Voice of South Asian Community Since March 2002 Vol. 16 Issue 42 Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 $1 www.thesouthasianinsider.com Coronavirus Pandemic World On Edge

Page 18 Cases In India Rise To 81, States Swing Into Action Trump declares national emergency in latest bid to combat coronavirus Page 19 Scientists believe they’ve made a huge breakthrough in coronavirus vaccine effort Home Business Auto NLIGHT INSURANCE Insurance (A Division of Nlight Financial LLC) (See Full Page Advt. on Page 16) Call : 917-612-3158 Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 COMMUNITY 2 ‘We are being treated as smugglers’: Indians stranded in coronavirus-hit Italy In a bid to avoid the spread from coronavirus in the country, the central government has issued a circular barring the return of Indians from virus hotspots unless they produce a certificate that proves they have tested negative. virus.The circular stipulated session seeking the people have been infected by that people “travelling from or intervention of the Centre to the virus globally that has having visited Italy or South bring back the stranded claimed more than 3,000 lives Korea” and desirous of Indians including many across the globe. Italy has entering India “need to obtain Keralites, from abroad.“How emerged as the super certificates of having tested can we say that an Indian spreader of coronavirus negative for COVID-19” from citizen cannot come back to disease (Covid-19) in India. the designated laboratories India just because he is Italy has recorded the highest authorised by the health infected? Barring our citizens number of deaths outside authorities of those from coming to the country is China. The country has countries. India had an uncivilised attitude,” locked down 16 million people previously stated that it will Vijayan told the Assembly. in Lombardy and other parts now screen passengers from India has reported over 50 of the north. The Vatican has all countries coming to India. positive cases of novel suspended mass until April 3 Previously, passengers only coronavirus. Over 100,000 because of the emergency. from 12 ‘high-alert’ countries like China, South Korea, (News Agencies)The plight to Kerala. Many came to the an isolation ward. The Japan and others were being of Indians stuck in airport without knowing that central government should screened for novel coronavirus-hit Italy has a certificate would be give us the certificate to coronavirus. On Tuesday, come to light after Hima, a required for them to travel. enable us to return,” she said Kerala Chief Minister woman from Kerala, The airport authorities say as reported by news agency Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to stranded at an airport in the that India was not ready to PTI. In a bid to avoid the Prime Minister Narendra European nation released a receive us,” she said in a spread of coronavirus in the Modi seeking his intervention video showing their voice message to media. country, the central to withdraw a similar circular hardships. The woman said at least 200 government has issued a issued by the Director- “We are being treated as Indians were stranded at circular barring the return of General of Civil Aviation smugglers. People have Milan and Rome airports. Indians from virus hotspots (DGCA). Vijayan said the commented on the video put “We are sitting at a corner of unless they produce a state Assembly would up on Facebook asking us the airport in freezing certificate that proves they consider moving a resolution why we want to come back temperatures. It is just like have tested negative for the in this regard in the ongoing US court strikes down key Trump admin decisions behind H-1B denials The United States issues 85,000 H-1B visas annually to highly skilled foreign workers on petitions from US companies to make up for a shortage of locally available hands. (News Agencies)A US court has struck president of ITServe, an association of more down key Trump administration memos and than 1,200 IT solutions and services decisions behind soaring denial of H-1B visas, organization, whose challenge led to the sending a wave of relief through IT services Tuesday ruling. The United States issues companies that use foreign workers, a large 85,000 H-1B visas annually to highly skilled number of whom are from India. They have foreign workers on petitions from US faced intense pushback and pressure in companies to make up for a shortage of recent years. These memos had sent up the locally available hands. Critics of the rate of denial of H-1Bs from 2% in 2015 to programme have argued it has been used to 30% for some companies, according to an displace American workers by contracting analysis of government data by an out their work to foreigners. Denial of initial independent body. The court of a district judge applications for H-1B visas and renewal in Washington DC on Tuesday struck down applications has gone up under the Trump memos used by the US Citizenship and administration’s “Buy American, Hire Immigration Services (USCIS) to prevent American” policy. The National Foundation companies from hiring foreign workers on H- for American Policy (NFAP), an independent 1B visas for third-party work — outsourced body that closely tracks immigration issues, operations in other words, and required denial rates have generally risen from 6% in employers to produce contract details for 2015 to 21% in 2019 for new petitions; and which the H-1B had been petitioned. The court from 3% to 12% for continuing employment, also directed the agency to provide reasons renewals in other words. The agency also while rejecting an H-1B petition. “A decision found that the denial rate for new employment like this has been long overdue, we finally had gone up to 30% in 2019 for IT services have the judicial system agreeing with the and consulting companies in comparison to employers that USCIS has been out of between 2% and 7% for technology product bounds for a long time,” said Amar Varada, companies such as Apple. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 COMMUNITY 3 "Breaking Bread, Building Bonds" Eric Adams, Brooklyn of people due to constant Borough President; Swami differentiation based on race, Radeshwaranand Ji, Director color, religion, etc. To eradicate of Divya Jyoti Jagrati Kendra; hate crimes we need to rid the Dilip Chauhan, Director darkness within the hearts and Southeast / Asian Affairs, minds of the people of New Sunil Hali, Radio Zindagi York. This is possible by 540AM, Raj Dhingra, India enlightening individuals to their Republic News and Zafar Iqbal, true self. As this connection CEO at Subrang Television builds we will see a shift from USA were in attendance. identifying as part of a race or Attendees were encouraged to religion to identifying as a child share their backgrounds and of god regardless of race or life experiences with each religion. He suggested ideas other. Concerns of the of more accessible yoga and increase in hate crimes were meditation classes in the discussed. Swami community. Zafar Iqbal, (By a staff reporter) Long hosted the 15th of a series of Building Bonds” initiative at to combat anti-Semitism and Radeshwaranand Ji explained Suheri Rosado, Sunil Hali, Island: Brooklyn Borough 100 dinners throughout the city Divya Jyoti Jagdati Kendra, all forms of hate in New York that the root of hate crimes is Raj Dhingra, Carole Dunn, President Eric Adams recently as part of his “Breaking Bread, New York. This initiative aims City, one meal at a time. the hate brewing in the hearts Ajuba Frazier Avoid non-essential travel’: Embassy’s message Indian students in US Soon after President Donald essential domestic or suspended in-person teaching US Citizenship and Immigration shifts to online courses will this matter, the US Trump on Friday declared a international travel,” the embassy and announced to shift to online Services (USCIS) does not impact their F-1 or J-1 status. “If government has indicated that national emergency to combat here said in an advisory to Indian classes in the wake of the consider online courses as a you are graduating in Spring this is an evolving situation, it the novel coronavirus, the Indian students. For official advisories coronavirus outbreak, which has reason for foreign students to 2020 and travelling said. The embassy said that Embassy in the US asked the on domestic and international claimed 41 lives in the US. stay in the US.The embassy internationally, please contact “at this stage, they expect the large Indian students’ travel, the students have been The institutions have advised Indian students to read your DSO for advice on how closure to be of limited community to avoid all non- asked to check the website of also asked students not to return official campus advisories or this may impact your duration (two to four weeks), essential domestic and the Centers for Disease Control after the spring break and to contact their DSO for information graduation and application for which fits within the current international travel. There are over and Prevention. More than 100 move out of their houses and first- on how short-term or long-term OPT,” the embassy said. On regulatory context”. 200,000 Indian students colleges and universities, year dorms. This has created a studying in various educational including the Massachusetts major challenge for students from institutions and universities in the Institute of Technology (MIT) and India as a large number of them US. “Please avoid all non- the Harvard University, have also do not have any friends and relatives in the US. For Lyft driver accused of international travel, the Indian Embassy asked students to forcibly touching passenger contact their Designated School (By our staff reporter) Long Island: Jaspal Shergill , a Lyft Official (DSO) for information on driver from Hicksville has been arrested and is accused of any possible impact in the future forcibly touching a passenger, according to a release from on their F-1 or J-1 status. F-1 or the Nassau County Police Department. Jaspal Shergill, J-1 are two different categories 35, of Seymour Lane in Hicksville, was driving a Lyft on of visas for international students. Feb. 2, police say, when he was driving a 30-year-old These have certain restrictions woman as a passenger. Police say he forcibly touched on stay of an international the woman while at the Taco Bell at 3946 Hempstead student after their academic Tpk. in Levittown around 1 a.m. Shergill was arrested on institute closes down or they charges of forcible touching and third-degree sexual abuse. conclude their courses. He's scheduled in court at 9 a.m. on March 16. Anybody Indian students also who feels they've been the victim of a similar incident is face the problem of visa validity asked to call Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800- in the development of universities 244-TIPS or call 911. All callers will remain anonymous. moving to online courses. The Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 ADVERTISEMENT 4 Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 OP-ED 5 The Queen is making her most serious misstep here In her close to seven investigation into Epstein’s co- bewildered” at suggestions he Andrew was photographed with guise of trade envoy to allowing decades on the throne, the conspirators ... Prince Andrew was uncooperative in the inquiry. Epstein in Central Park after the the bells of Westminster Abbey Queen of England has rarely has now completely shut the It is unclear what Berman’s latter was convicted of soliciting to go ahead and peal for his 60th faltered in her sense of duty or door on voluntary cooperation “options” might be; the prospect a minor; when he was accused birthday despite his recent made a serious misstep.She is and our office is considering its of extraditing a member of the by Giuffre; after Epstein’s disgrace. Worst of all was the doing both now, however — not options.”But the Epstein British royal family seems suicide; when the prince gave a error of judgement of the Queen in her treatment of her grandson, scandal is not going away. More diplomatically improbable. And disastrous interview to the BBC allowing herself to be Harry, and his wife Meghan, who and more devastating details yet the swirling scandal around in which he failed to express photographed beside a grinning made their last public could seep out unless the boil Andrew seems unlikely to go sympathy for the victims. duke while driving to church two appearance as senior royals this is lanced by Andrew away, with the drip-drip of Following that interview, Andrew days after legal documents week, but, more insidiously, her cooperating, in full, with the New allegations continuing to stepped back from royal duties naming him as Giuffre’s alleged handling of another problematic York authorities. mount.He continues to face for the foreseeable future. abuser were published last relative, her son Prince Andrew, Until he does, the Queen questions about Virginia Giuffre, Through it all, the Queen and August. the Duke of York. should display the sacrifice and who told the BBC she was the palace have done their best Whether or not she believed Not for the first time, Andrew sense of duty which have been trafficked to the UK and to patch up the damage, him guilty — and she’s his finds himself garnering lurid the hallmarks of her reign by Caribbean as a 17-year-old and scrambling to insert fingers into mother, naturally she doesn’t headlines stemming from the removing from the duke all presented as a plaything for the the leaking dam which threatens believe him guilty - what Jeffrey Epstein scandal. remaining vestiges of the duke by Epstein and his alleged to engulf them.It has always felt message did this send to On Monday Geoffrey privilege of serving as a member girlfriend-turned-procurer, too little, too late, the statements Epstein’s alleged victims, Berman, the US Attorney for the of the royal family — yes, even Ghislaine Maxwell. Maxwell has lacking in empathy, the reduction indeed, to all victims of sexual Southern District of New York, if as an ordinary British citizen denied all allegations levied in the duke’s status or exposure abuse? Prince Andrew caught a called the prince out in stinging he is exposed to an extradition against her. Her attorneys have a step behind the public mood. lucky break this week. The US terms, accusing him of request by the US. previously denied she engaged Until now, the greatest crisis Attorney’s condemnation would misleading the public by offering Otherwise, it won’t only be in sexual abuse or sex for the modern monarchy was no doubt have had far more to assist authorities investigating Harry and Meghan questioning trafficking. Andrew has denied the Queen’s reserved, almost impact, particularly in the Epstein’s alleged crimes while why they are treated more having any sexual contact with cold response to the death of powerful British press, were the in fact failing to make himself harshly for the transgression of Giuffre, and Buckingham Palace Diana, Princess of Wales, an world not preoccupied by the available for interview. wishing to live in another country has also denied her allegations. attitude which left many of her coronavirus outbreak.But while Andrew has said in a public than the duke is for, at best, Even before Berman’s grieving subjects troubled by the the current Covid-19 outbreak will statement: “Of course, I am consorting with a convicted comments and long before sense that formality and process not last forever, the unhealthy willing to help any appropriate pedophile. Epstein hanged himself in jail, were more important to her than atmosphere currently infecting law enforcement agency with Buckingham Palace has not Andrew’s friendship with him has emotion and family. How different the royal family will not go away their investigations, if required.” responded to Berman’s claims, posed an existential threat to the from the indulgence shown the until Prince Andrew gives As Berman put it: “Contrary to but earlier this year the duke was royal family. Duke of York, from permitting him authorities his full account and Prince Andrew’s very public offer described to journalists by an The crisis has flared up to travel the world at British cooperation. to cooperate with our unnamed source as “angry and repeatedly over the years: when taxpayers’ expense under the By Rosa Prince Four women were serious candidates for president. What happened? On Thursday, Sen. Kamala Harris. Now, the problems, what unseen forces Pete Buttigieg, that no female Office. Perhaps in 2020 we'll see Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth chance that a woman will win stood in the way? Harris wasn't mayor of a small city would be a woman vice president. That Warren announced the end of the 2020 presidential race has simply a black candidate; our in his position in the race. would be progress, but not the her presidential campaign after imploded.There's no question former president blazed that Was that whining? progress the nation needs for a disheartening performance in that sexism played a role in trail. She was a black woman. Questions like this, even when truly representative democracy. the primary elections. Now bringing us to this point. But As the campaign continued, uttered in a seemingly neutral In her book "What there is only one woman running social influences are wicked Warren and Klobuchar context, are potentially toxic. Happened," Hillary Clinton for the highest office in the land problems: they are diseases, established themselves as Women must work doubly hard recounts an apt story that David -- a woman who, by any polling hard to diagnose, even harder powerful, and presidential -- far to not only be tough, but do it in Foster Wallace told at a 2005 metric, has virtually no chance to cure. more, surely, than most men in a way that's visibly appealing. commencement speech at of winning. As is often, perhaps always, the race. Hence The New York Likeability may be why Kenyon College. Two young fish In 2007, when Hillary the case, these female Times endorsement of not one, Warren, in an Instagram video, are swimming along when an Rodham Clinton first announced candidates seemed held to a but both. But by then Warren pulled a Michelob Ultra out of older fish coming toward them "I'm in, and I'm in to win," she higher standard when it came had fallen in the polls. Some her fridge as she was casually nods and says, "Mornin', boys. stoked hope in all who dream to being presidential, electable questioned her ability to take on talking in her kitchen. How's the water?" The young of political parity -- that a -- and even likeable. In fact, for President Donald Trump, fueling The irony is, of course, that fish blithely swim on. Eventually, woman could soon be president women, those three doubt about her electability. In the most detestable president one looks at the other: "What's of the United States. In the characteristics war with one Nevada, Warren