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‘Stop Grave Rights Violations’: India Hits Back At Pakistan At UNSC, Reaffirms J&K's Integral Status
World

‘Stop Grave Rights Violations’: India Hits Back At Pakistan At UNSC, Reaffirms J&K's Integral Status

India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Parvathaneni Harish, strongly criticised Pakistan during his address to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), urging Islamabad to end “grave and ongoing human rights violations” in areas “illegally occupied” by it. During the open debate organised to mark the 80th UN Day on Friday (local time), Harish asserted that Jammu and Kashmir “has been, is, and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India.” “We call upon Pakistan to end the grave and ongoing human rights violations in the areas illegally occupied by it, where the population is in open revolt against Pakistan’s military occupation, repression, brutality and illegal exploitation of resources,” Ambassador Harish said. ‘Concepts Alien to Pakistan’ Highlighting the difference between democratic freedoms in India and the lack thereof in Pakistan, Harish said that people in Jammu and Kashmir fully exercise their constitutional and democratic rights, which remain “alien” concepts to Islamabad. “Let me emphasise that the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has been, is, and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. The people of Jammu and Kashmir exercise their fundamental rights in accordance with India’s time-tested democratic traditions and constitutional framework. We, of course, know that these are concepts alien to Pakistan,” he stated. India’s Global Outlook Anchored in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam Reiterating India’s long-standing philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family — Harish said this belief underpins New Delhi’s global engagement and commitment to justice, dignity, and prosperity for all. “This is not only an outlook that anchors our worldview, but also the reason why India has consistently advocated for justice, dignity, opportunity and prosperity for all societies and peoples. It is also the reason why India places its faith in multilateralism, international partnerships and cooperation,” he added. Questions Over UN’s Relevance and Credibility In his remarks, the Indian envoy also reflected on the United Nations’ evolution since World War II, noting that the organisation now faces growing questions about its “relevance, legitimacy, credibility, and efficacy.” “The theme of this debate gains great salience at a time when the world’s largest multilateral organisation – the United Nations – faces questions related to relevance, legitimacy, credibility, and efficacy,” Harish said.

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10 months ago
World Pasta Day 2025: 10 Irresistible Pasta Varieties You Must Savour At Least Once
Lifestyle

World Pasta Day 2025: 10 Irresistible Pasta Varieties You Must Savour At Least Once

