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VOL 26 - ISSUE 27

Carney says U.S. wants to wipe out Canadian industries or make them subsidiaries U.S. negotiators were pushing in trade talks last month for concessions from Canada that would have caused key sectors like the automotive industry to either become U.S. subsidiaries or be "wiped out" entirely, Prime Minister Mark Carney said Tuesday. Until late last month, Canada and the U.S. were negotiating a deal to address trade irritants on both sides of the border. Just ahead of a U.S.-imposed deadline of Aug. 22, Carney suspended those talks and summoned his negotiating team home. "The attitude of the United States in these discussions, and subsequently, has been one that core Canadian industries either would be subsidiaries effectively of the United States industries, or would put in place terms where those industries would be gradually wound down in Canada and wiped out," Carney said in a scrum with reporters outside his office building. "Of course, we're not going to accept those terms." Carney added there were "mutually beneficial" elements of a deal in place before the talks broke down last month. Continued on Page 10...

Honveer Singh Randhawa and Ricky Bajwa (Navdeep)

By Jasmine Kaur Kochhar: Surrey mayoral candidate Honveer Singh Randhawa says public safety and rebuilding the city's infrastructure would be among his top priorities if elected, as he campaigns alongside council candidate Ricky Bajwa with the Conservative Party of Surrey. Randhawa is a Surrey-raised lawyer and had previously entered provincial politics as the Conservative Party of B.C. candidate in Surrey-Guildford during 2024 election. Bajwa has been a Surrey resident for almost two decades, he’s also an international-level badminton player and coach. He also serves as the director of the non-profit Jeeway Punjab Adabi Sangat Foundation Randhawa argued that over the last 10 years the taxes have doubled but the services have not kept pace. He pointed to swimming lessons as an example; kids have been waiting in line but have been unable to access them. Continued on Page 8...

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‘Young, energetic and accountable’ Randhawa pitches change for Surrey

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The Jaswinder Bhalla audiences never knew:

The legacy that extended far beyond comedy By Jasmine Kaur Kochhar: ‘Andittha Ansuniya’ Jaswinder Bhalla a book by Bal Mukund Sharma that explores the lesser-known side of late Dr Jaswinder Bhalla, is set to be released on Aug. 22, a date that also marks the first anniversary of Dr Bhalla's passing. His long-time friend, colleague and college mate of Dr Bhalla, Sharma wanted to document the aspects of Dr Bhalla that the audience did not know about him, his untold side which included his journey, life behind the scenes to the sacrifices he made when it came to his health. “We used to wrap the social issues with a touch of comedy and used to deliver it to the audience which used to be even more effective,” said Sharma. Sharma recalled that in 1992, they had released a film called ‘Massi Nu Tarsange’, which addressed the issue of female foeticide and used cinema as the medium to create awareness amongst the audience. Continued on Page 9..

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Carney’s Liberals sweep 3 special elections in Canada as voters back his stand against Trump

Canada’s Liberals swept three special elections Monday, strengthening Prime Minister Mark Carney as he confronts U.S. President Donald Trump in an escalating trade war.

Liberals won Chicoutimi-Le Fjord in Quebec, Beaches-East York in Toronto and North Vancouver-Capilano in British Columbia. Carney said the results amounted to an endorsement of his government’s approach. “At this consequential time for Canada, voters have placed their trust in our government’s plan,” he said in a statement. The Quebec result was the most striking. Liberal Daniel Gobeil won easily in Chicoutimi-Le Fjord, a district held by the opposition Conservatives since 2018, while the Conservatives fell to third place. The region is home to aluminum producers, dairy farms and other industries caught in the escalating trade war. Continued on Page 10...

Two more MLAs quit B.C. Conservative caucus as Findlay’s chief of staff resigns British Columbia Conservative Leader KerryLynne Findlay said she was the victim of a “coordinated political attack” after she accepted the resignation of her chief of staff and two more legislators quit her caucus on Wednesday, both citing ethical concerns and Findlay’s reported connections to Alberta separatists. Scott McInnis became the ninth MLA to defect in less than three weeks, announcing his departure a little over two hours after Donegal Wilson’s. Their exits were swiftly followed by Findlay’s announcement that Chris Delaney had resigned as her chief of staff, adding to the chaotic reshaping of the party since Findlay narrowly won the leadership three months ago. Delaney has been at the centre of allegations that legislators were improperly offered jobs in exchange for resigning so Findlay, who does not have a seat in the legislature, could run in a byelection now set for later this month. One of the legislators who quit the caucus last week, Delta South MLA Ian Paton, has said Delaney offered him a job as an adviser in exchange for resignation as an MLA, and the RCMP had since arranged to interview him. Findlay said accusations being levelled against her and her team were “baseless,” part of an effort to derail her campaign in Abbotsford-Mission, where Reann Gasper resigned as MLA. Gasper was then appointed Findlay’s deputy chief of staff last week, before being promoted to fill the

vacancy left by Delaney on Wednesday. “I have spent my career serving in positions of significant public trust,” Findlay said in a statement. “I am a lawyer, a former Canadian Human Rights Tribunal judge, a King’s counsel and a member of the King’s Privy Council for Canada. I served British Columbians as a federal cabinet minister and later as chief Opposition whip in the Conservative caucus. I have been vetted numerous times to be given the highest security clearances.” Findlay said her responsibilities had carried “serious ethical and professional obligations” and she had always “conducted myself accordingly.” Both McInnis and Wilson cited Findlay’s reported connections to Alberta separatists as part of a series of concerns in their decisions to defect.

Federal government will extend gas tax holiday into 2027

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Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced Wednesday that the Liberal government is extending the federal excise tax holiday on gasoline and diesel until Jan. 31, 2027. Starting Feb. 1 and running until March 31, 2027, the excise tax will be reimposed at 50 per cent of the pre taxholiday value before being returned to the full rate on April 1, 2027. The fuel tax holiday also includes the four cent per litre excise tax on aviation fuel. Champagne made the announcement in Ottawa as part of what he said was the government's efforts to help Canadian families and businesses deal with the rising cost of living. "These ongoing disruptions in the Middle East are driving up energy

costs, pushing fuel prices higher and putting additional pressure on families, workers and businesses here at home," Champagne said. In April, Carney temporarily removed the 10-cent federal excise tax on a litre of gas, four cents per litre on diesel and four cents on a litre of aviation fuel, until Sept. 7, which is Labour Day. At the time, Carney said the move, which was expected to cost an estimated $2.4 billion, would act as a bridge to help get Canadians over "short-term pressures" caused by a spike in the global price of oil since the U.S. began its war with Iran. Finance Canada estimates that extending the tax holiday will cost an additional $2.9 billion, bringing the total tax relief on fuels since April to $5.3 billion.