called attention in memory resides in a White water?" In fact, the most immediate aftermath of another. A woman who seems to the no-win situation she faced House defiled by corruption, important realities can be the Clinton's 2016 candidacy, and nurturing (likable) pays a steep as a female politician: "If you deception, greed, amorality -- in hardest for voters to see and talk her loss to a flagrant misogynist, price. Gillibrand, chose to take complain about it, then you are desperate need of a woman to about. But see and talk we countless women ran for public a soft approach by wearing whining," she said. "And if you shovel it all out. must. Sexism was a force in office. dresses in contrast to the suits don't complain about it, the rest Yes, we're seeing progress this year's Democratic So, it was promising to see (with pants) that many female of the women think, 'what planet below the presidential level. primary.A day must come when six Democratic women step up candidates wear. Yet beyond are you living on?' And so, you Women make up about a we can watch election results to contend for president this optics, she took on issues more get caught in between the quarter of the voting body of the without saying, "We've got to time around. Even if two -- overtly women-focused than two."Klobuchar had taken the 116th Congress, a record get it right next time." For the author Marianne Williamson those of her competitors. approach of emphasizing that number (although the women in sake of our future, the stage and Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard And Harris. Did her strong she was running on her merits, both chambers are must be reset as we advance -- seemed to many like show of boldness, as when she not her gender -- though she predominantly women's political leadership at longshots, for a variety of confronted Vice President would nonetheless be proud to Democrats).Given that 100 long the highest levels. Ultimately, reasons, that left four highly Biden on race, make her be the first female president. years ago American women the democracy we have is the qualified women in the race: unlikeable? Why was she, like Unabashedly, she called out gained the right to vote, it's hard one we've made. To borrow from Warren, Minnesota Sen. Amy Gillibrand, unsuccessful in sexism when she commented for many of us to fathom the fact Shakespeare, if there's fault it's Klobuchar, New York Sen. garnering support? Beyond during one debate, in reference we have yet to take our seat not in our stars, but in ourselves. Kirsten Gillibrand and California garden-variety campaign to former South Bend Mayor behind the desk in the Oval By : Swanee Hunt Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 EDITORIAL 6 Trump's coronavirus travel Coronavirus is a disaster. Why ban makes sense - here's why hasn’t FEMA been brought in? With every passing day, it’s all of the 15 capabilities identified in Predictably, the immediate without a serious outbreak.European becoming clear that the coronavirus the playbook, including, for example, reaction to last night’s presidential nations, on the other hand, imposed epidemic is not just a health Transportation (ESF #1), Mass Care speech on the battle against COVID- no travel bans. They wound up emergency but instead has the and Temporary Housing (ESF #6), 19 — both pro and con — appeared importing a lot of sick people. Italy, potential to become a major disaster. Logistics (ESF #7), Public Safety and to be driven largely by partisan with its significant migrant Chinese And that means it might be time to Security (ESF #13). There’s even a sentiments. Much attention was population, has been hit particularly turn to the nation’s disaster response function called Cross-Sector lavished on things like the president’s hard. No doubt some who went home agency to assist. Right now, the Business and Infrastructure delivery. Few attempted to objectively to celebrate the Chinese New Year, operational hub for the response is the (ESF#14) that focuses on, for assess the efficacy of the measures returned with the disease. Department of Health and Human example, “cascading impacts of already taken by the administration, Italy and other Schengen Zone Services headquarters in Washington. health or medical infrastructure or much less the new measures nations now have travel restrictions HHS Secretary Alex Azar highlighted service disruptions.” During a major announced last night. in place, but COVID-19 is no longer this at the White House press disaster or emergency, it’s FEMA’s The big story, of course, was the just “a Chinese disease.” It’s now on conference on February 26 naming role to coordinate all of these 30-day ban on travel from most of a European tour. Pence chair of the coronavirus task capabilities.FEMA, traditionally Europe. Let’s put the politics aside The head of the German force: “And I just want to say I could thought of as the agency that and see why the White House went government estimates that 70 not be more delighted that you’ve supports state and local governments there.In dealing with pandemics, top percent of the country will be asked the vice president, my old friend during natural disasters such priorities have to be limiting the infected. Limiting the European and colleague, to lead this whole-of- hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, is spread of the disease and protecting transmission here has to be a government approach with us under actually an “all-hazards” agency our most vulnerable populations. priority, and a travel ban is the best the Emergency Support Function ready to respond to a range of Social distancing — that is, limiting way to do that. Focusing on the next #8.”For people who understand crises—including pandemics. And the contact between people who are 30 days makes perfect sense. It will national emergencies, this bit of FEMA has the experience and shedding the virus and others — is get us through the bulk of the flu bureaucratese had a specific access to resources that could prove critical to achieving both goals. season, at which point the U.S. meaning: Emergency Support essential in the not too distant future. And that’s where travel bans have government can take stock and Function #8 is a provision in the Before I left FEMA at the end of a role to play. reevaluate.The ban does not include nation’s disaster playbook—the January I saw firsthand the early Simply put, it is hard to empty the goods, just people. That makes National Response Framework— actions taken by the administration bathtub while the water’s running. sense. People, not cargo, are the which designates HHS as the federal on coronavirus. I was there for the American businesses, organizations high-risk carriers. lead for health and medical standup of the president’s and governments are taking The ban alone, while prudent, will responses. coronavirus task force, which at the unprecedented steps to drain the tub not be enough to stop the spread of While HHS is rightly focused on time was certainly a step in the right — from shutting down classrooms to COVID-19. Throughout that 30-day the health and medical aspects of the direction. The task force, however, is barring fans from sporting events to period, we’ll need to keep draining response, that statement also means not the totality of the response that raining on St. Patrick’s Day parades. the tub. That means continued, something else: that the full breadth one might a.ssume based on the At a time when we’re voluntarily responsible social distancing. of the federal government’s media coverage. Instead it focuses disrupting our day-to-day lives to Governments, businesses, capabilities have yet to be on setting priorities and adjudicating contain the disease, it makes no communities and organizations can employed.A truly “whole-of- policy issues, while the operational sense to risk importing more certainly make responsible government approach” would engage response remains with HHS. contagion from abroad.Why Europe? decisions. Many already have. First, let’s be clear about what Quick and reasoned responses will “Europe” means in this instance. make a big difference. The president’s ban is for the We also need to be prepared to “Schengen Zone” — not “Europe,” not deal with the economic the “European Union.” The Schengen consequences of this public Zone is a grouping of European health problem. America has a countries that don’t require passports strong economy. If COVID-19 ISSN No. 1554 06X or border controls to move from one subsides with the flu season, this Editor in Chief & Publisher : to another. Ireland, for example, is in outbreak will be little more than a Sharanjit Singh Thind the European Union but not part of speed bump to the economy. But Editor (Political Affairs-India) : Aruna Singh the Schengen Zone, so the ban does we need measures to ensure the not apply to the Irish. The United economy can pick up where it left Chief Photographer : Vijay Shah Special Correspondent : Kingdom is in neither the European off and help folks through troubled Photographers: Hamad Gagandeep Singh (INDIA) Union nor the Schengen Zone, so it, times.At the Heritage Foundation, Editorial Intern: Roubin Singh Thind Web Coordinator : Harpreet Singh too, does not fall under the ban. we are recommending an Meanwhile, Iceland, though not part “epidemic tax credit” that would A Publication of Media Partners Capital, Inc. of the European Union, is part of pay for 90 percent of the costs of Schengen, so it is covered by the ban. providing paid leave to employees REGD & MAILING OFFICE : We know that travel bans can who cannot telecommute and who P.O Box 7005 Hicksville New York 11801 effectively retard the advance of work in declared epidemic areas. pandemics. Early on, the U.S. wisely We need quick, serious restricted travel from China and other responsible action on serious Phone: 917 612 3158 TelFax : 516 342 1076 countries experiencing large measures like this. [email protected], [email protected] outbreaks of COVD-19. That What we should not do is turn this www.thesouthasianinsider.com significantly delayed the arrival of the travel ban into another senseless Disclaimer The South Asian Insider is a weekly newspaper published every week by The South Asian Insider. It's available in community & religious centers, ethnic grocery stores and also available by mail, email & online to subscribers. The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints disease here, allowing the U.S. to get opportunity for partisan squabbling. expressed by the various writers, authors and forum participants in The South Asian Insider do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Editor. All advertisers advertising in The South Asian Insider assume responsibility for accuracy of their advertisements. The South Asian Insider through the bulk of the flu season By James Jay Carafano and/or people associated with it are not responsible for any claims made by the advertisers and don't endorse any product or services advertised in The South Asian Insider. We strongly urge consulting your lawyer before buying/contracting /hiring through the ads published in the newspaper. We are in the business of selling space and claims made by the advertisers are not authenticated or confirmed by an independent source Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 OPINION 7 Tackling coronavirus: Lessons for India Widen testing, restrict travellers, cancel public events, and be ready with Plan B coronavirus now. This number will shorter-duration test China used helped reverse the trend in terms increase. The good news is that (most European nations and the of new cases. there’s no community transmission US say it isn’t 100% accurate but Finally, India should be ready as of now — but that too could this is not the time for the great to with Plan B. At some point, when change. By now, India has had get in the way of the merely good the number of cases crosses enough time to study the enough). The second is to restrict 1,000, maybe 5,000, contact responses of China, South Korea, and regulate international travel and tracing will stop making sense. Italy and the US. What should it travellers — inbound as well as The Union health ministry should, The math is inescapable. In growth. And very worrying. Experts do? outbound. India has already done by now, have a mitigation plan. late February, Italy had 600 in the United States (US), which The first thing is to widen some of this. It needs to do more, The experience of Italy, South confirmed cases of coronavirus. had around 600 cases at the testing. South Korea cracked down including, and controversially, a Korea and the US is an indication That number is now in excess beginning of this week, are on the disease’s spread through restriction on travellers from the US. that, at some stage, prevention of 10,000. Some people are expecting a similar so-called aggressive testing. India should The third is to cancel public events. will stop making sense and the terming that exponential growth. hockey stick curve this week. India make sure it has enough testing Experts call this social distancing. focus will have to shift to It isn’t. But it is geometric has around 60 confirmed cases of kits and also explore using the In both China and South Korea, this mitigation. Turn the coronavirus Scindia’s exit reflects crisis into an opportunity the It is not merely a public health scare. Decarbonise the Congress’ economy, reduce air travel, and ban wildlife trade systemic Climate Change Special Report on 1.5°C had said that any warming weaknesses of 1.5°C is not considered “safe” for most nations, communities, If the Congress does not treat Mr Scindia’s exit with the ecosystems and sectors, and seriousness it merits and attempts an immediate poses significant risks to natural overhaul - including radical decisions on leadership- it and human systems. The same will sink deeper into a political crisis. report added: “The principal vectors for dengue fever, chikungunya, Jyotiraditya Scindia — a from the top, leaders are getting yellow fever, and the zika virus — former Union minister and impatient and seeking new are projected to increase in Member of Parliament, one of opportunities.There has also number, with a larger geographic the most important next- been a failure to craft a political range by the 2030s than at present, generation leaders of the response to the Bharatiya which could put more individuals Congress, and a key figure in Janata Party (BJP). Congress The planet is in intensive care, restrictions led to fewer numbers at risk of the diseases they carry, and it has taken a possible of vehicles on the road, and air with regional differences.” And, Madhya Pradesh politics with a workers, on the ground, do not pandemic to shake us out of our travel dropped by 70%. The prophetically, the report stated that substantial mass base — has have the political vocabulary, inertia. One of the world’s biggest European Space Agency and incidents of zoonotic diseases will decided to quit the Congress, resources, and the economies, China, came to a halt NASA images showed a drop in grow. dealing a major blow to the organisational muscle to take on when the coronavirus was pollutants like nitrogen oxide that It’s taken a disease in a small party. Mr Scindia’s decision is the BJP — which erodes their detected. To date, it has affected lead to respiratory diseases, province in China to bring the world a telling comment on the drift in morale. over 100,000 people in more than asthma and breathing problems. to a halt. But if we continue to treat the Congress, where uncertainty Mr Scindia’s exit will 100 countries. Incidentally, the Another decision made by the this as just a “health crisis”, we over leadership, organisational possibly lead to the Congress disease was thought to have been Chinese authorities could have far- are signing ourselves up for more disarray, and the absence of a losing power in Madhya transmitted to humans via bats reaching implications for the pandemics. The Amazon fires and roadmap for recovery have Pradesh. But its implications go and pangolins, although further planet. Since the coronavirus is Australian bushfires are created a crisis. far beyond that. The party’s research is still needed on its believed to have originated from a symptomatic of our inertia on After the devastating loss in preference for loyalty over origins. wildlife food market, the authorities climate. And, yet, a state of crisis But the virus is more than just banned consumption of wildlife could give us opportunities to heal the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, merit, and its desire to play a health crisis. It is symptomatic meat. A massive crackdown has the planet. The reduced Rahul Gandhi quit as party safe by preferring the old of all that we have unleashed on been initiated on wildlife farms and emissions, even if temporary, president. After weeks of guard, could have worked if it our planet in the name of breeding centres. This could help means a far lesser number of uncertainty, Sonia Gandhi took was in power. But when it is development. As we course- the conservation of a number of people are exposed to air charge, but with the out, factors such as age, correct to combat the coronavirus, species, in particular the pangolin pollution, and serve as an understanding that this was an ability and mass base should even the short-term measures that that has been on the verge of example that significant policy interim arrangement. She is be given priority. Let alone with have been put in place to contain extinction. Pangolin meat is shifts aimed at decarbonising said to be keen to have Mr new India, the Congress does the virus have helped improve the considered a delicacy, and their our economies could help Gandhi take over again, but he not seem to be in touch with planet’s condition. A recent report scales are used in traditional improve lives. Can we use the has been reluctant. This has left even its own workers and their of Carbon Tracker, a London-based medicine. Experts, however, coronavirus epidemic as an the rest of the party sentiments. If the Congress not-for-profit think tank researching remain sceptical about whether opportunity to decarbonise our directionless. It has paralysed does not treat Mr Scindia’s the impact of the climate crisis on the ban on wildlife trade will be economy, and shake us out of financial markets, said that China permanent, and if the restrictions our inertia to respond to the the ability of the Congress to exit with the seriousness it staved off a quarter or more of its will apply to traditional Chinese climate crisis? We can cut accommodate the aspirations of merits and attempts an Co2 emissions in two weeks by medicine as well. fossil fuel consumption and air younger leaders. Many such immediate overhaul — stopping work at manufacturing Are these measures too little, travel, and ban wildlife trade to save leaders can see their most including radical decisions on units and construction sites to too late? In 2018, the ourselves from pandemics, and critical political years being leadership — it will sink quarantine its workers. These Intergovernmental Panel on also help the planet to heal. wasted. With no clear signals deeper into a political crisis. