NO MATTER HOW HARD BJP TRIES, DEVELOPMENT WORK WON'T STOP IN DELHI: SISODIA

Aam Aadmi Party leader and former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia, who is in judicial custody for his alleged involvement in the Delhi excise policy case, said on Monday that no matter how hard the BJP tries, development work will not be stalled in the national capital. "Be it in Patparganj or other parts of Delhi, development work will not stop. No matter how hard the BJP people tries, no work will stop in Delhi," Sisodia said after coming out of the Rouse Avenue Court, which extended his judicial custody till May 23.

The court also allowed an application moved by his legal team seeking permisson for Sisodia to sign certain documents for approving the disbursement of funds for development work in his constituency (Patparganj).

The ED had arrested Sisodia on March 9 after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested him on February 26 this year in the same case.

The ED has alleged that Sisodia was the mastermind behind the entire excise policy case and that he had deliberately leaked the policy to the co-accused to generate financial kickbacks.

COURT ORDERS INQUIRY INTO BIHAR DEPUTY CM TEJASHWI YADAV'S GUJARATI 'THUG' REMARKS; NEXT HEARING ON MAY 20

AHMEDABAD: A metropolitan court in Ahmedabad on Monday ordered an inquiry into the criminal defamation complaint filed against Bihar deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav over his alleged remark that "only Gujaratis can be thugs". The complaint has been filed against the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader under Indian Penal Code sections 499 and 500 (dealing with criminal defamation). The complaint was filed by a social worker and businessman Haresh Mehta (63).

Court to examine witnesses on May 20

The court of Additional Metropolitan Magistrate DJ Parmar in Ahmedabad has ordered the inquiry under Section 202 of the CrPC (Code of Criminal Procedure) before deciding on issuing summons to him. The court is likely to examine witnesses on May 20 as part of the process. The CrPC section 202 deals with inquiry for the purpose of issuing process (summons) based on material against the accused. The court will examine the authenticity of evidence in the form of a CD (compact disc) and a pen drive containing the alleged remark of Yadav submitted by the complainant, Mehta's lawyer PR Patel said. It will also examine people who heard the said remark in the next hearing slated on May 20, Patel said.

‘Only Gujaratis can be thugs’

In March, Tejashwi Yadav said the situation in the country was such that only a Gujarati can be thugs in the present situation. "Only Gujaratis can be thugs in the present situation, and their fraud (crime) will be forgiven. Who will be responsible if they run away with the money belonging to LIC or banks?" the Bihar Deputy CM had allegedly said.

His remark had come after Interpol withdrew the Red Corner Notice (RCN) against fugitive Indian diamantaire Mehul Choksi.

‘Statement defames and humiliates all Gujaratis’

The complainant said the statement, calling the entire Gujarati community as "thug", was made before the media. It defames and humiliates all Gujaratis in public. A "thug" is a rogue, sly and criminal person, and such a comparison with the entire community will cause non-Gujarati people to look at Gujaratis with suspicion, Mehta said while seeking issuance of summons against Yadav and maximum punishment for him under the law.

RAJASTHAN: 'HE IS RATTLED BY REBELLION IN HIS OWN PARTY', VASUNDHARA RAJE COUNTERS ASHOK GEHLOT

Rajasthan: Former Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vasundhara Raje taking a jibe at Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said that he is lying out of fear of losing the 2023 Assembly elections, addding that his false allegations show he is rattled by the rebellion in state Congress unit. Recently, Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot took a potshot at Vasundhara Raje and two other Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders for having helped him save his government during the 2020 crisis when some Congress MLAs revolted and tried to topple his government. "Nobody can insult me as much as Gehlot has done"

Vasundhara Raje said, "Gehlot's statement against me is a conspiracy. Nobody can insult me as much as Gehlot has done. He is lying out of fear of losing the 2023 Assembly elections and has made such false allegations as he is rattled by the rebellion in his own party". Raje further said that taking and giving bribes are both crimes, if their MLAs have taken money, then FIR should be lodged. The former CM said, "Ashok Gehlot himself is the mastermind behind it. He did this in 2008 and 2018 as he was in minority.

Gehlot's statement

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has claimed that former chief minister Vasundhara Raje and two other BJP leaders helped save his government back in 2020 when Sachin Pilot and other party MLAs revolted against the government. Addressing a programme in Dholpur, Gehlot said his government could be saved because of the support of three BJP leaders -- former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, former assembly speaker Kailash Meghwal and MLA Shobharani Kushwah

A Delhi court on Monday sent four accused arrested for their alleged involvement in gangster Tillu Tajpuriya's murder inside Tihar Jail premises to four days of police custody, an official said.

Tajpuriya (33) was stabbed over 90 times to death by the assailants on May 2. The arrested accused -- Deepak (31), Yogesh (30), Rajesh (42), and Riyaz Khan (39) -- were produced via video conferencing before the Patiala House Courts.

The court remanded the four individuals to police custody till May 12. Tajpuriya, a resident of Tajpur Kalan on the outskirts of Delhi, was lodged in Tihar Jail under tight security measures on the groundfloor of Jail number 8.

Tajpuriya was an accused in the 2021 Rohini court shootout in which gangster Jitender Gogi was killed.

EXCISE SCAM: COURT EXTENDS SISODIA'S JUDICIAL CUSTODY TILL MAY 23

A Delhi court on Monday extended AAP leader and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia's judicial custody till May 23 in connection with the Delhi excise policy case being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The ED has alleged that Sisodia was the mastermind behind the entire excise policy case and that he had deliberately leaked the policy to the co-accused to generate financial kickbacks. Sisodia is currently in judicial custody.

The ED had arrested Sisodia on March 9 after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested him on February 26 this year.

Last month, Special CBI Judge M. K. Nagpal of Rouse Avenue Court had denied bail to Sisodia, holding that the evidence, prima facie, "speaks volumes" of his involvement in the offence.

