanding and to ensure investment opportunities are realised for the country’s progress.
“No, this is an understanding between us both and as an appreciation for his role in bringing in investors from China (and) for helping me as the Halal Industry Development Council chairman.
“I announced his appointment when he joined my delegation to Shanghai (China) last month and publicly at the 71st MCA annual general assembly last week. (His appointment) is based on his background and experience,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid told reporters this after officiating the 2024 Pahang BN Convention at Dewan TunRazak here today, which was also attended by Pahang MenteriBesar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail and BN secretary-general Datuk Seri DrZambryAbdKadir.
Through the appointment, Ahmad Zahid said, Wee would, among others, follow through or take follow-up action in listing potential China investors to invest in the country’s halal industry.
Ahmad Zahid said this when commenting on the action of several MCA leaders who are allegedly unhappy with Wee’s appointment as they felt it does not match his status as a BN component party leader who is usually given a ministerial position.
Wee, however, in a news portal report yesterday, urged MCA members to be far-sighted and said he was driven to leverage the party’s relationship with the Chinese government and make the appointment a platform to promote good relations and cooperation between the two countries.
In another development, Ahmad Zahid, also the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, has left it completely to the authorities to investigate the China flag-raising incident which allegedly occurred during a gathering in front of the leaning tower of TelukIntan, Perak.
Yesterday, Perak police chief Datuk Azizi Mat Aris confirmed that the gathering on Thursday night (Oct 24) violated the terms of the permit issued to the organiser and police had recorded statements from several individuals, including the organisers and the Chinese nationals, to assist in investigations.
A video clip of the incident went viral on social media and the Guan Gong Cultural Association of Malaysia later apologised for the incident, which it claimed was unplanned.
Source: Www.malaymail.Com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/10/27/not-beneath-an-mca-president-zahid-says-ka-siongs-appointment-as-chinese-investment-advisor-based-on-mutual-understanding/155013
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Higher education minister: Ministry will examine guidelines for Act 605 review
27 Oct 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 27 — The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) will study the guidelines of the Statutory Bodies (Discipline and Surcharge) Act 2020 (Act 605), to consider granting exemptions to higher education institutions in several matters.
Higher Education director-general Prof AzlindaAzman said that the ministry is committed to conducting a thorough review of these guidelines, as stated by the Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, in the Dewan Rakyat on Thursday.
“We are still in the discussion stage,” she told reporters after attending the presentation ceremony for educational aid to public university students, at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), today.
Also present at the event were the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk MohdNa’im Mokhtar; IIUM Rector Professor Emeritus Datuk Osman Bakar; and the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (Yapeim) Datuk MohdRadzifMohdYunus.
On Thursday, Zambry, during Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, said that there was a need to review Act 605, to ensure that public universities in the country are not bound by the entirety of the circulars issued to statutory bodies.
He explained that the move is to ensure that the environment and ecosystem within public universities, especially for lecturers, allow freedom of expression without constraint.
Meanwhile, Osman expressed IIUM’s support for the initiative to review Act 605, highlighting the importance of safeguarding academic freedom, while preventing potential misuse of that freedom.
“At the university level, particularly at IIUM, we are committed to upholding freedom of speech, especially concerning academic matters... The key is to ensure that such freedom is responsibly exercised,” he said.
Earlier, MohdNa’im presented Yapeim’sDidikMadani educational aid, totalling RM2.34 million, to 20 public universities across the country to support students in financial need.
He noted that this cash assistance, of RM1,000 per recipient, would benefit 2,340 newly enrolled Bachelor’s degree students for the 2024/2025 academic session.
“This initiative by Yapeim aims to alleviate the financial strain on students and their families, by assisting with registration fees and easing the overall burden associated with university enrollment,” he said.
Source: Www.malaymail.Com
Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/10/27/higher-education-minister-ministry-will-examine-guidelines-for-act-605-review/155014
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PM Anwar: ‘SejatiMadani’ programme to be implemented in all villages nationwide
27 Oct 2024
KUALA KANGSAR, Oct 27 — The implementation of the Sejahtera KomunitiMadani (SejatiMadani) programme to empower the community through socioeconomic improvement activities will involve all villages nationwide, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said that although the programme could not be implemented in all the villages simultaneously, it is up to the parties responsible to improve the village economy.
“(Through) SejatiMadani, we are giving direct responsibility and challenging the villagers to do so, where they will each be given an allocation of between RM50,000 and RM100,000.
“I give you the funds, you all decide what to do for the benefit of the villagers. You can buy tractors or boats, but the decision is not by one person (but) that of every representative of the village community that can revive the economy,” he said at an event with the community of Padang Rengas at Dataran Arena Square PekanIsnin here. today.
Thus, Anwar who is also the Minister of Finance advised the village community to make the best decision to ensure the success of the programme, adding that RM1 billion is allocated for the initiative in the 2025 Budget.
Source: Www.malaymail.Com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/10/27/pm-anwar-sejati-madani-programme-to-be-implemented-in-all-villages-nationwide/155005
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Gobind: PM to launch national AI office on Dec 12
27 Oct 2024
JOHOR BAHRU, Oct 27 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to launch the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) in Kuala Lumpur on December 12.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the office will play a key role in helping the government formulate appropriate policies for Artificial Intelligence (AI) development and drafting relevant laws for AI.