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 OPINION 8 What the dip in oil prices means A possible fiscal dividend will come as a huge relief to India The world’s number two and decided to unilaterally adopt an three oil producers are going to war alternative strategy of increasing with each other over how to tackle production and driving down prices, the number one oil producer, the with the idea of driving high-cost oil United States. The result: producers and US shale out of Bloodletting in the world’s energy business. But this would also wreck markets but a huge windfall for the Saudi-led Organisation of India, the world’s number two oil Petroleum Exporting Countries. consumer. The expectation of an Riyadh’s response is to threaten oil price war between Russia and to drive prices to such a low point Saudi Arabia has already driven oil that Russia will be forced back to prices below $ 35 a barrel. If the the negotiating table. two fail to come to an understanding If this game of hydrocarbon soon, both countries will pump chicken plays through the year, millions of barrels of extra oil and India will count its blessings. But it keep black gold in the red zone all must recognise that eventually through this year. A $20 drop in oil prices will stabilise at a higher level. prices reduces India’s balance of New Delhi must safeguard its payments deficit by $30 billion. renewable energy sector and Most of these savings will accrue price tag for a privatised Bharat production. However, Moscow was Washington also used this clout to redouble its efforts to gassify its to the government, providing more Petroleum will dip. But, overall, it increasingly unhappy with this impose sanctions against the economy. These continue to be the than 20% top off to its expected will be a major fillip for a government strategy because it failed to Russian energy industry. These best bets to power India into a more receipts this year. There will be struggling with falling revenues and address its real problem: the US geopolitical concerns were not secure and green future. The some minuses as well: the value rising deficits.Over the past three shale oil industry. Buoyed by shared by Saudi Arabia (second present instability in the global oil of Indian oil and gas companies will years Russia (the third largest windfall profits and increased largest producer). The fall in market further underlines the need be impacted, remittances from the producer) and Saudi Arabia have market share, the US industry was demand because of the coronavirus to move away from the energy Persian Gulf will reduce, and the held up oil prices by cutting going from strength to strength. was the last straw. Moscow sources of yesterday. ClimateClimate Decoding the YES Bank crisis Rana Kapoor and the bank may have been given too long a rope crisis: Land The tragedy at YES Bank has been crisis: Land averted — all depositors of the bank have been assured by the government that their money is safe, and the State Bank of India isis thethe KeyKey (SBI) has been asked to step in as a white knight — but the crisis at one of India’s SyncSync traditional traditional largest lenders is far from over. There’s work knowledgeknowledge andand sciencescience to be done in terms of recapitalising the bank; SBI is to hold a maximum of 49% in toto build build resilience resilience the bank (for which it will pay around Rs 11,760 crore), and existing shareholders are that he could no longer remain chief of the A recent report by the Union ministry of up to 20-25% for unirrigated areas. Other seeing a significant dilution in their holding bank. While it is clear that many of YES’s earth sciences (MOES), Observed Rainfall than having a negative impact on agrarian to 11%, so other investors will have to be loans were to companies with questionable Variability and Changes, has found that production, the climate crisis also impairs found to pump in around Rs 9,600 crore. abilities to repay — around Rs 30,000 crore seven Indian states — Uttar Pradesh, the land’s ability to act as carbon sink. The While some State-controlled companies of its book is junk-rated debt — the question Bihar, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate and corporations will, no doubt, be to be asked is whether this was a result of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Change’s 2019 Climate Change and Land conscripted to do this, the government poor risk-assessment practices, herd Nagaland — have witnessed significant report, therefore, warned of massive impact should ensure that banking remains mentality (everyone, including many State- decreasing trends in annual rainfall in the of changing weather patterns on soil fertility, attractive to investors. With YES’s owned banks were lending to some of these last 30 years. Alarmingly, many other parts increase in arid and desertified zones, and restructuring plan writing down to zero, the companies), or plain old-fashioned of the country have also seen an increase contraction of polar climate zones and value of so-called additional tier-1 bonds kickbacks. in the number of dry days during the biodiversity. This exacerbates the climate (there are reports that bond-holders may YES’s aggressive lending wasn’t a monsoon season. This, the report added, crisis, while the climate crisis, in turn, seek legal recourse), it’s not going to be secret operation — it has been known for has adversely affected groundwater exacerbates land degradation in different easy for Indian banks to raise money sometime. That, the Reserve Bank of recharges in these rain-deficit regions. This ways. While micro-planning, as India’s through this route any more. There’s also India’s treatment of Mr Kapoor, and the rain deficit and its impact on groundwater state climate action plans are supposed the painstaking process that the bank’s new promoters’ promptness in selling their stake can be attributed to the climate crisis, to do, and providing farmers with better management will have to undertake of sifting in the bank, are all issues that need government officials acknowledge. seeds, climate information, land quality through all the lenders’ loans to see whether investigation, as do other financial The impact of an erratic monsoon on management and irrigation are critical, it there are any hidden surprises. transactions involving Mr Kapoor and his agriculture — and farmers — is direct. This is also important to use the knowledge of Even as this is being done, investigative family. Meanwhile, both the finance ministry is because between 50% to 60%of the farmers on these issues. This is because agencies have been tasked with probing and RBI would do well to assess whether country’s agriculture is still rainfed, without they hold vital local knowledge and the role the bank’s founder and former chief the latter did all that was necessary, and access to any form of irrigation. The 2017- practices on how to avoid, improve or adapt Rana Kapoor played in fostering the crisis. when it was required. In hindsight, Mr 18 Economic Survey said the climate crisis to a changing climate. Catalysing this with Mr Kapoor sold his and his family’s entire Kapoor and YES Bank may have been given could reduce annual agricultural incomes climate science could have a real impact stake in the bank after being told, in 2018, too long a rope. in the range of 15-18% on an average, and on framing effective climate action. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 VIEWPOINT 9 Stand up against anarchy masquerading as activism By opposing CAA, which was passed in Parliament, the Opposition has sown seeds of paranoia among citizens This prejudice is the product of a contributed to the legitimisation of Bagh as a precedent? Is this not systematically cultivated suspicion this politics of obstructionism, this a recipe for anarchy? which goes against the grain of would have become a fit case for In a move which smacks of anti- democracy.This unenlightened investigation by the National constitutionalism, several chief opposition coupled with Commission for Women and the ministers announced that they exaggerated statements about National Human Rights won’t implement the CAA. Imagine, hypothetical scenarios has Commission. Obstructionism how the chief ministers of Bharatiya provided fertile ground for could, at best, be a one-time tool, Janata Party-ruled states would get miscreants to sow the seeds of used in exceptional situations. roasted should they refuse to paranoia. A strong case in point is However, equating implement Acts granting so-called that of the initiators and organisers obstructionism with activism is minority educational institutions the of the Shaheen Bagh protest. not only erroneous but also an freedom to not implement quotas Although there can be a significant insult to those who oppose this. for the socially marginalised The parts of Delhi affected by needlessly presupposes a element of spontaneity in this sit- Giving protection to aspiring law- sections. Their opposition to the riots are limping back to perennial difference of opinion and in, everything doesn’t deserve to be breakers for months together minority appeasement normalcy. Those who indulged in institutionalises this. As a result, taken at face value. It is eventually disincentivises law- notwithstanding, they have to this mindless violence deserve the the Treasury and Opposition are unimaginable that Muslim women abiding citizens, eroding the implement what is passed by harshest condemnation and constantly at loggerheads. This — for whom men in their families credibility of the rule of law, Parliament. The refusal to accept punishment.While the law must divide is not always required nor is staunchly refuse freedom from triple irreparably. It is not out of place the supremacy of Parliament in take its own course, as a it always relevant. There is reason talaq — are allowed to spend days to question as to how the lawmaking is an open invitation to democratic society, we have to to believe that an unduly strong and nights out of their homes. judiciary would react if a anarchy. think about certain key issues that opposition to the CAA and Keeping women and children in the Shaheen Bagh-type One can understand the led to this violence. The most hardening of positions by several forefront, and waging a political demonstration is held, equally despondency of a section of our significant is the way one should anti-CAA groups are products of this struggle while hiding behind them peacefully, right in front of a political class. But the moot and can engage in public activism presupposition. might be considered a smart court building obstructing question is: How can we as a including protests, in a democratic The very presupposition being strategy, but it is also inhuman and access to litigants, and that too, society afford to allow frustrated polity. used to legitimise opposition to the anti-women. for months together. Will those politicians to encourage anarchy It is quite apparent that the CAA in itself is born out of prejudice. Had the judiciary not indirectly demonstrators not site Shaheen masquerading as activism? manufactured unrest, promoted by a section of politicians, over the Citizenship (Amendment)?Act, or A royal somersault: On Jyotiraditya Scindia’s defection the CAA, led to unfounded Jyotiraditya Scindia’s departure suspicions and mistrust. Repeated from the Congress and his arrival clarifications by government in the BJP reveal many traits of leaders that the CAA has nothing both parties and the man himself. to do with taking away citizenship, That he is termed as the lost future as it essentially aims only at fast- of the Congress is itself an irony, tracking citizenship to persecuted but a more intriguing question is minorities from three specified whether the party was intuitive in countries who have taken shelter not humouring any further someone in India, had little effect and who could so effortlessly cross over Opposition parties continued to the opposite ideological fuelling paranoia. This not only extreme. His aunt and BJP leader legitimised fear-mongering but also Yashodhara Raje Scindia likened encouraged a degree of obstinacy his switch to a “homecoming”. In among the protestors. his crossing over, he also betrayed One of the fundamental flaws a popular mandate that he himself in the present-day discourse is in worked to win for the Congress in our approach to dissent in Madhya Pradesh in 2018. The democracy. True, democracy will Kamal Nath government is likely to be meaningless if it cannot collapse, and Shivraj Singh encompass differences of opinion. Chouhan who lost the poll appears However, while dissent is an set to return as CM with Mr. inseparable aspect of democracy, Scindia’s collaboration. As for the course. His exit poses two Minister Modi and Home Minister will have to spin a new story for Mr. dissent and divergence of views Congress, which needs every questions for the Congress — the Amit Shah. True, he was an Scindia, who will be the fifth Gwalior need not and cannot be the only morsel to keep itself alive, it can ill- commitment of its leaders to a core enthusiastic supporter of the abrupt royalty to adorn a formal position parameters to measure afford the loss of a State government ideology, and what it can do to hold nullification of Jammu and in the party. His father, Madhavrao democracy. Like disagreements, and an urbane face who has a wider itself together in this moment of Kashmir’s special constitutional Scindia, who spent most of his life agreements are equally legitimate appeal. With his decamping, a new crisis. Surely, the party needs to status last year, but he had also as a Congressman, had started his in a democratic polity. Democracy template is on offer for other promote a new crop of young and openly called out the BJP career as a Jan Sangh leader. must not just provide space for, but Congress leaders who are rooted leaders from the country’s government’s insensitivity and While his lineage might be a burden also respect, differences of opinion. ambitious and impatient at the social diversity, who find it a vehicle inefficiency in controlling the of sorts in the anti-elite politics that But democracy shouldn’t be same time, and are free of the force of their aspirations and political communal violence in Delhi in the current BJP leadership claims deemed as suspicious in the of conviction. The Congress is empowerment. Mr. Scindia’s formal February. Mr. Scindia will have to to promote, the aged association absence of different approaches drifting into an annihilating eddy. Its ordination as a Hindutva torchbearer earn his saffron stripes, and the rites of his family with Hindutva politics and views. interim president, Sonia Gandhi, will not automatically raise him to of that initiation will be prolonged could make him eligible for a Sadly, the Westminster model still its most authoritative person, a dominion role in a party so and testing. The BJP, and the Modi- welcome that the RSS usually of democracy provides for an will have to do what is in her overwhelmingly under the Shah combine that rail against does not offer to latecomers. As he inherently flawed approach. It command to steer it back on personalised command of Prime dynastic and entitlement politics, said, it will be a new beginning. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 SOUTH ASIA 10 Philippines diplomat first Iran reports another 85 coronavirus coronavirus case at United deaths, total tally reaches 514 Nations HQ in New York The coronavirus outbreak in Iran is being seen as one of the deadliest outside China, where the disease originated. (News Agencies) Iran Jahanpour. “The total number of announced on Friday that the new patients has therefore reached coronavirus has claimed another 85 11,364 cases,” he said, adding lives, the highest single-day death Tehran province had the most new toll in one of the world’s worst infections. The outbreak in Iran is affected countries. “Sadly, 85 people one of the deadliest outside China, infected with the COVID-19 disease where the disease originated. (News Agencies) A Philippine have died in the past 24 hours”, Several politicians and officials both diplomat in New York has tested bringing to 514 the overall number sitting and former, have been positive for the new coronavirus in of deaths in Iran, health ministry infected, with some dying the first recorded case at United spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour from the illness. The latest said in a televised news conference. suspected case of infection Nations headquarters in the city, “Across the country, at least 1,289 was Ali Akbar Velayati, who advises diplomatic sources said on infected people have been added to Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Thursday. the list of confirmed patients,” said Khamenei on foreign policy. The diplomat, who had last visited the UN on Monday, showed symptoms of flu the following day From cover up to lock down, how China and saw a doctor. “She got the call today that she tested positive for COVID-19,” said turned the tide on the coronavirus a letter from the Philippines mission. After more than 4,600 deaths and 126,000 infections across the country, China is now trying to “As of today, the Philippine reshape the global narrative in response to overseas criticism, casting itself as a leader in the mission is in lockdown, and all heroic fight against the virus while other countries struggle to cope. personnel are instructed to self- quarantine,” said the letter (News Agencies) As the rest number of cases in Wuhan virus and evidence of human leading Chinese expert that obtained by AFP. of the world is engulfed in the jumped to 44 on January 3 and transmission they had seen, day. This marked a major turning coronavirus pandemic, China says health authorities in Hong Kong according to an interview with Ai point in the epidemic, with 291 The diplomat works at the UN it has turned the tide against the and Singapore issued travel alerts. Fen, one of the earliest medical infections reported nationwide. General Assembly’s Sixth disease that has killed thousands China announced the whistleblowers on the outbreak and Panic took hold in Wuhan, a Committee, which deals with legal of people. existence of a “new type of a colleague of Li. city of 11 million, when it matters. From initial attempts to cover coronavirus” on January 9 and the An annual mass banquet for was abruptly placed on About 3,000 people are up the outbreak to later locking first death two days later. 