Pasta is a celebration of taste, texture, and Italian culinary heritage. With World Pasta Day 2025 being celebrated today, it's the perfect moment to explore the diversity of pasta shapes and styles. From small, delicate grains to wide, hearty ribbons, each pasta variety tells a story of tradition, innovation, and flavour. Whether you’re a casual cook or a gourmet aficionado, these pasta varieties promise to elevate your culinary game and make your meals unforgettable. ALSO READ: 8 Post-Diwali Detox Drinks To Naturally Cleanse Your Body And Boost Wellness 1. Orzo (Image Source: Pinterest/taste_of_home) Orzo is a tiny, rice-shaped pasta that is perfect for soups, salads, and even risottos. It's small in size, but packs an impressive punch when it comes to versatility. Its quick cooking time makes it ideal for busy kitchens, yet it absorbs flavours beautifully, making every dish comforting and delicious. Orzo pairs well with vegetables, light sauces, and even protein-rich ingredients like chicken or seafood. In Mediterranean cuisine, it’s often combined with herbs, olives, and feta cheese for a wholesome experience. Beyond soups, orzo can also be toasted lightly to add a nutty flavour and texture to casseroles. 2. Bucatini (Image Source: Pinterest/thepastaproject) Bucatini is a long, thick spaghetti-like pasta with a hollow centre, making it perfect for hearty sauces. Its tubular shape allows it to hold rich, creamy, or tomato-based sauces exceptionally well. Originating from Rome, this pasta variety nsures each bite delivers a burst of flavour, making every mouthful satisfyingly rich. Cooking bucatini requires attention to texture, al dente is key to maintaining its unique chew. This pasta also works wonderfully in baked dishes or layered with vegetables and cheeses. 3. Pappardelle (Image Source: Pinterest/notjustfood_blog) Pappardelle is a broad, flat ribbon pasta, ideal for luxurious, saucy dishes. Its wide surface allows it to hold rich meat sauces, mushroom ragouts, and creamy vegetable blends effortlessly. Traditionally made fresh in Tuscany, pappardelle’s silky texture pairs beautifully with slow-cooked recipes, ensuring each strand is coated with layers of flavour. The pasta’s large size provides a dramatic, elegant presentation on the plate, making it a favourite for special occasions and dinner parties. Cooking pappardelle requires gentle handling to preserve its delicate sheets, but the payoff is extraordinary. 4. Tortellini (Image Source: Pinterest/amarianahomem) Tortellini are small, ring-shaped stuffed pastas, often filled with cheese, meat, or a combination of both. Their playful shape makes them visually appealing, while the fillings offer a burst of flavour in every bite. Traditionally served in broth or with light cream sauces, tortellini balances richness with texture. This pasta is perfect for festive meals or comforting weeknight dinners, offering both variety and versatility. The combination of shape, flavour, and adaptability ensures tortellini remains a standout pasta type for celebrations, intimate meals, and gourmet experiences alike. 5. Orecchiette (Image Source: Pinterest/lgbeardesign)   Orecchiette, meaning “little ears,” is a unique pasta shape from Southern Italy. Its concave form makes it ideal for chunky vegetable sauces, sausages, or thick tomato blends. Orecchiette captures every bit of sauce in its cup-like structure, ensuring each bite is flavour-packed. It's a pasta type that's appreciated in family-style meals, where sharing and hearty flavours are essential. Its versatility extends to baked dishes and cold pasta salads, proving that orecchiette’s charm lies both in tradition and adaptability. For anyone who is looking to experiment with textures and regional Italian recipes, orecchiette is a must-try. 6. Ditalini (Image Source: Pinterest/bonafurtunafarm)   Ditalini is a tiny, tube-shaped pasta commonly used in soups and stews. Its small size makes it perfect for soaking up broths and flavours, giving each spoonful richness and depth. Ditalini is a staple in Italian minestrone, a traditional vegetable soup. Beyond soups, ditalini can also be used in salads or baked pasta casseroles. The pasta’s petite shape allows it to cook quickly and evenly, making it convenient for weeknight meals. 7. Conchiglie (Image Source: Pinterest/connorspruce5) Conchiglie, or shell-shaped pasta, is both decorative and functional. The shells’ curves trap sauces, cheeses, and small ingredients beautifully, creating bursts of flavour in every bite. Conchiglie comes in various sizes, from tiny pasta for soups to large shells that can be stuffed with ricotta, spinach, or meat. The pasta’s structure ensures that even the most delicate sauces are captured efficiently, enhancing the eating experience. Conchiglie combines aesthetics with practicality, allowing cooks to present visually stunning and flavourful dishes. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to impress with creativity while enjoying traditional Italian flavours. 8. Farfalle (Image Source: Pinterest/raible5102) Farfalle, or bow-tie pasta, is iconic for its shape and charm. Its pinched centre adds texture, allowing it to hold creamy or chunky sauces while remaining fun and playful. Farfalle works perfectly in cold salads, pasta bakes, and even simple tomato-based dishes. Its visual appeal makes it a popular choice for family gatherings and casual meals, while its texture and adaptability impress gourmet cooks. Its design ensures even cooking and a delightful bite every time. 9. Manicotti (Image Source: Pinterest/thepastaproject) Manicotti are large, tube-shaped pastas meant for stuffing and baking. They are traditionally filled with ricotta, spinach, or meat mixtures, then smothered in tomato sauce and baked to perfection. The hollow tubes allow generous fillings and sauces to meld. Perfect for special occasions, manicotti is both comforting and impressive, combining Italian tradition with modern creativity. Cooking manicotti requires gentle handling, but the reward is a dish that’s visually stunning, flavourful, and deeply satisfying. 10. Busiate (Image Source: Pinterest/biggerbolderbaking) Busiate is a spiral-shaped pasta from Sicily, ideal for trapping pesto, tomato, or seafood sauces. Traditionally handmade, busiate is slightly rough, adding texture and enhancing taste. It pairs well with aromatic sauces. Busiate’s unique shape makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking pasta beyond the mainstream, offering an authentic taste of Sicilian culinary artistry. Its spiral structure combines beauty, texture, and practicality, ensuring that every dish is an experience to remember.

