The House is expected to vote on legislation intended to counter a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes amid the coronavirus pandemic. https://t.co/5DTUhDBdcd

In a rare bipartisan move, the Senate passed the bill in a 94-1 vote last month. Anti-Asian hate bill passes Senate The House of Representatives gave final passage on Tuesday to the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, in response to the rise in violence against Asian Americans during the coronavirus pandemic. The measure needed two-thirds of the chamber's support and passed in a 364-62 vote.  All the votes in opposition were from Republican members. The Senate, in an increasingly rare bipartisan effort, voted 94-1 last month to pass the bicameral resolution "condemning the horrific shootings in Atlanta, Georgia on March 16th and reaffirming the House's commitment to combating hate, bigotry, and violence against the AAPI community. " Missouri Republican Sen.  Josh Hawley, who challenged the results of the 2020 election after the Capitol attack, was the lone vote against it. Ahead of Tuesday's House vote, which came during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Chair Rep.  Judy Chu, D-Calif. , and Democrats involved in the legislation held a press conference on Capitol Hill. Democrats said they expected the legislation would pass with bipartisan support. "What I hope is that the unity that's springing from this legislation will further engender more unity on other challenges that we face," Pelosi said. Rep.  Grace Meng, D-N. Y. , took to the podium to assure the Asian American community that Congress responding to the hate crimes Democrats argue are linked to former President Donald Trump's branding of COVID-19 as the "China virus," among other names. "Those of Asian descent have been blamed and scapegoated for the outbreak of COVID-19," Meng told reporters.  "And as a result, Asian Americans have been beaten, slashed, spat on, and even set on fire and killed.  The Asian American community is exhausted from being forced to endure this rise in bigotry and racist attacks.  Asian Americans are tired of living in fear. "She went on to say the "galvanizing" moment of the bill's passage later in the day would be one "where we say loud and clear that we are as American as anyone else in this country, and that we will be seen as invisible no more. "The bill, introduced by Meng and Sen.  Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, will take relatively modest steps to equip law enforcement and communities to better deal with the rise in attacks against Asian American and Pacific Islanders. It will assign a point person at the Department of Justice to expedite the review of COVID-19-related hate crimes, provide support for law enforcement agencies to respond to hate crimes and facilitate coordination between local and state partners to curb discriminatory language used to describe the COVID-19 pandemic. The effort to pass the legislation began after the shooting of eight people, including six Asian women, at several spas in the Atlanta area in March.  That shooting followed a general rise in anti-Asian sentiments across the country. President Joe Biden has urged Congress to swiftly pass the bill and is expected to sign it into law now that it's passed on to his desk. ABC News' Allison Pecorin contributed to this report. 24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events


Maharashtra: A 'shramik special train' carrying around 1200 migrant workers left for Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh from Bhiwandi at around 1:23 am today.  #CoronaLockdown https://t.co/y7Vqw9QEZZ

The first ‘Shramik Special’ train carrying 1,187 stranded migrant labourers from Jaipur reached the Danapur railway station here on Saturday afternoon.  The 24-coach train departed at 10 pm on Friday from Jaipur and reached the Danapur railway station around 2 pm, East Central Railway, Hajipur, Chief Public Relation Officer (CPRO), Rajesh Kumar told PTI. Medical screening of all the passengers will be carried out first for which 20 medical teams have been deployed. “After medical examination, they will be served food and sent to their respective districts by buses,” Patna Divisional Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Agarwal told PTI. Around 100 buses have been stationed at the Danapur railway station for the purpose of sending these passengers to their home districts, he said. The seating arrangements in buses have been made keeping in mind social distancing norms.  Buses will ply half of their seating capacity, Agarwal added. This is the first run of a special train to Bihar to bring back migrants stranded during the nationwide lockdown to contain the coronavirus spread.


Delhi: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and Minister of the Armed Forces of France, Florence Parly meet at Hyderabad House.

Minister Florence Parly was the chief guest for Rafale induction ceremony held earlier today at Air Force Station, Ambala. https://t.co/4NWn1Auk5G

The Indian Air Force will formally induct the Rafale aircraft today at 10 am into the 17 Squadron ‘Golden Arrows’ at the Air Force Station in Ambala.  Florence Parly, minister of the French Armed Forces and defence minister Rajnath Singh will be the chief guests of the event.  Parly will also receive a guard of honour upon her arrival in Delhi.  The event will also be attended by the Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar, Dr G Satheesh Reddy, Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO along with other senior officers.  #RafaleInduction IAF will formally induct the Rafale aircraft in the 17 Squadron 'Golden Arrows' today at Air Force Station, Ambala. New bird in the arsenal of IAF.  pic. twitter. com/cd6k54KJJ0Emmanuel Lenain, French ambassador to India and Eric Autellet, France’s air general will also participate in the induction ceremony.  The ceremonial unveiling of the aircraft will be accompanied with the traditional ‘Sarva Dharma Puja’.  The Rafale and Tejas aircrafts will also participate in an Air Display following which the Rafale aircraft will receive a water cannon salute.  The first five Rafale aircrafts of the IAF arrived in Ambala on July 27.  Eric Trappier Chairman and Chief Executive of Dassault Aviation will also be present in the ceremony. The Indian and French delegation are also scheduled to hold bilateral meeting after the ceremony.  (with inputs from ANI)


It's natural for MLAs to be upset. The manner in which this episode occurred & the way in which they stayed for a month, it was natural. I've explained to them that sometimes we need to be tolerant if we have to serve the nation, state, people & save the democracy: Rajasthan CM https://t.co/OWhJ0qMhgI

Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday said that it is natural for MLAs to be upset and the way the chain of events took place in the past month.  He said that those who had gone away from the party are finally back and he hopes to work together for the benefit of the state.  “We will work together.  Our friends who had gone away have now come back.  I hope that we will do away with all our differences and fulfill our resolve to serve the state,” Gehlot said.   Also read: CM talks peace a day after truce; Pilot back in JaipurWe will work together.  Our friends who had gone away have now come back.  I hope that we will do away with all our differences and fulfill our resolve to serve the state: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot https://t. co/6geXcb72wy“It’s natural for MLAs to be upset.  The manner in which this episode occurred and the way in which they stayed for a month, it was natural.  I’ve explained to them that sometimes we need to be tolerant if we have to serve the nation, state, people and save the democracy,” the chief minister added.  Gehlot said that the fight is to save the democracy and it will continue.   Also read: Rajasthan crisis - Relieved, Congress leaders credit Rahul GandhiThe fight is to save democracy and it will continue.  All our MLAs stayed together for such a long time.  This is a victory of the people of Rajasthan.  It is our duty to serve the people of the state: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot in Jaisalmer pic. twitter. com/bqlU2zXlGw“All our MLAs stayed together for such a long time.  This is a victory of the people of Rajasthan,” Gehlot added.  The Congress party is looking at a closed chapter to over a month-long political tussle in Rajasthan after former deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot met with party leadership on Monday night.  Later, the MLAs met top Congress leaders and were assured that their grievances would be redressed in a time. Senior leader and party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said that Pilot and the supporting MLAs have resolved to work with the Congress government in Rajasthan and for strengthening the party in the state. Congress president Sonia Gandhi also announced the formation of a three-member committee that would hear the grievances of rebel leaders.


“The Indian Railways, which was built by crores of people of the country with their own hard work, the BJP government put a stamp of their billionaire friend Adani on it. Tomorrow, gradually a large part of the railways will go to Modi ji's billionaire friends. Farmers of the country are also fighting to stop farming from going into the hands of Modi ji's billionaire friends.”

A viral video showing an advertisement of Adani Wilmar’s product, Fortune Atta, on a train has gone viral with a false claim that the Indian Railways has now been taken over by business conglomerate Adani Group.  This comes amid allegations by the protesting farmers that the new farm laws, which the government maintains give farmers the freedom to sell their crops to anyone, were made to favour Adani and Ambani.  We found that the Fortune Atta ad on the train engine, in the viral video, is part of the Indian Railways’ bid to generate Non-Fare Revenue (NFR) and does not indicate the ownership of the train.  Several other brands like TATA Steel, Haldiram’s and Amul have placed similar vinyl advertisements on the locomotives.  CLAIM The video was also shared by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra without providing the full context.  She shared the video with the caption: “जिस भारतीय रेलवे को देश के करोड़ों लोगों ने अपनी मेहनत से बनाया भाजपा सरकार ने उस पर अपने अरबपति मित्र अडानी का ठप्पा लगवा दिया। कल को धीरे - धीरे रेलवे का एक बड़ा हिस्सा मोदी जी के अरबपति मित्रों को चला जाएगा। देश के किसान खेती - किसानी को भी आज मोदी जी के अरबपति मित्रों के हाथ में जाने से रोकने की लड़ाई लड़ रहे हैं।” (Translation: “The Indian Railways, which was built by crores of people of the country with their own hard work, the BJP government put a stamp of their billionaire friend Adani on it.  Tomorrow, gradually a large part of the railways will go to Modi ji's billionaire friends.  Farmers of the country are also fighting to stop farming from going into the hands of Modi ji's billionaire friends. ”) The video was shared by several users with the claim that ‘now Indian Railways will be known as Adani Railways. ’ Congress leader Srivatsa from Karnataka also shared the video without making any claim.  WHAT WE FOUND We noticed that the markings in the viral video read, “WR,” “WAP-7,” “BRC” and “30502. ” A keyword search of the same revealed that these markings refer to train engines of the Indian Railways.  The ‘WR’ refers to Western Railways, and ‘BRC/WAP-7/30502’ refers to the locomotive number, meaning, it stands in the Vadodara shed (BRC) and has ‘WAP-7’ class of the locomotive.  Another keyword search of ‘Adani ad train engine’ led us to an article on The Wire, dated 20 July 2019, stating that Indian Railways will now “seriously allow all rail engines to be used for corporate branding, a revenue opportunity that has been considered the past but has not taken off fully. ” Adani and Amul were among the first few entities to have taken up the offer.  The article also contains a similar image of Adani’s vinyl ad on the train engine, as an example of what the ad would look like.  According to the article, the Vadodara division under the Western Railway zone generates a revenue of Rs 73. 26 lakh per annum as Non-Fare Revenue by branding as many as 37 locomotives.  OTHER BRANDS HAVE ALSO ADVERTISED ON LOCOMOTIVES In 2016, the Indian Railways had planned to wrap over 10,000 trains in vinyl ads in a bid to earn Rs 300 crore, according to an article on The New Indian Express.  The Indian Railways had then offered 23 trains, consisting of Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Double Decker, Mail and Express trains, in the Central and Western Zone for branding.  A Hindu BusinessLine article, dated 9 July 2015, states that “Amul’s ad was probably the first instance of an ad being painted on the engine and not on any other part of the train. ” Amul had covered the WAP5 locomotive of the Vadodara Electric Loco Shed.  An image of Amul’s ad on the train engine can be seen below.  Another article in the Financial Express, dated 10 January 2020, states that the Nagpur division of Indian Railways had allocated the branding of five locomotives through an open tender to M/S Haldiram’s, a food manufacturing brand.  Tata Steel had also unveiled its branded ‘Steel Express’ in July 2019.  Other examples of locomotives wrapped in vinyl ads can be seen in this YouTube video, by ‘The Rail Zone,’ a channel dedicated to information around the Indian Railways.  WOULD INDIAN RAILWAYS BE PRIVATISED?  In July 2020, the Railways Minister Piyush Goyal had clarified in a tweet, sharing his statement to CNBC, that the Indian Railways will continue to own the railways and it will be a public property.  This came after opposition to the Railways inviting private participation for passenger train operations on 109 pairs of routes through 151 modern trains.  In a press release, the Railways had stated that “this would be the first initiative of private investment for running passenger trains over Indian Railways network. ” The Hindu BusinessLine had reported in July that the proposal has garnered the interest of Tata Group, Adani Group, Alstom, and Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Line.  In November, 102 applicants including Infrastructure majors such as Larsen & Toubro (L&T), GMR and BHEL had qualified to bid in the first stage, according to LiveMint.  They will have to go through another round of bidding and the train services are set to eventually start operations in April 2023.  (With inputs from SM Hoax Slayer) (Update: The story has been updated to add the misleading claim made by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. )