Last week, High Court judge Dinesh Kumar Sharma sought the ED's response to Sisodia's bail plea and another application seeking interim bail on the ground of his wife's ill-health and listed the matter for further consideration on May 11. In the case being probed by the CBI, Delhi court extended Sisodia's judicial custody till May 12.

RAHUL GANDHI TRAVELS IN BUS IN BENGALURU, INTERACTS WITH PUBLIC

Congressleader Rahul Gandhi on Monday travelled in a Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus and interacted with commuters of different age group in Bengaluru.

Gandhi also visited the Coffee Day shop on the Cunningham Road and interacted with coffee buffs and had a cup of coffee too. He walked to the nearest bus stop and met a group of women and college going girls at the junction.

The women and college girls shared with him their woes of everyday life, the difficulties they face while traveling in buses, their difficulty to pursue education, responsibilities of the family. Gandhi also asked them about the importance given to the education of their children. He boarded the bus with the women and spoke to them about the Congress' proposal of free travel for all women in public transport and Rs 2,000 allowance for women head of every family in Karnataka under Gruha Laxmi Scheme.

He also spoke to them on whether they are aware of these proposals by the Congress. The women passengers told him about price rises badly hitting their budgets and its consequences on their lives. Gandhi alighted the bus near Lingarajapuram and again interacted with the women and young people. He spoke to them about the Congress manifesto and got their feedback.

The Congress leader had travelled with a food delivery boy on his bike on Sunday and interacted with him.

MAMATA ANNOUNCES BAN ON SCREENING OF 'THE KERALA STORY' IN BENGAL

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday announced a ban on the screening of the controversial film 'The Kerala Story' in the state.

She also instructed Chief Secretary H.K. Dwivedi to take the necessary steps to ensure the imposition of the ban.

"Certain scenes in the film can affect peace and harmony in West Bengal. So, we have decided to ban its screening everywhere in the state. The decision has been taken to maintain peace and harmony," the Chief Minister told mediapersons on Monday. While announcing the ban, she also took a dig at the Left government in Kerala for not taking a similar step.

"I do not support CPI(M). I want to speak about people. CPI(M) has a clandestine understanding with the BJP. Instead of just criticising the film, the Kerala government should have taken a similar step," Banerjee said. She also said that certain political parties are playing with fire. "They are trying to create division among the people on the basis of religion and caste. That is why 'The Kashmir Files' was made just to malign the people of a particular community. And now we have 'The Kerala Story', which is yet another untrue story with distorted facts," she said. Banerjee also said that she has information about plans to come out with 'The Bengal Files' next. "Now they are trying to malign the image of West Bengal," the Chief Minister said.

MANIPUR EFFECT: KUKIS, MEITEIS CLASH IN SHILLONG, 16 HELD

In a spillover of the ethnic violence in Manipur, members of Kuki and Meitei communities clashed in the Meghalaya capital and police have arrested 16 people in connection with the incident, officials said on Friday.

Police said that the clashes occurred at Nongrim Hills near the Mizo Morden School on Thursday evening, and a police team immediately rushed to the area and apprehended 16 persons of both the two communities.

Senior police officials warned both the communities of stringent actions against those try to vitiate the peace in the city.

EXCISE POLICY CASE: DELHI HC ADJOURNS HEARING ON SISODIA'S INTERIM BAIL PLEA TO MAY 10

WHEN DOES PAKISTAN VACATE ITS ILLEGAL OCCUPATION OF POK IS ONLY ISSUE TO DISCUSS: JAISHANKAR

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday said that there is only one issue to discuss with Pakistan on Kashmir - that is when does Pakistan vacate its illegal occupation of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Addressing a press conference after a meeting of Foreign Ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) here, he said that Jammu and Kashmir was, is and will always be a part of India.

"G-20 meetings are held in all the states and Union Territories of India. They (Pakistan) have nothing to do with G-20 and also with Srinagar. There is only one issue to discuss on Kashmir that when does Pakistan vacate its illegal occupation of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir," Jaishankar said in response to a question.

Asked whether India and Pakistan should sit together on terrorism issue,

Jaishankar, attacking his visiting Pakistan counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, said: "Victims of terrorism do not sit together with perpetrators of terrorism to discuss terrorism. Victims of terrorism defend themselves, counter acts of terrorism, they call it out, and that is exactly what is happening. To come here and preach these hypocritical words as though we are on the same boat. They are committing acts of terrorism."

On the China-Pakistan economic corridor, he said: "So called corridor, it was made very clear not once, but twice in the SCO meeting that connectivity is good for progress but connectivity cant violate the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the states. This is a long standing position, nobody should have doubt about it. I assure that those who were in the room had no doubt about it."

TIHAR JAIL MURDER: EIGHT PRISON STAFF SUSPENDED, INQUIRY INITIATED

Three days after the brutal murder of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya a.k.a Sunil Maan inside the high-security Tihar Jail, the Director-General (Prison) has suspended three assistant superintendents, four wardens and another staff member, sources said on Friday. Department inquiries have also been initiated against three wardens even as DG Sanjay Baniwal instructed action to be taken against the commander of the Tamil Nadu Special Police Force under whose command nine personnel served, who were in the prison ward at the time of incident.

"The prison department has initiated action in the matter of Tillu Tajpuria's killing in which eight staff, including three assistant supritendents, of the prison department has been suspended," confirmed a prison spokesperson. Recently, chilling CCTV footages surfaced showing the murder of Tajpuriya allegedly by the members of the notorious Jitender Gogi gang inside the high-security Tihar Jail on May 2 in the presence of prison officials, who appeared to be standing by without even intervening. The incident took place within the sight of Tihar Jail officials, who seemed to be standing idle as mere spectators.