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10 months ago
Chhath Puja 2025 Schedule: Know Complete Timings For Nahaye-Khaye, Kharna, And Surya Arghya
Lifestyle

Chhath Puja 2025 Schedule: Know Complete Timings For Nahaye-Khaye, Kharna, And Surya Arghya

Chhath Puja 2025: Chhath Puja is a revered four-day festival dedicated to Sun God and nature, celebrated with utmost devotion in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal. This year, the festivities begin on 25 October and conclude on 28 October 2025. Central to this observance are rituals such as Nahaye-Khaye, Kharna, and offering Arghya to the setting and rising sun, all while observing a strict 36-hour fast. Here’s a complete guide to the timings and significance of each day, ensuring you don’t miss any important ritual. ALSO READ: Chhath Puja 2025: The Role Of Sugarcane In Honouring The Sun God And Chhathi Maiya Nahaye-Khaye – 25 October 2025 The festival begins with Nahaye-Khaye, marking the first day of Chhath Puja. Devotees take a ritual bath and perform offerings to the Sun God, followed by consuming the Prasad. Traditional dishes prepared include Arwa rice, chickpea dal, and pumpkin curry. From this day, families maintain sattvic practices, avoiding garlic and onions to uphold purity throughout the festival. Nahaye-Khaye is a spiritual preparation, both physically and mentally, ensuring that participants embrace the festival’s sacredness with full devotion. Kharna – 26 October 2025 Kharna, also known as Lohanda in some regions, is the second crucial day of Chhath Puja. Devotees observe a full-day fast and break it in the evening with a special Prasad comprising kheer and sweet roti. The offerings are first presented to Chhathi Maiya before being consumed by the fasting women. This marks the commencement of the strict 36-hour Nirjala fast. Kharna holds immense significance, combining devotion with discipline, and is considered essential for spiritual cleansing and family harmony. Sandhya Arghya – 27 October 2025 The third day is dedicated to Sandhya Arghya, offering prayers to the setting sun. Devotees gather at riverbanks or water bodies to perform Arghya at sunset, this year scheduled for 5:40 PM. The ritual symbolizes gratitude and reverence to the Sun God, seeking blessings for prosperity, health, and energy. Usha Arghya – 28 October 2025 The final day features Usha Arghya, where devotees offer Arghya to the rising sun, marking the conclusion of the Chhath fast. Sunrise this year occurs at 6:30 AM. After completing the ritual, the fast is broken, and devotees celebrate the blessings received. This day emphasizes renewal, spiritual upliftment, and the cyclical nature of devotion in Chhath Puja. [Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on assumptions and available information. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]

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10 months ago
US-China Begin Trade Talks In Malaysia Amid Tensions Over Trump's 155% Tariff Threat
Business

US-China Begin Trade Talks In Malaysia Amid Tensions Over Trump's 155% Tariff Threat