Sensex up by 342.92 points, currently at 49,075; Nifty at 14,765 https://t.co/ehGQSX5yeo

Indian markets opened in green on Monday ahead of Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Budget 2021 presentation in Parliament at 11am.  Sensex edged 263 points or 0. 57% higher at 46,549. 14 at 9:32 am while the broader Nifty was above 13,700 in early trade. Market volatility is expected to continue this week in the wake of Union Budget, macro data and Reserve Bank of India policy, analysts have said.  "Going ahead, markets may continue to remain highly volatile amidst the ongoing earnings season and the Union Budget 2021.  Expectations from the Budget are running high," Siddhartha Khemka, Head - Retail Research, Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd told news agency PTI. Investors are keenly awaiting the Budget announcements after the Economic Survey 2022-21, table in Lok Sabha on Friday project that the economy will witness a growth of 11% in the next fiscal year after an estimated 7. 7% contraction in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the current financial year. According to the survey, the "V-shaped recovery is supported by COVID vaccination drive. "Driving market sentiments would also be announcements of PMI data for the manufacturing and services sector this week.  The RBI interest rate decision on Friday is another major event that would drive domestic market sentiments this week. In the previous session on Friday, Sensex tanked 588. 59 points to close at 46,285. 77 while Nifty slipped 182. 95 points to settle at 13,634. 60. Meanwhile on the global front, Asian stocks climbed Monday and US equity futures pared declines as some of the concerns over volatile retail trading receded and signs of an easing cash crunch in China aided sentiment.  Silver futures surged. (With agency inputs)


Maharashtra: Officers of Mumbai Police reach the residence of #RheaChakraborty in Mumbai.

A house search is being conducted by Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) at Showik & Rhea Chakraborty's residence as provided under NDPS Act. https://t.co/YEnJIXsOGZ

Showik Chakraborty, the brother of actor Rhea Chakraborty, has moved a fresh bail application before a special court in Mumbai in connection with a drugs case related to the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput.  Chakraborty, in his bail application filed on November 3, claimed innocence submitting that he has been falsely implicated in the case even though no drugs or psychotropic substances were seized from his possession. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) had arrested Showik, his sister, and others under several relevant sections of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in connection with a case emerging out of the investigation into the death of Sushant Singh Rajput. “In the facts and circumstances of the present case, given that no commercial quantity has been alleged in respect of the applicant, there has been no recovery from the applicant and that all allegations pertain only to small quantities, the embargo imposed by Section 37 of the NDPS Act, 1985 would not be applicable,” the bail application said. It said that a perusal of the remand applications of all the accused arrested in the case makes it evident that there is nothing on record to suggest that the present applicant is in any way involved with the financing, illicit trafficking and/or harboring of offenders in relation to any narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances. “Apart from allegedly procuring the drugs for the late actor, there are no allegations against the applicant of being involved in any other form of illicit traffic or even of purchasing drugs for any other person.  Hence, terming the applicant as being part of a “drug syndicate” or having financed the “illicit traffic” of drugs is wholly farfetched and without application of mind,” it said. “There is not a shred of evidence to connect the applicant with financing any illicit traffic or harbouring any offenders and hence the ingredients of Section 27A of the NDPS Act, 1985 are not made out in the present facts and circumstances,” it added. Showik claimed that Sushant utilised him, his sister and members of his household staff to facilitate his drug habit while ensuring that he did not leave a paper trail of his own in the form of any electronic evidence whatsoever. “There is electronic evidence to show that the applicant’s sister was in fact trying her level best to rid the late actor of his drug habit by consistently restricting the quantity of drugs he had access to.  The applicant’s sister also discussed her concerns regarding the late actor combining his drug habit with prescription medication with his doctor namely Kersi Chavda.  However, the late actor being an adult and having his own mind was the ultimate decision,” it added. Earlier, a special NDPS court had rejected Showik’s bail application in the matter, after which the same was challenged in the Bombay High Court, which was also rejected.


Americans increasingly blame Pres. Trump for the government shutdown. More via @FiveThirtyEight https://t.co/0M03mXLHcb https://t.co/cztFRjYfLg

By Meg Wagner, Veronica Rocha and Amanda Wills, CNNThe longest ever shutdown of the U. S.  government is over. President Trump tonight signed the continuing resolution that provides funding until Feb.  15.  The bill was signed in private tonight, without reporters present. Both the Senate and the House approved a measure to temporarily reopen the federal government.  The plan — which President Trump announced earlier today — will fund the government through Feb.  15. What happens now: The measure is heading to Trump's desk for his signature.  Once it is signed, it will put an end to the longest government shutdown in US history. You can follow the latest on the government shutdown here. From CNN's Liz StarkPresident Trump tonight is trying to push back on the way today’s agreement to reopen the government is being portrayed. He tweeted moments ago: From CNN's Phil MattinglyThe House of Representatives just passed a continuing resolution to fund the government until Feb.  15. The measure was passed by the Senate earlier today.  Now, it heads to President Trump's desk for his signature. From CNN's Liz Landers Over the past few days, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been in “constant contact” with Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer as he had discussions with Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell on a path forward, according to a senior Democratic aide.  The two regularly consulted as those discussions proceeded. Throughout this shutdown, Pelosi made clear that the first step would be to reopen government and only then conduct negotiation.  This aide says it was “a position the President finally embraced today. ”This aide pointed to the 11 votes to reopen government since the Democrats took control on Jan.  3 as a key part of the strategy by Pelosi.  To do so many appropriations votes — starting with the individual Senate Republican bills — ultimately led to “unsustainable pressure on Senate Republicans. ”From CNN's Manu RajuSenate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell spoke with President Trump twice on Thursday — and Trump made the decision late Thursday that he wanted the shutdown to end, per a person familiar with their conversationsThe first call came after a contentious Senate GOP lunch where Republican senators vented frustration at Vice President Mike Pence about the lack of strategy to get out of the shutdown.  McConnell told Trump that it was unclear how much longer he could get GOP senators to hold the line — especially if there were another round of votes to end the shutdown. A few hours later, Trump called McConnell back with a new perspective: Trump made clear he wanted the shutdown to end, which led to the deal that was approved by Congress Friday. What's unclear, according to the source, is what exactly got Trump to change his mind in the intervening hours between their two phone calls. From CNN's Ashley Killough The House will vote at 6:30 p. m.  ET on the continuing resolution to end the government shutdown, a Democratic aide tells CNN. They'll also be voting on a Department of Homeland Security bill.  Both are expected to pass with unanimous consent.  After that, the resolution to fund the government will head to President Trump's desk for his signature. From CNN's Liz Landers  Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell flashed a quick smile at reporters as he walked off the floor to his office moments ago after the Senate passed a bill to reopen the government. When asked if anything good came out of this episode, Kentucky Sen.  Mitch McConnell said:Another reporter asked what finally ended the impasse — and specifically asked if it was the airport chaos we started to see materialize today. “You’d have to ask the President.  This was his proposal that we took up and passed. ”From CNN's Phil Mattingly and Liz LandersThe US Senate just passed the three-week continuing resolution to fund the government through Feb.  15.  The vote was by voice vote. The House still needs to pass the measure before President Trump can sign it.  Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.


Sen. Tammy Duckworth pays her respects to late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg as she lies in state at the U.S. Capitol. https://t.co/x4G08ZcwAP https://t.co/fCMkD0CpEI

By Veronica Stracqualursi, CNNUpdated 5:41 PM ET, Fri September 25, 2020  (CNN)Ruth Bader Ginsburg's personal trainer honored the late Supreme Court justice on Friday in a fitting fashion.  CNN's Aditi Sangal and Ariane de Vogue contributed to this report.