Police ticket Abbotsford woman at centre of viral littering scandal Puneet P.K. Sandhar

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A woman who sparked outrage and a social media furor after being filmed dumping garbage into Mill Lake in Abbotsford several times has been identified and ticketed by Abbotsford Police. The viral videos posted earlier this week on sites like X, Reddit and Facebook quickly led Abbotsford police to a suspect, who was issued two violation tickets totalling $1,000. Police are not releasing her identity, citing privacy legislation. The videos of the woman ignited an online racial firestorm. It was compounded by her behaviour, which appeared to be unapologetic, dismissive and argumentative when she was confronted on several occasions by a passersby who filmed her tossing garbage into the wildlife habitats.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

Vancouver-area home sales drop almost 5% in August amid lag: board

Surrey Islamic centre targeted with hateful, threatening vandalism Police are investigating after a Surrey mosque was vandalized with hateful and threatening graffiti over the weekend, prompting condemnation from political leaders and renewed concerns about rising Islamophobia in Canada. Members of the Fleetwood Islamic Centre arrived for early morning prayers on Saturday and discovered messages including “Get Out or Die” and “Islam is Trash” spray-painted on the building’s walls. Raw bacon was also left on a door handle and near windows.

“It was very concerning and scary,” said Asif Ali, general secretary of the Fleetwood Islamic Academy Society. Ali said the incident has left members of the congregation worried about their safety. “It does put us in concern. Now it has happened to us directly on our doorstep. It is very, very concerning,” he said, adding that there are fears the situation could escalate. Long-time congregant Kasim Amarni said the graffiti has shaken worshippers, particularly seniors. “They were so upset,” Amarni said. “The senior people started being afraid to come here alone.” The incident comes amid ongoing concerns about threats and Islamophobic incidents targeting

Muslim communities across Canada. Steven Zhou, a spokesperson for the National Council of Canadian Muslims, said the vandalism highlights the need for broader action. “It’s a time for a national reckoning and a strategy to deal with this problem,” Zhou said. In a statement, B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma condemned the vandalism. “My heart goes out to the Fleetwood Islamic Academy Society and the Muslim community who woke up to this hate incident and threats of violence,” Sharma said. “Islamophobia has absolutely no place in our communities.” B.C. Premier David Eby and Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke also denounced the incident. “There is no room in our city for Islamophobia or any kind of hate messaging, ever,” Locke said. Police have released images of a suspect and a vehicle believed to be linked to the vandalism. Investigators say a man was captured on surveillance video in the area before the incident and may have been driving a small white fourdoor sedan. Authorities are working to determine whether the vandalism meets the threshold of a hatemotivated offence. Ali said the mosque’s leadership remains committed to fostering a peaceful community. “We all want to live together peacefully and in harmony,” he said. The society says it is taking steps to increase security at the mosque. RCMP continue to investigate and no arrests have been made. Anyone with information is asked to contact police.

Home sales in the Vancouver region dropped 4.6 per cent last month compared with a year ago, continuing a lag since May that is expected to persist through the end of 2026. Greater Vancouver Realtors says there were 1,869 home sales last month, which was 20.7 per cent below the 10-year seasonal average. Andrew Lis, the board’s chief economist and vicepresident of data analytics, says inventory levels have receded from their 2025 heights, and paired with slower-than-usual sales, this has caused prices “to drift downwards across all market segments.” The composite benchmark price for all types of residential properties in Vancouver was $1,081,900, a 5.6 per cent decline from August 2025 and a 0.6 per cent dip from

July 2026. There were 4,100 new listings on the market last month, down three per cent year-over-year and 1.3 per cent lower than the 10-year average. Meanwhile, total inventory fell 2.7 per cent annually to 15,798, which was 26.2 per cent above the long-term average.

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Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem says inflation risk is on the rise, with higher energy costs topping Canada's incoming dollarfor-dollar tariffs on U.S. goods as the biggest potential driver of rising prices for consumers and businesses. Macklem's remarks on Wednesday came after Canada's central bank held its benchmark interest rate steady at 2.25 per cent, as widely expected by economists. The central bank lowered its policy rate to its current level in October of last year. This latest announcement marks seven consecutive times it has left its trend-setting policy rate unchanged. "The counter-tariffs, and indeed the U.S. tariffs ... will add costs for some businesses," Macklem told reporters in Ottawa. "These tariffs are very steep, but they are applied to a relatively narrow base." The bigger issue, he said, is the war in the Middle East. "The conflict has re-escalated. Oil prices are back up," Macklem said. "The longer that drags on, the bigger the risk that it starts to spill over to the prices of other goods and services." In its decision, the bank said recent data confirms its prediction for a "broadening recovery" in the economy. However, policymakers also said the war and U.S. tariffs raise the risk of higher inflation. U.S. benchmark oil prices have soared about 13 per cent since the bank’s last announcement in July. The U.S.-led war in Iran has intensified in recent weeks, resulting in slower tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passageway for oil to reach global markets. At the same time, the Canada-U.S. trade war has escalated significantly since the bank's prior meeting in July. Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed 50 per cent tariffs on about $28 billion worth of Canadian products. Starting Tuesday, Canada will match those levies with dollar-fordollar tariffs on $27.6 billion of comparable U.S. goods. Last week, the federal government rolled

out a $7.5-billion expanded economic relief program for impacted workers and businesses. The new supports are on top of the nearly $25 billion in tariff support it implemented over the past 18 months. Inflation is 'too high': Macklem Canada's inflation rate rose to three per cent in July, as hostilities in the Middle East trickled through to Canadian gas pumps. “That’s too high,” Macklem said, noting the bank’s primary goal of achieving two per cent inflation. “It’s very concentrated in gasoline, in oil prices, which are a direct effect of the conflict in Iran.”

Derek Holt, vice president and head of capital markets economics at Scotiabank, says Macklem has put a lot of weight on the bank's next set of economic forecasts due in October. "There is a lot more information to digest between now and Oct. 28, such as data on inflation and jobs and GDP, plus energy market and trade developments, but the BoC very clearly cracked open the door by enough to increase flexibility to tighten as soon as the next meeting if everything co-operates," Holt said in a research note. He predicts 75 basis points worth of rate hikes starting in the fourth quarter of 2026.

B.C.'s 1st 'fall storm' could bring 'onslaught' of rain to parts of coast: Environment Canada

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It might still be summer, but Environment Canada is warning that the first "fall storm" of the season is closing in on parts of the British Columbia coast. Environment Canada has issued a yellow rainfall warning for western Vancouver Island, forecasting rainfall of 100 millimetres or more in northern sections near Zeballos. Special weather statements are also in place for the North and Central coasts. Environment Canada meteorologist Chloe Katsademas said a low-pressure system was spinning off B.C.'s North Coast on Tuesday and was expected to make its way southward as the day progressed. "There's going to be quite an onslaught of

rainfall," she said. "It could lead to sudden rises in stream levels because that heavy rainfall could be quite intense in some areas." Katsademas said the heaviest rain is expected between Kitimat and Bella Bella, and on the northern and western parts of Vancouver Island. Environment Canada is warning of the potential for landslides and localized waterpooling or flooding, especially in impacted areas facing prolonged drought. Exposed coastal areas could also see strong southerly gusts, peaking on Tuesday night and dying down Wednesday morning. Katsademas said the wet weather is forecast to move onto the mainland in the coming days, but not with the same level of intensity.