Senior officials from the United States and China began a new round of trade discussions in Malaysia on Saturday, seeking to defuse tensions between the world’s two largest economies ahead of a planned leaders’ meeting later this week. According to China’s official Xinhua news agency, the talks in Kuala Lumpur are being led by Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The discussions mark the latest effort by both sides to stabilise relations amid escalating economic measures and strategic rivalry. Setting the Stage for the Xi–Trump Meeting Bessent and He — a close ally of President Xi Jinping — are tasked with addressing a series of recent punitive steps imposed by both countries. The meeting also aims to lay the groundwork for anticipated talks between Xi and US President Donald Trump on Thursday, to be held on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea. Trade Tensions on the Rise Tensions have risen sharply in recent weeks. Earlier this month, Trump criticised Beijing’s decision to expand controls on rare-earth exports, threatening steep tariffs on Chinese goods and even suggesting he might cancel his first in-person meeting with Xi since returning to the White House this year. The discussions come as the clock ticks down on a trade truce that expires on November 10, unless the two sides agree to extend it. The fragile stability that had returned to the bilateral relationship has been disrupted after Washington broadened its technology restrictions and proposed new levies on Chinese vessels entering US ports. Beijing’s Response and Industry Concerns Beijing responded in kind, unveiling tighter export controls on critical materials, including rare earths. Earlier this week, China’s Ministry of Commerce held an unusually large meeting with foreign businesses in Beijing, attempting to reassure them that the new measures were not intended to restrict legitimate trade. Outlook: Talks to Shape Future Relations The outcome of the Malaysia talks is expected to shape the tone of the upcoming Xi–Trump meeting and determine whether the two powers can prevent a renewed escalation in their long-running economic confrontation.

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10 months ago
‘This Is A Very Right Move’: Zelenskyy As US And Europe Hit Russian Oil With Sanctions
World

‘This Is A Very Right Move’: Zelenskyy As US And Europe Hit Russian Oil With Sanctions

In a show of global unity, European leaders gathered in London to intensify efforts aimed at ending the war in Ukraine and increasing pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meeting marked a significant moment in international diplomacy, as the leaders aligned strategies with recent sanctions imposed by the United States on two key Russian oil companies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the move, urging even more nations to adopt similar measures. ALSO READ: 'No More Hiding': Zohran Mamdani Embraces His Muslim Identity Amid Attacks Zelenskyy Applauds Coordinated Sanctions Russia can signal to the world all it wants that sanctions supposedly don’t affect its economy, but everyone can see the truth – gas station lines inside Russia, bankrupt regions, federal budget deficit. Sanctions remain one of the most painful blows for Putin. pic.twitter.com/n4gauh4s1d — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) October 24, 2025 Following the meeting of the so-called “Coalition of the Willing,” Zelenskyy shared a video on X addressing the Ukrainian people. He said, “A meeting with leaders in London has already taken place; this is the third positive development for Ukraine in just a few days. More sanctions against Russia are coming, and they will be aligned with the decision of the United States.” He further commended US President Donald Trump, stating, “This is a very right move by the US President, sanctions against two Russian oil companies. Today, all participants, without exception, in the Coalition of the Willing agreed that this is exactly how pressure should continue on Russian oil.” Zelenskyy highlighted the tangible impact of sanctions, noting the gas shortages, bankrupt regions, and budget deficits that demonstrate their real effect on the Russian economy. European Leaders Rally Support For Ukraine The London meeting, hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, saw dozens of European leaders pledge military and logistical support to Ukraine, while reinforcing measures to deter future Russian aggression. The gathering also built momentum for fresh sanctions targeting Russia’s oil and gas exports, one of the nation’s most vital economic sectors. The coordinated effort underlines the international community’s determination to back Ukraine and maintain pressure on Putin, sending a clear message that aggression will meet unified resistance. With these decisive actions, Zelenskyy and global leaders hope to create lasting impact, curbing Russia’s economic leverage and reinforcing Ukraine’s defense capabilities in a conflict that has already reshaped international relations.

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10 months ago
Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit Dies At 93; Royal Family To Observe Year-Long Mourning Period
World

Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit Dies At 93; Royal Family To Observe Year-Long Mourning Period