40,000 families organised by lockdown on January 23. The employed at the towering riverfront down cities and now declaring it But between January 5 and 17 Wuhan authorities went ahead rest of Hubei province was UN headquarters. Numerous other “basically curbed”, here is a look China reported no new cases of on January 18.The same day sealed off in the following diplomats from the 193 UN at how China grappled with the virus, while Japan and Thailand Beijing sent a team of scientific days. Wuhan hospitals, member countries come and go COVID-19: declared their first infections. experts to Wuhan to investigate. inundated with patients, between their own missions in the Mystery virus During this time, Wuhan and On January 20, President Xi reported dire shortages of area and the Manhattan UN The first case emerged in the Hubei province pressed ahead Jinping ordered that the virus be medical supplies. Many who complex. The Philippines has central city of Wuhan on with their annual legislative “resolutely contained” in his first could not get timely treatment December 8 before several workers meetings despite the outbreak. public comment on the issue. for themselves or relatives confirmed 52 cases of COVID-19 at Huanan Seafood Wholesale Meanwhile, doctors were Human-to-human transmission relayed personal tragedies on illness. There have been more than Market began to fall sick with a ordered to keep quiet about the was finally confirmed by a social media. 1,600 cases in the United States. fever.On December 31, Wuhan health authorities announced 27 cases of suspected viral pneumonia linked to the market Pentagon confirms strikes against Iran- and notified the World Health Organization. But officials insisted there was no evidence of human-to-human backed militia group facilities in Iraq transmission and that it was “preventable and controllable”. The strikes were “defensive, proportional and in direct response to the threat A day later, eight people were reprimanded by Wuhan police for posed by Iranian-backed Shia militia groups,” the Pentagon statement added. “spreading rumours” about the then (News Agencies) The Pentagon facilities across Iraq,” a Pentagon mysterious disease.There had on Thursday confirmed that the statement said. “These weapons been social media talk of a re- United States had carried out strikes storage facilities include facilities emergence of SARS, another against five Iran-backed militia that housed weapons used to coronavirus, which killed nearly 650 people in mainland China and weapons storage facilities in Iraq, a target US and coalition troops,” it Hong Kong in 2002-2003. day after a deadly rocket attack said. The strikes were “defensive, Li Wenliang, a 34-year-old killed two American and one British proportional and in direct response ophthalmologist at Wuhan Central service member. “The United States to the threat posed by Iranian- Hospital, was among those conducted defensive precision backed Shia militia groups,” the punished for raising the alarm.The strikes against Kataib Hezbollah statement added. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 SOUTH ASIA 11 India watching China sway at hill monasteries The directives, given by Modi during the director general/inspector general conference of the Intelligence Bureau between December 6 and 8, 2019, were recently sent to all the states and central agencies (News Agencies) Prime Himalayan belt was a “pre-emptive Patil added that the region is the Minister Narendra Modi has asked exercise” to make sure the border site of India’s frequent border face- central agencies to keep a close areas and the monasteries in the offs with China. watch on the activities of China mountain region were not ignored. “For 20 years, China has been along the border, especially its The development comes against quietly paying for the restoration of influence on the monasteries in the the backdrop of China’s assertion art and artifacts in Ladakh’s many Indo-Himalayan belt, according to that it alone can decide the neglected border monasteries. Its government officials familiar with successor to the 84-year-old Dalai beneficence has been focused the development. Lama, who has lived in exile in India especially on approximately 260 He has further directed since 1959. The US and other Drukpa-sect monasteries, which agencies to collate census data nations have opposed China’s own significant and valuable relics of all border villages for the past efforts to decide the spiritual of Ladakhi Buddhist art, revered by five years using artificial leader’s successor. While Chinese the locals,” he wrote. intelligence and analytics to get a officials have said the reincarnation Many of the monasteries are better understanding of of the Dalai Lama must be approved located on Indo-China border, demographic changes that are by their government and the where China is increasing its taking place, as well as the pattern selection should take place in their infrastructure and security of migration in the region. country, the Dalai Lama says presence. The directives, given by Modi Beijing’s pick will not be trusted. He Patil, who also worked at the mechanism to monitor Chinese of one month to understand the during the director general/ has said that his successor could National Security Council from activities at border but following problems there and work required inspector general conference of the also come from India. 2008 till 2013, told HT: “I PM’s directions, there will be further to be done. “Farthest border Intelligence Bureau between A national security expert – presume the decision to turn closer monitoring.Modi also asked villages to be covered in this December 6 and 8, 2019, were Sameer Patil, fellow at the Ladakh into a Union Territory was that all the pending roads in the manner. First hand information thus recently sent to all the states and international security studies taken to bring the region to the border areas be constructed and collated and be used for proper central agencies. HT has reviewed programme at Gateway House — attention of policymakers in their quality should be such that border management,” the PM said the directives. wrote in June 2018 that “China has Delhi. I hope it yields results.” permits landing of Indian Air Force at the police chiefs’ meet. He A central intelligence official, slowly been increasing its influence, The intelligence official cited (IAF) planes. Subsequently, he has further asked that National Cadet who asked not to be named, focusing not just on the border but above said agencies involved in asked that every IPS officer spend Corps (NCC) units be created in asserted that the PM’s reference exploiting sectarian differences gathering intelligence and securing one night in a border village, the educational institutions in the to China’s influence in the among the monasteries of Ladakh”. the border already have adequate covering 30 villages within a period border areas. Iran accuses US of ‘economic Muslims safer in India: Indresh Kumar terrorism,’ urges sanctions end (By PRAKASH M SWAMY) Congress was in power and this NEW DELHI: Muslims and other was not something discovered new minorities are safer in India by BJP Government. “India has compared to other nations and been a home to many civilizations these protests in Delhi and and faiths. A large number of Jews elsewhere were stage managed by were MIGRATED to Gujarat during the jobless opposition who could the Second World War and equal not find any fault with the ruling BJP number of Tamils came from Sri government, said Indresh Kumar, Lanka as refugees and India never (News Agencies) Iran’s foreign Iranian people and lift all sanctions president of Muslim Rashtriya turned them away,” he said. minister demanded Thursday that it has illegally imposed on my Manch, a unit of Rashtriya There had been no riots, the United States immediately halt country,” in violation of the Security Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) communal disturbances and major what he called a “campaign of Council resolution that endorsed The Muslim Rashtriya Manch clashes between communities economic terrorism” and lift the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran (MRM) is a Muslim organization since Modi ji became Prime sanctions, saying they have made and six major powers which the in affiliated to the RSS. It was Minister six years ago and this can’t it increasingly difficult for the country U.S. pulled out of in 2018. formed in 2002 at the initiative of India when BJP voted back to be digested by the opposition who to export oil and virtually impossible “To this end,” Zarif said, “It is the then RSS chief KS Sudarshan power.” are keen on fomenting trouble to to import medicine and medical imperative that the United Nations to allow the Sangh Pariwar to reach None of the CAA, NPR etc is disrupt the communal harmony in equipment, including to identify and and its member states join the out to Muslims. targeted against Indian Muslims and India. These selfish divisive forces treat coronavirus patients. Iranian people in demanding that In an interview in New Delhi, the the Government did not include are capable of any mischief to Mohammad Javad Zarif said in the government of the United a letter to U.N. Secretary-General States abandon its malign and senior RSS leader said a large Muslims in the group of persecuted achieve their goals, he said. Antonio Guterres that U.S. fruitless approach against Iran.” The numbers of Muslims had extended minorities as they chose to live in Muslim Rashtriya Manch is a sanctions have also left thousands new coronavirus, COVID-19, has their land of their own like Pakistan support to abrogation of Article 370 non political organization working of Iranians stranded abroad and swept across Iran, with the Health and Bangladesh, declared Muslim and Triple Talak as they had for the welfare of Muslims in India. severely disrupted air links with Ministry announcing Thursday that realized how harmful these nations.” No Muslim persecutes It is serving Muslims through its Europe. in the past 24 hours 75 people had draconian laws are in the interest another Muslim and if they do, India 2700 branches in 350 districts And he said they have led to died and more than 1,000 new of the nation. will give asylum on a case to case across India benefitting about 75 what he called “Google’s immoral cases had been confirmed, The Government of India led by basis as this involved national lakh Muslims. It runs food grain censoring” of a new government app bringing the death toll to 429 and Prime Minister Narendra Modi security. Many Muslims like bank, first of its kind in the world; designed to help Iranians identify confirmed cases to 10,075. treated Muslims on par with other Tasleema Nasreen and Adnan Sami family dispute redressal centers; potential symptoms of the COVID- U.N. spokesman Stephane major religions like Hinduism or were living in India peacefully and providing scholarships and 19 virus. Dujarric said Secretary-General Christianity and had extended all were not deported,” he said. assistantships to poor Muslim He said “it is imperative” that the Antonio Guterres is “deeply government of the United States concerned” about the coronavirus support to them. “These were the Illegal immigration has been an families and offer divorce counseling immediately halt its campaign of outbreak in Iran and the U.N. people who said Muslims will leave issue since 25 years when services to name a few. economic terrorism against the system is providing support. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 INDIA-CURRENT AFFAIRS 12 ‘Severe head injuries after thrashing inside jail’: Delhi rape convict moves court against cops Pawan has sought registration of FIR against two policemen of the Mandoli jail, claiming that the thrashing he received at the hands of these cops led to severe head injury. wasting the time of courts in assaulted in a moving bus in Ram Singh, the sixth order to stall the execution south Delhi on December 16, accused, allegedly committed process. A 23-year-old 2012. She had 13 days later suicide in Tihar Jail days after physiotherapy intern, who at a hospital in Singapore. the trial began in the case. came to be known as Six people, including the The juvenile was released in ‘Nirbhaya’ (fearless), was four convicts and a juvenile, 2015 after spending three gang-raped and savagely were named as accused. years in a correctional home. India has evacuated 948 people from coronavirus hit countries so far (Insider Bureau) A Delhi had moved a plea in the the date for the execution of (Insider Bureau) India’s fight against several batches to be brought back from Iran. court has served notice to jail Supreme Court on Friday the convicts - Mukesh Singh coronavirus has seen the successful India and Iran have both begun operations to authorities in the national seeking restoration of all his (32), Pawan Gupta (25), evacuation of close to a thousand people from evacuate citizens stranded in each other’s capital after allegations from legal remedies, alleging that Vinay Sharma (26) and the virus-infected countries so far, the Union territories and have pledged full cooperation Delhi gang-rape convict his lawyers had misled him. Akshay Kumar Singh (31). health ministry said on Wednesday. 900 of in this regard. India is trying to set up a Pawan Gupta that he was The plea, filed through Though the counsel of these evacuees are Indian nationals while laboratory in Iran to test all Indians for the thrashed inside the prison. advocate M L Sharma, three of the four convicts 48 others are from friendly countries, mostly coronavirus to expedite their exit and in the The case will be heard on sought a CBI probe into sought time from the court to neighbours, including Maldives, Myanmar, meanwhile, their samples are being sent to Thursday. alleged “criminal conspiracy” deliberate legal options, Bangladesh, China, US, Madagascar, Nepal, India in batches for testing onboard special Pawan has sought and “fraud” hatched by the additional sessions judge South Africa and Sri Lanka. The health Mahan Air flights, an Iranian career. Close to registration of FIR against two Centre, Delhi government and Dharmender Rana observed ministry confirmed that last such rescue 300 people have died in Iran due to the virus policemen of the Mandoli jail, advocate Vrinda Grover, who that there was no statutory operation was conducted on the 9th of March and over 8,000 people are affected. In Italy, claiming that the thrashing he is the amicus curiae in the bar in issuing the death when 58 nationals were brought back from the country with the most fatalities after China, received at the hands of these case. warrant. Iran, the third-worst affected country. The infections topped 10,000.A total of 60 people cops led to severe head injury. Last week, a trial court in The victim’s family has evacuees were brought back in a C-17 flight have been detected with the virus in India as Another death row convict Delhi issued fresh warrants accused the four convicts of operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and against over 116,000 infections globally. 4,000 in the case, Mukesh Singh, with March 20, 5.30 am, as delaying their petitions and the ministry says this was the first of the people have lost their lives the world over. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 INDIA-CURRENT AFFAIRS 13 As COVID-19 cases go up, here’s how cities across India are coping While 60 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in India, towns and cities across the country, even where no cases have been reported positive, have seen a surge in purchases of items, especially hand sanitisers and masks. — put Assam on alert. The to meet the growing had run out of hand may have COVID-19. On patient’s travel history, demand for surgical masks sanitisers. March 2, Health Minister which included a seven- and hand sanitisers, In the heart of Guwahati, Harsh Vardhan had also said day cruise on the despite no COVID-19 one of the city’s biggest there was no “need to wear Brahmaputra and a night cases in the cityIn central pharmacies, had neither masks in order to ward off stay at a five-star hotel in Kolkata, in close proximity masks nor sanitisers in stock infection.” While hand Guwahati, was splashed to the Calcutta Medical on Wednesday morning. “I sanitisers, in which alcohol across social media and College, shops had run out have never seen hand content is more than 60 per local news channels that of surgical masks. An sanitisers purchased in these cent, are effective, the US evening. It was then that employee at K.R. Lynch quantities and so quickly,” Centers for Disease Control (Insider Bureau) A taxi eyes are fixed on the road,” Ali, who is employed by an and Co. in Chittaranjan said Nikunja Talukdar, who “recommends washing hands driver for six years now, said Ali, seated behind the app-based taxi service, Avenue said there had has been running the with soap and water whenever Guwahati’s Ramjan Ali wheel, as he ferries made a beeline for the been no supply of face pharmacy since 1998. “On possible.” says “meeting strangers” is customers around market. There he bought masks for the past 1.5 Saturday at 930 pm, I got Yet, people like taxi a part of his job. And in the Guwahati on a Wednesday ten cloth masks, priced Rs months and neither did three cartons of sanitisers, driver Ali — whose only times of COVID-19, he has morning. A black cloth 50 apiece, and ‘several’ they know when they and by Sunday noon, we were source for updates is local no choice but to be “extra- mask, he bought for Rs 50, bottles of hand sanitiser would be available next. A sold out,” he said. “N-95 news, Whatsapp and careful”. That involves is affixed around his from the chemist next five-minute-walk away, at masks, surgical masks and Facebook — are minimum contact with his mouth. door.In Kolkata, for the shop P. Bhogilal Pvt regular cloth masks are sold convinced that masks are customer, including On Friday, news of example, traders of Ltd, there were no face out too. Even the wholesale necessary to guard conversation. “I generally Bhutan’s first confirmed medical equipment and masks or sanitisers markets are selling it to us at themselves against the avoid looking back, or coronavirus case — a 76- employees at medical available either.In double the price.”As masks virus. “I wanted to buy the making small-talk. My year-old tourist from USA shops have been struggling Chennai’s T Nagar, a One and sanitisers fly off the N-95 mask but I could not Plus mobile outlet kept shelves in India, and across afford it,” he said, adding Amit Shah says Delhi riots appear to be hand sanitisers inside the the world, the World Health that he is careful not to store for visitors to use Organisation (WHO) has fiddle with his mask too pre-planned as BJP, Opposition spar in Lok Sabha before checking out the advised that masks should be frequently, “It was phones on display. Yet, in only worn by those with uncomfortable for the first other parts of the city such symptoms or those who are two days, but I am used as Pondy Bazaar, stores looking after someone who to it now.”