OPINION

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

How immigration changes are contributing to B.C.'s housing market slowdown

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While economic uncertainty from fluctuating oil prices and U.S. tariffs is contributing to B.C.'s real estate slowdown, economists say immigration policy changes are also playing a part. Greater Vancouver Realtors (GVR) marked a slower summer in home sales than it forecasted earlier this year, with sales 6.2 per cent below its year-to-year forecast for the region and 18.6 per cent below its 10-year average for July. The B.C. Real Estate Association (BCREA) also reported a 6.7 per cent decline in July home sales compared to the previous year, along with slight declines in average price and total sales. "Instead of growth, we're calling for a little bit of 'degrowth' in prices for the year," said Andrew Lis, chief economist with GVR. Multiple factors are contributing to the slowdown, economists like Lis say, with oil price fluctuations from the U.S. and Israel-Iran war and U.S. tariffs creating economic uncertainty. "Tariffs can cause harm to the economy, and also uncertainty, both of which are bad for the housing market," said Thomas Davidoff, an associate professor at the University of B.C.'s Sauder School of Business. Economists are also pointing to another factor behind the slowdown: the impacts of immigration policy changes dovetailing with the creation of new housing. The federal government announced in 2024 that it would reduce temporary residents and cap international student permits, among other changes, in a bid to manage immigration levels. That's led to a reduction in the number of renters in B.C. In April, the province estimated the population decreased by 53,270 people from the year before. It also estimated the number of studypermit holders fell by nearly 30 per cent, from 141,806 to 99,862. "The primary driver of B.C.'s decline in [nonpermanent residents] over the last 12 months was a sharp reduction in the number of study permit holders residing in the province," the province said in a report. Meanwhile, there were more than 26,000 new registrations of purpose-built rentals in 2025, according to the province, more than 10

times the average number of yearly purpose-built registrations from 2007 to 2016. The province also said efforts to "return" shortterm rentals to the market led to a drop in shortterm rental listings, from about 28,000 to just over 23,000. "We're sort of in a different position now where our population is declining and all that new supply is finally coming online," said Ryan Wyse, market intelligence manager and lead analyst at Rennie. "With rental rates kind of falling right now as that market has shifted, we're seeing less condo investors who want to get into rental themselves, less of those mom-and-pop investors."

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

Ontario university student from China arrested for spying An Ontario university student is suspected of espionage after the FBI said he admitted to accessing airport facilities in Toronto and Chicago to take photos on behalf of a shadowy figure from China. Weiheng Zeng, himself a Chinese citizen, was arrested in Michigan on Aug. 23 after crossing the Ambassador Bridge from Windsor, Ont. He was charged with one count of making false statements. Zeng appeared in a federal court in Detroit on Tuesday and agreed to remain in custody as he awaits his trial. A University of Waterloo undergraduate student born in 2004, Zeng first raised U.S. authorities' suspicions in April, after an incident captured on security video at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, according to a criminal complaint reviewed by CBC News. At the time, FedEx employees spotted a man

taking photos, climbing a forklift and attempting to open a locked delivery truck and a shipping container in the company's parking lot at the Chicago airport, the criminal complaint said. According to the complaint, Zeng acknowledged he had climbed the forklift at O'Hare 'to get a better angle to take pictures.' Investigators later linked Zeng to a dark blue Chrysler Town & Country minivan with Ontario licence plates seen on nearby CCTV. When he attempted to re-enter the U.S. last month while driving the same vehicle, Zeng told U.S. Customs and Border Protection he was headed to Chicago for a one-day trip. Instead, border officers interviewed him three times. And according to the criminal complaint, his story kept changing. At first, when border agents found numerous photos of military aircraft on his phone, Zeng purportedly said they were for a flight radar website. He said taking pictures of planes was his hobby. "Zeng's phone was also found to contain pictures of him and other individuals in tactical clothing and in tactical formations, holding rifle-styled firearms," FBI special agent Robert Holbrook wrote in the complaint. Zeng purportedly said the weapon was an airsoft gun.

Canada Manufacturing Sector PMI Dips to 53 in August But Still Reflects Expansion Canadian manufacturers activity continued to expand last month, though activity cooled modestly and input price inflation remains elevated, data showed Tuesday. The S&P Global Canada manufacturing purchasing managers index eased to 53 in August after rising to 53.5 the month before. The index for a fifth straight month was above the 50 threshold between growth and contraction. Paul Smith, economics director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said output and new sales for manufacturers in the country rose solidly for the month and helped support job creation as well as optimism about the future. However, the survey was conducted before the recent collapse in trade talks between Ottawa and Washington. "We may have already seen a high-water mark for growth. Tariffs were already having a negative impact on sector performance based on the

latest anecdotal evidence, exacerbating supplychain challenges, raising prices and weighing on exports," Smith said. "But with a notable escalation of trade tensions between Canada and its largest trading partner, all those existing challenges are set to be exacerbated, placing downside risks to output, orders, jobs and investment in the months ahead." Canada's economy notched the strongest growth in roughly three years during the second quarter, with gross domestic product increasing at an annualized rate of 3.3% following a slim 0.3% expansion in the first three months of the year. Growth was broad and led by higher exports, resilient household spending and a recovery in business investment. The pace would have been even stronger if not for businesses down on inventories, a reversal after inventories were built up to start the year.

Liberal MP Idlout violated conflict of interest code, ethics watchdog finds Ottawa's ethics commissioner found Liberal MP Lori Idlout violated Parliament's conflict of interest code, but recommended against imposing any penalties against her. Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner Konrad von Finckenstein released his findings from an investigation into Idlout's purchases from her own shop that she charged to the House of Commons. Idlout reimbursed the House, saying she submitted the items in error. In a statement to CBC News, Idlout thanked the commissioner for the report. "I acknowledge the commissioner's findings and take this matter seriously," she said. "At the

time, I did not consider that these purchases made for legitimate parliamentary purposes would further private interests, as I receive no income from the businesses in question," Idlout wrote. In the report, Finckenstein said he believed Idlout's actions "were errors of judgment and made in good faith." He said Idlout did not realize that the purchases would further her own interests, adding the Nunavut MP repaid the House as soon as she learned of the errors. "In my view, this shows a true desire to fully remedy each instance of non-compliance," Finckenstein wrote in the report. "I therefore recommended that no sanction be imposed.”

Canada’s counter-tariffs are expected to raise prices As Canada’s retaliatory tariffs on the U.S. are set to take effect next week, many consumers are anxious about the impact of the surtaxes on affected items. Experts like Ian Lee, an associate professor at Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business in Ottawa, said the federal government’s countertariffs will make American items pricier for Canadians. “If they’re planning on buying them anyways, they should probably buy them before Sept. 8,” Lee said in a video interview with CTVNews.ca on Monday. “(If) your fridge breaks down or your washing machine breaks down, and you have to replace it, it’s going to cost a lot more after Sept. 8, so it’s a choice that people have to

make,” he added. Trade talks broke down between Ottawa and Washington on Aug. 21, resulting in 50 per cent tariffs on billions of Canadian products. In turn, Ottawa announced last week dollar-for-dollar counter-tariffs on about 700 American imports worth $27.6 billion.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

‘Young, energetic and accountable’: Randhawa pitches change for Surrey Continued from Page 1... “We will bring a new outlook, not only energy,” Randhawa said. “Being young does provide one thing, which is the time and the energy we can bring to the table.” Randhawa also said that his council team has signed an affidavit committing to not take any salary hikes in their four-year term. “I’m sorry, there is no reason that an accountable government has to do behind the door deals, “Randhawa said. He proposed transparency that during transactions

related to property there will be a subject period and people would be made aware of the happenings by the city hall and their input would be appreciated. Randhawa and Bajwa also highlighted the

shortage of accessible public washrooms. Randhawa said that during conversations with senior citizens, many have raised concerns about

the lack of accessible washrooms, particularly around bus loops and other public places. Bajwa also said that council members would remain in constant touch with residents rather than limited interactions to the city hall. The party

also plans to establish “connection hubs’ across Surrey this would help in building a stronger communication between the citizens and city hall.