“The important thing is to launch this office (NAIO), then, we will gather input from the entire industry to understand its needs (AI industry).
“As we move towards AI, we will look at how it brings benefits while also acknowledging the associated risks, and how we can balance both,” he told reporters after officiating the GDS Data Centre Supply Chain Ecosystem Summit here today.
The event was also attended by Johor MenteriBesar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Deputy Communications Minister TeoNie Ching, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Liew Ching Tong as well as the founder, chairman and chief executive officer of GDS Holdings, William Huang.
In a written response in Parliament last Wednesday (October 23), the Digital Ministry stated that the establishment of the NAIO is expected to enhance the country’s AI capabilities by fostering innovation, promoting cross-sector collaboration and supporting AI integration within the government’s framework, industry and society.
Additionally, NAIO will also lead initiatives to harness AI to strengthen the digital economy, improve public services and contribute to sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Gobind said the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) will open an office in Johor next month to facilitate investments related to the digital economy.
He said this would be the second MDEC office outside the Klang Valley after Penang, in preparation to assist investors ahead of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) signing ceremony, which is expected to take place later this year.
“MDEC will see how we can facilitate the process if investors show interest in investing and participating in JS-SEZ, and to make it easier for them to come to Johor to start their business,” he said.
When asked about Johor’s preparedness to become a data centre hub, Gobind said the state is well-prepared due to the state government’s effort in establishing the required infrastructure and industry support.
In a related development, Onn Hafiz said the state government has established the Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC) to ensure an adequate supply of skilled local talents for the data centre industry.
Earlier, Gobind and Onn Hafiz witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between GDS International and five key supplier companies to develop a supply chain system in Malaysia.
The one-day summit attracted about 400 local and foreign participants, as well as suppliers from China, Malaysia, the United States and Japan, who showcased their cutting-edge data centre services and solutions through an exhibition format.
The summit highlighted the significant impact of supply chain on the data centre industry, foster collaboration between government agencies and industry leaders, and highlight the wealth of investment opportunities within the country.
Source: Www.malaymail.Com
Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/10/27/gobind-pm-to-launch-national-ai-office-on-dec-12/155004
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‘I’m just an encik’, Loke says as he reaffirms DAP’s policy on titles for elected reps
27 Oct 2024
KOTA KINABALU, Oct 27 — DAP’s policy prohibiting elected representatives from accepting honorific titles while in office still stands, said party secretary-general Anthony Loke.
He clarified that no exceptions are given to Sabahan elected representatives from DAP regarding the acceptance of honorific titles conferred on them.
“It is not to say (an) exception. The policy still stands, but the Sabah DAP elected representatives have explained it was given to them by the Head of State of Sabah, without them asking.
“This is something which, of course, we know (of) that certain states offered our elected representatives honorific titles without them applying for it, not only in Sabah as we also have another case in Selangor where the exco member from DAP was also conferred a Datukship last year, and the Sultan of Selangor openly mentioned that he wants to confer him.
“So in that case, it was not applied and they have explained. And we have taken certain measures within the party. As far as this policy is concerned, as I mentioned to them, I will raise it at the next party congress for the members to debate whether we should review the policy.
“As of now, right now, of course, the policy stands. All the five DAP federal cabinet ministers, are without title, except the deputy minister from Sabah. I don’t have a title. I’m not a Datuk... I am just an Encik,” said Loke, who is Transport Minister, after officiating DAP Sabah’s ordinary convention at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here today
DAP leaders are not in government to ask or to fight for titles. With or without titles, we just do our work. We do not want our people fighting for all these titles or applying (for the titles) themselves.
“That is not allowed. In the case of some of them, it was conferred to them without them applying it and we have to work out a mechanism in the future,” he said.
A few years ago, the late Datuk Stephen Wong, Datuk Jimmy Wong and Datuk Frankie Poon received their titles, while last year, Datuk Ginger Phoong and Datuk Chan FoongHin were reprimanded by the party’s central executive committee (CEC) for accepting the title awarded to them.
Likas assemblyman Tan Lee Fatt was the latest DAP leader to be conferred the PanglimaGemilangDarjahKinabalu (PGDK) award, which carries the title ‘Datuk’ in conjunction with the 71st birthday celebration of Yang di-PertuaNegeriTunJuharMahiruddin on October 5.
Source: Www.malaymail.Com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/10/27/im-just-an-encik-loke-says-as-he-reaffirms-daps-policy-on-titles-for-elected-reps/155000
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Arab world
Saudi Arabia sends 14th relief plane to Lebanon
Arab News
October 27, 2024
RIYADH: The 14th KSrelief aid plane to Lebanon arrived on Sunday at Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut, Saudi state news agency SPA reported.
The plane carried essential relief supplies, including food, medical, and shelter materials, aimed at supporting those affected by the ongoing crises.
This follows the directives of King Salman and Crown Prince Prince Mohammed bin Salman to support the Lebanese people.