A new 2.36-minute-long video shows the attackers forcefully entering a separate area where prison officials were in the process of taking Tajpuriya to the hospital after the attack on him. However, the assailants proceeded to viciously stab, kick, and punch Tajpuriya in a brutal attack aimed at ensuring his death, in front of a number of prison officials. The disturbing footage has sparked significant concerns about the level of security within Tihar and the apparent lack of action on the part of the officials to quell the violence. As per reports, Tajpuriya was stabbed over 90 times by the assailants. Tajpuriya (33), a resident of Tajpur Kalan on the outskirts of Delhi, was lodged in Tihar Jail under tight security measures on the ground-floor of Jail No. 8. "The prison staff revealed that Deepak a.k.a. Titar (31), Yogesh a.k.a. Gainda (30), Rajesh a.k.a. Tunda (42), and Riyaz Khan (39) had attacked Tajpuriya with improvised knives. When another inmate, Rohit, tried to intervene, he was also attacked and injured," Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), Akshat Kaushal said. Tajpuriya was an accused in the 2021 Rohini court shootout in which gangster Jitender Gogi was killed.

KARNATAKA POLLS: YEDIYURAPPA'S SON GIVEN ADDITIONAL ROLE, SPECIAL CHOPPER

As Karnataka is inching closer to the Assembly elections, the BJP has given additional responsibility to B.Y. Vijayendra, son of former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, who is contesting from the Shikaripura Assembly constituency.

BJP sources confirmed that Vijayendra has been provided a special chopper to carry out the poll campaign in 20 Assembly constituencies.

Party sources say that Yediyurappa's son will take up the campaigning in seats where Lingayat votes are in large numbers. The BJP high command has directed him to take up the campaigning in Bagalkot, Koppal, Ballary, Chitradurga, Tumakuru and other districts.

Vijayendra was not listed as the star campaigner by the saffron party. Unable to rope in Yediyurappa everywhere, BJP has now taken a decision to field Vijayendra as a Lingayat face.

Meanwhile, Vijayendra attending an interaction programme with mediapersons clarified that even thinking of the post of Chief Minister for him at this stage would be 'foolish'.

"My aim is to ensure the victory of BJP, not the post of Chief Minister," he said. "I am not expecting any position in the party in return for taking up state tours and my contesting from the Shikaripura Assembly constituency. The party high command will take the final decision. There is no scope of the concept of a successor in the BJP. The future depends on our capacity, conduct and response from the people," Vijayendra added.

CAN UNSC THAT EXCLUDES WORLD'S LARGEST DEMOCRACY BE INCLUSIVE? INDIA ASKS

A UN Security Council (UNSC) that denies permanent membership to the world's largest democracy cannot be considered inclusive and the first step to "future-proof" the world organisation wo uld be to reform the Security Council, according to India.

"The reform of the UNSC is the fundamental starting step towards 'Futureproofing Trust for Sustaining Peace'," India's Permanent Representative Ruchira Kamboj said on Wednesday.

"Is the UNSC in its present form -- which denies permanent representation to entire continents of Africa, Latin America and the world's largest democracy -- can it be deemed to be 'inclusive'," she asked at an open debate at the Council.

If the Council "is to continue to engender trust and confidence" in its ability to lead the world, it must better represent the developing countries, Kamboj said. With the interminable inter-governmental negotiation, as the reform process is called, set to meet on Thursday, she asked if it can be credible and effective without a time frame to conclude the discussions, she asked. The open debate on "future-proofing" the UN to ensure its credibility and effectiveness, was convened by Switzerland, which is holding the Council presidency for the first time.

Switzerland's Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis who presided over the meeting said that "we have to admit that we have not sufficiently taken account the frustrations and changes taking place on both sides of our planet" with the UN.

He said that it was necessary "to consider how this Council can strengthen the foundations of a broader peace architecture, which "must be inclusive and include those whom the population has designated as democratically legitimate".

In addition to the Council, Kamboj said: "Multilateral institutions must be made more accountable to their membership, they must be open and welcoming to a diversity of viewpoints, particularly from the global South."

Drawing attention to India's role as the president of the G20 -- the group of major developed and emerging economies -- Kamboj said that New Delhi "is committed to forging consensus through the G20 process in the effort to find solutions to global challenges".

The Delhi High Court on Thursday adjourned the hearing on former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia's interim bail plea in the 2021-22 excise policy case being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to May 10. Appearing for the probe agency, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju submitted before the bench of Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma that "the change from 5 per cent to 12 per cent in the interest rate was made to get the kickback money. He (Sisodia) made the policy in such a way that guaranteed return in form of kickbacks came".

"Sisodia concealed legal experts' opinion given by eminent personalities as well. He hadn't mentioned it anywhere. It was ignored completely. They (members of AAP) did not include it in the policy," the ASG added.

He also said that there was a draft note prepared by a person named Rahul Singh on the instance of Manish Sisodia, which can be proved from their WhatsApp chats.

"The original is missing. Only a part of the draft has been retrieved from the phones," he said.

Taking note of the submission, the judge adjourned the matter for further submissions to May 10. Notably, Sisodia had moved the high court on Wednesday seeking interim bail in the case on the ground of his wife's illness. Earlier on Thursday, the high court had sought the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) response on Sisodia's bail plea in the same case. Last week, Special Judge M.K. Nagpal of the Rouse Avenue Court had extended Sisodia's judicial custody till May 12. The court had also directed the CBI to supply an e-copy of the supplementary charge sheet to Sisodia.

UTTAR PRADESH TO DECLARE 'THE KERALA STORY' FILM TAX FREE IN STATE, SAYS CM YOGI ADITYANATH

Yogi Adityanath-led government on Tuesday decided to declare ‘The Kerala Story’ tax-free in the state. Uttar Pradesh chief minister could watch the film along with his cabinet colleagues at a special screening to be organised at Lok Bhawan, the chief minister's secretariat said. Meanwhile, UP Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak has welcomed Yogi's decision saying, "Making 'The Kerala Story' taxfree is a very good decision. I want the people of Uttar Pradesh to watch this film and understand how our sisters have suffered. We will also go and watch the film. The people in West Benegal will not accept the ban on this film."