A video surfacing online on various social media platforms claims an Australian lyrebird to be Tamil Nadu’s Suraga bird which took 19 photographers and 62 days to get captured in a video.  “In Tamil, it is called Suraga bird.  It costs Rs.  25,00000.  It took 19 photographers 62 days to capture this video.  Share the video of this unusual bird. ” reads the claim (caption) added to the clip.  It was initially shared in 2019 and is found being viral once again on an assortment of platforms online, Facebook primarily.  World Heritage sparrow Bird(Surga Bird in Tamilnadu).  Amazing ! !  pic. twitter. com/Krvkg1WIUR — Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) January 24, 2020    In Tamil it is called Suraga bird.  It costs Rs.  25,00000.  It took 19 photographers 62 days to capture this video.  Share the video of this unusual bird.  pic. twitter. com/L2uUtt3VV1 — kumar ji (RK)🇮🇳 (@KumarMeonly410) February 1, 2020  On breaking this video into various keyframes and using them on Reverse Image Search, we found that this video was originally posted by a news portal back in October 2019.  The video that they posted on their report and the one which is viral – are identical.  You can read the report and watch the video here.   The above-mentioned is the original video of the bird.  And this is what the image looks like in the viral video and the one originally posted:  The original video on this Youtube channel was posted in September.  And the claim which states that it is a Tamil Nadu bird Suraga stands false through this search as it clearly mentioned that this is a Lyrebird from Australia.   Read it here.  NewsMobile got in touch with the photographer and found out that this bird is common in Adelaide and it took them just a few minutes to record this clip, unlike the viral claim which says that 19 photographers got involved and it took them 62 days to capture this.  The clip shared by Kiran Bedi is a cropped version of the original video posted by ‘Four Finger Photography’ and is been going viral on social media with a false narrative.


NASHVILLE TORNADO LATEST:

-- 19 dead from devastating twister.

-- At least 48 buildings collapsed, authorities said.

-- 50,000 customers are without power, officials said.

https://t.co/ZSCHaDaTCU

By Nicole Chavez, Jason Hanna and Chuck Johnston, CNNUpdated 5:54 AM ET, Wed March 4, 2020  (CNN)Severe storms and at least one tornado slammed through central Tennessee, killing 24 people and wrecking hundreds of buildings hours before dawn on Tuesday. CNN's Tina Burnside, Carma Hassan, Judson Jones, Justin Lear, Jamiel Lynch, Jill Martin, Brandon Miller, Christine Sever, Hollie Silverman, Amara Walker and Christina Zdanowicz contributed to this report.


China's legislature has approved a proposal to impose a highly contentious national security law in Hong Kong, in an unprecedented move that critics say threatens fundamental political freedoms and civil liberties in the semi-autonomous territory. https://t.co/n4BA19P1Ra

China’s legislature has endorsed a national security law for Hong Kong that has triggered new protests in the territory and strained relations with the United States and BritainNews headlines today: Dec.  23, 2020BEIJING -- China’s legislature endorsed a national security law for Hong Kong on Thursday that has strained relations with the United States and Britain and prompted new protests in the territory. The National People’s Congress approved the bill as it wrapped up an annual session that was held under intensive anti-coronavirus controls.  The vote was 2,878-1 with six abstentions, in line with the high-profile but largely ceremonial body’s custom of near-unanimous support for all legal changes decided by the ruling Communist Party. The law will alter Hong Kong’s mini-constitution, or Basic Law, to require the territory to enforce measures to be decided by the NPC's standing committee, a small body controlled by the ruling party that handles most lawmaking work. The law reflects the determination of President Xi Jinping’s government to tighten control over Hong Kong following 11 months of anti-government protests.  Activists in Hong Kong say the law will undermine the “high degree of autonomy” promised to the former British colony when it was handed back to China in 1997 under a “one country, two systems” framework and might be used to suppress political activity. Premier Li Keqiang, the country’s No.  2 leader, defended the law as consistent with Beijing’s promises. “The decision adopted by the NPC session is designed for steady implementation of ‘one country, two systems’ and Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability,” Li said at a news conference. The law and the way it is being enacted prompted U. S.  Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday to announce Washington will no longer treat Hong Kong as autonomous from Beijing.  That could hurt the territory’s attractiveness as a business center. Pompeo’s notice adds Hong Kong to the Trump administration’s conflicts with China over trade, technology, religious freedom, Chinese handling of the coronavirus pandemic and the status of Taiwan, the self-ruled island Beijing claims as its own territory. Li called for mutual respect and Sino-U. S.  cooperation to promote “extensive common interests” in resolving global problems and promoting trade, science and other fields. “Both countries stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation,” Li said. On Thursday, three pro-democracy lawmakers were ejected from Hong Kong’s legislative chamber during a debate over a bill that would criminalize insulting or abusing the Chinese national anthem. Also Thursday, the NPC approved a government budget that will increase spending to generate jobs to try to reverse an economic slump after Chinese industries were shut down to fight the coronavirus pandemic. Private sector analysts say as much as 30% of the urban workforce, or as many as 130 million people, lost their jobs at least temporarily during the shutdown.  They say as many as 25 million jobs might be lost for good this year. The budget calls for giving local governments 2 trillion yuan ($280 billion) to spend on meeting goals including creating 9 million new jobs.  That is in line with expectations of higher spending but a fraction of the $1 trillion-plus stimulus packages launched or discussed by the United States, Japan and Europe. Li, the premier, said Beijing is in a “strong position to introduce new measures” if necessary but wants to avoid flooding the economy with too much money.  He said 70% of planned spending is aimed at putting wages in workers’ pockets in order to support consumer spending, the biggest driver of the economy. “We will do our utmost to keep China’s economic growth stable,” Li said.  “At the same time, we must make sure that all measures taken are well calibrated. ”In an anti-virus measure, Li sat on a dais in the Great Hall of the People, the seat of the legislature in central Beijing, and talked by video link with reporters at a media center 4 miles (6. 5 kilometers) away.  The reporters, wearing masks, sat in widely spaced chairs in an auditorium, watching Li on a video screen. He called for international cooperation in fighting the coronavirus pandemic but didn’t answer a question about how an investigation into the origins of the pandemic demanded by Washington and some other governments should be conducted. Beijing has resisted pressure for an inquiry following criticism it mishandled the early response to the disease that emerged in central China in December.  China has blocked beef imports from four Australian suppliers in apparent retaliation for Australia’s calls for an investigation. 24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events


The carpet may be red, but pink was the color of the night at the #Oscars https://t.co/Ux9FoNTd0K https://t.co/ALsASvrX32

"Green Book" won best picture while Rami Malek took home best actor. The best moments from the 2019 OscarsThe 2019 Academy Awards were one for the books, with stars like Lady Gaga, Rami Malek and Spike Lee taking home an Oscar. Regina King won the Oscar for actress in a supporting role for "If Beale Street Could Talk" and Mahershala Ali won his second Oscar for best supporting actor in "Green Book. "Iconic director Spike Lee won his first Oscar for original screenplay for his work in "BlacKkKlansman. " Gaga took home her first award for her original song "Shallow," which she also performed alongside "A Star Is Born" co-star Bradley Cooper.  Olivia Colman won best actress for "The Favourite," beating out Glenn Close, who had seemed like a shoo-in heading into the show. Overall, "Bohemian Rhapsody" lead the way with four wins, including Malek for actor in a leading role.  "Black Panther," "Roma" and "Green Book" have all won three awards each.  The biggest award of the night, best picture, went to "Green Book. "Here are your 2019 Oscar winners:Best PictureActor in a Leading RoleActress in a Leading RoleBest DirectorActress in a Supporting RoleActor in a Supporting RoleDocumentary FeatureMakeup and HairstylingCostume DesignProduction DesignCinematographySound EditingSound MixingForeign Language FilmFilm EditingAnimated Feature FilmAnimated Short FilmDocumentary ShortVisual EffectsLive Action Short FilmOriginal ScreenplayAdapted ScreenplayOriginal ScoreOriginal Song24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events


President-elect Joe Biden: “I pledge to be a president who seeks not to divide but unify — who doesn’t see red states and blue states, only sees the United States.” https://t.co/v3VAxKotsV https://t.co/0DcjFgVZKP