Source: Www.arabnews.Com
Please click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2576961/saudi-arabia
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Saudi deputy foreign minister engages in key diplomatic meetings at donors’ conference in Jeddah
Arab News
October 26, 2024
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s deputy minister of foreign affairs Waleed Elkhereiji held a series of high-level meetings on Saturday on the sidelines of the Donors’ Conference to Support Internally Displaced People and Refugees in the Sahel and Lake Chad Region.
The conference, held in Jeddah, brought together international representatives to address the humanitarian challenges impacting the region.
Elkhereiji met with HisseinBrahimTaha, Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), to review Saudi Arabia’s relations with the OIC across various sectors.
Discussions also covered significant regional and international developments and the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to address these challenges. Saleh Al-Suhaibani, the Kingdom’s Permanent Representative to the OIC, was present at the meeting.
The two officials explored opportunities to enhance Saudi-UNICEF cooperation, focusing on the organization's humanitarian efforts and sustainable development goals (SDGs). Al-Suhaibani and Fareed Al-Shehri, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs branch in the Makkah Region, also attended the meeting.
Elkhereiji also held talks with Mohamed Salem OuldMerzoug, Mauritania's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad.
Their discussions centered on strengthening bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Mauritania, while also addressing regional and international developments.
These meetings underscore Saudi Arabia’s active role in fostering international cooperation and addressing pressing humanitarian issues in the Sahel and Lake Chad regions, with the aim of contributing to sustainable development and stability in affected areas.
Source: Www.arabnews.Com
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KSrelief chief, UNHCR official meet on sidelines of Sahel donor conference
Arab News
October 26, 2024
JEDDAH: Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, head of KSrelief, met with RaoufMazou, the UNHCR assistant high commissioner for operations on Saturday to address critical humanitarian needs in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin, Saudi Press Agency reported.
The meeting was held on the sidelines of the High-Level Ministerial Donors Conference, co-hosted by KSrelief and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Jeddah.
Al-Rabeeah and Mazou discussed ongoing relief efforts and explored avenues to bolster cooperation in aid distribution and refugee assistance.
Mazou praised Saudi Arabia’s extensive humanitarian initiatives, particularly through KSrelief’s efforts to aid displaced populations worldwide.
The conference shed light on a crisis that has often been overshadowed by other global events.
More than 33 million people across six nations — Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, and Mali — are suffering the severe consequences of conflict, displacement, and food insecurity.
Addressing this pressing crisis, the Jeddah conference brought together international leaders, government representatives, and aid organizations, emphasizing the urgency for unified action and financial commitment to meet the needs of millions affected.
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Forgotten no more: global leaders confront Sahel and Lake Chad Basin crisis at Jeddah conference
MANAL AL-BARAKATI
October 26, 2024
JEDDAH: After years of international neglect, the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin region finally commanded global attention on Saturday as international leaders, humanitarian organizations, and government representatives convened in Jeddah for the High-Level Ministerial Donors Conference.
Co-hosted by Saudi aid agency KSrelief and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the event focused on the plight of more than 33 million people across six countries — Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, and Mali — struggling with conflict, displacement, and hunger.
“The fact that we are all here today is already a success,” Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, supervisor-general of KSrelief, told Arab News on the sidelines of the event. “This conference has brought a forgotten crisis back to the forefront, where it deserves to be, and we are giving voice to millions who have been ignored for too long.”
For years, the multifaceted crisis in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin region has failed to capture the sustained attention of the global community. Despite the destabilizing effects of violent extremism, environmental degradation, and deep-seated poverty, the region has struggled to secure the international resources needed for an effective response.
Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the conference, Gilles Fagninou, UNICEF’s regional director for West and Central Africa, described the dire state of affairs.
“This is one of the most severe humanitarian crises we face, yet it receives far less attention than others,” Fagninou said. “Millions of women, children, and families are trapped in a cycle of suffering that the world seems to have forgotten.”
The violence that is responsible for much of the displacement of the local population in the area has largely been caused by armed groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, which continue to spread terror across northern Nigeria and the broader region. Their brutal insurgencies have forced more than 11 million people from their homes, creating one of the largest displacement crises globally.
Patrick Youssef, regional director for Africa at the International Committee of the Red Cross, emphasized this during his interview with Arab News. “Every year, we see more displacement, more conflict, and an ever-widening gap between humanitarian needs and the resources available,” he said. “Conflict and climate change are converging, making the suffering of these populations unimaginable.”
The humanitarian fallout from the crisis is staggering. Families displaced by conflict now reside in overcrowded camps where basic necessities — food, clean water, and medical care — are in critically short supply.
Al-Rabeeah stressed the human cost, saying: “The numbers are not just statistics — behind every figure is a person who has lost their home, their livelihood, and their sense of safety.”
With more than 3 million internally displaced persons in Nigeria alone and millions more across Chad, Niger, and Burkina Faso, the region’s humanitarian needs are overwhelming.
A particularly pressing concern is food security. According to UNICEF, 13 million people are at immediate risk of malnutrition, with children disproportionately affected. Fagninou warned that the situation is on the verge of spiraling further into disaster.