Randhawa said that he has also spoken to many gas station workers to make their washrooms publicly accessible. Owners were willing to do so

Randhawa added his administration would also be working on the speeding up process to issue permits, including a proposed one-week permit guarantee. This would help reduce delays for construction.

and only asked for some reduction in the property taxes. Traffic congestion and lengthy construction projects were also among the key issues his administration would look to address. “I will be bringing in construction during nighttime, so a lot of congestion will be taken care of, " Randhawa said. The Conservative Party of Surrey will also be introducing sports scholarships and subsidising coaching plans for kids seeking support and guidance in sports. Bajwa said this initiative would help young athletes seek guidance, support especially when they compete at higher levels and represent the province and the country. When asked about his team Randhawa described them as “young, energetic and accountable.’ The 2026 Municipal Elections would be taking place on October 17, 2026.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

NFL owners approve Seattle Seahawks $9.6B sale to Indian-origin Vinod Khosla NFL owners voted unanimously to approve the record-breaking $9.612 billion sale of the Seattle Seahawks from Paul Allen’s estate to a group led by the Khosla family on Wednesday.

The sale needed approval from at least 24 of 32 owners at the special league meeting in Atlanta. The vote was widely viewed as a foregone conclusion after the NFL’s finance and ownership policy committees gave a unanimous recommendation of approval last week. The sale is now expected to be finalized in the next week, per The Seattle Times’ Bob Condotta. At that point, the reigning Super Bowl champion Seahawks will officially change hands after 29 successfilled years under the Allen family’s ownership. The Seahawks kick off the 2026 NFL season on Sept. 9 in a Super Bowl rematch against the New England Patriots at Lumen Field. The Paul G. Allen estate announced on July 11 that it reached a sales agreement with the Khosla-led group, which is spearheaded by tech entrepreneur and venture capitalist Vinod Khosla, along with his wife Neeru Khosla and their son Neal Khosla. The Seahawks’ selling price shattered the previous NFL record of $6.05 billion, which the Washington

Commanders sold for in 2023. The NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers hold the record for a North American pro sports franchise. They were sold for $10 billion in October 2025 and are in the process of being sold again for $12.5 billion. Vinod Khosla, 71, is the co-founder of Sun Microsystems and the founder of Khosla Ventures. He is worth approximately $13.3 billion, according to Forbes. According to a memo the NFL reportedly sent to its teams, Neeru Khosla is slated to serve as the Seahawks’ controlling owner, while Neal Khosla is expected to have “a significant leadership role” in the ownership group. Vinod and Neal Khosla bought a 3.1% stake in the San Francisco 49ers in May 2025, and will have to relinquish that stake per NFL rules. According to Sportico, it’s become common for new NFL owners to first buy stake in other NFL franchises, which gives them and the league familiarity with each other.

Vancouver drug advocates open pop-up overdose prevention sites Neighbours of a planned overdose prevention site (OPS) in downtown Vancouver that was recently cancelled by the B.C. government say they’re concerned about ad hoc harm reduction services appearing outside the vacant building. Days after Health Minister Ravi Kahlon confirmed the proposed location at 900 Helmcken Street would not move forward, business owner Denise Meikle said she noticed a table with OPS supplies set up on Hornby Street on Aug. 29. “I just feel like the wool’s being pulled over our eyes and if these popups are happening, then what is the public safety,” the Salon Origins owner told in an interview. Meikle said she’s not opposed to life saving services but is troubled by the street disorder she witnesses after people use drugs. “I’m all for harm reduction. However, what we absorb after, when people are coming out of their high, is the aggression, the violence,” Meikle said. Jens (Spoons) Petersen, a resident of the Murray

Hotel single-room occupancy (SRO) near 900 Helmcken Street, said Saturday’s sidewalk table was offering harm reduction supplies and water to those in need. “People in this neighbourhood, they just label us, they don’t even give us a chance to be better,” Petersen said. “If we had a place to go, then they wouldn’t see us.” Petersen said he’s saddened by the loss of the planned OPS, and believes it will just force drug users back into the alleys and onto the streets. Ken Sim said it’s disappointing and completely inappropriate to see overdose prevention site pop ups organized by a bunch of random individuals. When asked what it has planned for 900 Helmcken for the remainder of the two-year lease, Vancouver Coastal Health said it will work with the Ministry of Health and consult with city stakeholders to develop alternative programming in the building, such as treatment and recovery supports and long-term wellness programs.

The legacy that extended far beyond comedy

HEALTH CARE WORKERS like care aides, clerical, trades and security are a vital part of the team delivering health care in B.C.

Continued from Page 1... Our political satires also struck a chord with the viewers and by the medium of ‘Chhankata’ we could reflect on the ongoing political development and issues affecting the society. Sharma said, “Dr Bhalla was blessed with creativity, spontaneity and delivery, it is very rare to see all these qualities in an individual.” His legacy was extended beyond movies, Dr Bhalla played a huge role in knitting families together especially by setting an example on how three generations could live under one roof especially in today’s changing times.

Happy Labour Day from the Hospital Employees’ Union Working to make health care better for everyone

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

Homicide suspected after missing man's remains found in Fraser River

The body of a missing man found in the Fraser River has been deemed a homicide by RCMP. Julian Wich, 29, had been reported missing in Prince George on Jan. 2 after his family hadn’t seen

him in nearly a month. His body was discovered in the Fraser River on June 19. RCMP said there were “suspicious circumstances” surrounding his disappearance, leading the serious crime unit to take over the file. The ensuing investigation after the discovery of his body led police to call his death a homicide. “We are asking that anyone who may have information relating to the death of Julian Wich to come forward and speak with police. Even information that may seem insignificant could assist us in advancing this investigation,” said RCMP Cpl. Jennifer Cooper. Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact Prince George RCMP at 250-561-3300 and quote File No. 2026141.

Carney’s Liberals sweep 3 special elections in Canada as voters back his stand against Trump Continued from Page 2... Nelson Wiseman, a professor emeritus of political science at the University of Toronto, said Carney is more popular in Quebec than in any other region of Canada and that Trump’s annexation threats carry particular weight there. “Quebecers have the most to lose in an apocalyptic scenario where the U.S. absorbs Canada, and the status of the French language disappears,” Wiseman said. The other two seats were previously held by Liberals. In British Columbia, Carney’s former deputy chief of staff Braeden Caley won North Vancouver-Capilano. “The United States is getting a message tonight. Our leader has the support of the Canadian people,” Liberal lawmaker Hedy Fry told the Canadian Broadcasting Corp. in an interview. U.S.-Canada trade talks collapsed Aug. 21 after the two sides failed to reach a deal, and Trump imposed 50% tariffs on roughly $20 billion in Canadian goods. Canada responded with plans for tariffs on U.S. products. Trump has escalated his attacks on Canada since the talks failed. He signed an executive order renaming Lake Ontario “Lake America,” and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Monday that Canada had limited leverage in the dispute because the U.S. economy is roughly 13 times larger. Trump has repeatedly talked about making Canada the 51st state. Carney has accelerated efforts to deepen

economic ties with Europe and other partners. The Liberal sweep brings Carney’s party to 173 seats in the 343-seat House of Commons, further strengthening its position in Parliament. The special elections were called after the lawmakers who previously held the three seats resigned from Parliament earlier this year. Daniel Béland, a political-science professor at McGill University, said the easy Liberal win in Chicoutimi-Le Fjord likely reflected, in part, the popularity in Quebec of Carney’s Aug. 21 decision “to pull the plug on trade negotiations with the White House.” Béland said the Conservative collapse there was also bad news for leader Pierre Poilievre. The party won the riding with 34% of the vote last year but fell to about 13% and third place Monday. “These numbers do look bad,” he said.