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that 'The Kerala Story' moviea has been made tax-free in the state. He further said that 'The Kerala Story' "exposes the conspiracy of love Jihad, religious conversion and terrorism."

CHILLING CCTV FOOTAGE OF TILLU TAJPURIA'S MURDER INSIDE TIHAR JAIL SURFACES

A chilling CCTV footage has surfaced showing the shocking murder of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya allegedly by the members of the notorious Jitender Gogi gang inside the high-security Tihar Jail on May 2. In the CCTV footage, which has been accessed by IANS, an undertrial prisoner can be seen climbing down from the first floor to the ground floor using a bedsheet. After climbing down, he first locks the ward floor. Meanwhile, a man wearing a red t-shirt can be seen rushing towards a cell and closing its door. The door was open for head count. Two more men then climb down using bedsheets and forcefully enter the cell, where a scuffle breaks out. The men then drag Tajpuriya out of the cell and stab him repeatedly on the head and the body. An old man tries to intervene, but in vain. A man wearing a green t-shirt is also stabbed, and blood could be seen on his hand. As per reports, Tajpuriya was stabbed around 50 times by the assailants, who are reportedly members of the Jitender Gogi gang. Sunil a.k.a. Tajpuriya (33), a resident of Tajpur Kalan on the outskirts of Delhi, was lodged in Tihar Jail under tight security measures. Gangster Satinder Singh Brar, also known as Goldy Brar who's believed to be in hiding in Canada, has claimed responsibility for the attack on Tajpuriya, citing revenge, according to an unverified social media post. "Hello everyone, our brothers Yogesh Tunda and Deepak Titar are responsible for the murder of Tillu Tajpuriya in Tihar Jail on Tuesday. Tajpuria took responsibility for the loss of Gogi Maan bhai and had been an enemy of our brothers since the beginning. We will soon take care of others involved," the Facebook post read. During the inquiry, it was revealed that another undertrial prisoner, Rohit, was injured in the attack. "The prison staff revealed that Deepak a.k.a. Titar (31), Yogesh a.k.a. Gainda (30), Rajesh a.k.a. Tunda (42), and Riyaz Khan (39) had attacked Tajpuriya with improvised knives. When Rohit tried to intervene, he was also attacked and injured," said Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), Akshat Kaushal.

IMRAN KHAN ARRESTED BY PAKISTAN RANGERS ON NAB'S ORDERS

Based on orders by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was arrested by the Pakistan Rangers from outside the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday.

Khan had travelled to Islamabad earlier in the day from his Lahore residence to appear before the IHC seeking bail in the Al-Qadir trust case lodged by the NAB.

However, upon his arrival at the IHC, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief was arrested by the Rangers and took him to the NAB office.

According to NAB officials, arrest warrants for the former premier in the Al-Qadir trust case were issued on May 1.

The arrest was made under the same reference, the officials added. Confirming the arrest, PTI's lawyer Faisal Chaudhry said that as soon as Khan arrived at the IHC, a large number of Rangers troops surrounded the court premises.

He also said that PTI lawyers and supporters were assaulted.

"Imran Khan has been arrested by Rangers outside the IHC. Lawyers have been subjected to torture and PTI workers and supporters are also being arrested," said Chaudhry.

IHC Chief Justice has taken notice of the arrest outside the premises, directing the Islamabad police chief, Interior Ministry secretary and additional attorney general to appear before the court immediately, warning that he would summon the Prime Minister if the officials did not appear within 15 minutes.

"Imran Khan has been arrested in Al-Qadir trust case. Situation in under control," said Inspector General Islamabad Amir Zulfiqar Khan.

The arrest comes hours after Imran Khan recorded a video message before leaving his residence in Lahore, stating that his claims against a senior intelligence agency official were true, who he claimed attempted to assassinate him in two different incidents.

The PTI chief had said that he will provide all evidences when required, calling out the military establishment to get ready to be held accountable by the people. The arrest of Imran Khan has been on the wishlist of the ruling government, who have been piling up cases against the former premier. In the wake of the arrest, the situation across the country is expected to become tense supporters of Imran khan are expected to take to the streets, which may lead to chaos and unrest in the coming days.

9 DEAD, 7 INJURED IN SHOOTING AT MALL IN TEXAS

Nine people were killed, including the shooter, and seven others wounded in a shooting at an outlet mall in south-central US state Texas, authorities said. The incident took place on Saturday afternoon. The shooter, who authorities believe was acting alone, was dead at the scene, according to the Collin County Sheriff's Office.

Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd said on Saturday night that among the at least nine people sent to hospitals, "two have since died, three are in critical surgery, and four are stable."

Local media said the wounded include a five-year-old child, Xinhua news agency reported.

The shooting occurred at the Allen Premium Outlets in a suburb about 48 km north of Dallas. Local residents told Xinhua that it is one of the largest outlet malls in the area and is usually very busy during weekends.

Joseph Gallagher, a store manager at the mall, told Xinhua that he saw rounds of bullets "bounce off the pillar in front of our store" and witnessed the gunman being shot dead with blood hitting the walls.

Distracted Driver Kills Sikh Couple On Way To Pick Up Kids In Us

A Sikh couple on their way to pick up their kids from a school bus stop died on the spot after being hit by a distracted driver in Kent, a suburb of Washington city, authorities said. Parminder Singh Bajwa and wife Harpreet Kaur died on the scene last week when their car was hit head-on by a distracted driver apparently reaching for his cell phone, the Washington State Patrol said. The distracted driver, who had suddenly crossed into oncoming traffic, was airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries. The funeral service of the couple is scheduled for Friday in Kent, and all the expenses will be taken care of by the Sikh Riders Motorcycle Group of Washington. "Those who knew Parminder remember him as a good man, always cheerful and loving towards others. Our hearts break for their young children, who now face a future without their loving parents," the group said on a fundraiser page.