“We are on the brink of a catastrophe,” he said. “If the international community does not act now, millions of lives are at stake. This crisis is happening now — it is not a distant threat.”
Compounding the region’s instability is the devastating impact of climate change. Lake Chad, once the heartbeat of economic and social life for nearly 30 million people across Nigeria, Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, has shrunk by a staggering 90 percent over the last 50 years due to climate change and unsustainable water use.
The loss of so much of the lake has severely undermined local economies, particularly in fishing and agriculture, while desertification is forcing nomadic herders and farmers into direct competition over dwindling resources.
Youssef highlighted the brutal reality of these interconnected crises in his interview, saying: “The interplay between violence, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation is overwhelming communities.
“We are seeing the catastrophic effects of climate change in real-time. Livelihoods are collapsing, and displaced populations are struggling to find even the most basic resources, such as water and food.”
Erratic weather patterns, including droughts and floods, have further worsened the situation, with agricultural production becoming increasingly unreliable. The Sahel region is now seeing the expansion of arid lands, driving migration and intensifying conflicts over resources.
As Al-Rabeeah noted, addressing these environmental challenges is key to long-term stability. “It is not enough to provide immediate relief; we need to invest in sustainable development and climate adaptation strategies that can prevent future crises,” he said.
Despite the magnitude of the crisis, it remains one of the most underfunded humanitarian emergencies in the world. The UN and international NGOs have repeatedly called attention to the funding gaps that have hampered efforts to meet basic needs, such as food, healthcare, and education.
Al-Rabeeah underscored the importance of a sustained international commitment: “While food security and healthcare are immediate priorities, we must also focus on building resilience and creating pathways for development. This is not just a short-term emergency — it requires a multifaceted, sustained response.”
Both Fagninou and Youssef echoed his sentiments. Fagninou, speaking on the role of the global community, said: “The international community must recognize the urgency of this crisis and provide the necessary resources. Local governments are doing their part, but they cannot tackle this alone.”
Youssef, reflecting on the broader needs, remarked: “Humanitarian assistance alone will not end the suffering. We need a commitment to peace and stability, alongside humanitarian efforts. Without addressing the root causes of conflict, the cycle of violence and displacement will only continue.”
The presence of high-level delegations, UN agencies, and major donor countries at the conference has produced a renewed sense of hope that the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin region will no longer be overlooked, and signals a potential turning point in mobilizing international support. Al-Rabeeah, for one, expressed optimism.
“The fact that so many key stakeholders are at the table — from governments to international donors and UN agencies—means that this crisis is no longer being ignored,” he said. “I believe we can generate significant financial commitments, despite global economic challenges.”
This conference could prove to be a pivotal moment in the international response to one of the world’s most overlooked humanitarian crises. It is a call to action; a reminder that the people of the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin are not forgotten, and that — with the right support — there is still hope for a brighter future.
Source: Www.arabnews.Com
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KSrelief, WFP agree to provide food aid to Yemen
October 26, 2024
JEDDAH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief signed a cooperation agreement with the UN World Food Program at a high-level conference in Jeddah to provide $25 million in food aid to the most vulnerable families in Yemen, Saudi Press Agency reported.
The agreement was signed at the OIC Donor Conference to Support Displaced Persons and Refugees in the Sahel and Lake Chad region, co-hosted by KSrelief and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
It was signed by KSrelief’s senior adviser for medical and humanitarian research, Dr. ZiyadMeemish, and the WFP’s Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer Carl Skau.
Under the terms of the agreement, 13,798 tons of essential food items will be distributed, and the program will support activities that drive resilience by providing conditional financial assistance to participating families, to establish and rehabilitate resources that support the food chain over six cycles.
The initiative will directly benefit 546,364 individuals and indirectly assist a further 57,313 people in the governorates of Hudaydah, Dhale, Marib, Al-Bayda, Hadhramaut, Al-Mahrah, and Socotra.
He met with Skau and the two sides discussed the latest developments in KSrelief-WFP projects, which provide essential food aid and improve living conditions in needy communities.
The two officials discussed cooperation and issues of common interest pertaining to relief and humanitarian affairs, as well as key topics tackled at the conference.
Source: Www.arabnews.Com
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Saudi fund delivers 1,568 housing units in Tunisia
Arab News
October 26, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Tunisia Abdulaziz bin Ali Al-Saqr and Tunisian Minister for Equipment and Housing SarraZaafraniZenzri have overseen the delivery of 1,568 housing units funded by the Saudi Fund for Development in Bakri city in the Ariana Governorate in northern Tunisia.
Abdullah bin Ali bin Mohammed Al-Zahrani, the Saudi fund’s director of North Africa operations, was present at the occasion, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
The initial phase of the project, which is being implemented in various governorates of Tunisia, involves the provision of 4,715 social housing units with concessional financing from the Saudi fund totaling $150 million.
An $85 million contract was signed last month to construct and equip the King Salman bin Abdulaziz University Hospital in Kairouan, Tunisia, through the SFD.