The Royal Household Bureau announced that Queen Sirikit passed away on Friday in a Bangkok hospital, at age 93, where she had been receiving long-term care. She had been battling a blood infection since 17 October, and despite intensive treatment, her condition deteriorated. She was the mother of the reigning King Vajiralongkorn and wife of the longest-reigning monarch of Thailand. The King has declared a year-long mourning period. In recent years, Sirikit had largely withdrawn from public life due to declining health, according to the Associated Press. Her husband, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thailand’s revered monarch who reigned for seven decades, died in 2016. A Beloved Yet Controversial Figure Though often overshadowed by her late husband and son, Queen Sirikit wielded immense influence and affection across Thailand. Her portrait hung in homes, offices, and temples nationwide, and her birthday, 12 August, was celebrated as Mother’s Day. Sirikit’s legacy spanned humanitarian efforts, rural empowerment, and environmental protection. She assisted Cambodian refugees, initiated income-generating projects for women, and championed forest conservation, earning the nickname “The Green Queen.” However, her role occasionally drew scrutiny as Thailand’s monarchy faced growing public debate amid political unrest. Her appearance at the funeral of a protester killed in clashes with police was perceived by some as signalling political alignment, the Associated Press noted. From Aristocrat To Queen Born Sirikit Kitiyakara in Bangkok on 12 August 1932, she came from an aristocratic family tied to earlier kings of the Chakri dynasty. Educated during World War II in a bomb-rattled Bangkok, she later moved to France with her diplomat father. At 16, she met the young King Bhumibol Adulyadej in Paris while studying music and languages. After he was injured in a car accident, Sirikit relocated to Switzerland to care for him. Captivated by her devotion, the king wrote poetry for her and even composed a waltz titled “I Dream of You.” They married in 1950, shortly before his coronation, pledging to “reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people.” Life Of Service The royal couple had four children, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Princess Ubolratana, Princess Sirindhorn, and Princess Chulabhorn. In their early years, they travelled extensively as Thailand’s goodwill ambassadors, strengthening ties with global leaders. By the 1970s, their focus shifted to domestic challenges, rural poverty, opium addiction, and communist insurgencies. Sirikit joined the king on thousands of village visits, often trekking through jungles and mountains. Always elegantly dressed yet approachable, she listened to villagers’ concerns, from health issues to local disputes, and sought ways to help. Champion Of Rural Women And Heritage In 1976, she founded the SUPPORT Foundation, which trained thousands of villagers in silk weaving, jewellery making, ceramics, and traditional crafts. The initiative created sustainable livelihoods while preserving Thailand’s cultural heritage. Through her decades of work, Queen Mother Sirikit became not only a symbol of grace and devotion but also of resilience, a monarch who brought the Thai crown closer to its people.

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10 months ago
Chhath Puja 2025: The Role Of Sugarcane In Honouring The Sun God And Chhathi Maiya
Lifestyle

Chhath Puja 2025: The Role Of Sugarcane In Honouring The Sun God And Chhathi Maiya

Chhath Puja 2025: Chhath Puja is one of the most revered Hindu festivals, dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. Among all the offerings made during this four-day ritual, sugarcane holds a special place. It symbolises sweetness, purity, and the blessings of nature, reflecting harmony between humans and the environment. Without sugarcane, the rituals of Chhath Puja are believed to remain incomplete. ALSO READ: Chhath Puja 2025: Check Out The Puja Samagri List, Ritual Preparations And More The Spiritual Role Of Sugarcane In Chhath Puja Sugarcane is seen as a symbol of purity and prosperity. Devotees offer it to the Sun God to invite health, sweetness, and vitality into their lives. During the rituals, sugarcane stalks are used to build a canopy-like structure or small pavilion where the sacred offerings, known as kosi, are placed. This traditional setup represents devotion and gratitude towards divine energy. According to folklore, Chhathi Maiya, the goddess worshipped during this festival, is deeply pleased when sugarcane is used in rituals. It is believed that her blessings bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to the family. Because sugarcane is a pure plant that remains untouched by animals or birds, it is seen as a sacred offering. Symbol Of Purity, Prosperity, And The Harvest Season Sugarcane also represents the agricultural wealth of the season. As a key harvest crop, it reflects the prosperity of farmers and the abundance of nature. Offerings like kheer or prasad made with jaggery or sugarcane juice, rather than refined sugar, are considered more sacred and pure. The Chhath rituals highlight respect for natural produce and sustainability. Devotees believe that offering sugarcane ensures continued family happiness and harmony. It connects the worshippers with the essence of Chhath Puja, gratitude towards the Sun, purity of intention, and reverence for nature’s gifts. [Disclaimer: The content of this article is based solely on assumptions and available information. ABPLive.com does not assert the accuracy or validity of any claims or information presented. It is strongly recommended to consult a qualified expert before considering or implementing any information or belief discussed herein.]