AFGHAN MINISTER ASKS PAKISTAN, TTP TO HOLD TALKS AS VIOLENCE SURGES

Afghanistans acting Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi on Monday asked Pakistan and the banned militant outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to sit together for dialogue, media reports said.

"It is requested that Pakistan and TTP sit together for dialogue," the Afghan minister said while addressing an event in Islamabad, The News reported. The Taliban-led administration's representative is currently on a four-day visit to Pakistan to attend bilateral and trilateral dialogues. Muttaqi said the security situation in the region was discussed during his Islamabad visit.

Islamabad had held several rounds of talks -- brokered by Kabul -- with the outlawed TTP but the negotiations failed last year after which the militant group started terror activities.

Acknowledging Pakistan's loss while fighting against terrorism, he said: "In the last 20 years, Pakistan has lost 80,000 lives to terrorism." Meanwhile, the minister also spoke about Afghanistan successfully achieving peace after 44 years, The News reported. He added that the challenges faced by neighbouring countries Pakistan and Afghanistan are not different from one another. The minister said both countries have been through various situations and will now work together.

TOP INTELLIGENCE OFFICIAL RESPONSIBLE FOR ASSASSINATION ATTEMPTS, SAYS IMRAN KHAN

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan alleged on Thursday that a "top intelligence official" was behind the assassination attempts against him and would be responsible if something happened to him in the future, media reports said.

Imran Khan, in a video message, stated that he had already informed the Lahore High Court (LHC) that "dirty Harry", the top officer, was behind the attempts against his life. He added that the findings by the joint investigation team (JIT) probing the Wazirabad case were sabotaged by of the official, the Express Tribune reported.

He continued that the second assassination attempt was on March 18 outside the Islamabad judicial complex and now PTI leader Murad Saeed's life is in danger.

"They say that terrorists are after him (Saeed), but if something happens to him, it will be because of dirty Harry," he said, Express Tribune reported. The former Prime Minister further emphasised that if something happened to him, "dirty Harry" would be responsible and "not terrorist or foreign agencies".

"I have received no threats from anyone except from him and those involved with him."

IMRAN DIVORCED

REHAM KHAN VIA EMAIL AT BUSHRA BIBI'S BEHEST, CLAIMS FORMER AIDE

Making a startling revelation, former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Awn Chaudhry alleged on Thursday that ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan divorced Reham Khan, his second spouse, at the behest of his current wife, Bushra Bibi, a media report said.

It was disclosed during the proceedings of a case related to the alleged un-Islamic 'Nikah' of the PTI chief with Bushra Riaz Wattoo -- who is better known as Bushra Bibi -- at a district and sessions court in Islamabad, Geo News reported.

Khan married Bushra -- who is his third wife -- in February 2018.

Khan's friend Zulfi Bukhari and former party leader Awn Chaudhry have said the Nikah was solemnised by Mufti Saeed in Lahore. They both also stood witness to Khan's marriage.

Awn maintained that he was a personal assistant and political secretary to Khan.

"I used to look after all the personal and political affairs of Imran Khan," he said.

The politician told the court that Khan and Reham's divorce took place in 2015.

"Bushra Bibi told Imran Khan to divorce Reham Khan immediately as it was better for him. On Bushra Bibi's advice, Khan divorced Reham via email," Awn said, adding that Khan's former wife wasn't in Pakistan at that time, Geo News reported. He also said that Khan started getting distressed after the divorce and often asked to be taken to Bushra Bibi. Following this, Khan continued to pay visits to Bushra Bibi till December 31, 2017, and announced he would marry her on January 1,2018, Awn added.

"He told me to make marriage arrangements. I was surprised at Imran Khan's words and said that Bushra Bibi was already married but Imran Khan told me that Bushra Bibi had been divorced," Geo News reported.

INDIAN-ORIGIN AJAY BANGA BECOMES 14TH PRESIDENT OF WORLD BANK

Ajay Banga, an Indian-origin American, was on Wednesday selected as the President of the World Bank by its executive directors for a five-year term starting June 2. "The Board looks forward to working with Mr. Banga," the World Bank Board said in a statement. Banga was the nominee of President Joe Biden of the US, which has chosen every World Bank President in an unwritten agreement with Europe since 1944, according to which Europe gets to select the President of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), leaving the World Bank top job for the US. They still go through the process of nomination and "selection", which is really a tool to grant confirmation. Banga will be the 14th President of the World Bank. He will take over from David Malpass, who was nominated by former President Donald Trump. Banga was born in Pune, Maharashtra, and went to schools in Shimla and Hyderabad.

Nepal Mp Takes Off Clothes In House After Not Being Allowed To Speak

An Independent MP in Nepal, Amresh Kumar Singh, on Monday took off his shirt and vest in the House in protest against not being given time to speak.

Singh, a former Nepali Congress leader, contested the elections last year as an Independent candidate from Sarlahi after the Nepali Congress did not give him a ticket.

Singh, who had done Ph.D from Jawaharlal Nehru University in the Indian capital of Delhi, took off his clothes after Devraj Ghimire, Speaker of the House of Representatives (HoR) did not allow him to speak. Ghimire warned him that "action would be taken if he did not behave politely in the HoR meeting.

"I am ready to become a martyr for speaking against corruption," said Singh before taking off his clothes.

Russia Accused Of Using Phosphorus Bombs In Ukraine War

Ukraine has accused Russia of attacking the besieged city of Bakhmut with phosphorus munitions, a media report said. In drone footage released by Ukraine's military, Bakhmut can be seen ablaze as what appears to be white phosphorus rains down on the city, BBC reported. White phosphorus weapons are not banned, but their use in civilian areas is considered a war crime. They create fast-spreading fires that are very difficult to put out. Russia has been accused of using them before as well. Russia has been trying to capture Bakhmut for months, despite its questionable strategic value. Western officials have estimated that thousands of Moscow's troops have died in the assault. Taking to Twitter, Ukraine's defence ministry said the phosphorus attack targeted "unoccupied areas of Bakhmut with incendiary ammunition". Kiev's special forces command added that Moscow's forces continued "to destroy the city". It is unclear when exactly the alleged attack took place. But the footage shared by Ukraineseemingly captured by a surveillance drone - showed high-rise buildings engulfed in flames, BBC reported. Other videos posted to social media showed fires raging on the ground and white clouds of phosphorus illuminating the night sky. Russia has been accused of using white phosphorus several times since it launched its fullscale invasion of Ukraine last year, including during the siege of Mariupol at the beginning of the war.