This will reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment and help bridge the development gap between Tunisian regions, promoting social growth and stimulating economic activity.
The Saudi fund has already provided Tunisia with funding for 32 development projects and programs through development soft loans totaling more than $1.23 billion.
In addition, Saudi Arabia has provided four grants through the fund, amounting to more than $105 million, to support various development sectors in Tunisia.
Source: Www.arabnews.Com
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Farmer preserves millet cultivation tradition
Arab News
October 26, 2024
RIYADH: Hussein Al-Ghamdi, an 80-year-old farmer from Al-Makhwah governorate in the Baha region, has dedicated his life to preserving the ancient tradition of millet cultivation in the Shada Mountains.
By utilizing the region’s natural resources, he has transformed barren slopes into fertile terraces producing various crops, with millet as a staple, reports the Saudi Press Agency.
Millet, a resilient crop which is suited to the region’s arid climate, is an ingredient in local cuisine and is used to make dishes like bread and porridge. Its versatility and nutritional value have made it a staple food for centuries.
The annual millet festival in Al-Makhwah has also significantly revitalized the tradition and inspired younger generations to embrace agriculture.
By blending innovation with tradition, Al-Ghamdi continues to enhance the region’s food security and cultural heritage.
Source: Www.arabnews.Com
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Qatar Tech Firm Launches Platform for Tokenized Islamic Finance Contracts
27-10-2024
Blade Labs, the Qatar-based tech company focused on blockchain and Web3, recently unveiled a platform for tokenized Islamic finance contracts also known as Murabaha contracts. This platform will reportedly enable lenders to target a wider customer base without violating Sharia principles.
According to a report, the financial innovation also creates opportunities for non-financial institutions while ensuring secure and tokenized transactions for lenders. In addition to boosting operational efficiency and accessibility, the innovation enables the integration of these institutions’ financing solutions with their services, the statement added.
In a traditional Murabaha contract, an Islamic financial institution purchases an asset and then sells it to a customer at a markup. However, when tokenized, a Murabaha contract is divided into smaller tokens, allowing for fractional ownership and investment.
“As part of the Qatar FinTech Hub (QFTH) 2024 Cohort, we at Blade Labs are transforming Sharia-compliant financing with our blockchain-powered platform for tokenized Murabaha contracts,” Blade Labs said.
According to the report, the tech company’s platform allows non-financial institutions, such as car agencies, to offer Sharia-compliant financing options to customers. This helps these institutions overcome liquidity constraints and provide in-house financing for goods and services.
For Islamic financial institutions, the Murabaha contracts potentially expand their reach, creating new revenue streams within the Sharia framework. By leveraging blockchain technology, Murabaha contracts can optimize operations, enhance capital efficiency, and expand access to Sharia-compliant financing. This development has the potential to revolutionize Islamic finance both domestically and internationally, the report said.
Source: News.bitcoin.Com
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Demolition of Imam al-Shafi’i cemetery halts: Minister
Al-Masry Al-Youm
October 27, 2024
Egyptian Culture Minister Ahmed Fouad Hanno announced that the demolition of the Imam al-Shafi’i cemetery has been temporarily halted.
He added that coordination is underway with the relevant authorities to keep the shrines in place or to study the possibility of moving other shrines to another location to complete the ongoing traffic axis project.
Speaking to Al-Masry Al-Youm, Hanno added that: “The demolition will be halted until the situation of the shrines and cemeteries located in the direction of the new traffic axis is studied.”
He continued that the Culture Ministry acted quickly to halt the ongoing demolition of the cemeteries, and representatives of the Ministry met with all relevant authorities in lengthy meetings to coordinate and halt the demolition currently.
Hanno continued: “We, as the Ministry of Culture, have been very active. We were not asleep to stop the demolition and look for available solutions to preserve the heritage cemeteries and the architectural style there.”
He noted that the Ministry of Culture has prepared a new proposal, which is that the road being built has a number of shrines that must be removed.
They have therefore concluded that some shrines and cemeteries will be spared demolition, and others will be moved and preserved by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities as it is the relevant authority.
Hanno stressed that the temporary halt to demolition is an opportunity to review the status of all cemeteries and shrines and study how to preserve them.
Source: News.egyptindependent.Com
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Moody’s Affirms Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) Aa3 Insurance Financial Strength Rating (IFSR) with Stable Outlook for the 17th Consecutive Year
October 27, 2024
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, /APO Group/ -- Moody's Ratings affirmed ICIEC’s Aa3 Insurance Financial Strength Rating (IFSR) with a stable outlook for the 17th consecutive year (http://ICIEC.IsDB.org), underscoring its strong standalone credit profile and ongoing support from key shareholders, including the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and sovereign members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Key factors contributing to this affirmation include ICIEC’s leadership in Shariah-compliant export credit and investment insurance, deep regional expertise, solid asset quality, and strong capital adequacy. Moody’s recognized ICIEC’s proactive efforts to enhance risk management and improve underwriting performance, which have strengthened its capital position and enabled sustained profitability, reflected in a combined ratio of 9.7% and net income of Islamic Dinar (ID) [1] 17.9 million. The Corporation’s solid financial performance has been driven by a diversified business mix, reduced exposure concentrations, and operational efficiency improvements.