Carney won Canada’s election last year, fueled by public anger over Trump’s annexation threats, and he has vowed to reduce Canada’s reliance on the U.S.

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Carney says U.S. wants to wipe out Canadian industries or make them subsidiaries Continued from Page 1... The prime minister said an "accumulation of issues, each of them serious enough," prevented Canada from signing a deal, including the effects of proposed concessions on the French language and culture and restrictions on Canada's ability to trade freely with other nations. Carney said Canada is willing to get back to the table when the Americans are ready to have a "serious" discussion. "When the Americans stop doing memes, stop throwing shade, stop trying to be tough and start being serious about having those discussions, we can have those discussions," he said. "It's not constructive but that's their democracy." Since the negotiations collapsed, U.S. President Donald Trump and members of his cabinet have taken to news shows and social media to repeatedly attack Canada. Trump signed an executive order to rename Lake Ontario as Lake America on U.S. maps, and the president and his cabinet secretaries posted AI images and memes disparaging Canada. Carney discussed developments in trade talks with labour groups in Ottawa on Tuesday. A news release from the Prime Minister's Office said groups attending the meeting included Canada's Building Trades Unions, the United Food and Commercial Workers, the United Steelworkers, Unifor and Teamsters Canada. Bea Bruske, president of the Canadian Labour Congress, was at the meeting. She said Canada's chief trade negotiator Janice Charette and Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu also attended.

"It was really good to be able to unpack the challenges and concerns that labour has in this moment and some of the solutions that we wanted to offer," she said. Bruske said the union representatives all seemed to agree that the government's decision to walk away from talks with the U.S. was the right one. The Canadian Labour Congress is urging the government to strengthen employment insurance and support workers who lose their jobs to the broader economic fallout from tariffs. It's also warning against weakening collective bargaining rights through the current Canada Labour Code review. Bruske said the union representatives reiterated the importance of supporting affected workers and also discussed getting major projects off the ground and ensuring investments are tied to employment. "I really got the feeling that the prime minister wanted to listen to where labour is at and where the different segments and the different sectors of the economy are at," she said. "The one point, though, that he did make is that we can't expect that things will go back to normal any time soon, whether it's this November or November two years' time from now... There is a new normal that we have to get adjusted to." Marty Warren, national director of The United Steelworkers union, also attended the meeting. He said in a media statement that "Canada was right to hold the line rather than accept a bad deal and right to respond to these unjustified tariffs with counter-tariffs."

FIJI

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

Hibiscus festival opens with a march

THE 70th FMF Hibiscus Festival will officially open with a march and parade from the Flea Market to Albert Park at 10am, signalling the start of this year’s celebrations. The opening program will feature an official ceremony, appearances by former queens and introductions of the festival contestants. Entertainment will follow throughout the afternoon and evening, with performances from Laisa Vulakoro, Miles Manulevu, Manava Dance, Savuto, Taitusi Mareau and Via Ni Tebara, among

others. Meanwhile, as the FMF Hibiscus Festival marks its 70th anniversary, the charity chest continues to turn the event’s popularity into practical support for community organisations and people in need. While the festival is known for its colourful celebrations and Queens contest, contributions through the charity chest provide assistance to groups that often operate with limited resources and little public support. Festival director Ellen Whippy Knight said giving remained an important part of the festival’s identity, with every contribution helping extend its impact beyond the event itself. “The charity chest reminds us that the Hibiscus Festival has always stood for something greater than entertainment and pageantry,” she said. She said fundraising required hours of planning, promotion and personal appeals from those involved.

FBC to pay $150,000 damages THE Supreme Court has ordered the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation to pay $150,000 in general damages to medical practitioner Dr Shanjivan Padarath for online defamation. The ruling, delivered on August 28 by Justices Anthony Gates, Terence Arnold, and Lowell Goddard, quashed a Court of Appeal decision and reinstated a High Court decision which had found liability against FBC and reporter Savaira Tabua. The case related to an online news article published by FBC in September 2016 titled “Fake Doctor to appear in Court” alongside a photograph of Dr Padarath. The image had been pulled from FBC’s archive footage of an earlier, legitimate public health broadcast on

conjunctivitis in which Dr Padarath was featured. Although the text referred to an unnamed and unqualified individual operating a home clinic in Nasinu, readers and colleagues recognised Dr Padarath from the accompanying photograph and named and defended him in their comments on the article. Justice Goddard highlighted that an article, headline, and illustrative photograph must be evaluated as a whole. The court found that using Dr Padarath’s image created a natural implication that he was the fake doctor, making the publication inherently defamatory. In addition to the $150,000 damages award, FBC is to pay six per cent interest backdated to March 2023, along with $19,000 in legal costs.

Navua to become Fiji’s 14th town Navua will officially be declared Fiji’s 14th town today, marking the culmination of a process that began more than five decades ago. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka will officiate at the Navua Town Declaration at Thompson Park at 10am. The declaration follows public consultations and support from residents, traditional leaders and the provinces of Serua and Namosi. Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa had earlier revealed that efforts to have Navua declared a town dated back to 1973. He said rapid economic growth and increasing development in the area had strengthened the case for formal town status. “They have been longing for this for a very long time,” Mr Nalumisa

said following public consultations in Navua. He said consultations had received strong support from residents for the declaration. According to Mr Nalumisa, becoming a town is expected to bring long-term benefits to Navua, including increased Government investment, improved infrastructure and greater opportunities to attract private sector investment. The declaration will also provide a formal framework for the future planning and management of the rapidly developing Navua area. Mr Nalumisa had said planning work and further consultations on the town planning scheme would continue beyond the formal declaration.

Fijian couple leaving NZ with their newborn baby and a $32k hospital bill

A couple who welcomed the arrival of their second child two months ago have received a hospital bill for nearly $32,000. The healthy 3.2kg baby boy arrived via C-section at Dunedin Hospital on June 27, three days after his parents’ work visas – and their access to New Zealand’s publicly funded healthcare – had expired. His father Shalveen Sen, his mother Swastikha Chand, and his older brother, aged six, arrived in the country three years ago from Fiji. Sen worked as a commercial cleaner, while Chand worked as a caregiver, but their work experience – and job offers – were not enough for Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to renew their work visas. The couple had been trying to renew those visas, initially issued for three years, over the past year. The stress over their immigration status was compounded by the news they had a baby due in early July. Chand also experienced pregnancy

complications, which led to medical advice for her not to travel in the third trimester. The couple’s midwife informed them a birth that wasn’t covered by the public system would cost around $9000. INZ advise those who were not eligible for publicly funded healthcare must bear the costs themselves. Those in that position “must show you have a minimum of NZ$9000 to pay for your maternity care,” the agency says.