US FED HIKES INTEREST RATE BY 0.25 PERCENTAGE POINT, 10TH IN 14 MONTHS

The US Federal Reserve has approved its 10th interest rate hike in 14 months, increasing its key interest rate by 0.25 percentage points. The Fed also signalled that Wednesday's hike may be its last one for now, BBC reported. The rate hikes have sharply raised borrowing costs across the world's largest economy, spurring a slowdown in sectors such as housing and playing a role in the recent failures of three US banks, the report said. The moves have pushed the target range for its benchmark rate to 5 per cent to 5.25 per cent, up from near zero in March 2022, the highest level since 2007, BBC reported. Higher interest rates make it more expensive to buy a home, borrow to expand a business or take on other debt. By increasing those costs, officials expect demand to fall and prices to cool off, BBC reported. Price increases in the US have shown signs of moderating ever since the Fed started its campaign. In March, inflation, the rate at which prices rise, stood at 5 per centthe lowest level in nearly two years - though still uncomfortably high for the Fed, which is targeting a 2 per cent rate.

TWO 10-YEAR-OLDS FOUND WORKING AT KENTUCKY MCDONALD'S WITHOUT PAY: US LABOUR DEPT

Two 10-year-old children were found working at a McDonald's in Louisville, Kentucky, according to the US Department of Labour (DOL). The DOL said that investigators from its Wage and Hour Division found that Bauer Food LLC, a Louisville-based operator of 10 McDonald's locations, employed 24 minors under age 16 to work more than legally permitted hours, reports Xinhua news agency. These children sometimes worked more hours a day or week than the law permits, whether or not school is in session. The investigators also determined that two 10-year-old children were employed, but not paid, and sometimes worked as late as 2 a.m. Below the minimum age for employment, they prepared and distributed food orders, cleaned the store, worked at the drive-thru window, and operated a register, the findings indicated.

The Wage and Hour Division also learned that one of the two children was allowed to operate a deep fryer, a prohibited task for workers under 16 years old in the US.

"Too often, employers fail to follow the child labour laws that protect young workers," Wage and Hour Division District Director Karen Garnett-Civils in Louisville, Kentucky, said in a statement.

"Under no circumstances should there ever be a 10-year-old child working in a fast-food kitchen around hot grills, ovens, and deep fryers," Garnett-Civils added.

In addition to Bauer Food LLC, the federal labour regulator also investigated Archways Richwood LLC and Bell Restaurant Group I LLC. The three franchisees operate 62 McDonald's locations across Kentucky, Indiana, Maryland and Ohio.

DEEPIKA PADUKONE REACTS TO ALIA BHATT'S MET GALA 2023 DEBUT AMID ONLINE CRITICISM

PARINEETI CHOPRA, RAGHAV CHADHA

ALIA BHATT RECENTLY MADE HER DEBUT AT MET GALA 2023 IN HER WHITE ENSEMBLE EMBELLISHED WITH PEARLS. SHE DISHED OUT MAJOR PRINCESS VIBES IN AN ELABORATE GOWN DESIGNED BY PRABAL GURUNG. THE ACTRESS TOOK TO HER SOCIAL MEDIA AND SHARED A VIDEO THAT FEATURED HER BTS MOMENTS, BEFORE MAKING HER WAY TO THE BIGGEST FASHION EVENT. INTERESTINGLY, IT WAS DEEPIKA PADUKONE'S COMMENT ON THE POST THAT GRABBED EVERYONE'S ATTENTION AS SHE FACED ONLINE CRITICISMS FOR POSTING PICTURES FROM THE OSCARS HOURS BEFORE ALIA'S BIG DEBUT. BASKING IN THE 'MET' GLORY, ALIA SHARED A VIDEO OF BEHIND THE SCENES FROM THE EVENT. IN THE VIDEO, ALIA WAS TALKING ABOUT HER PREPARATION, AND MOMENTS OF NERVOUSNESS BEFORE MAKING HER GALA DEBUT. DEEPIKA WROTE ON THE VIDEO, "YOU DID IT" AND POSTED A HEART EMOJI ON IT. ALIA'S POST READ, "ALIA BHATT TURNED TO DESIGNER @PRABALGURUNG FOR HER #METGALA DEBUT, FOR WHICH EVEN THIS SUPERSTAR WAS A LITTLE NERVOUS. WOBBLY KNEES WERE NOWHERE TO BE SEEN ONCE THIS GLAMOROUS LOOK HIT THE CARPET, THOUGH. THE ALL-WHITE OUTFIT ELEGANTLY FIT INTO THE NIGHT'S DRESS CODE OF "IN HONOUR OF KARL."

SAMANTHA ON INDIAN ADAPTATION OF 'CITADEL': IT IS NOT A REMAKE

KANGANA DECLINES SUGGESTION TO BUY TWITTER FOLLOWERS

TAYLOR SWIFT TO RELEASE RE-RECORDED VERSION OF 'SPEAK NOW' ON JULY 7

Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha have been ruling the headlines for their outings in and around the city. On Sunday, the duo stepped out for a dinner date and were clicked in Mumbai. While they have not officially confirmed their relationship, their frequent outings together is proof enough that they have been dating. Interestingly, Parineeti and Raghav also flaunted engagement rings as they were spotted after dinner. Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha are reportedly getting engaged on May 13 in Delhi. However, ahead of the occassion, they were spotted wearing engagement rings. Some time ago, Raghav Chadha addressed the dating rumours. When he was asked about Parineeti, he said "Aap mujhse raajneeti ke sawaal kariye, Parineeti ke sawaal na kariye (Please ask me questions about politics, not Parineeti)." On the other hand, Parineeti and Raghav were recently spotted watching an IPL match together at Mohali stadium. Fans at the stadium cheered for the duo and they were seen blushing.