ICIEC’s success is further reinforced by shareholder backing, particularly from IsDB and the largest shareholder member country- Saudi Arabia, with Moody’s anticipating continued support if necessary. At year-end 2023, IsDB held a 50.48% stake in ICIEC, with other sovereign OIC members contributing as shareholders. ICIEC also benefits from strategic synergies as part of the IsDB Group.
To support future growth aligned with its mandate of providing political risk and trade-related insurance for OIC countries, ICIEC's shareholders continue to play a vital role. In 2022, ICIEC’s Board of Governors approved a 150% increase in authorized capital to ID 1 billion (US$ 1.34 billion), with the subscription period for this increase set to conclude in June 2025. This will raise subscribed capital to ID 797 million (US$ 1.1 billion) from the current ID 297 million (US$ 398 million).
The stable outlook reflects Moody’s confidence in ICIEC’s ability to maintain strong capital, asset quality, and profitability while prudently expanding its operations. It also signals expectations of continued support from IsDB and OIC member countries.
Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Officer in Charge of ICIEC, expressed gratitude to member countries, Board Members, and staff for their dedication and reaffirmed ICIEC’s alignment with the IsDB Group’s initiatives in Islamic finance, green financing, and food security, among others. He emphasized that ICIEC is well-positioned to navigate geopolitical risks while maintaining financial stability and resilience.
Source: Africa-Newsroom.Com
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Europe
Monumental mosques and a futuristic museum: Kazakhstan’s Astana was full of surprises
Hannah Brown
27 October 2024
Whilst Kazakhstan’s former capital Almaty is often known as the city of culture, Astana is still well worth a visit for stunning architecture, friendly locals and a taste of nomadic culture.
Unlike many city breaks, an Astana itinerary won’t be packed with art galleries. Thanks to Kazakhstan’s nomadic culture, the performing arts prevailed over physical. This has given rise to a variety of drama, ballet and opera theatres.
Some travellers love a cold city break. But if you prefer to be warmer, head to Kazakhstan during the European summer when the average temperature is around 30C.
I visited in September and the temperature was around 19C. When the sun shone it brought with it lovely warmth but the light breeze made it pleasant for exploring. Make sure you pack layers for the morning and evening.
Air Astana offers almost-daily direct flights between Frankfurt and Astana, as well as two overnight flights from London Heathrow to Astana via Almaty. There also are easy connections up to three times a week from Amsterdam to Astana via Atyrau
Sitting on the edge of the city, the dramatic white, gold and turquoise building cuts a stunning silhouette. The inside is no less impressive.
Each room is exquisitely decorated with the men’s prayer room being the most magnificent. Here you can see the world’s largest hand woven carpet with a traditional Kazakh spiral pattern and a wall adorned with the 99 names of Allah glistening in gold. Women can enter this room but some parts are off limits during the prayer sessions which happen five times a day.
There’s a nice photo opportunity thanks to a golden handprint of NursultanNazarbayev, the first President of independent Kazakhstan.
Once you’re done in the monument, have a walk around this part of the city, taking in the riverside and park. You’ll be treated to beautiful mosques, theatres and an unusually shaped shopping centre.
This museum is ideal for a rainy day or if you’ve got kids to entertain. They’ll be kept busy by the interactive displays and adults will enjoy the impressive spherical building that houses it all.
The museum offers free guided tours by request - ask at the ticket office if you’re interested. If you choose to wander around on your own, there are friendly staff on hand to answer your questions.
As a vegetarian, Kazakh cuisine isn’t the most herbivore friendly and even as a journalist willing to try all types of traditional dishes to aid my writing, there was still a bit too much horse.
That being said, I recommend being brave and trying all the national delicacies, which the locals are all too delighted to share with you.
‘Beshbarmak’ is a traditional Kazakh dish of horse meat served with a pasta-type noodle and onions. The part of the horse platter that appealed to my tastebuds the most was a slice of sausage with a slightly spiced and smokeyflavour.
You’ll find ‘Plov’, though Uzbek in origin, is widely available. It’s a tasty rice dish flavoured with meat, spices, carrots and onions and served on a big sharing platter (imagine a Eurasian paella). An Uzbek friend of mine recommended a restaurant called Altyn Palau for the best in the city.
Vegetarians, fear not, many restaurants serve a hot aubergine salad starter which is delicious and would make for a great main course. There’s always lots of delicious bread to keep you sated. Finally leave space in your luggage for a bar of Kazakh chocolate.
Source: Uk.news.yahoo.Com
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Education Secretary admits Labour aren’t planning to rebuild more schools than previous Tory target
27 October 2024
Bridget Phillipson told LBC's Paul Brand that the government was facing "tough choices" at the Budget next week - while admitting she would like to "go further".
It comes after Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced £1.4 billion investment to "ensure the delivery" of the school rebuilding programme, which was announced under the Conservatives in 2020 and aims to rebuild or refurbish about 500 schools in a decade.