Flights to Canberra halt next year Fiji Airways has confirmed its Canberra Airport flights will be temporarily suspended from next year with the final flight scheduled for January 31, 2027. Fiji Airways’ chief network, revenue and alliances officer Russell Shaw said this was a targeted network adjustment and not a reduction of the airline’s overall capacity. “This is a temporary suspension which is part of ongoing work to ensure our aircraft are deployed where they can deliver the strongest performance and create the greatest positive impact for Fiji, our tourism industry and our wider network,” he said. “The first ‘cancelled service’ is 5 February, 2027. “This is a targeted network adjustment based on where demand and performance are strongest across our network.” He said the capacity currently on the Canberra route was being redeployed to

areas where it could deliver better results. “Our team is contacting every guest affected directly to arrange alternative travel. This includes rebooking onto our daily Sydney–Nadi connections, or a full refund if that’s what the guest prefers. “Canberra travellers retain access to Fiji via our daily Sydney to Nadi services, and the capacity coming off the Canberra route is being redeployed elsewhere in our network where demand and performance are stronger so our broader footprint in Australia, anchored by Sydney, continues.” Meanwhile, Canberra Business Chamber’s chief executive Greg Harford said they were sad to see the announcement of the end of Fiji Airways’ flights to Canberra. “The route to Nadi has been positive for the tourism sector and has provided good onward connectivity to North America and the world,” he said.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

transport aircraft to Pakistan in 2021. In 2003, Belgium attempted to sell 30 F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan, but the deal fell through as US consent was required. Belgium is the latest European country from which India has sought an assurance on avoiding defence cooperation with Pakistan. The military-related agreements between India and Belgium were signed as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with visiting Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever.

Death toll from devastating floods in Nepal and China surpasses 1,000 The death toll from catastrophic flooding in Nepal and China has reached 1,019, and more than 4,400 people remain missing as rescue crews work to reach communities cut off by the disaster. In an update on Tuesday, Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) revised the number of deaths to 1,003 from 987, with 3,916 people missing, including 583 foreigners. Chinese authorities reported 16 deaths and 546 people still missing, including 261 foreigners, in their most recent update on Sunday. The disaster hit on August 26, beginning with a chain of events high in the Himalayas, when a glacial collapse sent large amounts of rock, ice, and meltwater into valleys below, triggering powerful floods downstream. Scientists studying satellite imagery said the collapse appears to have involved the failure of bedrock beneath a glacier. Hundreds of workers are feared to be trapped in tunnels at several devastated hydropower stations in Nepal that have become the

focus of rescue efforts. Prime Minister Balendra Shah said 279 workers had been rescued from hydropower projects so far, where authorities had initially estimated that more than 900 people were missing. More than 11,000 people have been rescued across the affected region, and power and communication lines have been restored in some areas, he added. “Thousands of citizens have lost their homes, families, loved ones, and property,” Shah said on social media.

SOUTH ASIA

How melting glaciers contributed to the flooding disaster in the Himalayas Nearly 3,000 people are missing and at least 670 people are dead after flash flooding tore through Nepal and Tibet early Wednesday, according to the Associated Press. Initial assessments found that a massive chunk of ice snapped off a glacier and tumbled thousands of feet into the valley below. Rock, ice and mud plunged down for miles, washing away communities along the river. Scientists say glaciers in this region, and around the world, are increasingly unstable because of human-caused global warming. Across the mountains of Nepal and Tibet, climate change is causing glaciers to melt at an alarming rate. Planet-heating emissions from burning fossil fuels such as oil, gas and coal are the primary driver of climate change. Scientists say that in addition to reducing climate pollution, renewable energy and battery technologies are increasingly price competitive with traditional energy sources. "There's no question that this event was made more likely because of climate change and that we're seeing more likely other similar glacier hazards occurring," says Twila Moon, deputy lead scientist at the National Snow and Ice Data Center at the University of Colorado Boulder. Footage from the Chinese-administered Tibet side of the border with Nepal shared on local media showed a massive gush of water sweeping over a port building as people fled. As the water barrelled down, residents filmed it sweeping away a bridge and washing away riverside settlements. The flooding was made more severe because it happened during the heavy rains of the monsoon season, says Mohammad Farooq Azam, an expert at ICIMOD, an environmental advocacy group that focuses on Asia's high mountains. "Everything

is fully saturated already," Azam said. "The rivers are swollen." This flood is part of a trend, said Arun Bhakta Shrestha, an expert on climate change and the Himalayan glaciers. "If you look at the whole Hindu Kush Himalayan region," he said, "it seems like the frequency, the

types of those hazards are increasing." Shrestha said everything points to climate change as the reason. The world will see "more and more events like this," says Alton Byers, a faculty research scientist at the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research at the University of Colorado Boulder. "Things are getting warmer," he says. Permafrost on the mountains, the continuously frozen soil and sediment, is now changing, said Byers. He uses the analogy of a stick of butter left out of the refrigerator. "It's going to get softer," he says. "And it's going to lose its structural integrity." The Rhône Glacier in Switzerland is the source of the Rhône River, which flows through Switzerland and France. Swiss glaciers like this one are melting quickly, reduced by nearly two-thirds of their ice over the past century.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

PUNJAB

BJP accuses Punjab Govt of running ‘graft syndicate’; smear campaign, says AAP Separately, a SAD delegation met Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Thursday and demanded a high-level CBI inquiry into alleged large-scale corruption in the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Bhandari played purported audio recordings in which, he claimed, intermediaries referred to the involvement of CM Mann and his wife in efforts to get an FIR withdrawn or otherwise resolve a case. He alleged that the recordings indicated a “middleman model” in which money was being negotiated for getting cases settled. Bhandari linked the allegations to FIR No. 77 registered at the Civil Lines police station, claiming that the case involved an accused named Gurwinder Chahal. He alleged that one of the purported recordings contained a conversation in which an intermediary told a relative of the accused that the Chief Minister had been informed and the

case would be “finished”. He further claimed that another recording contained a discussion about the amount involved, which he put at Rs 5 crore, while a third suggested that the money was to be distributed among

12 colleges face PU panel action over failure to appoint regular principals Despite repeated reminders and deadlines from Panjab University, 12 non-government affiliated colleges in the state have failed to appoint regular principals in accordance with university regulations.Deputy Registrar (Colleges) has now asked the colleges to appear before the affiliation committee on September 11. Letters have been sent to the presidents of the governing bodies of the respective colleges in this regard.

Last October, the colleges were sent reminders to appoint regular principals. Show-cause notices were later issued in December to those that had failed to take appropriate steps to comply with the instructions. Last year, there were 42 such colleges. The number has now come down to 12, which have still not complied with the rules and are functioning

under officiating principals beyond the prescribed six-month limit laid down in the PU Calendar. Four of the 12 colleges are from Ludhiana. The university has also raised serious objections to official correspondence being sent under the signatures of unapproved officiating principals or teachers appointed by college managements. The 12 colleges without regular principals include Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh; MBB GGG Girls College, Rattewal, in SBS Nagar district; DAV College of Education, Abohar; Baba Kundan Singh Co-education College, Ferozepur; Guru Nanak College, Cantonment Area, Ferozepur; Dasmesh Girls College of Education, Badal, Muktsar; Guru Nanak College, Moga; Arya College, Ludhiana; Gujranwala Guru Nanak Khalsa College, Ludhiana; Guru Gobind Singh Khalsa College for Women, Kamalpura, Ludhiana; Malwa Central College of Education for Women, Ludhiana; and Guru Nanak Khalsa College for Women, Hoshiarpur. Surjeet Thakur, Deputy Registrar (Colleges), Panjab University, said the affiliation committee had called the presidents of the governing bodies to appear before it as principals cannot continue in office beyond six months.