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10 months ago
'No More Hiding': Zohran Mamdani Embraces His Muslim Identity Amid Attacks
World

'No More Hiding': Zohran Mamdani Embraces His Muslim Identity Amid Attacks

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani on Friday said he would no longer downplay his Muslim identity, following a series of attacks from former Governor Andrew Cuomo and his allies that he described as “racist and baseless.” Standing outside a Bronx mosque, surrounded by imams and community leaders, the Democratic nominee grew emotional as he spoke of how Muslim New Yorkers have lived under fear and humiliation since 9/11, including members of his own family. “My aunt stopped riding the subway after September 11 because she didn’t feel safe being seen in a headscarf,” Mamdani said, choking back tears. “These are lessons that so many Muslim New Yorkers have been taught. And over these last few days, those lessons have become the closing messages of Andrew Cuomo, Curtis Sliwa, and Eric Adams.” ‘No More’: Mamdani’s Emotional Rebuttal Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and one of the most progressive candidates to emerge from the city’s Democratic primary, has often faced criticism for his positions on Israel and Palestine. But recent attacks from Cuomo’s camp and other rivals have drawn condemnation from Democrats, who accuse the former governor of leaning into Islamophobia, according to the Associated Press. “The dream of every Muslim is simply to be treated the same as any other New Yorker,” Mamdani said. “For too long we’ve been told to ask for less and be satisfied with whatever little we receive. No more.” He admitted that he had deliberately downplayed his faith early in his campaign, a decision he now regrets. “I thought if I behaved well enough, or bit my tongue enough, I’d be seen as more than just my faith,” he said. “I was wrong. No amount of redirection is ever enough.” “I will not change who I am or how I eat for the faith I’m proud to call my own,” Mamdani continued. “I will no longer look for myself in the shadows. I will find myself in the light.” ‘Racist And Baseless’: The Escalation The controversy escalated after Cuomo appeared on a conservative radio show Thursday, where host Sid Rosenberg suggested Mamdani would “be cheering” another 9/11 attack. Cuomo responded, “That’s another problem,” and laughed. Soon after, a Cuomo campaign account posted, and later deleted, a video showing Mamdani eating rice with his hands while labelling his supporters as criminals. A spokesperson claimed the video was uploaded in error. At a separate event, Mayor Eric Adams, appearing alongside Cuomo, warned that “New York can’t be Europe,” and implied, without elaboration, that the city could face greater terror risks under Mamdani’s leadership. Meanwhile, Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa falsely accused Mamdani of supporting “global jihad” during a recent debate. When asked about the remarks on Friday, Cuomo dismissed allegations of Islamophobia, saying Mamdani was “playing the victim.” “Don’t tell me New Yorkers are Islamophobic. They’re not,” Cuomo said. “What he is doing is the oldest, dirtiest political trick in the book: divide people.” Political Crosscurrents Mamdani’s rise in the polls has unsettled New York’s Democratic establishment. On Friday, he received a key endorsement from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, offering a significant boost to his campaign. Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 following sexual harassment allegations, has sought to use his political comeback to cast Mamdani as divisive and dangerous. He accused the candidate of fuelling antisemitism, claiming Mamdani’s criticism of Israel had “made Jewish people afraid to leave their homes.”

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10 months ago
Indian Nurse Jailed For Molesting Male Visitor On Pretext Of 'Disinfecting' Him At Singapore Hospital
World

Indian Nurse Jailed For Molesting Male Visitor On Pretext Of 'Disinfecting' Him At Singapore Hospital