The scheme seeks to carry out construction projects at a rate of about 50 a year but the government last year forecast that it would complete fewer projects than initially planned, according to the National Audit Office.
"But of course, because we hadn't had a spending review since 2021 actually... we needed to confirm that we would be able to continue to do so. Of course, I would like to go further."
Announcing the investment on Sunday, Ms Reeves said in a statement that children should not suffer because of the parlous state of Britain's finances, including a widely trailed multi-billion-pound 'black hole' of overspend.
But some economists cautioned that most of the funding announced on Sunday would be enough only to keep existing initiatives going.
The Treasury also confirmed £1.8 billion would be allocated for the expansion of Government-funded childcare, with a further £15 million of capital funding for school-based nurseries.
Primary schools can now apply for up to £150,000 of the £15 million, with the first stage of the plan expected to support up to 300 new or expanded nurseries across England, it said.
Ms Reeves also said she would triple investment in free breakfast clubs to £30 million in 2025-26 after having announced at Labour's party conference a £7 million trial across up to 750 schools starting in April next year.
Another £44 million has been announced to help kinship and foster carers, which will include piloting a new kinship allowance across up to 10 local authorities to test whether offering financial support can increase the number of children taken in by family and friends.
Meanwhile, some £16 million is to be allocated to improve the running of HM Revenue and Customs to crack down on tax evasion, which the Government estimates will raise an extra £6.5 billion a year for public services, as reported by the Mirror.
The measures would include upgrading the office's app to allow people to make voluntary self-assessment payments in instalments and seeking to increase the answer rate of phone calls to the department, the paper reported.
Ms Reeves has also called on Government departments to make efficiency savings of 2% - freeing up "billions" of pounds that would be reinvested in the front line, according to the Sunday Times.
The Chancellor said: "This Government's first Budget will set out how we will fix the foundations of the country. It will mean tough decisions, but also the start of a new chapter for Britain, by growing our economy through investing in our future to rebuild our schools, hospitals and broken roads.
"Protecting funding for education was one of the things I wanted to do first because our children are the future of this country. We might have inherited a mess, but they should not suffer for it."
"This is a Budget about fixing the foundations of the country, so there can be no better place to start than the life chances of our children and young people," she said.
However, Institute for Fiscal Studies researcher Christine Farquharson said that "in a tight fiscal context" the commitments "largely reflect decisions to continue programmes."
She said: "Putting £1.4 billion into the school rebuilding programme next year will be enough to keep what was always intended as a 10-year programme going in its sixth year.
"Bumping up the breakfast club budget to £30 million does seem to be a boost on the previously-announced £7 million - but this is still only a tenth of what the Labour manifesto plans to spend by 2028-29, so the bulk of the rollout lies ahead."
Unions warned the funding announcement left a shortfall in terms of what was needed to restore the school estate and urged the Government to increase investment in next year's spending review.
General secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders Pepe Di'Iasio welcomed the extra £550 million, but said it was "pretty modest" set against the challenge at hand, and described the target of rebuilding 50 schools a year as "woefully unambitious".
Head of the National Education Union Daniel Kebede said the money was a "first step but more is needed", while NAHT general secretary Paul Whiteman urged ministers to commit to a "major" rebuilding programme next year.
"There remains a significant shortfall in terms of what is needed to restore the school estate to a satisfactory condition," he said.
The announcement comes after more than 100 schools, nurseries and colleges in England were forced to shut down days before the autumn term last year following concerns that classrooms and other buildings containing reinforced autoclaved concrete (Raac) were unsafe.
Ms Reeves will use her first Budget as Chancellor next week to announce a change to the UK's debt rule that will open the door for the Government to spend billions more on long-term infrastructure, such as replacing dilapidated buildings on the public sector estate.
She is expected to target public sector net financial liabilities (PSNFL) as her new measure of debt rather than the current yardstick of underlying public sector net debt.
A shift to PSNFL would give her greater headroom to meet her debt reduction target, because it includes a wider mix of state assets and liabilities - notably including expected student loan repayments to offset some of the liability.
Had PSNFL been used as the metric in the March 2024 budget, the "headroom" - the margin by which the fiscal rule is met - would have increased by £53 billion, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies.
She is also expected to hike employer national insurance by up to two percentage points and cut the earnings threshold at which employers pay contributions - measures that would raise a combined total of around £20 billion.
Capital gains tax, inheritance tax and fuel duty are among some of other levers Ms Reeves could potentially pull to raise revenue as she seeks to put the economy on a firmer footing.
The Chancellor will not face broadcasters for pre-Budget interviews this Sunday, saving her appearances instead for the following weekend when she will answer questions on its contents.
But in an interview with the Observer she suggested she wanted the statement to match the greatest moments in Labour's economic history.
"In 1945, we rebuilt after the war; in 1964, we rebuilt with the 'white heat of technology'; and in 1997, we rebuilt our public services. We need to do all of that now," she said.
A Conservative Party spokesman said: "In government, the Conservatives had a relentless focus on giving every child the best start in life.
"Just like their broken promises on hiking taxes and fiddling the fiscal rules, they've broken their promises to students - introducing a new tax on education and plotting the cancellation of dozens of new schools projects."