SALMAN KHAN & SHAH RUKH KHAN TO HAVE 35 CRORE SET FOR TIGER 3 ACTION SEQUENCE?

ONE OF SAMANTHA'S ARDENT FOLLOWERS SOUGHT CLARIFICATION REGARDING THE CORRELATION BETWEEN PRIYANKA CHOPRA'S CITADEL AND THE INDIAN RENDITION.

THE STAR WOULD LIKE TO CONTINUE HER PERSONAL COMMUNICATION WITH HER DESERVING FANS ONLY.

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ANDRE RUSSELL, RINKU SINGH HELP KOLKATA PULL OFF NAIL-BITER AGAINST PUNJAB

TAYLOR SWIFT ANNOUNCED THAT HER NEW RE-RECORDED ALBUM SPEAK NOW (TAYLOR’S VERSION). I DETAILS ON PAGE 25

Salman Khan's cameo in Shah Rukh Khan's Pathaan was an epic moment for all the fans and now Tiger 3 is in the pipeline. Now when Shah Rukh's cameo is confirmed in Salman's Tiger 3, fans have been eagerly waiting for the release of the movie. We can definitely expect everything grand from the special sequence. According to the reports, for the high-octane action sequence for the movie, a set worth a whopping Rs 35 crore will be created. The action sequence that is set to be shot from May 8 is rumoured to be a jailhouse sequence where Pathaan returns Tiger's favour as the latter had helped him out of a tricky situation in 'Pathaan'. A source said, "When you have SRK & Salman in one film, you got to do justice to their superstardom to create an experience like never before. Pathaan did that brilliantly and now Tiger 3 will try and do the same." 10:00 AM

VIDYUT JAMMWAL VISITS GOLDEN TEMPLE, CLEANS UTENSILS FOR SEVA

Taapsee Pannu Saunters In A Saree While Vacationing In New York

MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood actress Taapsee Pannu was seen walking around dressed in a nine yard wonder in New York while holidaying with her sister Shagun and beau and badminton champion Mathias Boe. Taapsee took to Instagram stories, where she shared a slew of pictures. In the images, the actress is seen wearing a white corset paired with a dark purple saree and sneakers. She shared a picture holding a glass of water and wrote: "Clearly antibar person."

The second photograph had Taapsee posing sitting outside a cafe with another beverage: "Now more like it."

On the acting front, Taapsee will be seen sharing screen space with

Shah Rukh Khan in the upcoming film 'Dunki', directed by Rajkumar Hirani. Vicky Kaushal also has a pivotal role in the film.

This is for the first time both Rajkumar Hirani and Shah Rukh Khan are coming together. Naturally, the film has been making a buzz since its announcement. In the film, SRK will be presented in a new avatar as he steps into Hirani's world with this social comedy.

A JIO Studios, Red Chillies Entertainment and Rajkumar Hirani Films presentation, 'Dunki' is directed by Rajkumar Hirani. The film is written by Rajkumar Hirani, Abhijaat Joshi and Kanika Dhillon, and produced by Rajkumar Hirani and Gauri Khan. The film went on floors in April, 2022.

SRK TO FAN QUIBBLING ABOUT ARYAN'S EXPENSIVE BRAND: 'MUJHE BHI SASTI NAHI BECH RAHE'

MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan gave a hilarious reply to a fan, who was complaining about Aryan Khan's expensive clothing brand.

SRK took to Twitter, where he did a question and answer session with his fans. A user wrote: "Ye dyavol x ke jacket thoda sa 1000- 2000 wale bhi bana do... Wo wale khareedne me to ghar chala jayega."

Replying to it, Shah Rukh said he would do something about it but with a hilarious spin.

He wrote: "Yeh D'Yavol X wale log mujhe bhi sasti nahi bech rahea. kuch karta hoon!" On the work front, SRK recently announced that his much-awaited film 'Jawan', directed by Atlee, is slated for release on September 7. An action thriller, 'Jawan' features the music of Ashvin Ravichandran and also cameos by Deepika Padukone, Vijay, Sanjay Dutt and Allu Arjun.

Kangana Declines Suggestion To Buy Twitter Followers

MUMBAI, (IANS) Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut has declined suggestion of buying Twitter followers as she does not want too many people to see her communications with her fans.

Kangana gave an answer to a fan, who suggested her to "buy followers" like "other actresses".

The social media user wrote: "Seriously @KanganaTeam you are top actress you should also buy fake followers like other actresses you deserve better than this."

Kangana replied by saying: "No, no I don't want too many people to see my personal communication with my fans only those who are deserving. Even if they become less it's better .... Lord Krishna has said anything of value you must never offer unless asked for... there are consequences to such an act of irresponsibility."

On the work front, Kangana, who was last seen on screen in 'Dhaakad', will be seen in 'Emergency', 'Chandramukhi 2', 'Tejas', 'Manikarnika Returns: The Legend of Didda' and 'The Incarnation: Sita'.

HANSIKA WRAPS UP SHOOT FOR FEMALE-CENTRIC FILM 'MAN' IN CHENNAI

CHENNAI, (IANS) Hansika Motwani has completed shooting for the last schedule of director Igore's Tamil film 'Man' in Chennai. The film is a thriller that talks about violence against women and the difficulties that they have been subjected to. Hansika plays a fashion designer -- a strong, independent and empowered woman.