They spoke to the nation from Wilmington, Delaware. Election 2020 timeline: 11. 13. 20President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris made victory speeches to the nation Saturday night in Wilmington, Delaware, with primetime remarks stressing unity for a sharply-divided nation. Harris, 56, the first woman and first woman of color to be elected vice president, was first to take the stage, savoring the solo moment in a suffragette-white pantsuit, waving to the crowd and smiling broadly as she approached the lectern. She began with a tribute to the late congressman and civil rights icon John Lewis, giving a nod to those who paved the way for a more representative democracy. "Congressman John Lewis before his passing wrote 'Democracy is not a state, it is an act. ' And what he meant was that America's democracy is not guaranteed.  It is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it," Harris said.  "And when our very democracy was on the ballot in this election -- with the very soul of America at stake and the world watching -- you ushered in a new day for America. "She went on to thank the voters, organizers, poll workers and activists who she said delivered a clear message in what became a referendum election, choosing, she said, "hope and unity, decency, science, and yes, truth! ""You chose Joe Biden as the next president of the United States.  And Joe is a healer, a uniter, a tested and steady hand.  A person whose own experience of loss gives him a sense of purpose that will help us as a nation reclaim our own sense of purpose," Harris said, talking up her former opponent and now partner. The daughter of Indian and Jamaican immigrants, Harris also thanked her late mother and the generations of women before her -- "including the black women who are often, too often overlooked but so often prove they are the backbone of our democracy. ""When she came here from India at the age of 19, she maybe didn't quite imagine this moment," Harris spoke of her mother, an Indian immigrant.  "But she believed so deeply in an America where a moment like this  is possible, and so I am thinking about her and about the generations of women, Black women, Asian, white, Latina, Native American women, who throughout our nation's history, who paved the way to tonight, women who fought and sacrificed so much for equality and liberty and justice for all. "She gave credit to Biden for helping her ascend to the second highest office in the nation and said she hopes her place on the stage will inspire others to follow. "What a testament it is to Joe's character that he had the audacity to break one of the most substantial barriers that exists in our country and select a woman as his vice president," Harris said. "While I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last.  Because every little girl watching tonight sees that this is a country of possibilities," she added. Biden, after nearly 50 years in public and three tries for the White House, then took the stage and squarely focused on healing a divided nation -- but first took a moment to tout his history-making win. "Folks, the people of this nation have spoken," Biden said to cheers and honking horns.  "They've delivered us a clear victory, a convincing victory, a victory for we, the people.  We've won with the most votes ever cast on a presidential ticket in the history of the nation -- 74 million. "Speaking to several hundred supporters in the parking lot of the Chase Center, standing and cheering amid their cars and waving giant and small American flags, Biden walked out -- as he always does -- to Bruce Springsteen’s “We Take Care of Our Own" and expressed surprise at celebrations taking place across the country. “What I must admit has surprised me, tonight we're seeing all over this nation, all cities in all parts of the country, indeed across the world, an outpouring of joy, of hope of renewed faith in tomorrow, bring a better day.  And I'm humbled by the trust and confidence you've placed in me,” Biden said. The president-elect acknowledged that bringing the nation together, given all Americans have been through, will be a daunting and unprecedented challenge. "I pledge to be a president who seeks not to divide but unify.  Who doesn't see red states and blue states, only sees the United States," Biden said.  "I sought this office to restore the soul of America, to rebuild the backbone of this nation, the middle class, to make America respected around the world again, and to unite us here at home. ""It's the honor of my lifetime that so many millions of Americans have voted for that vision.  And now, the work of making that vision is real, it's a task -- the task of our time," he continued. Biden thanked the coalition his campaign put together to bring him to this moment, calling it the broadest and most diverse movement in history, and paid special acknowledgement to the demographic that has historically led him to victory. "Especially in those moments when this campaign was at its lowest ebb, the African American community stood up again for me," Biden said, pounding his first on the lectern.  "You always had my back, and I'll have yours. "Biden addressed President Trump only once and indirectly in his remarks, noting he, too, had lost several times before making history in 2020. "For all those of you who voted President Trump, I understand the disappointment tonight.  I've lost a couple of times myself, but now let's give each other a chance," Biden said.  "It's time to put away the harsh rhetoric, lower the temperature, see each other again, listen to each other again.  And to make progress, we have to stop treating our opponents as our enemies.  They are not our enemies.  They are Americans. "Saying he would win the "battle of the soul of nation," Biden quoted the Bible, defining the next chapter as the "time to heal. "He turned to the raging COVID-19 pandemic, pledging to get the virus under control, and said on Monday he would announce a task force of experts and scientists to oversee his administration’s efforts to stop its spread. Invoking his Catholic faith, Biden shared a hymn he said he'd thought about in the last days of his campaign that is personal to him and his late son Beau, who died of a brain tumor in 2015 at age 46. "It captures the faith that sustains me and which I believe sustains America," Biden said.  "'And he will raise you up on eagles' wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, and make you to shine like the sun and hold you in the palm of his hand. ' And now together on eagles' wings, we embark on the work that God and history have called us to do -- with full hearts and steady hands, with faith in America and in each other, with love of country, a thirst for justice. ""Let us be the nation that we know we can be.  A nation united, a nation strengthened, a nation healed," Biden said in closing.  "Spread the faith.  God love you all.  May God bless America and may God protect our troops.  Thank you. "Following the victory speeches, illuminated drones spelled out "46" -- representing Biden as the incoming 46th president of the United States -- against a backdrop of fireworks.  Viewers from across the country were projected onto screens and buildings as a part of a virtual stage, highlighting the campaign’s decision to stress and focus on social distancing. Outside the Chase Center in Delaware, where Biden, 77, was first elected to the U. S.  Senate 48 years to this date, ecstatic supporters had gathered hours earlier to celebrate as people were around the country. In rows of cars -- most tagged with Biden-Harris merchandise -- they honked their horns as the pair to took the stage in their first joint appearance, reminiscent of the trademark drive-in rallies they'd held before. Many took to the tops and hoods to get a better view of the historic moment. When spouses and other family members took the stage, it was another history-making moment as Doug Emhoff, Harris' husband, is slated to become the first-ever second gentlemen. Their families joined together to celebrate the moment they -- and 75 million Americans and counting -- had been waiting for. ABC News' John Verhovek, Molly Nagle, Beatrice Peterson and Averi Harper contributed to this report. 24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events


Photo shows Hathras Naxal Bhabhi with Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad Ravan.

An image of Bhim Army chief Chandra Shekhar Aazad with Bihar based Kiran Yadav, a popular social media user, has surfaced with claims where the latter has been misidentified as the infamous 'naxal bhabhi' of Hathras.  BOOM reached out to Aazad who clarified that the photograph was taken in 2019 in Ambala, when the Dalit leader visited Yadav's house.  Kiran Yadav has gained a large following online among the Hindi heartland for her political takes that are critical of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.  The presence of Rajkumari Bansal, a doctor from Jabalpur, at the Hathras victim's house had stirred up a controversy after news channels initially identified her to be the sister-in-law of the victim, who was allegedly gangraped by four men in September and succumbed to her injuries later.  However, it was later revealed that Bansal is not related to the victim's family.  Several right-wing social media users have since infamously given her the moniker 'naxal bhabhi'.   Two images featuring a Goa Congress leader Pratibha Borkar and the victim's mother hugging Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were earlier viral with the same narrative, where they had been misidentified as Bansal.  Read BOOM's fact checked stories here and here.   Also Read:Photo of Goa Congress Leader Falsely Shared As 'Naxal Bhabhi' In Hathras Also Read:No, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Is Not Hugging 'Naxal Bhabhi' In This Photo The image where Aazad can be seen with Kiran Yadav has been captioned on Twitter as, "Have you understood, who is with Hathras sister-in-law?  Realised the Congress Connection. " (Original text in Hindi: ये हाथरस वाली भौजी के साथ कौन है कुछ समझे; कांग्रेस कनेक्शन समझ में आया)  Click here for an archive of the image.   ये हाथरस वाली भौजी के साथ कौन है कुछ समझेकांग्रेस कनेक्शन समझ में आया?  pic. twitter. com/C82YrqkXKB The image is viral on Twitter and Facebook with the same narrative.  Click here for an archive.   Fact Check  BOOM reached out to Aazad, national president of Bhim Army, who identified the woman photographed beside him as Kiran Yadav, a popular Facebook user from Hajipur, Bihar.  Aazad told BOOM, "This photo was taken sometime in 2019.  I had gone to Ambala to visit Kiran Yadav's family.  The photograph was clicked in her home in Ambala.  Kiran is like my sister and we are very close to each other.  There are other pictures with Kiran's sons as well. " Aazad shared with BOOM an image of Yadav's family with him taken on the same day.   In fact, Aazad and Yadav were present at a press conference together in Bihar on October 14.  An image of which was shared with BOOM.  Yadav can be seen sitting in the background, as Aazad addresses the media.    BOOM however could not find the viral image on any of Yadav's social media accounts.   Aazad clarified, "This photograph was there in Kiran Yadav's older social media profiles, which were deactivated. " With over 10 lakh followers on Facebook Kiran Yadav hit headlines in 2017.  According to reports, Yadav's earlier Facebook profiles were deactivated.   We also reached out to Rajkumari Bansal who confirmed that she met Aazad at Hathras for the first time.  She told BOOM, "I did not know Chandrashekhar Azad in personal capacity before we met at Hathras.  I had introduced myself to him when he was there at Hathras. " Click here to read more.


Kerala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurate various development projects to the nation, at Kochi https://t.co/9QU7ZCKqPR

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated five key projects in Kochi including a ₹6000 crore petro-chemical complex of oil major Bharat Petroleum Corporation of India, Ro-Ro vessel service of inland waterways and an international cruise terminal asserting that these projects will fuel the country’s growth. The PM said actions of today will shape the country’s growth trajectory in years to come.  “Our people have shown that with right opportunities they can do wonders.  Let’s keep working towards creating more opportunities.  Together, we will create an Atma Nirbhar Bharat,” he said adding the projects unveiled in the port city will cover a wide range of sectors and generate enough opportunities. On a whistle-stop visit to the poll-bound state (he spent three hours) the Prime Minister said the Union government was committed to improve infrastructural facilities in the state and it was quite evident in the recent budget.  He hailed the support of people of the country in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic that posed many challenges to the country. “The last one year the country faced enough challenges.  Powered by 130 crore Indians, our fight against Covid-19 has been spirited.  The whole globe is watching us now,” he said adding the pandemic has really fuelled domestic tourism and he asked start-ups to come up with innovative tourism-related projects to tap this. “I urge our young start-up friends to think about innovative tourism-related products.  I also urge you all to use this time to travel to many nearby areas as possible,” he said adding such travels will help bond cultural unity. He said his government was committed to develop coastal and mountainous areas and north-eastern states.  “We will ensure broadband connectivity in all villages of the country.  Kisan card facility will be extended to fishermen also,” he said. The PM also said the country was proud of its non-resident Indians and the government had done many things to help them during the pandemic.  He said at least 50 lakh Indians came home during the pandemic and a majority of them were from Kerala.  “India is proud of its diaspora in the Gulf.  During my visit to some countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE I had meals with them and interacted to know their problems,” he said. Kerala Governor Arif Mohamad Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and his deputy Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan also attended the meet.  Meanwhile security agencies foiled an attempt of the Democratic Youth Federation of India, ruling CPI (M) youth wing, activists to release black balloons to protest recurring fuel price hike.