Punjab runners clinch gold in 1,000m sprint medley For Punjab, the home-track triumph by Kashish, Manmeet Kaur, T Dhillon and Sehnoor Bawa provided a fitting finish to their campaign, winning 1,000m sprint medley gold in the 21st National Youth Athletics Championship. The meet concluded at Guru Nanak Stadium here on Thursday. With the race finely poised and little separating the leading quartets, Punjab’s young runners held their nerve when it mattered most to cross the finish line in 2:13.18, just over a second ahead of Maharashtra’s timing of 21:14.30 to bag the silver medal. Haryana were a fraction behind at 2:14.59 for the bronze medal. In the shot put event, Haryana’s Anjali emerged as the winner with a best throw of 16.02m. Jasmine Kaur from Punjab came in second with 15.62m and Drona Choudhary from Rajasthan finished third with a distance of 15.40m. In 100m hurdles, Karnataka’s Nupura Holla fetched the top position, clocking 13.78 seconds. Rajsree VB from Tamil Nadu took 14.23 seconds to secure the second spot and Khushi Patel from Uttar Pradesh claimed the third position with a

timing of 14.42 seconds. In the 200m run, Bhoomika Nehate from Maharashtra stormed past the finish line in 23.92 seconds to clinch the gold medal. Sahaya Jemima M from Tamil Nadu took home the silver with a timing of 24.54 seconds and Saawari Kulkarni from Maharashtra came in third, taking 24.67 seconds to get past the finish line. In the boys’ category, Manas Shinde from Maharashtra clocked 21.51 seconds to claim the top position in the 200m run. The second and third positions were bagged by Mehbubul Ahamed from West Bengal and Harit Chaudhary from Uttar Pradesh, respectively. In high jump, Jharkhand’s Himanshu Kumar Singh cleared 2.09m to bag top honours. Zubin Gohain from Assam and Sakthivel VN from Tamil Nadu secured second and third positions, respectively. In long jump, Bihar’s Prem Raj bagged the first position with a 7.58m effort. Sanjoy Mondal from West Bengal (7.23m) secured the second position and Sukhvir Singh from Uttar Pradesh (7.10m) finished third.

several people. The BJP spokesperson also sought to establish a link between the alleged conversations and the subsequent release of the accused on bail. He claimed the accused was arrested on May 13 and later released on bail. The BJP demanded a probe by a central agency, arguing that the allegations involved the functioning of the CMO and, therefore, could not be adequately investigated by the Punjab Government. However, the allegations made at the press conference, including claims that money reached the Chief Minister or his family, were not independently established by the material presented at the briefing. The purported audio recordings and their interpretation by the BJP would require forensic verification

and investigation. Responding to the charges, AAP hit back at the BJP and the SAD. Party Punjab media in-charge Baltej Pannu said, "If the Akalis attack the CM here, the BJP attacks him in Delhi." Questioning the BJP and SAD over their alleged associations with individuals being referred to as intermediaries, Pannu displayed photographs purportedly showing them with leaders of both parties. He showed photographs of one of the intermediaries with BJP leaders, including JP Nadda, Manjinder Singh Sirsa and Ravneet Singh Bittu. He also displayed photographs of Chahal, the main accused in the case, with Sukhbir Singh Badal, Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Bikram Singh Majithia, including pictures from social and family functions. He further referred to photographs of another intermediary with Akali leaders.

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INDIA

Hindu pilgrims on an arduous trek are among Nepal's missing Two sisters sit on chairs, apparently stunned. In halting sentences, in an Instagram post, they explain: "Our parents Shubhakshi and Sumit were in Nepal," one young woman, who introduces herself as Varnika says, "when the floods hit." Since the devastating floods in Nepal last Wednesday, social media has been awash with appeals from people searching for their loved ones. Most posts include photographs of those missing people, with phone numbers to call for more information. Many had one thing in common: They were pilgrims on a sacred journey to Mount Kailash, a Himalayan peak located in Chinese-held Tibet, and at the moment of disaster they were at, or near to, a once-popular border crossing, one of the worst impacted locations. Deadly incidents at pilgrimages are not unusual: from a stampede at a religious gathering known as the Kumbh Mela in India that killed more than 30 people in 2025, to a panicked crush in the Muslim holy city of Mecca during the Hajj that killed more than 2,400 people in 2015. But a flood sweeping away worshippers on pilgrimages centered in the Himalayas is rare. Even more so that it was triggered, in part, by climate change — an ominous sign for the future of pilgrimages in the region. It's unclear how many pilgrims remain unaccounted for by local authorities, but they appear to be a large cohort among the 853 foreigners that China and Nepal have reported as missing. Indeed, according to posts on social media and interviews with journalists, they may represent many of the 287 missing Indian nationals reported

by the Indian government on Aug. 29 — the most recent date such figures were released — as well as the 80 missing U.S. citizens. They include Vivek Srivastav, according to his brother-in-law Guarav Khare, who initially posted about Srivastav on X. He told NPR that Srivastav had settled in Atlanta decades ago. A biotech scientist, he became an American citizen five years ago; the kind of person who believed that "life is all about serving people." Since the floods, "we have been in search for him," Khare says, of Srivastav's wider family. Holy mountain draws devotees Srivastav had been on a pilgrimage alongside 10

others to the same Himalayan mountain, Mount Kailash, which is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and indigenous Tibetan religions. Visiting Mount Kailash for the faithful "is one of the most important things that they will do as they approach the last leg of their life," says Hindol Sengupta, a historian of religion. Hindus believe Mount Kailash "is the ultimate abode of Lord Shiva," one of the most important deities in Hinduism and a god associated with power and destruction.

India to finalise US trade deal only after preferential tariff terms, says Piyush Goyal Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Thursday said India would finalise the provisions of its proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the US only after Washington agrees to offer preferential tariff terms compared with those available to the country’s rivals. Addressing the National Workshop on ‘Leveraging FTAs an Outreach Programme’ in New Delhi, Goyal said, “we will complete the BTA and make the final details public as soon as the US is able to provide us a preferential in comparison with our competitors". The US and India have been negotiating the

Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) to increase market access, lower trade barriers and strengthen economic ties. In July, a senior US official said the drafting of the agreement was largely finalised and could be signed in the next three to four months, with the ongoing US Section 301 trade investigations being the main hurdle. The official said the agreement was “on paper” between the two nations and that the delay was procedural rather than the result of outstanding issues between Washington and New Delhi. Meanwhile, India has been seeking tariff arrangements that provide its exporters with a competitive edge over rival nations.