The look is fierce and the shoot was very challenging. Speaking on the wrap of the film, Motwani said: "As the 'Man' shoot comes to an end, I must say this journey wasn't very easy, but it was definitely worth the effort. My character in the movie has many layers and it was an experience to play such a strong woman. I can't wait for the audience to see me play Nirmala.

This movie is truly very special to me." Directed by Igore and shot in Chennai, Pollachi and Madurai, the movie's also includes Aari Arjunan, who plays the antagonist, Janani Durga and Soumika. Ghibran has composed the music and Mani has worked the cameras.

AYUSHMANN KHURRANA TO BE FELICITATED BY HIS ALMA-MATER PANJAB UNIVERSITY

MUMBAI, (IANS) Actor Ayushmann Khurrana is honoured that his alma mater, Panjab University, is going to felicitate him for his clutter-breaking contribution to Indian cinema. The actor will travel to Chandigarh to receive this award on May 20 and also interact with the students of the prestigious institute. Panjab University's alumni list consists of people who have made India proud globally like Ayushmann. Other noted alumni include former Prime Minister and Congress leader Manmohan Singh, Bharti enterprises CEO Sunil Bharti Mittal, journalist Shekhar Gupta, and former Puducherry Lieutenant Governor and ex IPS officer Kiran Bedi. Ayushmann said: "There have been validations in the past from the TIME magazine, Forbes and also the prestigious National Award, but it's most special when your alma mater acknowledges your achievements!"

He added: "While studying at Panjab University, I was astonished to learn about so many seniors who had become national icons and made the state and country proud. It was a great honour for me to have studied at this prestigious institution, mentored by brilliant teachers." "I was guided, shaped, and empowered to take on the world on my own terms by this institution that set the foundation stone for who I'm today. I had secretly wished then that I would try and emulate the feat of my seniors and make my alma mater proud one day." Ayushmann says he is aware that his country wants him to strive for disruption, originality, and world-class quality. "I realise the responsibility I have to strive for originality in our films and this award will only ground me further to not waver from that bigger goal of always creating something clutter-breaking. I look forward to being at the convocation ceremony. I know it will be a moment that I will cherish as it'll bring back the memories of my university days," said the actor Ayushmann will be next seen in 'Dream Girl 2', the sequel to his blockbuster 'Dream Girl', scheduled to release on August 25.

AMRITSAR, (IANS) Ahead of the release of his maiden production 'IB 71', Bollywood action star Vidyut Jammwal visited the Golden Temple to seek blessings and also did seva, during which he was seen cleaning the utensils.

Vidyut was seen praying at the temple after which he did seva dressed in an all white ensemble.

The 'Commando' star is also expected to visit the Wagah Border and pay his respect to those who serve the nation.

Directed by the National-Award winning filmmaker Sankalp Reddy, 'IB 71' is headlined and produced by Vidyut Jammwal. It tells the story of the Ganga hijack of 1971, which helped India gain a strategic advantage over Pakistan.

'IB 71' is presented by Gulshan Kumar, T-Series Film and Reliance Entertainment. The Action Hero Films prod uction stars Vidyut Jammwal, Anupam Kher and Vishal Jethwa. The film is produced by Vidyut Jammwal and Abbas Sayyed, and co-produced by Aditya Shastri, Aditya Chowksey and Shiv Chanana. The film is directed by national award winner Sankalp Reddy with the story by Aditya Shastri and the screenplay by Storyhouse Films LLP. The film is slated for a theatrical release on May 12.

SHABANA AZMI SLAMS THOSE SEEKING BAN ON 'THE KERALA STORY'

MUMBAI, (IANS) Veteran star Shabana Azmi has shown her support to the latest released film 'The Kerala Story' starring Adah Sharma as the movie is currently in a soup due to controversies. Shabana on Monday tweeted that those who want to ban the film are "as wrong as those who wanted to ban" the Aamir Khan-starrer 'Laal Singh Chaddha' last year. She tweeted: "Those who speak of banning #The Kerala Story are as wrong as those who wanted to ban Aamir Khan's #Laal Singh Chaadha. Once a film has been passed by the Central Board of Film Certification, nobody has the right to become an extra constitutional authority." 'The Kerala Story' got in trouble after the film's trailer claimed that 32,000 girls from the state went missing and later joined ISIS, the terrorist group. Last year, 'Laal Singh Chaddha' too faced troubles as a section of people on social media platforms started the aboycott Bollywood' trend for the film. In 'The Kerala Story', actress Adah Sharma is playing the role of Fathima Ba, a Hindu Malayali nurse, who is among the 32,000 women who went missing from Kerala and were then recruited to the ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) after being forced to convert to Islam. 'The Kerala Story' has been written and directed by Sudipto Sen and stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani.

SONAM KAPOOR STARTS SPEECH WITH 'NAMASTE' AT KING CHARLES CORONATION CONCERT

MUMBAI, (IANS) Indian actress Sonam Kapoor, who attended King Charles coronation concert in London, gave a desi touch to begin her speech as she greeted the audience with a "namaste". Sonam, who was introduced on stage as the "biggest Bollywood" actor, was attending the concert with names such as Tom Cruise and Pussycat Dolls' Nicole Scherzinger at Windsor Castle.

While some hailed the actor for her 'proud moment', others called her speech 'embarrassing'.

Sonam said: "Our Commonwealth is a union. Together we are one third of the world's people, one third of the world's ocean, one quarter of the world's land. Each of our countries is unique. Each of our people is special. But we choose to stand this one." "Learning from our history, blessed by our diversity, driven by our values and determined to build a more peaceful, sustainable and prosperous future for everyone, where every voice is heard. Without further ado, here's welcoming the incredible voices from across the Commonwealth."

Sonam's mother Sunita Kapoor also shared the clip on her Instagram. "So proud! Such an honour!" she captioned the short clip. On the work front, Sonam is gearing up for 'Blind'.

Hollywood

RUTH WILSON SAYS THAT ACTRESSES ARE NOT ALLOWED TO 'AGE ON SCREEN'