#WATCH via ANI FB: Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a roadshow in Varanasi https://t.co/3mo97GEPcV https://t.co/XFj9E5iveN

Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a mega roadshow in his constituency Varanasi, a day before filling nominations.  The road show that began from the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) gate will culminate at Dashashwamedh Ghat after passing through Assi, Bhadaini, Madanpura, Sonarpura and Godaulia.  At Dashashwamedh Ghat, Modi will participate in Ganga Arti. Watch: PM Modi’s mega Varanasi road showWill not let Varanasi down, says PM Modi at rally after roadshowAsking permission from the public of Varanasi to file his nomination, PM Modi promised the citizens of Varanasi to never let Varanasi down. He claimed to have given an account of works in the last 5 years, while congress didnot.  Last five years were for preparations, upcoming years are to yield results: PM ModiLast five years were for the preparations, but the upcoming five years will be there to yield results.  Five years that went were to prepare honestly for the future but now the five years are for better life: PM Modi in Varanasi On track to achieve targets: PM ModiWhole country is seeing the positive change in the nation, I cannot claim that every target has been achieved, but we are on the right track to achieve them very soon: PM Modi in Varanasi Prime Minister Modi mentions terror attacks in Sri LankaPrime Minister Modi mentions terror attacks in Sri Lanka while addressing public meeting in Varanasi, says fight against Terrorism getting stronger.  He claimed that Pakistan has been cornered by BJP’s foreign policy especially after the Pulwama attacks.  Kashi blessed me to be PM, not just MP, says Modi after mega roadshowAfter a mega roadshow and Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, PM claimed that Kashi has blessed him to be Prime Minister, not just Member of Parliament.  PM Modi addresses public meeting in VaranasiPrime Minister Narendra Modi addresses public meeting in Varanasi.  Addressing citizens of Kashi.  Watch.  https://t. co/hS61JQLiRyPM Modi performs Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh GhatPM Modi performs Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, he is accompanied by BJP president Amit Shah and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.  Earlier in the evening PM held a mega roadshow from BHU gate to Dashashwamedh Ghat, he will be filling in his nomination from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat tommorrow.  PM Modi performs Ganga aartiLive: Blessed to do the Ganga Arti in Kashi!  Live: Blessed to do the Ganga Arti in Kashi!  https://t. co/2kplWXlH80Ganga aarti begins at Dashashwamedh Ghat, PM Modi to offer prayers laterGanga aarti begins at Varanasi’s Dashashwamedh Ghat, but PM Narendra Modi to offer prayers later as he has not reached the Ghat.  PM Modi to arrive shortly at Dashashwamedh GhatVaranasi: Visuals from Dashashwamedh Ghat.  PM Narendra Modi to arrive shortly, reports news agency ANI.   Varanasi: Visuals from Dashashwamedh Ghat.  PM Narendra Modi to arrive shortly.  #LokSabhaElections2019 pic. twitter. com/K2c1BUjBnpPM’s nominations likely to be NDA show of strengthThe prime minister is scheduled to file his nomination papers on April 26, Friday.  NDA leaders, including Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and AIADMK leaders will be present during the nomination.  Politicians, sports stars, artistes attend PM Modi’s roadshowPadma awardees, noted industrialists, musicians and artistes participates in PM Narendra Modi’s road show in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on Thursday. Thousands line up on streets as PM Modi begins Varanasi roadshowPeople lined up the narrow streets of Varanasi to get a glimpse of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his mega roadshow on Thursday evening.  Many were seen on rooftops waving at the PM and other BJP leaders.  Modi is seeking re-election from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency.  In 2014, he won by over 3 lakh votes.   Pictures from PM Shri @narendramodi's massive roadshow in Kashi.  #KashiBoleNaMoNaMo pic. twitter. com/uhPx2hYU6zPM Modi eyes second term from Varanasi Lok Sabha seatOn Friday, the PM will file his nomination papers for the seat he won by bagging more than half the votes polled, 56 per cent, and won with a massive margin of 3. 37 lakh votes in 2014. PM’s roadshow to end at Dashashwamedh GhatThe road show that began from the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) gate will culminate at Dashashwamedh Ghat after passing through Assi, Bhadaini, Madanpura, Sonarpura and Godaulia.  At Dashashwamedh Ghat, Modi will participate in Ganga Arti. Ajay Rai to contest from Varanasi against PM ModiThe Congress ended weeks of speculation about Priyanka Gandhi Vadra contesting the national elections within months of her political plunge and named Ajay Rai as its candidate against a Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi. PM Modi holds roadshow in VaranasiPrime Minister Narendra Modi holds roadshow in his constituency Varanasi.  Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a roadshow #LokSabhaElections2019 pic. twitter. com/YR7C1qucvmGrateful for warmth, tweets PM ModiLive from Kashi. . . Grateful for the warmth and affection!  Live from Kashi. . . Grateful for the warmth and affection!  https://t. co/792e4aX6SaPM Modi to garlands Madan Mohan Malviya’s statuePrime Minister Narendra Modi garlands Pt.  Madan Mohan Malviya’s statue at Banaras Hindu University gate.   #WATCH Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute to Pt Madan Mohan Malaviya, outside Banaras Hindu University (BHU) pic. twitter. com/1ivDSQ5vhwPM Modi arrives in VaranasiPM Modi arrives in Varanasi, will begin the roadshow shortly PM Narendra Modi to perform Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh GhatVaranasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to perform Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat later today, reports news agency ANI.   Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to perform Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat later today.  pic. twitter. com/ObLNDWAM4NPM Modi tweets before arriving in VaranasiBefore arriving in Varanasi, PM Modi tweets, “After bumper rallies in Darbhanga and Banda, I am heading to beloved Kashi.  “There are a series of programmes lined up, which would give me another excellent opportunity to interact with my sisters and brothers of Kashi. ” After bumper rallies in Darbhanga and Banda, I am heading to beloved Kashi.  There are a series of programmes lined up, which would give me another excellent opportunity to interact with my sisters and brothers of Kashi.  Har Har Mahadev! PM Modi to hold a roadshow in Varanasi shortlyPrime Minister Narendra Modi to hold a roadshow in Varanasi shortly. Visuals from outside Banaras Hindu University (BHU), reports news agency ANI.  Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold a roadshow in Varanasi shortly. Visuals from outside Banaras Hindu University (BHU).  pic. twitter. com/qdZWqfsYRfPreparations underway for PM Modi’s roadshow‘Even those fighting 20 seats think they’ll become PM’: Modi“‘Even those fighting 8 seats, 20 seats, or even 40 seats think they’ll become PM’, said PM Narendra Modi while addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh’s Banda.  Opposition has a long face after 3 phases of polling: PM ModiOpposition has a long face after three phases of polling; they know the outcome: PM Narendra Modi in Uttar Pradesh’s Banda.  Rahul Gandhi to shortly address rally in AjmerCongress chief Rahul Gandhi is set to address a public rally in Rajasthan’s Ajmer.  He is accompanied by Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and deputy CM Sachin Pilot.  BJP chief Amit Shah addresses rally in UP’s UnnaoBJP chief Amit Shah is currently addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh’s Unnao.  Priyanka Gandhi holds roadshow in JhansiPriyanka Gandhi is currently holding a roadshow in Uttar Pradesh’s Jhansi.  PM sanctioned Rs one lakh crore for bullet train, but not for your trains: Rahul Gandhi“PM has sanctioned Rs one lakh crore rupees for bullet train, which may be used by say 500 or 1000 people, but he isn’t ready to give Rs 80 crore for your trains,” said Rahul Gandhi while addressing a public rally in Rajasthan.  Proposed ‘Nyay’ after 5 years of injustice: Rahul Gandhi“I came upo with the name Nyay for Congress’ proposed mimimum income support scheme, because for five years the people of the country have been denied justice and it’s now time to give them Nyay (justice),” said Rahul gandhi while addressing a public rally in Rajasthan.  Not Priyanka Gandhi, Ajay Rai is Congress candidate against Modi in VaranasiNot Priyanka Gandhi, Ajay Rai is Congress candidate against Modi in VaranasiAAP manifesto promises full statehood to DelhiAs he released the AAP’s manifesto, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal promised full statehood to Delhi and added that theKey poll promise is to defeat BJP: AAP’s Kejriwal at manifesto eventDelhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal today released AAP manifesto and said that their key poll promise is to defeat BJP.  ‘2019 election about saving democracy’: AAP releases manifesto‘2019 election about saving democracy’: AAP releases manifesto‘Even those fighting 20 seats want to be PM’: ModiPeople who are contesting only 40, 20 or even eight seats are standing in the queue waiting for their turn to become the prime minister, saidModi at Bihar rally. Only a stable govt can protect the nation: PM Modi“Only a stable government can protect the nation, traditions and interest of people, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bihar’s Darbhanga.  Those seeking IAF strike proof vanished after 3 phases of voting: PM“Those asking for proof of IAF strike have vanished after the three phases of voting, they have now begun questioning the EVMs,” said PM Narendra Modi in Bihar.  ‘Mahamilavat asks why Modi talks about terrorism’: PM“Some people have problems with ‘Bharat Mata ki jai’ and ‘Vande Mataram’, should such lose their deposits in elections.  These are the people who ask why Modi talks about terrorism. I want to ask the ‘mahamilavat’, is terrorism not a real issue, even when terrorists killed over 350 people in the neighbouring country Sri Lanka,” said PM Modi in Bihar. PM Modi addresses rally in BiharPrime Minister Narendra Modi is currently addressing a public meeting in Bihar’s Darbhanga.  He is accompanied by Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, and Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan.  Oppn has no understanding of farmer issues: Nitish Kumar“The Opposition talks about farm distress but they have no understanding of what the farmer really needs.  they say they will waive off farm loans but I want to ask them do all famers in the country take loans.  Instead, farmers must be provided with financial support so that the cost they incur can be reduced,” said Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar.  Bihar CM Nitish Kumar addresses rallyBihar chief minister along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing a public meeting in Bihar’s Darbhanga.  PM Modi set to address rally in BiharPrime Minister Narendra Modi will shortly address a public meeting in Bihar’s Darbhanga.


A video with posts claiming that the Muslims engaged in a fight during Eid in Birmingham, United Kingdom has gone viral on social media.  Claim: “Delightful street scene in Birmingham as #EidMubarak is celebrated with great joy. ” The video was tweeted by David Vance, captioning it as, “Delightful street scene in Birmingham as #EidMubarak is celebrated with great joy. ” and since it has been retweeted for over 5000 times, and liked for over 10,700 times and also been viewed for 155K times, Delightful street scene in Birmingham as #EidMubarak is celebrated with great joy.  pic. twitter. com/KbwfLZGoVr — David Vance (@DVATW) May 24, 2020  Archive   Archive It was widely shared on Facebook,    Rishi Bagree retweeted the tweet by David Vance,     Archive    Archive Upon doing a Google Reverse Image Search of the screenshots acquired from the video, we came across an article by Daily Mail, the headline read, “‘Barbaric’ street brawl in Birmingham came after a week of bad blood between neighbouring families following ‘wedding bust-up’…as new footage shows thugs wielded hammers and metal poles”.  The article was uploaded on 17th August, 2019.       Reportedly, a fight broke down between two families over a ‘wedding argument’.       The video of the brawl was embedded in the article,    Here are some resemblances of the viral video, and the video in the news report.   As we scrolled down the article, we found the visuals same as that of the viral video, here are some of the visuals of the brawl that broke out,       The same video was uploaded on YouTube uploaded on Aug 17, 2019.