Source: Www.lbc.co.uk
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Indian migrant dies attempting to cross English Channel to UK
27-10-2024
A migrant died on Sunday in an attempt to cross the Channel to Britain, a death that comes on top of two deadly boat sinkings in the past 10 days, French officials said.
"The vessel, which was in very poor condition, deflated immediately after leaving the beach" at around 5:30 am (0430 GMT) the local prefecture said in a statement.
One man "of Indian nationality, around 40 years old, was in cardio-respiratory arrest" and could not be revived by emergency services, the prefecture added.
Sunday's death brings the total on the France-Britain route across the Channel to at least 56 in 2024, already more than any previous year with two months remaining.
"We can't bear any more of this migration policy. As far as we're concerned, that's what's responsible" for the deaths, said Axel Gaudiant, coordinator of migrant aid association Utopia 46 in Calais.
Over 29,000 migrants have made it across the Channel since the start of 2024, according to the British Home Office, the UK's equivalent of an interior ministry.
Source: Www.Gulftoday.Ae
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Supporters of far-right British figure rally as anti-racism demonstrators mount counter-protest
27/10/2024
Supporters of Tommy Robinson, the founder of the far-right English Defence League, held a protest march in London on Saturday under the motto of ‘Uniting the Kingdom’.
Thousands of supporters of jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson marched through London on Saturday as anti-racism demonstrators mounted a nearby counter-protest.
The so-called Unite the Kingdom march — planned by Robinson and supposed to feature him as speaker — led to calls for his freedom after his arrest Friday on a warrant for contempt of court.
The sea of marchers held Union and England flags and some waved “Make America Great” banners as they gathered near a fenced-off statute of former Prime Minister Winston Churchill in the square opposite the Houses of Parliament.
The march was countered by thousands of people organized by the group Stand Up to Racism who held signs saying “Refugees welcome” and “Oppose Tommy Robinson.”
Robinson, 41, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is the founder of the nationalist and anti-Islamist English Defense League and remains one of the most influential far-right figures in Britain.
He has been blamed for stirring up protests that turned into a week of violent disorder across England and Belfast, Northern Ireland this summer after social media users falsely identified the suspect in a stabbing rampage that killed three young girls in the seaside community of Southport as an immigrant and a Muslim.
Robinson supporters railed against the jailing of hundreds of rioters who assaulted police officers, set cars ablaze, screamed racist epithets and attacked hotels housing asylum seekers.
Source: Www.Euronews.Com
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Georgia’s ruling party celebrates victory but it's unclear who will form next government
27/10/2024
Hours of voting saw the ruling Georgian Dream claim victory based on data from the country's electoral commission, however opposition parties were quick to dispute the results.
Georgia’s ruling party is leading the official results of Saturday’s parliamentary election, a crucial vote which could decide the country’s future in Europe.
The CEC said the announcement was preliminary with the majority of the vote counted. Not all paper ballots and votes cast by Georgians abroad have been counted.
If Georgian Dream wins a parliamentary majority, it will stoke fears about the country’s bid for EU membership which was put on hold earlier this year by Brussels after the ruling party passed laws cracking down on freedom of speech.
Opposition disputed the results after officials said the ruling party led the crucial vote which could decide whether the country pivots to embrace the West or falls back into Russia's orbit.
Georgian Dream stood against four main opposition groups, which indicated they did not accept the results. The opposition initially declared victory shortly after polls closed at 8 p.m. local time (1600 GMT).
Source: Www.Euronews.Com
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https://www.euronews.com/2024/10/27/georgias-ruling-party-celebrates-victory-but-its-unclear-who-will-form-next-government
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Thousands in Lisbon took part in a demonstration against police violence on Saturday after several nights of riots triggered by the death of a man shot and killed by police earlier this week.
27-10-2024
The demonstrators demanded justice for Odair Moniz, the Cape Verdean man shot by Portugal’s police force.
Several flags from the Vida Justice movement, which organised the protest, as well as Cape Verde flooded Avenida da Liberdade.
The right-wing Portuguese party Chega called for a protest in defence of the police at the same time in Lisbon.
That protest brought together around 300 people and lasted just over an hour and a half.
Portuguese authorities said police officers had "intercepted an individual who had been fleeing from the police" in the Alto neighbourhood of Cova da Moura shortly before 6 am on Monday morning.
The police said that when the officers "approached the suspect, he resisted arrest and tried to assault them with a weapon", adding that "one of the police officers, having exhausted other means and efforts", used a firearm and shot the suspect, "in circumstances to be investigated in a criminal and disciplinary enquiry".
They also said that "the suspect was promptly assisted at the scene and transported to São Francisco Xavier Hospital," but ended up dying.
In recent days, Portuguese police have reportedly recorded more than 100 incidents of public disturbances in Lisbon.
Local media say they arrested more than 20 people and injured seven, one of whom was seriously hurt.
Source: Www.Euronews.Com
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https://www.euronews.com/2024/10/27/thousands-march-in-lisbon-against-racism-and-police-violence-after-police-shoot-dead-man
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