PM Modi reviews flood situation The water level in the Ganga has crossed the warning mark in Varanasi and several districts of Bihar. In this regard, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Mayor and Collector of Varanasi and took stock of the flood situation in the city. He was briefed on the relief measures being undertaken. Modi asked them to ensure that citizens face the least possible inconvenience. Water levels in several rivers in Bihar, including the Ganga, Kosi and Gandak, have risen rapidly following flash floods in Nepal, forcing residents of low-lying areas to evacuate their homes and move to safer locations. According to the Central Water Commission, the water level of the Ganga in Varanasi was recorded at 70.29 metres against the warning level of 70.26 metres. Officials said 13 relief camps had been set up in the district, where 935 people from 219 affected families are currently staying. Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Thursday inspected stretches along the

Ganga in Patna and Mokama districts and directed officials to take necessary measures in view of the potential flood situation. The river's water level is rising and is likely to breach the highest flood mark at Gandhi Ghat in Patna on Thursday night, the Disaster Management Department said in a statement. The department also warned people living along riverbanks and in low-lying areas of Bhojpur, Patna, Saran, Vaishali, Nalanda, Begusarai, Lakhisarai and Jehanabad districts to remain alert and avoid unnecessary movement near ghats and embankments.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026

INDIA

Will not extend defence equipment to Pak, Belgium assures India Belgium has assured India that it will not extend defence equipment or technology cooperation to Pakistan, even as Brussels and New Delhi on Thursday signed a series of military-related agreements covering the production of ammunition and rockets in India, mine-countermeasure systems, counter-drone technology and tank turrets. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), which publishes annual data on arms transfers, Belgium sold seven C-130H transport aircraft to Pakistan in 2021. In 2003, Belgium attempted to sell 30 F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan, but the deal fell through as US consent was required. Belgium is the latest European country from which India has sought an assurance on avoiding defence cooperation with Pakistan. SIPRI data released in March this year showed the Netherlands as the third-largest weapons supplier to Islamabad, after China and Turkiye. The US, Italy, the UK and France have also historically supplied weapons to Pakistan. The military-related agreements between India and Belgium were signed as Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with visiting Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh separately met Belgian Defence and Foreign Trade Minister Theo Francken. A Belgian industry delegation is accompanying De Wever. After the meeting, Modi said defence and security cooperation had become a key pillar of India-Belgium relations. India and Belgium expanded defence cooperation through 10 agreements, including a Letter of Intent providing a framework for military exchanges, officer training, research and development, joint exercises and maritime security cooperation. The two countries also plan to develop an industrial roadmap for defence cooperation. Among the key announcements was an alliance between Thales Belgium and Kalyani Strategic

Systems to produce 70-mm rockets in India. The first rocket produced entirely in India is expected in early 2027. Another key project involves New Lachaussee and Tembo Classic Engineering, which will supply a complete production line for two types of ammunition to India. The facility is expected to have a production capacity of about 100 million rounds a year. The project is valued at €50 million, with deliveries scheduled for 2028 and 2029.

For maritime security, Belgium will supply autonomous toolboxes for mine-countermeasure vessels being built by Larsen & Toubro. The first phase covers 12 vessels. Belgian companies are also exploring technologies, including autonomous maritime systems, underwater robotics and advanced sensors, as well as systems to protect critical infrastructure such as ports, pipelines and subsea data cables. Other agreements cover a proposed joint production centre between FN Herstal and Kalyani Strategic Systems for weapons and counter-drone systems. Pitagone Belgium is also establishing a joint venture with Krishna Allied to manufacture mobile barriers to protect against vehicle attacks. Belgian OIP Sensor Systems is cooperating with India Optel on electro-optical systems for the Arjun main battle tank. John Cockerill Defence is also a candidate to supply the turret for India’s Zorawar light tank, being developed for highaltitude operations.

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www.TheAsianStar.com 306 dead, 49 missing in Manipur violence: Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam At least 306 people have been killed and 49 remain missing in the ethnic violence that has engulfed Manipur since May 2023, the state's Home Minister, Govindas Konthoujam, informed the Assembly on Thursday. Konthoujam was responding to a question from BJP MLA Sapam Ranjan Singh on the second day of the ongoing Assembly session. He further informed the House that the figures were valid up to August 31, 2026. The ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities erupted on May 3, 2023, following a tribal solidarity march held in Manipur's hill districts. The march was organised to oppose the demand for Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community. Meiteis constitute around 53 per cent of Manipur's population and are concentrated largely

in the Imphal Valley, while the tribals, including the Nagas and Kukis, account for about 40 per cent of the population and predominantly live in the hill districts. The prolonged conflict has also led to a change in the state's political administration. President's rule was imposed on February 13, 2025, after the BJP-led government headed by N Biren Singh resigned on February 9 amid the continuing ethnic unrest. Unidentified men triggered a blast near the residential gate of CLP leader Keisham Meghachandra in Manipur's Thoubal district on Thursday evening, the police said. The explosion took place around 8.15 pm near the wall of Meghachandra's residence at Yairipok Bishnu Naha in Wangkhem constituency, they said. The explosive is suspected to have been a grenade, the police said.

Halting Russian oil buy will not stop war: India The Russia-Ukraine war will not be resolved by determining who buys Russian oil, minerals, metals or fertilisers, but through dialogue, diplomacy and negotiations, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in Kyiv on Thursday, while making it clear that India was ready to help in any manner to bring the conflict to an end. Jaishankar’s remarks came during his visit to Ukraine, where he held talks with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and later called on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The visit comes as the war enters its fifth year amid renewed calls for an end to the prolonged conflict. “India has consistently maintained that this is not an era of war, and that solutions will not emerge from the battlefield,” Jaishankar said after his talks with Sybiha. “Just two days ago in Bishkek, Prime Minister Modi declared that the endless war must now give way to the end of war. Every passing day of conflict only means more deaths and more destruction,” he said. The EAM underlined that India was prepared to contribute to efforts aimed at ending the conflict. “Understandably, it is for the parties involved to find a way. But, if India can be of any help in any manner, we are ready, and this was the core of my discussion with Foreign Minister Sybiha,” he said. Jaishankar also voiced concern over the human cost of the war, referring to the killing of an Indian national in an attack in Kyiv two days ago. “We join in mourning every life lost and convey our deepest sympathy to every affected family,” he said. The EAM said his discussions with Sybiha were “very free and very open”, noting that the two foreign ministers had remained in regular contact and had met several times in recent months, including in Cyprus, France and Munich. To a question whether India would reduce

its purchases of Russian oil if the US approved a legislation imposing sanctions on countries buying it, Jaishankar stressed the scale of India’s energy challenge. He said the issue had to be viewed against the backdrop of the task of providing energy to 1.4 billion people at a time when the global energy situation remained “very, very difficult”. “The Ukraine side has its perspective, which we respect, and we have ours, which I would expect others to also respect,” he said. But he drew a sharp distinction between economic pressure over Russian energy exports and the fundamental question of how the war itself could end. “But let me add, this conflict, which is today in its fifth year, will not be solved because somebody is buying or not buying oil or aluminium or minerals or metals or fertiliser,” Jaishankar said. “This conflict will be solved by dialogue, diplomacy and negotiation, and that is why it is something we would encourage,” he said. The minister said attacks on commercial shipping also figured prominently in his talks with Sybiha. Indian seafarers, he noted, served on ships flying the flags of several countries and had been among those affected by the conflict.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2026