Photo shows a group of protesters with sticks running on the street in Kerala

A 2013 photo from a violent protest in Dhaka, Bangladesh showing a group of protesters running armed with wooden sticks has been revived as an incident from Kerala, India.  The caption in Hindi when translated reads, "Imagine if such a crowd reaches your area or society or colony exactly like this, then you have the means to welcome them or not (? ).  This view is from Kerala. "  (Original text in Hindi  - सोचिए इस तरह की भीड़ आपके इलाके सोसायटी कॉलोनी पर बिल्कुल ऐसे ही पहुंच जाएं तो आपके पास इन के स्वागत का इंतजाम की व्यवस्था है या नहीं यह दृश्य केरल का है)


Michael Cohen's attorney Lanny Davis responds to Representatives Jordan and Meadow's referral for alleged perjury: "In my opinion, it is a sad misuse of the criminal justice system with the aura of pure partisanship." https://t.co/KQgbqMgBCj https://t.co/XhOpwCHHMH

  A heated clash derailed an already blockbuster congressional hearing on Wednesday after Democratic Rep.  Rashida Tlaib appeared to accuse Republican Rep.  Mark Meadows of what she called a “racist” act of using a black woman as a “prop” as a way to disprove allegations of racism against the President.

  “Just because someone has a person of color, a black person, working for them does not mean they aren’t racist,” the Democratic congresswoman from Michigan said during a House Oversight Committee hearing featuring testimony from President Donald Trump’s former personal lawyer Michael Cohen.

  Tlaib continued, “And it is insensitive … the fact that someone would actually use a prop, a black woman, in this chamber, in this committee, is alone racist in itself. ”

Lynne Patton, the surprise Cohen hearing guest, prompts remarkable exchange on racism

  Meadows, a North Carolina Republican, had earlier invited Lynne Patton, a Trump administration official who is also a black woman, to the hearing and presented her as a refutation of Cohen’s claim that Trump is a “racist. ” Cohen, Trump’s former attorney and fixer, was testifying in front of the House Oversight Committee.

  Following Tlaib’s comment, Meadows immediately called for her words to be stricken from the record.  Rep.  Elijah Cummings, the Maryland Democrat who is the chairman of the committee, stepped in and asked Tlaib if she wanted to “rephrase” her statement.

  Tlaib repeated her initial statement, reading from her notes, and clarified she was not calling Meadows himself a racist, just the act itself.

  “As a person of color in this committee that’s how I felt in at that moment and I wanted to express that, but I am not calling the gentleman, Mr.  Meadows, a racist for doing so, I’m saying that in itself it is a racist act,” Tlaib said, referring to what she called using Patton, a black woman, as a “prop. ”

  Meadows, growing visibly upset, objected to Tlaib’s characterization.  He said his family members are people of color, and further said it was “racist” that Tlaib suggested Meadows brought Patton in for that reason.

  “Mr.  Chairman, there’s nothing more personal to me than my relationship – my nieces and nephews are people of color.  Not many people know that.  You know that, Mr.  Chairman,” Meadows said.

  “And to indicate that I asked someone who is a personal friend of the Trump family, who has worked for him, who knows this particular individual, that she’s coming in to be a prop – it’s racist to suggest that I asked her to come in here for that reason,” Meadows added.

  Patton is a longtime associate of the Trump family and is now a high-ranking political appointee to the Department of Housing and Urban Development.  She worked as an event planner for the Trumps and planned Eric Trump’s 2014 wedding.

  “She loves this family, she came in because she felt like the President of the United States was getting falsely accused,” Meadows said.  “And Mr.  Chairman you are, you and I have a personal relationship that’s not based on color.  And to even go down this direction is wrong, Mr.  Chairman. ”

  Cummings thanked Meadows for his statements and said, “if there’s anyone who is sensitive with regard to race, it’s me, son of former sharecroppers that were basically slaves.  So I, I get it.  I listened very carefully to Ms.  Tlaib … I think she said that she was not calling you a racist. ”

  Cummings added that Meadows,”of all the people on this committee … you’re one of my best friends.  I know that shocks a lot of people. ”

  “I could see and feel your pain,” Cummings added.  “I feel it.  And so, and I don’t think Ms.  Tlaib intended to cause you that, that kind of pain and that kind of frustration. ”

  Tlaib agreed with Cummings that was not her intention and said “I do apologize if that’s what it sounded like, but I said someone in general, and as everyone knows in this chamber I’m pretty direct so I, if I wanted to say that I would’ve, but that’s not what I said. ”
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An image is being widely shared on Facebook with a claim that it is the largest Blue Whale ever caught on camera.  Let’s analyze the claim made in the post. Claim: Image of the largest Blue Whale ever caught on camera. Fact: The image is not a real one.  It is digitally created by bringing two different photos together to make it appear like a gigantic blue whale swimming under a suspension bridge.  So, the claim is FALSE. When the image is subjected to Google reverse image search technique, many search results were obtained.  While going through those search results, ‘Reddit’ had the same image but with the watermark of an Instagram account ‘umutrecberart’.  When searched for that account, it was found to be that of a ‘digital artist’.  The account had the image in the post and it was written that the image is digitally created by bringing two different photos together using the ‘Photoshop’ tool. In another Instagram post, the artist has also put the two photos which were used in the creation of that image.  To sum it up, a digitally created image is being shared as an image of the largest Blue Whale ever caught on camera. Did you watch our new video in the DECODE series?


READ: The Justice Department's summary of special counsel Robert Mueller's report. https://t.co/spXYEBKgPV https://t.co/IDFc1oYDr6

The report doesn't conclude Trump committed a crime and doesn't exonerate him.  Special counsel report delivered, focus shifts to attorney generalSpecial counsel Robert Mueller's report into the Kremlin's interference in the 2016 presidential election  did not find that the Trump campaign or anyone associated with it conspired or coordinated with Russia, according to a letter to Congress from Attorney General William Barr. The letter describes "two main" Russian efforts to influence the election  including “attempts by a Russian organization… to conduct disinformation and social media operations in the United States” and “the Russian government’s efforts to conduct computer hacking operations” targeting former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign and the Democratic Party. In both circumstances, the “Special Counsel did not find that the Trump campaign, or anyone associated with it, conspired or coordinated with the Russian government in these efforts. ”The special counsel’s office made no conclusion on the matter of possible obstruction of justice by President Donald Trump. "The Special Counsel, therefore, did not draw a conclusion – one way or the other – as to whether the examined conduct constituted obstruction," the letter read.  "Instead, for each of the relevant actions investigated, the report sets out 'difficult issues' of law and fact concerning whether the President's actions and intent could be viewed as obstruction. "In his communique to lawmakers, Barr underscored that the special counsel states that “while this report does not conclude that the president committed a crime, it also does not exonerate him. ”While Mueller’s report did not reach a conclusion as to whether obstruction of justice occurred, Attorney General Barr’s letter said he determined a case for obstruction was not warranted. “In cataloging the President’s actions many of which took place in public view, the report identities no actions that, in our judgment, constitute obstructive conduct, had a nexus to a pending or contemplated proceeding, and were done with corrupt intent, each of which, under the Department's principles of federal prosecution guiding charging decisions, would need to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt to establish an obstruction-of-justice offense. "Barr said his intent is to release as much as possible but there are grand jury secrecy concerns with some portions. The White House celebrated the news, with President Donald Trump hailing the report on Twitter and, later in comments to reporters, as an "exoneration. ""This was an illegal takedown that failed and hopefully, someone is going to be looking at the other side," Trump told reporters on Sunday. He tweeted: "No Collusion, No Obstruction, Complete and Total EXONERATION.  KEEP AMERICA GREAT! ""The Special Counsel did not find any collusion and did not find any obstruction," White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement.  "Attorney General Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rosenstein further determined there was no obstruction.  The findings of the Department of Justice are a total and complete exoneration of the President of the United States. ”Jay Sekulow, one of President Trump’s lawyers, told ABC News chief anchor George Stephanopoulos that the report was a "complete win for the president and the American people. ""Not just a win. " Sekulow said.  "The entire basis upon which this inquiry was instituted was a concern over collusion between the Russian government and the trump campaign, Bob Mueller and the Department of Justice could not be clearer.  To have the obstruction issue even as a viable one, which it was not, there would have to be an underlying crime, which there wasn't. "House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler, D-N. Y. , questioned the timing of the letter tweeting "Special Counsel Mueller worked for 22 months to determine the extent to which President Trump obstructed justice.  Attorney General Barr took 2 days to tell the American people that while the President is not exonerated, there will be no action by DOJ. " He later tweeted that "in light of the very concerning discrepancies and final decision making at the Justice Department following the Special Counsel report," the House Judiciary Committee will be calling Barr in to testify in the near future. In his letter to members of Congress on Sunday, Barr described the breadth of the special counsel’s extensive and exhaustive probe.  Mueller’s 19 prosecutors and 40 FBI agents issued more than 2,800 subpoenas, executed nearly 500 search warrants, and interviewed approximately 500 witnesses, Barr wrote, the results of which amounted to 37 indictments and six guilty pleas to date. The news comes amid Democrats continued calls for the full release of the findings. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, in a joint letter, seemed to sum up the sentiment of many congressional Democrats in saying that Barr's letter "raises as many questions as it answers" and that Congress "requires the full report and the underlying documents. ""The fact that Special Counsel Mueller’s report does not exonerate the president on a charge as serious as obstruction of justice demonstrates how urgent it is that the full report and underlying documentation be made public without any further delay," they wrote.  "Given Mr.  Barr’s public record of bias against the Special Counsel’s inquiry, he is not a neutral observer and is not in a position to make objective determinations about the report. "The congressional leaders also took issues with the president's claims of being "exonerated. "On the campaign trail and on the Hill, Democrats made clear they are going to want every detail and document about the investigation and some have said they are willing to use their subpoena power in order to get it. "It means make the request, if the request is denied subpoena, if the subpoenas are denied we will hold people before the Congress and yes, we will prosecute in court as necessary to get this information," House Intelligence Committee chairman Rep.  Adam Schiff, D-Calif. , said Sunday on "This Week". Democratic candidates running to unseat President Donald Trump in 2020 reacted quickly to the news that Mueller delivered his report to DOJ with one consistent message: Make it public. "The Mueller report must be made public — all of it," Sen.  Kirsten Gillibrand, D-NY said in a presidential campaign speech outside the Trump International Hotel and Tower in New York City. She added: "It is not often that I agree with Richard Nixon, but he was right to say that the American people have a right to know whether their president is a crook. "The much-awaited report was handed to the Justice Department for Barr’s review, and Congress was notified of the transfer late Friday afternoon, according to a Justice Department spokeswoman. After reviewing Mueller's report, Barr will then send what he has described as his own "report" on the Mueller investigation to the top Democrats and Republicans on the House and Senate Judiciary committees.  Barr has promised to be as transparent as possible, but it's unclear how extensive or detailed Barr's own "report" to Congress will be. In a letter to the leaders of the House and Senate Judiciary committees, Barr wrote that he intends to "consult with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and Special Counsel Mueller to determine what other information from the report can be released to Congress and the public consistent with the law. "A senior Department of Justice official told ABC News on Friday that the report would not include any further indictments. Mueller and his team investigated how far the Kremlin went to interfere in the 2016 presidential election, including trying to determine whether any Americans may have helped those efforts. At the heart of Mueller’s probe were two Russian operations: the spread of disinformation on social media, and the release of thousands of sensitive emails stolen by hackers from the Democratic National Committee and other Democratic targets.  Mueller’s team has charged 25 Russian nationals and three foreign companies for their alleged role in those operations. In appointing a special counsel to investigate, however, Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein also directed Mueller to look into “allegations” of possible “coordination” between Russian operatives and associates of President Donald Trump. Trump and his Republican allies have derided the investigation as a “witch hunt. ” But Rosenstein, FBI Director Chris Wray and Barr have each explicitly disputed that description. At least four Trump associates, including Trump’s former national security adviser Michael Flynn, have pleaded guilty to lying to federal agents during the Russia-related investigation. Another Trump associate, the president’s former attorney Michael Cohen, has pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about Trump’s business dealings in Moscow.  And former Trump adviser Roger Stone has been charged with lying to Congress about his alleged role in tracking information stolen from Democrats during the 2016 presidential campaign. Mueller’s investigation grew out of a probe the FBI launched in late July 2016. By then, the FBI was already scrutinizing Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort’s business dealings with pro-Russian officials in Ukraine – dealings that have since landed Manafort in jail.  And the FBI was keeping tabs on Trump adviser Carter Page, who was previously targeted for recruitment by Russian spies and had raised eyebrows with a trip to Moscow in mid-July 2016. But claims by Trump adviser George Papadopoulos – that the Russians were touting “dirt” on Clinton – really set off alarms inside the FBI. “If any Americans were part of helping the Russians [attack] us, that is a very big deal,” James Comey, who was FBI director at the time, later told lawmakers. Several weeks after formally launching the Russia probe, counterintelligence agents leading the investigation in Washington received a so-called “dossier,” which had been compiled at the behest of Democrats and detailed uncorroborated allegations of coordination between Trump’s campaign and the Kremlin. Some of the allegations involved Page, who was already on the FBI’s radar, so agents began secretly intercepting his communications.  Page has never been charged with any crimes. The wide-ranging investigation continued even after Trump took office.  After Jeff Sessions became attorney general, he recused himself from oversight of the FBI’s Russia-related probe, citing his previous advocacy for Trump on the campaign trail. Rosenstein subsequently assumed oversight of the investigation. And then Trump shocked the federal law enforcement community: He fired Comey. The move prompted Rosenstein to appoint Mueller to take over the whole matter, including a review of whether Comey's firing and other actions meant Trump improperly tried to obstruct the probe. Comey later alleged that in a private meeting with Trump before his removal, the president directed Comey to “let [Flynn] go. ”Mueller has not released any evidence suggesting Trump committed a crime related to Russian efforts. However, Mueller did uncover evidence of other possible crimes and referred those cases to other federal prosecutors. The U. S.  Attorney’s Office in Manhattan ended up tying Trump to federal campaign violations, alleging that – in the midst of the 2016 presidential campaign – Trump personally directed Cohen to silence two woman claiming affairs with Trump by making illegal payments to them; Trump has repeatedly denied the affairs. Cohen has pleaded guilty for his role in the matter, but no other charges have been filed. ABC News' Pierre Thomas, John Santucci and Kyra Phillips contributed to this report. 24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events