Singapore, Oct 25 (PTI) An Indian national working as a staff nurse at a Singapore premium hospital was sentenced to a year and two months’ jail, and two strokes of the cane after he pleaded guilty to a molestation charge. Elipe Siva Nagu, 34, molested a male visitor to the Raffles Hospital in June, after claiming that he wanted to “disinfect” the victim, The Straits Times reported. He was suspended from his nursing duties soon after the offence. The offence caused the victim to have flashbacks of the incident, the court heard. Details about the victim, including his age, were redacted from court documents. Deputy Public Prosecutor Eugene Phua said that the victim was at the hospital in North Bridge Road on June 18 to visit his grandfather, who had been admitted there. At around 7.30 pm, the victim entered a patient’s toilet, and Elipe looked inside while he was using it. On the pretext of wanting to “disinfect” the victim, Elipe put soap on his hand and molested him, said DPP Phua. The court heard that the startled victim did not move as he was shocked. The victim later returned to his grandfather’s bedside after his ordeal. Court documents did not disclose what happened next, but the case was reported on June 21. Elipe was arrested two days later. The court sentenced Elipe on Friday to a year and two months’ jail and two strokes of the cane.  (This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

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10 months ago
'Exit From Greylist Not Bulletproof': Global Terror Financing Watchdog FATF Warns Pakistan
World

'Exit From Greylist Not Bulletproof': Global Terror Financing Watchdog FATF Warns Pakistan

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global watchdog for combatting terror financing and money laundering, has cautioned Pakistan that its removal from the “greylist” does not make it immune to financial crimes linked to terrorism. Speaking at a press conference in France following the FATF’s fourth plenary meeting, the organisation’s president, Elisa de Anda Madrazo, stressed that all countries must sustain efforts to curb illicit flows of money and deter crimes. “Any country that is on the grey list but also exists on the grey list is not bulletproof for actions of criminals, either money launderers or terrorists. So we do invite all jurisdictions, including those who have been delisted, to continue their good work to prevent and deter crimes,” Madrazo said. Pakistan Still Under Monitoring Pakistan was officially removed from the FATF “greylist” in October 2022 after showing progress in implementing anti-terror and money laundering reforms. However, the country remains under follow-up monitoring led by the Asia Pacific Group (APG), as Pakistan is not a full FATF member. The “greylist,” Madrazo explained, includes countries identified as having “strategic deficiencies” in countering terror financing and money laundering. Those jurisdictions are placed under enhanced monitoring until they address the gaps highlighted by FATF reviews. Her warning arrives amid reports that groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) are using digital payment systems to conceal funds and finance operations, adding new challenges for global watchdogs. India’s National Risk Assessment 2022 report has likewise classified Pakistan as a “high-risk” source of terror financing in South Asia. FATF’s review coincides with broader concerns over state-linked financial activities in Pakistan. A detailed study titled 'Comprehensive Update on Terrorist Financing Risks' underscored the emergence of state-sponsored channels of terror funding. India contributed significantly to the research, which flagged the role of entities such as Pakistan’s National Development Complex in financing proliferation activities. The report concluded that Pakistan remains one of the region’s highest-risk jurisdictions for such threats. Reiterating FATF’s zero-tolerance policy toward terror-linked finances, Madrazo urged countries to maintain vigilance and enforce global standards beyond their delisting status. “Now, as it relates to terrorist attacks, in any place or jurisdiction, the FATF remains committed to continuing to strengthen our standards and the implementation through our assessment and our process to make sure we can benefit the people by having less terrorist financing,” she said. FATF Removes South Africa, Nigeria From Increased Monitoring The FATF’s three-day plenary in Paris, chaired under Mexico’s presidency, focused on tightening global defensive frameworks against illicit finance. Representatives from over 200 jurisdictions and observer organisations participated in discussions aimed at depriving criminal networks of their proceeds. At the session, members reviewed and adopted the first two evaluations conducted under FATF’s new round of mutual assessments. Belgium and Malaysia became the first countries to be examined under the updated, risk-based system, which places greater emphasis on measurable results in addressing money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing. In another major development, FATF announced that Burkina Faso, Mozambique, Nigeria, and South Africa had been removed from the list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring after meeting their respective action plan targets. As Pakistan continues to face scrutiny through the APG’s oversight mechanism, the FATF’s message remains clear: delisting is not a declaration of safety but a call for constant vigilance against financial crimes threatening global security.

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