Delhi: Farmers tractor rally reaches near ITO, Sarai Kale Khan  from Ghazipur border https://t.co/rsMjermEW8

Authorities in Haryana sounded a high alert in the state and said anyone taking law into one's hands will be dealt with strictly, after a tractor march meant to highlight farmers' demands dissolved into anarchy on the streets of the national capital on Tuesday. In view of the violent incidents in several areas during the farmers' tractor parade in Delhi, Haryana Director General of Police Manoj Yadava said a 'high alert' has been sounded in the state. He directed all district police chiefs to be extremely vigilant. Also Read | Farmers' body Samyukt Kisan Morcha calls off tractor rally with immediate effectIn the wake of events which unfolded in neighbouring Delhi, Haryana Chief Minister M L Khattar was in touch with senior officials of police and civil administration keeping a close eye on the situation, official sources said. The DGP said all Commissioners of Police, Range ADGP/IGs and district Superintendents of Police have been asked to be on a high alert mode to deal strictly with rioters and miscreants. Additional force has also been deployed in sensitive areas.  Besides, the intelligence wing of the police is also monitoring the entire situation, he said. The DGP warned that the police will not allow anyone to disturb law and order in the state. He also said anyone found instigating riot through any kind of rumour will be strictly dealt with as per the law. Referring to the events which unfolded in Delhi, Yadava said police in Haryana have been asked to be extra vigilant. The police will also ensure safety of the farmers who are returning home, he said in a statement. The DGP also said the police will not hesitate to use force if anyone tries to damage public property, cause damage to government offices, government or private vehicles, and disturb the law and order in the state. The state police force will also patrol high-risk points, maintaining round-the-clock vigil, he added. Referring to chaos in Delhi during the farmers' tractor parade, Yadava said that in the guise of the present situation, some anti-social elements with an intention to grind their own axe, can also try to disturb peace through rumours. "Police are also keeping a close eye on social media.  Strict action will be taken if any kind of misleading, provocative, provoking and anarchic post is shared or forwarded on social media.  People should not pay attention to the rumours and follow the Haryana Police website and Twitter handle for the latest updates," the DGP added. Tens of thousands of protesters clashed with police in multiple places in Delhi, leading to chaos in well known landmarks of the city and suburbs, amid waves of violence that ebbed and flowed through the day, leaving the farmers' two-month peaceful movement near the borders of the national capital in tatters.


Raveesh Kumar, MEA on Pakistan Foreign Secretary's visit to India: It was a personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled with him. https://t.co/LFAXJ0HTAM

The external affairs ministry on Thursday said no bilateral meeting was planned between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.  The two PMs will attend the summit on June 13-14 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan’s capital. The ministry’s spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told reporters that no bilateral meeting was planned between the Indian and Pakistani PMs to the best of his knowledge. Ties between India and Pakistan nosedived following the Indian Air Force’s strikes in Pakistan’s Balakot.  The strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror base was India’s response to the February 14 Pulwama suicide bomber attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men were killed. Pakistan Air Force fighters made a failed attempt to bomb Indian military installations on February 27, leading to an aerial engagement along the Line of Control during which an Indian combat jet was shot down and its pilot captured and briefly detained by Pakistan. WATCH | ‘No meet planned between PM Modi, Imran Khan’: Govt ahead of SCO summitAlso read:Mutual trust must for peace’: PM-elect Modi to Imran KhanPakistan’s foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood on Wednesday offered Eid prayers at the Jama Masjid, triggering speculation about the purpose of his visit as it came days ahead of the SCO summit.  The ministry said he was on a private visit and no official meeting was sought or arranged.  Mahmood, who was Pakistan’s high commissioner to India till mid-April, will return to Islamabad on Friday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the SCO meet in Bishkek, India’s envoy to China Vikram Misri said on Thursday.  The two leaders are likely to take stock of the bilateral ties and discuss regional and international issues.


What are the symptoms of novel coronavirus, or COVID-19?

Novel coronavirus can cause symptoms that range from mild to severe, including cough, fever and shortness of breath.

More on how to prepare for COVID-19: https://t.co/m6atHBiK5B

By Faith Karimi, CNNUpdated 1108 GMT (1908 HKT) March 2, 2020  (CNN)As the United States recorded its first coronavirus death -- and the number of infections grows worldwide  --  many people are wondering what symptoms to be on the lookout for and how to protect themselves.  CNN's Kristie Lu Stout, Jen Christensen and Meera Senthilingam contributed to this report.


#Oscars 2019: How Black Panther's Ruth E. Carter wove an Afrofuturist fantasy that won her the Academy Award for costume design https://t.co/o2ckml5JhT https://t.co/eJMvAUIdyx


Impose presidents rule in Bengal in view of the post-poll violence perpetrated by the goons of Mamata Banerjee

A heart-wrenching video showing a girl trying to give water to her COVID positive father who was ostracized from his village in Andhra Pradesh, is being shared on social media with false captions alleging that the man was attacked in West Bengal following the Trinamool Congress's election victory.  BOOM found that the original video is from Andhra Pradesh where a girl tried to give water to her dying father, despite protests from her mother.  According to news reports the family was asked to isolate themselves in a thatched hut away from the village.  Also read BJP Passes Off Image Of India Today Reporter As Slain Party Worker West Bengal has erupted in post-poll clashes after the Trinamool Congress got a thumping majority in the recently conducted assembly elections.  According to reports, the violence has claimed at least 14 lives in two days.  Chief minister Mamata Banerjee had an emergency meeting on May 4 to seek immediate end to the clashes erupting in several areas of the state.  Against the backdrop of post-poll violence, social media has been abuzz with unrelated videos and photos connecting them to West Bengal.  One such video shows a girl struggling with a woman while trying to give water to a man lying on the ground.  A Hindi claim with the viral clip translates to 'Mamata's goons have crossed all boundaries of brutality in West Bengal.  Take a quick decision Modiji or these screams will never forgive you.  #Impose President's rule under Article 356'.  (Hindi: प●बंगाल में ममता के खूनी भेड़िये निर्ममता की सारी हदें पार कर चुके हैं। अविलम्ब निर्णय लो मोदी जी अन्यथा ये चीत्कारें कभी माफ नहीं करेगी. . .  #Article356 राष्ट्रपति शासन लगाकर प्रतिकार कीजिये. . .  अन्यथा आने वाला समय माफ नहीं करेगा. . .  ) BOOM has not included the video here owing to its disturbing content.  Click here for archive.  Click here for archive.  The video is also viral on Twitter with similar claims linking it to West Bengal.   Also read Photos Of WB Rape And Murder Victim Falsely Linked To Post Poll Violence BOOM watched the video closely and found that a voice in the background was speaking in Telugu.  Taking cue, we did a keyword search with relevant words and found an India Today article dated May 5, 2021.  The report states that the incident is from Koyyanapeta village in G Sigadam Mandal of Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh.  The video shows the wailing daughter trying to give her dying father some water while her mother tries to pull her away.  The man seen in the video, Asiranaidu, had tested COVID 19 positive.  Asiranaidu was a labourer in Vijayawad, AP.  After his entire family tested positive for Coronavirus, they returned to Srikakulam amid impending fears of a lock down.  Upon learning about their condition, the villagers asked them to isolates themselves in a hut some distance away from the village.  The viral video shows Asiranaidu gasping for breath in front of his wife and daughter.  He later died.  The India Today report carries screenshots from the viral video.  BOOM also found an NDTV report on the same incident.  The video is disturbing in nature, viewers' discretion advised.  Also read Doctored Clip Shared As TMC Victory Celebration With Pistols And Swords


President Donald Trump is expected to sign the first veto of his presidency today https://t.co/jXMdYf03Yh https://t.co/olxAgmsDdY

The president's veto comes the day after the Senate's embarrassing rebuke.  Trump issues first veto over border emergency declaration, defies CongressPresident Donald Trump on Friday issued the first veto of his presidency, defying a bipartisan rebuke of the national emergency he declared to circumvent Congress to get more money for his proposed southern border wall. The president invited cameras into the Oval Office to record the moment, saying, "As president, protection of the American people is my highest priority. "Surrounded by law enforcement officials and families of those allegedly killed by undocumented immigrants, he rejected the resolution as "reckless," calling the situation with illegal immigration a "tremendous emergency" and a "tremendous crisis. ""People hate the word invasion, but that's what it is," Trump said. Attorney General William Barr was on hand to tell the president that his emergency declaration was "clearly consistent with the law. "Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen told him that the fact that it was an emergency was "undeniable. "The president's veto was in response to a resolution that passed the Senate Thursday with the support of 12 Republican senators, who joined Democrats in voting down the president's action as executive overreach.  The House had previously passed the measure. Shortly after the president issued his veto, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer issued a statement saying the president had chosen to "trample on the Constitution. "“It is no surprise that the president holds the rule of law and our Constitution in minimal regard.  There is no emergency; Congress has refused to fund his wall multiple times; Mexico won’t pay for it; and a bipartisan majority in both chambers just voted to terminate his fake emergency," Schumer said. “While the president has chosen to trample all over the Constitution, we Democrats in the Senate will never stop defending our country from an overreaching president,” he said. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called it "a power grab. "“The House and Senate resoundingly rejected the President’s lawless power grab, yet the President has chosen to continue to defy the Constitution, the Congress and the will of the American people," she said in a statement. “On March 26, the House will once again act to protect our Constitution and our democracy from the President’s emergency declaration by holding a vote to override his veto," she said.  “House Republicans will have to choose between their partisan hypocrisy and their sacred oath to support and defend the Constitution. ”Even though the resolution passed both the House and Senate, it's unlikely there would be enough votes to override his veto. Regardless, the president and White House had engaged in a behind-the-scenes lobbying effort of Senate Republicans in the days before the Senate vote, which amounted to a stunning rejection of the president in his effort to advance one of his central policy priorities. Within minutes of the Senate vote, he sent a one-word tweet: "VETO! "Prior to that vote, the president seemed nonchalant about the prospect of having the issue his first veto but also accused Republicans of "overthinking" the issue as he sought to boil it down to a matter of border security. "I'll probably have to veto.  It won't be overturned and the legal scholars say it's totally constitutional," Trump said on Thursday.  "It is very important.  It is a border security vote.  It is pure and simple, a vote for border security. "On Friday, he tweeted that he'd "like to thank all of the Great Republican Senators who bravely voted for Strong Border Security and the Wall. "24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events


Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Chandigarh International Airport.

He will inaugurate Atal Tunnel at Rohtang in Himachal Pradesh at 10 am today. https://t.co/VcnVgrK3rl

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Saturday inaugurate Atal Tunnel, which will cut down the distance between Leh and Manali by 46km and the travel time by four to five hours, in Himachal Pradesh’s Rohtang. “We have made all preparations and we are waiting for the Prime Minister.  It’s a moment of joy for the people of Himachal Pradesh.  This is a historical moment,” Himachal Pradesh chief minister Jairam Thakur was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. “The tunnel holds great significance in the light of the situation with neighbouring countries and added that it is not only significant from a national security point of view but also be very helpful for the commute of the people,” Thakur said. “Around 200 people will be present at the event.  Prime Minister is sending out a message that how close Himachal is to his heart.  He is appearing physically for a development project.  We wanted a huge inauguration event.  However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, only a small event is being organised.  The tunnel will also send a strong message for a border security point of view,” he added. Defence minister Rajnath Singh visited the Atal Tunnel on Friday along with Thakur and reviewed the preparations for the inaugural function of Atal Tunnel. Here are 10 things to know about the Atal Tunnel:* The decision to construct Atal Tunnel was taken on June 3, 2000, by the then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.  The foundation stone for the tunnel was laid on May 26, 2002. * On 25 December 2019, the Rohtang tunnel was renamed as Atal Tunnel in the memory of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. * Atal Tunnel is located at a distance of 25km from Manali at an altitude of 3,060 meters. * The 9. 02km long tunnel has been built with ultra-modern specifications in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. * It is a horseshoe-shaped, single tube double lane tunnel with a roadway of 8 metres and an overhead clearance of 5. 525 metres. * It has been designed for a traffic density of 3,000 cars and 1,500 trucks per day with a maximum speed of 80 km/hr. * The tunnel is 10. 5-metre wide and a 3. 6x2. 25 metre fireproof emergency egress tunnel has been built into the main tunnel itself. * The tunnel is equipped with various security features such as CCTV cameras, telephone connections at every 150 metres for any emergency, fire hydrant mechanism at every 60 metres and auto incident detection system. * There are evacuation lighting and exit signs at every 25 metres and broadcasting system throughout the stretch.


Delhi: BJP workers gather at the party headquarters as official trends show NDA's lead in #BiharElection2020. https://t.co/IbdhgQZzUi

The ruling BJP has continued to maintain its lead over opposition Congress and JD(S) in the bypolls for two assembly constituencies in the state, poll officials said on Tuesday.  Votes polled in the November 3 byelections to Sira in Tumakuru district and Rajarajeshwari Nagar (R R Nagar) in the city were taken up for counting at 8 am and the results are expected to be out in a few hours from now. According to the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer’s office, the trends show- BJP candidate was ahead with a margin of over 7,800 votes in Sira, while the party has maintained a lead with a margin of over 34,500 votes in RR Nagar. BJP’s Dr C M Rajesh Gowda is leading with 37,808 votes in Sira, followed by Congress’ T B Jayachandra with 29,938.  Trends show JD(S) that had won the seat in the 2018 assembly elections being relegated to the third place with the party candidate Ammajamma B securing 19,522 votes.  In R R Nagar too BJP’s N Munirathana is leading with 73,932 votes, followed by Congress’ Kusuma H with 39,415.  JD(S) is in third place here too with party candidate V Krishtramurthy so far securing 4,660 votes.  As the trends clearly showed BJP leading in both seats, the Chief Minister’s office released a video of Ministers R Ashoka, Basavaraj Bommai, Seiramulu, Byrathi Basavaraj and others greeting CM Yediyurappa with sweets.  The bypoll has been necessitated in Sira following the death of JD(S) MLA B Sathyanarayana in August, while R R Nagar seat here fell vacant due to disqualification of the then Congress MLA N Munirathna last year under anti-defection law.


Claim: A picture of a woman lying on a hospital bed in Bihar is going viral on social media.  The caption claims that she was raped by a doctor in a corona isolation ward of Magadh Medical College, Gaya, Bihar and died soon after getting the discharge.  However, this particular post is misleading.  This viral photograph attached with the news is an old photograph of a teenage girl who was sexually abused by a ward boy in a hospital in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, in June 2017.  Several media reports of The State, NVP News and Indiaglitz used this story with the misleading picture for the rape case too.     Posts on Instagram went viral with the story of 25-year-old victim with misleading photograph.   One of the post can be seen here and is archived here.  Several people shared this misleading story on Facebook too.   Several tweets mentioned this story, even few verified accounts of politicians.     While there had been a Sexual Assault to a Corona Patient, the image being used is 3 years old.  The viral photograph along with this news is a 3 year old photograph from Kanpur.  However, the story in the caption along with this viral image which occurred in Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College and Hospital’s corona isolation ward in Bihar is true.  Thus, this makes it a misleading post.  Meanwhile, this image was being connected to a real story that happened in Gaya, Bihar, where a 25-year-old migrant woman from Ludhiana came to Gaya along with her husband after an abortion.  She complained of excessive bleeding after which she was admitted to Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College and Hospital (ANMMCH) on March 27 in an emergency ward.  Later, it was suspected she might have been infected by coronavirus, following which she was shifted to the isolation ward where she was sexually abused by a healthcare worker.  She died due to excessive bleeding three days later.  Check out the whole story here.  The real story of this viral photograph according to the reports of Dainik Bhaskar is that a 16-year-old student was allegedly drugged and raped by a ward boy of private nursing home in Kanpur in June 2017.  She was admitted to Jagriti Hospital in the city after her condition deteriorated at a party she was attending.    This report from Daily Bhaskar, June 2017 includes the real story behind the viral photograph.