(Insider Bureau) Amid a fiery within 36 hours. I would like to place on exchange of words between the record that after February 25 no incident Opposition and BJP over the northeast of rioting took place. There have been Delhi riots, which left 53 dead, in the attempts to politicise these riots. From Lok Sabha, Home Minister Amit Shah February 27 till today, around 700 FIRs said a conspiracy could not be ruled out have been registered and a total of 2,647 while asserting that anyone involved in people have been detained or arrested,” the violence would not be spared the Home Minister said. We wanted a irrespective of their religion, caste or discussion on Delhi violence after Holi to party affiliation. Replying to a discussion avoid a communal flare-up during festival in Lok Sabha on the Delhi riots, Shah time,” he said.Initiating the discussion said prima facie the violence appeared over Delhi violence in the Lok Sabha, to be a pre-planned conspiracy.“We are which saw vociferous protests by the investigating the Delhi violence on the Opposition over the incident in the last basis of scientific evidence. Such riots week, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan can happen only when there is a pre- Chowdhury lashed out at Prime Minister planned conspiracy behind it. We are Narendra Modi, saying “Nero fiddled while also probing the conspiracy angle. All Rome burned”. “When Delhi was those who caused the violence will not witnessing violence, Modi was hosting the be able to escape the law,” Amit Shah US President Donald Trump in said.Amid Opposition criticism over Ahmedabad,” he said.Chowdhury said alleged inaction by the Delhi police while some claimed Hindus won, the during last month’s violence, which left others said Muslims won in the violence. over 200 injured and ravaged northeast “The fact is that humanity was defeated,” Delhi areas of Mustafabad, Shiv Vihar, Chowdhury said. Chowdhury also Brijpuri, Jafrabad, Shah complimented wondered how the riots continued for the force for not allowing the riots to three days despite the Delhi Police being spiral.“Delhi Police contained the rioting one of the best equipped in the country. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 INDIA-CURRENT AFFAIRS 14 Man brings home human ‘Shadow CM’s post hand, asks wife to cook it vacant’: Shiv Sena mocks Raj Thackeray for dinner in Uttar Pradesh On the 14th foundation day of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) The man’s wife was horrified after on Monday., its chief Raj Thackeray named his son Amit the shadow seeing a human hand and fingers minister for tourism and law and in the pan. She ran out of the judiciary departments. house, alerted the neighbours and called the police

(Insider Bureau) In a bizarre incident, She first informed her neighbour and police. The police also found that the a man brought home a human hand al- then called the cops. The man, said to man had even attacked his father a legedly from a nearby crematorium and be an alcoholic, has been arrested. The few days ago. However, the matter was asked his wife to cook it for dinner in shocking incident, which took place in not reported to the police. Station Uttar Pradesh’s Bijnor. Upon seeing Bijnor’s Tikkopur village on Monday, house officer (SHO) RC Sharma said, (Insider Bureau) The Shiv Sena on the chopped hand, the woman fell sent shock waves in the area. Accord- “We visited the house of the man and Wednesday took a jibe at the unconscious. To her horror, the ing to initial probe, Sanjay went to the found the human flesh. Police have Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) woman woke up to find her husband, cremation ground and brought the flesh detained the accused. Prima facie, he over its “shadow cabinet” and said that the accused, Sanjay, 32, making from there. Sanjay’s wife was horrified had brought it from the bank of Ganga the chief minister’s post in it was vacant. dinner preparations to cook the hand after seeing a human hand and fingers where bodies are cremated.” Mean- In an acerbic editorial, the Shiv Sena by himself, following which she locked in the pan. She ran out of the house, while, Sanjay’s wife has refused to mouthpiece Saamana, said that a him inside and rushed out of the house. alerted the neighbours and called the return home. “shadow governor” should be appointed to administer oath of office to the shadow cabinet. It also poked fun at the MNS for IPL, all big events banned in Delhi amid announcing a shadow cabinet when it has just one member in the 289-mem- ber legislative assembly. coronavirus outbreak: Manish Sisodia “A party with sole legislator has formed a ‘shadow cabinet’ to keep an ‘eye’ on The Delhi government has invoked the 1897 Epidemics Act which gives officials at the Maharashtra cabinet... The post of state levels powers to take extraordinary steps to combat an outbreak. chief minister in the shadow cabinet is vacant. There should have been a (Insider Bureau) The Delhi government event (beyond 200 people) will be allowed comes a day after the Delhi government shadow governor to administer the oath on Friday announced a few more preven- in Delhi, Sisodia further said. ordered closure of all cinema halls in the of office and secrecy to the shadow cabi- tive steps to curb the spread of coronavirus He also gave example of South Korea national capital till March 31. “The Delhi net. If this had happened, the game of disease Covid-19, and banned the Indian where 30 people were quarantined and government has declared coronavirus an shadows would have been more colourful. Premier League (IPL) matches in the na- social gatherings continued as its is. “The epidemic. We need to exercise abun- The developments show there is still tional capital. 31st person later spread the virus to dant caution to contain the disease. All humour left in politics,” the editorial in “We have decided to ban any sports 10,000 people. In Delhi, we are trying all cinema halls, schools, colleges in Delhi Saamana said without naming Raj activity where people will gather in huge means to prevent this. At this time, the will be shut until March 31, but exams Thackeray’s party. numbers like IPL. Social distancing is biggest solution is social distancing,” said will continue as scheduled. People are The MNS announced its shadow cabi- important to curb the breakout of Sisodia.The Deputy Chief Minister also advised to stay away from public gath- net on the 14th foundation day of the party coronavirus,” Delhi Deputy Chief Minister said that all the district magistrates and erings,” said Delhi chief minister Arvind on Monday. Raj Thackeray named his son Amit the shadow minister for tour- Manish Sisodia said. SDMs to ensure strictest adherence of Kejriwal after a crucial meeting to dis- ism and law and judiciary departments, No seminars, conferences or any big government orders across the city. This cuss the issue on Thursday. the portfolios held Aaditya Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray respectively. MNS leaders Sandeep Deshpande Executive of Noida firm living in Delhi and Ameya Khopkar took to Twitter to attack Sena and Saamana editor Sanjay Raut on Wednesday morning. tests positive for coronavirus: Official Deshpande, in an apparent response to the editorial, “The chief minister’s post The number of coronavirus cases has risen to 75. Delhi-NCR region has so far recorded 19 such cases. is actually held by Ajit dada (Pawar). The (Insider Bureau) An employee of a pri- Delhi-NCR comes from a group of Ital- ernment declared Covid-19 an epi- Maharashtra chief minister is currently vate firm in Noida near Delhi has tested ian nationals who were confirmed for the demic on Thursday and ordered all without any important portfolio and is positive for coronavirus disease Covid-19, virus at ITBP’s quarantine facility in cinema halls shut. “The Delhi gov- working like a shadow CM. Therefore, news agency ANI reported. Chhawla, Delhi. ernment has declared coronavirus Raj saheb must have thought of not ap- “One employee of a private firm in As many as 14 Italian tourists, along an epidemic. We need to exercise pointing a shadow CM.” The Sena also Noida has tested positive for coronavirus. with an Indian national, had confirmed abundant caution to contain the took a swipe at former ally Bharatiya He has travel history to France and China. positive for the virus. The group had trav- disease. All cinema halls, Janata Party (BJP) and said that the He is a resident of Delhi,” ANI quoted elled to Rajasthan wherein two other Ital- schools, colleges in Delhi will be principal opposition party is still behav- Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Anurag ian tourists tested positive for shut until March 31, but exams ing like a ruling party. “Normally such an Bhargav as saying. coronavirus in Jaipur. will continue as scheduled. experiment (shadow cabinet) is done by The number of coronavirus patients in A Paytm employee from Gurugram, People are advised to stay away a strong opposition. In Maharashtra, the the country has risen to 75, including a a person in Ghaziabad and a man from from public gatherings,” said Delhi party with 105 MLAs did not form shadow foreign national. The national capital re- Uttam Nagar also tested positive for chief minister Arvind Kejriwal af- cabinet but the party with only one leg- gion (NCR) has so far recorded 19 cases coronavirus last week from the NCR re- ter a crucial meeting to discuss islator did it,” it said. “In India, there is of coronavirus. gion. the issue on Thursday. no leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha, A Delhi resident, who had a travel his- The global death toll from the vi- The Delhi administration also di- and in Maharashtra, the opposition party tory to Italy was the first one to test posi- rus has crossed 4,000 with over rected made it mandatory for all offices, behaves as if it is still ruling,” the tive from the region. The largest chunk of 1,00,000 infected with the virus in shopping malls and other public spaces Saamana editorial said. those who tested positive for the virus in more than 100 countries. Delhi gov- to be disinfected on a daily basis. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 INDIA-CURRENT AFFAIRS 15 ‘Good to be on same team’: Vasundhara Raje welcomes Jyotiraditya Scindia into BJP Scindia, a former Union minister and four-time Parliamentarian joined the BJP in Delhi in the presence of party chief JP Nadda. (Insider Bureau) Former “If Rajmata Sahab was here to- and Union home minister Amit Shah. Rajasthan chief minister and day, she would be elated to see you His resignation ended an 18-year-old Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) vice put the #NationFirst. I admire your association with the Congress and president Vasundhara Raje on strength of character and courage. It’s sparked a chain reaction in Madhya Wednesday welcomed her nephew good to be on the same team. Wel- Pradesh where 22 Congress legisla- and former Congress leader come to the BJP.@JM_Scindia,” she tors quit, bringing the Kamal Nath gov- Jyotiraditya Scindia into the party tweeted. ‘Rajmata’ was Scindia’s ernment to the brink of collapse. On and said she admired his strength grandmother, Vijaya Raje Scindia, Tuesday, another aunt and former of character and courage. who was one of the founders of the Madhya Pradesh minister - Yashodhara Scindia, a former Union minis- Jana Sangh, the BJP’s Raje Scindia welcomed his resigna- ter and four-time Parliamentarian forerunner.Scindia resigned from the tion, calling it “ghar wapsi” or home- joined the BJP in Delhi in the pres- Congress on Tuesday after a meet- coming and said that he was being ence of party chief JP Nadda. ing with Prime Minister Narendra Modi neglected in the Congress. Why this vegetable is selling at On ‘naming and shaming’ a price higher than chicken anti-CAA posters, Allahabad The coronavirus scare has hit poultry business so hard and the Poultry High Court ruling today Farm Association recently organized a Chicken Mela in Gorakhpur to dispel the misconception that birds are carriers of the deadly virus. On Sunday, the Allahabad High sold out in the vegetable market Court deferred its order and and is difficult to find,” said termed the state government’s act Purnima Srivastava whose family as an ‘insult of state and its public’. savours non-vegetarian food on a (Insider Bureau) The Allahabad High Court on Mon- regular basis.The corona scare day will pronounce its verdict over the Uttar Pradesh gov- has hit poultry business so hard ernment putting up hoardings of anti-Citizenship Amend- and the Poultry Farm Association ment Act (CAA) protestors in Lucknow. On Sunday, the recently organized a Chicken Allahabad High Court deferred its order and termed the Mela in Gorakhpur to dispel the state government’s act as an ‘insult of state and its pub- misconception that birds are car- lic’. The judgment is likely to be pronounced today at 2 riers of the deadly virus. pm. Taking sou-moto cognizance of the matter on Sun- “In fact, we gave away plate- day, a bench comprising Chief Justice Govind Mathur ful of chicken dishes for Rs 30 to and Justice Ramesh Sinha said that the act was “highly encourage people to savour the unjust” and that it was an absolute “encroachment” on delicacies. We cooked one thou- (Insider Bureau) With the sales Rs 50 per kilogram. personal liberty of the persons concerned. sand kilograms of chicken for the of chicken and mutton going down The jackfruit, in fact, is now According to reports, the state authorities had put up due to the coronavirus scare, it is higher priced than chicken which Mela and the entire stock was hoardings containing photographs and details of persons sold out,” said Vineet Singh, the humble ‘kathal’ (jackfruit) that is selling at Rs 80 per kilogram due accused of violence during anti-CAA protests in Lucknow, head of the Poultry Farm Asso- is emerging as an acceptable al- to poor demand. Uttar Pradesh. The accused had participated in anti-CAA ternative. “It is better having a ‘kathal’ ciation. However, the Mela did not protests last year in December. The hoardings carried do much to dispel the fears about ‘Kathal’ is now selling at Rs 120 biryani instead of a mutton biryani. names, photographs and residential addresses of the chicken, mutton or fish consump- per kilogram -- an increase of more It tastes reasonably good. The only accused protesters. than 120 per cent over the normal problem is that ‘kathal’ has been tion amid the virus outbreak. Google employee in Bengaluru office tests positive for coronavirus A Google employee in Switzerland had earlier tested positive for Covid-19, prompting the tech giant to impose travel restrictions on employees to travel to Iran, Italy and China. (Insider Bureau) One of the employ- tion, we are asking employees in that India witnessed its first coronavirus inducted health safety measures for ees of tech giant Google, working in Bengaluru office to work from home death when Karnataka Health Minis- foreign and Indian nationals entering its Bengaluru office, tested positive for from tomorrow. We have taken and ter B Sriramulu on Thursday confirmed into and exiting from India. Covid-19, the disease caused by will continue to take necessary pre- that a 76-year-old man from Kalaburgi The measures included halt in visa coronavirus, news agency?ANI re- cautionary measures, following the in the state’s northern region died of issuance for tourists and non-diplo- ported. “We can confirm that an em- advice of public health officials,” the Covid-19. matic staffs as set criteria to mitigate ployee from our Bengaluru office has statement further added. The Union Health Ministry has con- the further spread of coronavirus in the been diagnosed with Covid-19. He was A Google employee in Switzerland firmed 74 coronavirus cases so far. country.India is part of a US-led glo- in one of our Bengaluru offices for a few had earlier tested positive for Covid- The deadly virus that originated in the bal initiative to share information on hours before developing any symp- 19, prompting the tech giant to im- Chinese city of Wuhan in December integrating science into coronavirus toms. The employee has been on quar- pose travel restrictions on employees last year has claimed over 4,600 lives response, according to a White House antine since then,” Google said in a to travel to Iran, Italy and China. Ear- and infected more than 124,330 statement. Besides the US and India, statement on Thursday, as reported by lier, one employee from software ma- people worldwide. Keeping in view the the UK, Australia, Brazil, Canada, ANI. It did no specify when the em- jor Mindtree and Dell India each had ramifications of the current global Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, ployee tested positive for the deadly tested positive in bengaluru following spread of coronavirus on public health Singapore and South Korea are part disease. “Out of an abundance of cau- their return from the United States. and safety, New Delhi on Wednesday of the initiative. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 ADVERTISEMENT 16 Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 ADVERTISEMENT 17 Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 FRONT PAGE FEATURE 18 Coronavirus Pandemic: World On Edge, Cases In India Rise To 81, States Swing Into Action (News Agencies) The Coronavirus of the Ministry of Home Affairs, mentioned Chinchwad till March 30.The closure its nationals. The government will also pandemic has the world on edge. It’s that the government’s decision shall be order will come into effect from Friday arrange the evacuation of Indians from keeping governments on their toes. On implemented on an urgent basis in view midnight, Chief Minister Uddhav Iran, officials said.With several players Friday, two high-profile cases came to of the spread of Covid-19.“All types of Thackeray said, announcing that the tested positive and multiple events light. Canadian Prime Minister Justin passenger movements through all the government has invoked the Epidemic cancelled, sports is another area severely Trudeau’s wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau immigration land checkposts located at Diseases Act of 1897 to tackle the virus affected by the coronavirus outbreak. and Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro Indo-Bangladesh border, Indo-Nepal outbreak. The Delhi government has English football club Chelsea’s Callum tested positive for coronavirus. Prime border, Indo-Bhutan border and Indo- declared COVID-19 an epidemic and Hudson Odoi has become the first Minister Trudeau doesn’t have any Myanmar border will be suspended with announced shutting down of schools, Premier League player to be tested for symptoms, international media reported. effect from 00.00 Hrs March 15, 2020, till colleges and cinema halls till March Coronavirus. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta The Centre issued a directive to suspend further orders,” the directive said. With 17 31.Schools, colleges and public spaces has also tested positive. The three-match all kinds of passenger movements confirmed coronavirus patients found in have been shut in several states ODI series between India and South Africa through all immigration land checkposts Maharashtra, the state government has including, Bihar, Punjab, Odisha, and has been called off. The first match in located at India’s borders with ordered the closure of cinema theatres, Madhya Pradesh as well.In the backdrop Dharamsala on Thursday was washed out Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and gymnasiums, swimming pools and public of several Indians stranded in the and the second and third, slated to be held Myanmar from March 15 midnight.The parks in cities of Mumbai, Thane, Navi coronavirus-hit Italy, India will send a in Lucknow and Kolkata respectively, were directive, issued by the foreign division Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune and Pimpri- flight to Milan on Saturday to evacuate to be played in empty stadiums. Trump declares national emergency in latest bid to combat coronavirus Trump said the move would free up $50 billion in additional funding and waive requirements to speed up coronavirus testing and care. country’s ability to contain the virus when coronavirus task force. Trump said he it first appeared on American shores. In expected 1.4 million additional tests to be recent days, Trump’s health officials have available next week and 5 million within a warned Americans to expect the situation month — even as he cautioned against to worsen, spurring much of the country’s everyone rushing to get tested. “We don’t public spaces to shutter — professional want everybody taking this test,” he said. sports have been suspended, concert “It’s totally unnecessary.Trump has faced halls are closed until further notice and condemnation over the administration's many Americans have been asked to self- failure to provide adequate testing and isolate.Yet even as Trump unleashed $50 resources for the coronavirus, which has billion in government funding, the killed more than 5,000 people worldwide announcement had a distinct market-first and infected tens of thousands. Health flavor. Trump outlined a series of specialists have also reprimanded Trump agreements with private companies, for repeatedly downplaying what has now including Google, Target and Walmart, been deemed a global pandemic.“I don’t to facilitate swifter coronavirus testing for take responsibility at all,” Trump said of (News Agencies) President Donald Trump which will be drive-thru facilities at big box Americans. Target and Walmart said the government’s struggles to produce declared a national emergency on Friday retailers across the country. “To unleash they will set aside parking lot space for enough tests, blaming existing rules set to offset lagging coronavirus testing and the full power of the federal government testing sites, while Google pledged to set by prior administration for limiting his unlock billions of dollars — accelerating under this effort today, I'm officially declaring up a website to determine whether a options. “We were given a set of a response plan that has faced weeks of a national emergency,” he said at an person needs a test, and where one is circumstances and we were given rules, criticism. Trump touted partnerships with announcement in the Rose Garden. “Two available. “Very soon, Americans will be regulations and specifications from a private companies that he claimed would very big words.”Trump insisted the move able to go to these drive-in sites,” said different time.” And he claimed to not know allow patients to learn if they need to be would eradicate the testing shortcomings Vice President Mike Pence, who Trump that a pandemic preparedness team within tested and locate a testing site, some of that health experts say hindered the put in charge of the administration’s the National Security Council was scrapped in 2018. Trump called a question about it “nasty” at a news conference. “I Italy reports record 250 coronavirus deaths in one day didn’t do it,” he said. Still, Trump's (News Agencies) Italian officials said 250 let this fire burn," he said calling for social pandemic on early Wednesday.“In the executive actions on Friday received a people have died from the coronavirus in distancing. "Isolate the sick."The record days and weeks ahead, we expect to see positive response on Wall Street and even the last 24 hours, marking a record the number of Covid-19 cases, among Democrats. A faltering stock number of deaths from the illness the number of deaths, and the market swiftly rebounded as Trump was within such a timespan. The Italian number of affected countries speaking, with the Dow Jones Industrial Civil Protection Agency reported climb even higher,” Tedros Average soaring nearly 2,000 points, or the increase Friday, which raised said Wednesday.As of Friday more than 9 percent, the largest the country's death toll from afternoon, 1,875 people in the percentage gain since the 2008 crisis. coronavirus to 1,266 people, U.S. had tested positive for the The comeback reversed nearly all of according to The Associated coronavirus. Public health Thursday’s tumble, which was the Press. The spike in cases has officials have estimated that worst since the 1987 market shifted the focus on the outbreak thousands of people likely crash.Senate Minority Leader Chuck from China to Europe. "More cases have the virus but don’t know Schumer (D-N.Y,), who had urged are now being reported every day it, partly due to the lack of Trump to act more forcefully, offered [in Europe] than were being testing. Trump announced on rare praise for the president but warned reported by China at the height of Wednesday travel restrictions him not to go too far. “As other steps its epidemic," World Health Organization number of deaths comes just days after from Europe. He also declared a national are considered, the president must not (WHO) Director-General Tedros Italy reported nearly 200 deaths in a 24- emergency over the coronavirus on Friday, overstep his authority or indulge his Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. He also hour period. Scientists have not yet freeing up additional resources and autocratic tendencies for purposes not called the reported 5,000 deaths found a vaccine for COVID-19, which funding for the federal, state and local truly related to this public health crisis,” worldwide a "tragic milestone.""Do not WHO officially characterized as a governments fighting the disease. he said in a statement. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 FRONT PAGE FEATURE 19 Scientists believe they’ve made a huge breakthrough in coronavirus vaccine effort (News Agencies) A team of Canadian The lab-grown copies will now be able to doctoral fellow at McMaster University, essential research into this novel virus.” scientists has successfully isolated and help scientists study the pathogen to said. Meanwhile, eight institutes in China are grown copies of the coronavirus — develop better diagnostic testing, “The more viruses that are made working on five approaches to bringing the world a step closer to finding treatments, vaccines, and gain a better available in this way, the more we can inoculations in an effort to combat COVID- a vaccine to fight the deadly illness. understanding of its biology, the team said learn, collaborate and share.”“We need 19. Chinese officials say it could result Researchers from the Sunnybrook in a statement. key tools to develop solutions to this in a vaccine ready for emergency Research Institute, the University of “Now that we have isolated the SARS- pandemic,” Dr. Samira Mubareka, situations and clinical trials next month. Toronto, and McMaster University were CoV-2 virus [the agent responsible for microbiologist and infectious diseases The outbreak has infected more than able to isolate and replicate the virus in COVID-19], we can share this with other physician at Sunnybrook, added. 137,000 people in at least 117 countries a lab using samples taken from two researchers and continue this teamwork,” “While the immediate response is and regions as of Friday evening — and Canadian patients. Dr. Arinjay Banerjee, NSERC post- crucial, longer-term solutions come from caused more than 5,000 deaths. Biden. Trump's signature I’d worry about losing them megarallies, a source of because it would tilt a bit Coronavirus psychic uplift for the to Biden’s advantage,” president, are on ice. said Michael Caputo, a consumes Biden, a tactile politician campaign aide to Trump in whose best moments are 2016. often on rope lines Biden has put the kibosh Trump's interacting one-on-one with on upcoming rallies in voters, will be denied those Chicago and Miami, opportunities for the refashioning them as reelection bid foreseeablevirtual events. The former future.Fundraising is also vice president is also The president and Joe being disrupted. Biden has opting to hold smaller Biden have had to been forced to move his events, including abruptly change donor events online. And roundtables and house on Wednesday, the parties.The Biden course in response to president scrapped a campaign has also taken the crisis. weekend appearance at dramatic steps. In its (News Agencies) When “mess” and needed to be paused and both parties massive advertising the Republican Jewish Thursday memo, the Donald Trump’s top shut down. He ordered are trying to gauge how to campaign aimed at Coalition’s annual campaign announced it is campaign advisers met White House counsel Pat reach voters online. defining likely Democratic conference in Las Vegas, closing all field offices to with the president in the Cipollone and chief “You could make a strong nominee Joe Biden before as well as a much- the public and would White House on economist Larry Kudlow argument that the only the general election anticipated fundraiser there instead be organizing Wednesday, they came into the room to talk about thing that matters to the campaign kicks into high with casino mogul Sheldon “voters across the country prepared with reams of ideas for addressing the president’s reelection now gear — much like the Adelson and a planned visit through phone banking, polling data on his pandemic. And he sent two is getting the response barrage President Barack to Milwaukee next week. text messaging, virtual standing with voters eight other top aides, Jared correct,” said Scott Obama unleashed on Mitt Trump aides are uncertain events, and other months out from the Kushner and Hope Hicks, Jennings, who served as a Romney in 2012. But with when his rallies will distributed organizing election. outside to draft a to-do list. top political aide in the the coronavirus pandemic resume. Speaking to models.”Despite a series But Trump was focused on The episode illustrated how George W. Bush White dominating the news, reporters in the Oval Office of key primaries taking something else: The the coronavirus crisis has House. “No rally is going Republican officials see Thursday, Trump said he place next week, the coronavirus. upended the election for to save you if you are little point in hitting the hadn't decided whether he Sanders campaign said it Before the group could both parties. Nearly every judged as having failed as airwaves now, saying it will would go forward with a would put a halt to all “door- begin its long-planned element of the presidential the president." likely have to March 25 event in Tampa, to-door canvasses, instead presentation on the 2020 campaign is being Critical strategic decisions wait.Strategists are Fla. moving to digital formats race, the president adjusted or put on hold, are also being put on hold. gaming out how the lack of “We have a lot of things that and outreach wherever launched into a from rallies to fundraising Senior Trump aides have in-person campaigning we're moving around possible.”While Trump commentary about how to staff work. Advertising been anxious to start a might affect Trump and because of what's advisers are worried about travel from Europe was a campaigns are being happening and because I how the president’s want to be here. This is the response to the nerve center. I want to be coronavirus — and Coronavirus pandemic: All the latest updates right here,” he said. “I don’t accompanying stock want to be flying around in market crash — will affect US President Donald Trump declares national emergency over airplanes all over the his reelection hopes, they place.” Some Trump allies, largely remain sanguine. COVID-19 as WHO chief calls Europe new epicentre of pandemic. however, are concerned But with schools and (News Agencies) United States COVID-19, reporting more daily Hopkins University, which is tracking about halting rallies. The offices shutting down and President Donald Trump has cases than China did at the height the virus. The WHO declared the president has long used the people dying, they also said declared a national emergency over of its outbreak.The pandemic's outbreak a pandemic as Italy events as a primary means they recognized the the coronavirus pandemic, opening global death toll has reached almost tightened its strict quarantine and the of reaching supporters, accompanying political the door to providing what he said 5,000, while the global number of US imposed a ban on flights to blowing off steam and danger. People familiar was about $50bn in federal aid to cases has surpassed 132,000, Europe. Meanwhile, the virus has setting a narrative. His with Wednesday’s White fight the disease. On Friday, the according to the WHO, which is the spread to at least 18 countries on campaign also uses them House meeting said the World Health Organization warned health agency of the United Nations. the African continent, with Kenya, to gather data. president seemed to that Europe has now become the About 68,000 victims have Ethiopia, Sudan and Guinea all “Rallies are important to grasp the urgency of the "epicentre" for the pandemic, called recovered, according to Johns confirming their first cases on Friday. the Trump campaign and situation. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 CONTD. 20 Without Hillary Clinton In The Race, Bernie Sanders’ Rural Edge Disappeared Throughout Michigan, exit played in assembling his a way of speaking to us,” Sanders’ vote total in course of that campaign, Just 11% of Michigan polls show Sanders losing 2016 coalition. said Cambensy, who Pittsburg County. has been pulled off the voters in 2016 said rural voters to Biden by a Michigan state Rep. Sara endorsed Biden. (Biden Still, the appeal of economic message to talk “electability” was the top 51% to 40% margin. Cambensy held on to a won Marquette County by economic populism in about things like [Fidel] candidate quality they Sanders won 57% of the Democratic-controlled a 50% to 42% these areas shouldn’t be Castro.” were looking for, rural vote in 2016. Among district centered around margin.)Sanders’ relative totally discounted. There are other reasons according to exit polls. white voters without a Marquette ? a 21,000- decline in rural areas has Cambensy said trade Sanders’ advantage over While the exit polls didn’t college degree, Sanders person city that is the been apparent since the deals like the North Clinton melted away when ask an identical question won just 43% of the vote Upper Peninsula’s largest New Hampshire primary. American Free Trade facing Biden. The most in 2020, 57% of Michigan in 2020 after claiming 57% ? in a 2017 special While he won nearly two- Agreement remain obvious is Clinton’s voters said it was more back in 2016.The 2020 election with the help of a thirds of the vote in rural unpopular in her district, gender, with many important for Democrats to results suggest there are get-out-the-vote robocall areas against Clinton in even if Biden wins there. conservative Democrats pick a candidate who can major limits to Sanders’ from Biden. She said her the Granite State in 2016, Longabaugh said the disinclined to vote for a beat Trump, while 38% appeal to the rural white constituents, many of exit polls showed him divided Democratic field woman. (Four years said it was more important voters who live in these whom work at two iron winning 26% of the rural forced Sanders to double earlier, Clinton had won in for the party to pick a regions, and that his 2016 mines just outside the city, votes in 2020, barely down on his ideological some of these areas candidate with the right successes may have been felt connected to the edging out two moderate base, making him a more because the same policy positions. Of the due as much to sexism former vice president in a candidates ? former South polarizing figure. conservative Democrats voters who prioritized and Clinton’s decades of way they didn’t with Clinton Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete For instance, Sanders has were also disinclined to beating Trump, 63% political baggage as to a and were skeptical of Buttigieg and Minnesota adopted the furthest-left vote for a Black man in backed Biden. While thirst for Sanders’ Sanders’ most ambitious Sen. Amy Klobuchar. positions on immigration Barack Obama.) Tuesday night’s results progressive policies like proposals for free college The pattern of weaker of any major candidate, And exit poll after exit poll are likely to give Biden a “Medicare for All” or a $15 and Medicare for All. performances with rural including the abolishment has shown that with Trump substantial ? and perhaps per hour minimum wage. “I think people were voters repeated itself on of Immigration and already in the White insurmountable ? delegate “People had made up their looking for someone that Super Tuesday. Four Customs Enforcement. House, voters care far lead, Sanders could stage minds about Hillary didn’t have the years ago in Oklahoma, “I think Bernie’s message more a candidate’s ability a comeback with these Clinton, and there was a establishment Sanders had dominated on economics and kitchen to winning the general voters in later states like large segment of the connections, and “Little Dixie,” a collection table issues, on trade and election than their Ohio, Wisconsin, West Democratic electorate someone that could talk to of counties in the $15 minimum wage, that ideology. Some voters who Virginia or Kansas. But it who had made their them in an honest voice,” southeastern corner of the message is resonant,” might otherwise like will be an uphill climb. choice,” said Mark she said of Sanders’ state that were settled by Longabaugh said. “Where Sanders’ politics could “In rural Michigan, we want Longabaugh, a Democratic victories there four years southerners and had been he gets into trouble with believe the former vice change, but we’re not media consultant who ago. “This time, even unflinchingly Democratic those voters is on social president is a safer bet to looking for a revolution,” worked for Sanders’ though Vice President for decades before slowly issues. Bernie, over the defeat Trump. Cambensy said. campaign in 2016. “There Biden has been around in flipping to GOP control were a lot of more rural, Washington, there’s still during the Clinton and older, conservative voters that honesty when he Obama administrations. In who moved towards speaks.” Pittsburg County, one of [Sanders].”Longabaugh “For rural Americans, the region’s largest, said Sanders and his there’s a difference Sanders won 56% of the allies likely between speaking at you vote to Clinton’s 32%. “underestimated” the role and speaking to you. And In 2020, Biden dominated anti-Clinton sentiment Vice President Biden has the area, nearly doubling Trump tweet seals accord on coronavirus relief package President Donald Trump backed a spiked. We thought it would be coronavirus response package Friday important to show the American that was hammered out by Speaker people, assure the American people, Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary that we are willing and able to work Steven Mnuchin, all but ensuring that together to get a job done for them," the measure will pass the House with Pelosi said. "So we thank our strong bipartisan support Friday Republicans — those who will be evening. Trump's tweet, just before 9 supporting the bill. We appreciate the p.m., ended a week of whiplash as president joining us with his tweet." Democrats and the White House Pelosi said the final bill came together appeared, at times, inches from a deal slowly because of a laborious review only to see it yanked away amid process in the Executive Branch, technical disputes and uncertainty which required approvals from multiple from the president.Trump's backing, agencies and officials. Pelosi praised though, was essential to ensure Mnuchin for his cooperation, and she support from congressional acknowledged she never directly Republicans for the sweeping, multi- spoke with Trump about the bill. billion dollar plan to provide paid leave "There was no need for that," she said. for workers, expand food aid and Alongside Pelosi, Majority Leader support widespread testing for the Steny Hoyer said he expected House illness at no cost to patients. committees to be working through next Democratic leaders plan to put the bill week's recess on a new bill meant to on the House floor late Friday evening address the economic damage under an expedited process and wrought by coronavirus, which has quickly send it over to the Senate, devastated the airline, hospitality and which is expected to take it up as early entertainment industries. For now, as Monday. It's the product of a though, Democrats said they were painstaking effort by Pelosi to pass a pleased to pass a bipartisan plan that bill with bipartisan support rather than they expect to pass overwhelmingly a doomed Democrat-only bill that the in the House and move through the Senate would have immediately Senate by Monday. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 CONTD. 21 India was 2nd largest arms importer in 2015-19, Russia’s share of Indian arms market declined India retained its position as the submarines, warships, artillery Russian arms deals. India third-largest suppliers during stop military aid to Pakistan world’s second largest arms guns and assault rifles from accounted for 25% of total 2015-19. in 2018. The US accounted for importers during 2015-19, with sources such as Russia, the Russian arms exports. Total US arms exports to Asia 30% of Pakistan’s arms imports Russia remaining the largest US, France and Israel. “Russia was the largest supplier were down by 20% when during 2010-14 but for only 4.1% supplier even though its share of According to data from SIPRI for to India in 2010-14 and 2015-19, compared to 2010-14 as a result during 2015–19. Indian weapons purchases the period 2015-19, India also but deliveries fell by 47 per cent of decreases in exports to India Pakistan also strengthened its declined from 72% to 56%, acquired military hardware from and its share of total Indian arms (–51%), Pakistan (–92%), arms import relations with according to a leading think tank other countries, including imports went from 72 to 56 per Singapore (–60%), South Korea Turkey, with orders for 30 combat that tracks arms transfers. Scanter-6000 radars from cent,” it said. Russian arms (–34%) and Taiwan (–38%). helicopters and four frigates in The Stockholm International Denmark, Embraer ERJ-145 jets exports accounted for 21% of Between 2010-14 and 2015-19, 2018.The report also noted that Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) for a home-grown airborne early total exports during 2015-19 but arms imports by India and India and Pakistan had used said in its annual “Trends in warning and control system, were 18% lower than in 2010-14. Pakistan decreased by 32% and imported weapons in clashes international arms transfers 2019” ACTAS sonar systems from The US emerged as India’s 39% respectively. “While both following the 2019 suicide attack report, released on Monday, the Germany, Super Rapid 76mm second-largest arms supplier countries have long-standing in Pulwama by the Jaish-e- five largest arms importers naval guns from Italy and K-9 during 2010-14 as security ties aims to produce their own major Mohammed that killed 40 during the five-year period were Thunder 155mm artillery guns between the two sides developed arms, they remain largely troopers. Saudi Arabia, India, Egypt, from South Korea. into a strategic partnership. dependent on imports and “Pakistan reportedly used Australia and China, which The report listed India in the 23rd “However, in 2015-19 India have substantial outstanding combat aircraft imported from together accounted for 36% of all slot among the world’s 25 largest continued with its policy of orders and plans for imports China, equipped with Russian arms imports. arms exporters, with its main supplier diversification, and of all types of major arms,” the engines, and combat aircraft from India has been in the second clients being Myanmar, Sri imports of arms from the USA report said. the USA supported by airborne place, behind Saudi Arabia, in Lanka and Mauritius. were 51 per cent lower than in China accounted for 51% of early warning and control aircraft SIPRI’s list of arms importers for The report said India’s arms 2010-14,” the report said. Pakistan’s arm imports during from Sweden. India reportedly several years as it has moved in imports from both Russia and In contrast, arms imports from 2010-14 and 73% during 2015- used combat aircraft imported recent years to modernise its the US fell during the five-year Israel and France increased, by 19. The overall decrease in from France and Russia, guided armed forces by acquiring period, though the decline was 175% and 715% respectively, Pakistan’s arms imports was bombs from Israel and artillery combat jets, helicopters, more pronounced in the case of making them the second- and linked to the US decision to from Sweden,” it said. 70 Percent Of Germany Could Become Infected Coronavirus spread By Coronavirus: Chancellor The government has leaders to discuss “what challenge.”Germany isn’t a How countries are managing cost of treatment recommended the are good and effective direct neighbor of Italy, the In India, insurance regulator IRDAI had last week asked cancellation of all events measures and what epicenter of Europe’s with more than 1,000 aren’t.”She said “we in outbreak. Austria and insurance companies to come out with policies to people, among other Germany, in any case, are Slovenia to Italy’s north and cover treatment costs for coronavirus infection. things. Merkel noted at a of the opinion that border Malta to the south have As the deadly coronavirus spreads diseases. news conference in Berlin: closures are not an largely closed their borders across the world, governments and health “For the purpose of meeting “You have to understand appropriate response to the with Italy. insurance companies are adopting health insurance requirements of various that if the virus is there, different ways to make sure that out-of- sections, insurers are advised to design and the population has no Jyotiraditya Scindia is BJP’s Rajya pocket costs do not prevent people from products covering the costs of treatment immunity yet to this virus, seeking care and the threat of under- for coronavirus,” the regulator had said there are no vaccines and reporting of cases can be minimised. in a circular.“All the claims reported under no therapy so far, a high Sabha candidate from Madhya Pradesh America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) COVID-19 shall be thoroughly reviewed percentage – experts say Scindia had quit Congress on Tuesday, posting his had said last week that its members, by review committee before repudiating 60 to 70% of the resignation letter on Twitter. His resignation created which include Cigna Corp and Anthem the claims,” it further added. There are population will be infected.” ripple effect with 22 of 114 Congress MLAs submitting Inc, will cover diagnostic testing when 62 confirmed cases of coronavirus She said the priority is to their resignation to the Madhya Pradesh Assembly ordered by a doctor, ease network, infection in India. Singapore, meanwhile, slow the spread of the Speaker. He joined the BJP on Wednesday in the referral and prior authorisation has started charging visitors for disease “so all the presence of party chief JP Nadda. Scindia thanked requirements and/or waive patient cost coronavirus treatment, as it reported new measures we are taking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit sharing.The group also said it will “take imported infections involving people who are of the greatest Shah and Nadda for giving him a place in their family. action so that patients will have had travelled from neighbouring significance because they He also accused the Congress of living in denial.“In continuous access to their regular Indonesia.Indonesia, the world’s fourth- are giving us time – it does my life two dates have been very significant. prescription medications”. Some most populous country, reported its first matter what we do, it is not September 30, 2001 when I lost my father. It changed healthcare experts had expressed virus case earlier this month and officially in vain.” Merkel has made my life. The second date is March 10, 2020 which concern that the type of patient cost has just 19 infections compared to 160 clear that Germany doesn’t was his 75th birth anniversary when I took an sharing seen in many US health plans in Singapore. Disease experts have intend to close its borders informed decision,” said Scindia. “I had a dream when might make some Americans hesitate to questioned how many cases could be in the light of Europe’s Congress formed the government in Madhya Pradesh visit a doctor, even if they have valid going undiagnosed in Indonesia. coronavirus epidemic, in 2018. Eighteen months later, none of the promises reasons to be concerned about Singapore’s new measures announced arguing that it makes more are met including the ones that of farmers,” remarked contracting the virus. In India, insurance late on Monday came into effect on sense for people arriving Scindia. He accused his former party of going back regulator IRDAI had last week asked March 7, when authorities said two from badly hit regions to on its promises as well as indulging in corruption. insurance companies to come out with symptomatic Indonesian travellers arrived quarantine themselves at “Today ‘transfer’ is an industry in Madhya Pradesh,” policies to cover treatment costs for in Singapore. Both had reported home. he alleged, hitting out at Kamal Nath. After his father, coronavirus infection, which has coronavirus symptoms in Indonesia Merkel said at a the 49-year-old was the only one from the Scindia impacted over one lakh people worldwide. before arriving in Singapore. One had rare, hastily convened family to be associated with the Congress party. His In order to provide need-based health previously sought treatment at a hospital news conference grandmother, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia of Gwalior, insurance coverage, insurers are in Indonesia’s capital Jakarta. Another Wednesday in Berlin that aunts Vasundhara Raje, and Yashodhara Raje have introducing products for various specific case involved a Singaporean who had visited it’s important for European been part of the Jan Sangh and the BJP. diseases, including vector borne her sister in Indonesia who had pneumonia. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 ADVERTISEMENT 22 Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 ADVERTISEMENT 23 Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 US & THE WORLD 24 Harvey Weinstein sentenced to 23 years in prison for rape and sexual assault in #MeToo case Weinstein, who has been accused of violating scores of women, was convicted last month of raping a woman in a New York City hotel room in 2013 and forcibly performing oral sex on another woman at his apartment in 2006.

court Wednesday that the men was convicted of assaulting as screams were heard from the facing allegations in the they arrived in court. witness room was the day my (hash)MeToo movement are Haleyi broke into tears as she voice came back to its full being accused of “things that told Judge James Burke that the power,” she said. none of us understood,” saying 2006 attack scarred her deeply, “Rape is not just one he was confused by the rape made her rethink her career in moment of penetration. It is (News Agencies) Harvey actress and a former TV and film case that was about to put him the entertainment business and forever.” She said she was a Weinstein was sentenced production assistant _ spoke in in prison.“Thousands of men are left her feeling paranoid and afraid victim of “rape paralysis” caused Wednesday to 23 years in prison court Wednesday before Judge losing due process. I’m worried of retaliation. She said she avoids by a physically imposing for rape and sexual assault, a James Burke announced the about this country,” the disgraced dating because she doesn’t want assailant “who had every sight the Hollywood mogul’s sentence, confronting Weinstein Hollywood mogul said after two to hurt people, have them feel advantage over me.” Like many multitude of accusers thought again after their testimony of his accusers confronted him embarrassed or distance of Weinstein’s accusers, she they would never see. helped seal his conviction at the in court. themselves when they find out said he used his Hollywood Weinstein, who has landmark (hash)MeToo Weinstein faced at least what happened to her. “I believe prestige to befriend her, dangling been accused of violating scores trial.Burke also heard from five years and up to 29 years that if Harvey Weinstein was not professional prospects to gain of women, was convicted last Weinstein’s lawyers, who behind bars in the landmark convicted by this jury, it would her trust. “It takes a very special month of raping a woman in a pleaded for leniency because of (hash)MeToo case. He was happen again and again and kind of evil to exploit connections New York City hotel room in 2013 his age and frail health, and convicted of raping an aspiring again,” Haleyi said. The once- to leverage rape,” she said. The and forcibly performing oral sex prosecutors, who said the man actress in 2013 and forcibly aspiring actress that Weinstein Associated Press has a policy on another woman at his once celebrated as a titan of performing oral sex on former TV was convicted of raping in 2013 of not naming people who have apartment in 2006. He faced a Hollywood deserved a harsh and film production assistant recalled the moment during the been sexually assaulted without maximum of 29 years in prison. sentence that would account for Mimi Haleyi in 2006. A second trial when she left the witness their consent. It is withholding Both women that allegations of wrongdoing dating criminal case is pending in stand in tears and then could be the rape accuser’s name because Weinstein was convicted of to the 1970s. California. Onlookers applauded heard screaming from an it is not clear whether she wishes assaulting _ a once-aspiring Harvey Weinstein told a the two women whom Weinstein adjacent room. “The day my to be identified. Lessons from China’s neighbour Russia Passes Bill Allowing Taiwan to control spread of coronavirus Taiwan’s government reacted to the coronavirus outbreak early in Putin To Stay In Power Past 2024 put in place measures which were widely followed by the public. (News Agencies) MOSCOW - presidency was extended to Taiwan are taking part in the The Russian parliament six years under Medvedev, and new scheme to manufacture approved a sweeping in 2012 Putin returned to the cloth face masks and face constitutional reform in the Kremlin as president. In 2018, mask protectors to supply their third and final reading he was re-elected for another staff and the public. The World Wednesday, a move that will six years. The constitutional health Organisation allow President Vladimir Putin reform passed by the Duma on (WHO)?has, however, said that to stay in power for another 12 Wednesday would allow Putin masks are not effective in years after his current term to run for presidency two more controlling the spread of the ends in 2024. times after 2024. Ahead of the virus. The Kremlin-controlled national vote, it will be reviewed In a report to parliament on lower house, the State Duma, by Russia’s Constitutional Tuesday, Taiwan’s central bank endorsed a set of amendments Court. said the spread of the virus to the constitution and a The changes presents a major uncertainty for provision resetting the term redistribute the executive (News Agencies) It started from compared with more than 80,000 the economy, which is a key count for Putin after the revised powers of the Russian China, and quickly spread on the other side of the Taiwan link of the global technology constitution goes into force by government in Moscow and across the world, but the Strait in China. And this has supply chain, and could shave a 383-0 vote with 43 further strengthen the power of deadly coronavirus failed to happened due to stringent up to 0.7 percentage points abstentions. A nationwide vote the presidency, while also impact China’s neighbour checks and contact tracing from economic growth this year. on the proposed amendments banning same-sex marriage Taiwan the way it has affected among its 23 million people. Taiwan stocks advanced 0.4 per is set for April 22. Kremlin and listing “a belief in God” as over 80 countries. The island is on high alert to cent on Wednesday morning, critics condemned the move one of Russia’s traditional The island has been held up as prevent further infections. but are down about eight per as a cynical manipulation and values. The proposal to restart an example of how to handle an The government said on cent so far this year.Taiwan, called for protests.Putin, a 67- the term clock for the current outbreak, with the government Wednesday the island’s 48th whose largest trading partner is year-old former KGB officer, president was put forward by moving early and fast to reduce case was a woman in her 30s China, cut its estimate for 2020 has ruled Russia for more than 83-year-old former Soviet overseas arrivals from infected who had returned from holiday economic growth to 2.37 per 20 years. After serving for two cosmonaut Valentina areas and issue clear medical in Britain and had most likely cent last month. On Monday, consecutive four-year terms — Tereshkova, now a Duma guidance that has been widely been infected there. as global stocks crashed due a limit outlined in the current deputy, during the second adopted by the public. Taiwan was briefly struck by to an oil price war and fears over version of the constitution — reading of the amendments on Despite being so close to the panic buying of medical face the spreading epidemic, foreign Putin shifted to prime Tuesday. Following original outbreak in mainland masks earlier this year until the investors sold $1.82 billion of minister’s seat in 2008, with his Tereshkova’s speech, Putin China, Taiwan has just 48 government introduced a Taiwan stocks - the largest close ally Dmitry Medvedev quickly arrived at parliament to confirmed cases of the Covid- rationing system. single day outflow since the becoming a placeholder address the lawmakers and 19 disease with one death, Correctional facilities across 2008 financial crisis. president. The length of the supported the idea. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 US & THE WORLD 25 Joe Biden Wins Michigan, Delivering Severe Blow To Bernie Sanders' Campaign Early results suggest that Biden won with the same coalition of voters who carried him on Super Tuesday 2020. important day, and Michigan is The voting pattern was Mississippi, where Biden was on the most important state coming consistent with returns from track to win handily Michigan up on Tuesday,” Sanders said Super Tuesday a week ago, puts Biden well ahead in the Sunday in Ann Arbor, speaking when Biden won every major delegate count. It has also left to a crowd of mostly young contest except California’s. Sanders with precious few voters, his strongest Although Sanders enjoyed his opportunities to make up the gap constituency. “We need you to customary large advantage with Biden, although the 2020 come out or to vote early. We among young voters, according campaign has defied predictions need you to bring out your to exit polls, Biden won more several times already. Sanders, (News Agencies) DETROIT : President Donald Trump families and your co-workers.” votes from older people, women who like Biden canceled a rally Former Vice President Joe Biden narrowly won the state four years But those voters didn’t turn out ? and African Americans. Sanders because of coronavirus has won the Democratic primary ago. It is also the state where or, more precisely, they didn’t turn won among voters who said they concerns, declined to make a in Michigan, according to Sanders upset Hillary Clinton in out in sufficiently large numbers. supported the candidate who public statement on Tuesday network projections, the 2016 Democratic primary, And on Tuesday night it was shared their views on the issues, evening. Biden, in his remarks, demonstrating the breadth of his temporarily reviving his campaign Biden, who lost early contests the exit polls said, but Biden won made a plea for party unity. “I political coalition and dealing a after a series of losses. in Iowa and New Hampshire, among voters who said their want to thank Bernie Sanders, heavy blow to the campaign of Sanders had hoped to declaring victory. main goal was picking somebody and his supporters, for their rival Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.). repeat the feat this time around, “To all those who have who could beat Trump in tireless energy and their Six states held especially after several other been knocked down, to all those November. Notably, Biden won passion,” Biden said. “We share primaries on Tuesday, but presidential candidates recently who have been counted out, left among voters who told pollsters a common goal. Together, we will Michigan was the biggest and, dropped out, effectively behind, this is your campaign,” they made their choice in just the defeat Donald Trump. We’ll in the eyes of many political narrowing the primary to a two- Biden said in Philadelphia, after last few days. He and Sanders defeat him together. We’ll bring observers, the most politically man race. The senator spent canceling a planned rally out of basically got equal support this nation together.” “Tonight we important. three days campaigning across concern for the coronavirus among those who had decided are a step closer to restoring It has been a key target the state, drawing more than outbreak. “Just over a week ago, earlier. Combined with the results decency, dignity and honor to the in Democrats’ plans for the 30,000 people to his rallies. many of the pundits declared that from other states voting this White House,” Biden said. general election ever since “Tuesday is a very, very this candidacy was dead.” Tuesday especially in “That’s our ultimate goal.” Top Coronavirus doctor in Wuhan says high blood pressure is major death risk Of a group of 170 patients who died in January in Wuhan - the first wave of casualties caused by a pathogen that’s now raced around the world - nearly half had hypertension. “That’s a very high disease and identifying individuals at end up dying, but most of those who ratio,” said Du Bin, greatest risk are critical for optimizing recover are those who were put on director of the intensive care for a global contagion that’s killed invasive ventilation early, said Du. care unit at Peking more than 3,700 people since emerging “Patients need to use invasive Union Medical College in China in December. ventilation as early as possible, there’s Hospital, in an interview Answers may lie in studying the no point of doing it late,” he said. with Bloomberg over the large pool of patients in China, where Respiratory therapists — doctors phone from Wuhan. He more than 15,000 remain hospitalized that specialize in ventilation and oxygen was among a team of top although new infections have slowed treatment — are becoming all the more doctors sent to the dramatically. The disease turns critical important in treating patients critically devastated city two in 6% of patients and deterioration can ill with Covid-19 as they are more months ago to help treat happen very quickly. knowledgeable and can fine-tune (News Agencies) Patients with patients there. “We’ll keep an eye on old people and ventilators to suit patient conditions. hypertension appear to be at a higher “From what I was told by other those with high blood pressure. They are There is growing anticipation over drugs risk of dying from the coronavirus, said doctors and the data I can see myself, the key focus,” said Du. being developed to treat the virus, with a top Chinese intensive care doctor among all the underlying diseases, Besides the hypertension factor, investors adding billions to the market who’s been treating critically ill patients hypertension is a key dangerous factor,” Du’s other insights into treating the value of pharmaceutical companies since mid-January. said Du, one of the most respected disease are: testing treatments now. But Du said While there’s been no published critical care experts in China. “Though Du said that doctors should not drugs alone cannot save patients, research yet explaining why, Chinese there is no research published on that hesitate to escalate measures for especially those in severe condition. The doctors working in Wuhan, the central yet, we believe hypertension could be patients facing respiratory distress, as experience of SARS, the epidemic 17 Chinese city where the virus first an important factor in causing patients organ failure can set in quickly after. That years ago that sickened almost 8,000 emerged, have noticed that infected to deteriorate, leading to a bad means doctors should intervene people, showed that most patients can patients with that underlying illness are prognosis.” aggressively with invasive ventilation be cured without a specific anti-viral drug, more likely to slip into severe distress As the outbreak picks up speed in measures — inserting a tube into a said Du. And the abundance of and die. Europe and the U.S., plunging countries patient’s throat or cutting the throat open antibiotics has not prevented deaths by Of a group of 170 patients who died like Italy into crisis, doctors are to create an airway — when low blood bacterial infections, he added. “When in January in Wuhan — the first wave of struggling to treat the highly-infectious oxygen levels can’t be improved by less there’s a virus infection, we hope there’s casualties caused by a pathogen that’s pathogen that’s infected over 108,000 invasive measures. a drug that can kill the virus and change now raced around the world — nearly people globally in just three months. Almost half of the patients who the clinical outcome. But there’s no half had hypertension. Understanding the course of the require invasive mechanical ventilation magic bullet.” Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 SPECIAL FEATURE 26 RanaRana Kapoor’sKapoor’s stylestyle ofof functioningfunctioning leftleft RsRs 54,00054,000 crorecrore holehole inin YesYes BankBank balancebalance sheet:sheet: ReportReport

“He would only say - if you don’t Certain restrictions were put in “largely due to inability of the bank invest big, you don’t grow big,” a place by the Reserve Bank of to raise capital to address senior person working at the bank India (RBI). These restrictions potential loan losses and told Mint. When the going was included limit on withdrawals to resultant downgrades”. India has good, Mint reported, Kapoor was Rs 50,000 every 30 days which been grappling with a liquidity known as the banker who would sent customers rushing to the crunch caused by the near- never say “No”. Under Kapoor, bank’s ATMs and branches on collapse more than a year ago of Yes Bank would even lend money Friday and Saturday in a IL&FS, one of India’s biggest to corporates who had been desperate bid to retrieve their shadow banks - finance houses refused by other lenders. The deposits. responsible for significant bank grew 26 times in size, but The State Bank of India, consumer lending. Yes Bank’s so grew its balance sheet hole, the country’s largest lender, total exposure to shadow lenders (News Agencies)The government Kapoor is known for a flamboyant which, according to the said on Saturday it was ready and developers was 11.5 per cent had to ultimately intervene and lifestyle and penchant for newspaper, was Rs 54,000 to for a 49 per cent stake in Yes as of September, according to bail out Yes Bank on March 6. publicity. Mint, Hindustan Times’ crore.The government then had Bank as part of a RBI-backed Bloomberg News. It has been Many of Rana Kapoor’s business publication, reported to intervene and bail the bank rescue plan. “Twenty-three struggling for some time to raise colleagues spoke about his style that Kapoor used to reward his out on March 6. As the potential investors have fresh capital to free itself of an of functioning to Mint. bank’s top performers with so- government formulated a rescue approached us to invest and they increasing pile of bad loans in Yes Bank founder Rana called “Golden Pin Awards” and plan for the beleaguered bank, include some very good names,” order to quell worries about its Kapoor is now under police host lavish parties for them at his Kapoor was questioned for 20 SBI chairman Rajnish Kumar told viability.The bank has over 1,000 custody after being arrested on sea-facing residence in an hours and ultimately, arrested, reporters.The RBI said Yes branches and more than 1,800 charges of money laundering. upscale Mumbai neighbourhood. and his residence raided. Bank’s weakened position was ATMs across the country. From Vajpayee to Lalu Prasad Without Hillary Clinton In The Race, Yadav: The political colours of Holi Bernie Sanders’ Rural Edge Disappeared Lalu’s Holi celebration is legendary and is still remembered in the corridors of power. (News Agencies) The coronavirus outbreak has Vajpayee had said. dampened the festival of colours in the BJP The other legendary Holi celebration still circles. From Prime Minister Narendra Modi, remembered in the corridors of power is the one Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home held by Lalu Yadav. The RJD chief’s raucous Minister Amit Shah, to Bharatiya Janata Party “kurta-phaad” Holi celebrations between 1997 and (BJP) president J P Nadda, a host of party leaders 2000 were tinged with political bonhomie. Holi, have decided to skip the ‘Holi Milan’ celebrations. even Opposition leaders would come to attend It is unusual as the festival of colours has for long the celebrations. Holi, however, became a low-key affair in 2017 for the (News Agencies) In 2016, Sanders’ progressive Lalu household, with Vermont Sen. Bernie revolution than they were the family opting out Sanders won Michigan’s interested in Clinton’s center- of celebrations in Upper Peninsula handily. He left incrementalism. Sanders’ 2018 and 2019. The won 14 of the 15 counties in supposed strength with voters family cited Lalu’s the region and lost the 15th in the Rust Belt and conviction in 2018 by just 30 votes. It was one Appalachia, most of whom and the CRPF of a smattering of white, rejected Clinton and former convoy attack in conservative, rural regions President Barack Obama, Pulwama in 2019 to around the country, many of was at the core of the “Bernie not indulge in them reliably Democratic until would have won” argument recently, where Sanders was from 2016. festivities. Images of able to top eventual This year’s primaries Sonia and former Democratic nominee Hillary have painted a much different party chief Rahul Clinton. Sanders’ victories in picture. On Tuesday night, been used by leaders in the north as a means of Gandhi, along with other senior Congress leaders these places also see West Biden cruised to victory in the political outreach. From former prime minister, late like late Sheila Dikshit, celebrating Holi at the Virginia, Kansas, North Upper Peninsula. As of 11 p.m. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, to Congress interim chief AICC headquarters, yet again show that even the Dakota and Little Dixie in Eastern, he was winning every Sonia Gandhi; from former Madhya Pradesh chief Congress has often used the festival for outreach. southeastern Oklahoma gave county in the Upper Peninsula. minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to RJD chief Lalu A key example is former Himachal Pradesh chief him delegates in his one-on- In Mackinac County, where Prasad Yadav - politicians across the spectrum minister Virbhadra Singh who is known to hold one battle against Clinton and Sanders had won with 55% of have immersed themselves in Holi celebrations. celebrations on the day. For Chouhan, Holi has provided a powerful argument the vote four years earlier, Biden Vajpayee was among the first to add a political had many colours. From distributing sweets to for the Democratic Party’s left was winning by an identical tinge to Holi. In 2004, as his government playing the ‘dhol’, the former MP chief minister wing. margin and was 20 percentage Over the past four points ahead of Sanders. In approached the parliamentary elections, Vajpayee too has exulted in the festival. Even West Bengal years, progressives have Gogebic County, Biden had a exuded confidence that the people would vote his Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has embraced argued that the 2016 primary 30-point lead over Sanders, government back to power during the festivities. the festival in her own way, though not with colours. results showed white who had won the county by 7 “There is a need that everyone plays Holi forgetting She attended the Holi celebrations hosted by the working-class voters in rural percentage points in 2016. differences and making a new beginning,” Marwari community in Kolkata last year. areas were more ready for (Contd on page 20) Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 SPECIAL FEATURE 27 Madhya Pradesh crisis: Indecisiveness hits Congress yet again letter, Scindia wrote that the path decision has been put on hold party within striking distance of to his exit had been laid more as Siddaramaiah has pitched ousting the Bharatiya Janata than a year ago, which is likely Lingayat leader MB Patil for the Party (BJP) from power. to be a reference to not just the post. In Maharashtra, Congress’s party’s decision to appoint Similarly, the state chiefs of leadership was in disarray with Kamal Nath chief minister of Telangana (Uttam Kumar Reddy) many senior leaders, including Madhya Pradesh (MP), but also and Odisha (Niranjan Patnaik) Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil and to Congress failing to appoint a resigned from their posts soon Harshwardhan Patil, defecting new state president. Nath after the Lok Sabha elections, but to the BJP and others, such as currently holds both posts the party leadership is still Sanjay Nirupam, refusing to because the party has not been struggling to find their campaign for the party. When able to select a name to replace replacements. Assembly election results were (News Agencies) Soon after decimated in the Lok Sabha Nath as its state unit chief. In Punjab, the central announced, Congress had Congress was decimated in the elections, the grand old party In Karnataka, Dinesh leadership has failed to resolve dropped to fourth position and it Lok Sabha elections, the grand was plunged into a leadership Gundu Rao has submitted his differences between chief was forced to cede its ‘big old party was plunged into a crisis when Rahul Gandhi resignation from the post of minister Captain Amarinder brother’ role to Sharad Pawar’s leadership crisis when Rahul resigned from the post of party state unit president to the Singh and his former minister Nationalist Congress Party Gandhi resigned from the post of president on May 25, during a Congress high command, Navjot Singh Sidhu, who (NCP), which formed a three- party president on May 25, during meeting of the Congress taking moral responsibility for resigned in July 2019. Where party alliance between NCP, a meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC). the party’s poor show in the decisions have been taken, they Shiv Sena and Working Committee (CWC). For 77 days, the top post by-elections held in seem to have cost Congress Congress.Congress’s The announcement of senior remained vacant. CWC members December 2019. Former chief dearly. For example, in Haryana, performance in Delhi was worse leader Jyotiraditya Scindia’s exhorted Gandhi to take back his minister Siddaramaiah also Ashok Tanwar was removed as in Delhi, where the rudderless resignation from Congress has resignation, but he refused to do stepped down as leader of state unit chief weeks before the party failed to open its account once again shone a spotlight on so. On August 10, 2019, CWC Congress Legislature Party Assembly elections after six in last month’s Assembly the challenges facing the party, finally nominated Sonia Gandhi (CLP). years as president of the Haryana elections. The two states where which has been struggling to to take over the position and pull After a series of discussions, Pradesh Congress Committee. infighting doesn’t appear to have recoup from indecisive leadership the party out of this particular Congress’s central leadership Senior leader Kumari Selja affected Congress are since the 2019 general elections, crisis. had almost finalised former replaced him and election Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. All despite subsequent electoral Indecision has been a serious minister and key troubleshooter management was handed over to eyes will now be on the stability wins at the state level. and recurring problem for DK Shivakumar as the new former chief minister Bhupinder of these 2 state governments. Soon after Congress was Congress. In his resignation Karnataka unit chief, but the Singh Hooda who brought the Aurangzeb Naqshbandi Amit Shah cleared decks for Jyotiraditya Scindia’s entry into BJP The swift and well-guarded moves that preceded Jyotiraditya Scindia’s formal entry into the Bharatiya Janata Party were overseen by former party president and Union home minister Amit Shah. at the state as well at centre. of the SC/ST prevention of when Shah met him,” said the Right now there are senior atrocities Act was seen the second functionary. leaders such as Shivraj Singh most. The BJP, which has Following a meeting with Chouhan and Narendra been working on social Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tomar, but the party has to engineering to expand its vote along with Shah, Scindia have younger leaders to take bank, has been wooing the announced his resignation it further,” said the SC and ST communities in from the Congress and later functionary quoted above. the region. joined the Bharatiya Janata A second functionary said For now, there is Party in the evening. Scindia’s joining will help the speculation that Scindia may There was no word on BJP strengthen its position in join the cabinet at the Centre, what transpired at the the Gwalior-Chambal region of which will provide a boost to meetings Scindia held with the state, considered a the talent in the government, Shah and Modi. (News Agencies) The swift several weeks now. According Scindia stronghold. given the former Congress “The BJP had been and well-guarded moves that to one state functionary, the In the 230-member leader’s administrative closely watching the preceded Jyotiraditya royal family of Baroda also Madhya Pradesh assembly experience, energy and developments unfold in the Scindia’s formal entry into played a role in initiating 34 seats are in this region. ability to articulate key policy state, but did not make any the Bharatiya Janata Party dialogue between Shah and The region is also considered issues. move to topple the Kamal were overseen by former party Scindia.A senior BJP a pocket borough of the According to people aware Nath government. Only president and Union home functionary said Scindia’s erstwhile royal family of of the developments, even as when it became clear that minister Amit Shah. resignation from the Congress Gwalior. In the last assembly there was speculation that intra-party disagreements It was Shah who met will not only help the BJP election, the Congress had an Scindia would leave the which were evident in the Scindia on Tuesday and later reclaim Madhya Pradesh, a edge over the BJP after Congress party, a host of form of open rebellion by accompanied him to Prime bastion that it had lost in the winning 75% seats in the state leaders were unsure MLAs made it untenable for Minister Narendra Modi’s 7, 2018 state assembly poll, region, while the BJP’s tally whether he would join the BJP the Congress government to Lok Kalyan Marg residence to after being in power for three went down from 18 in 2013 to formally or float his own party. continue, did the BJP take clear the decks for the former consecutive terms; but also seven in 2018. The negotiations were proactive steps. Many Congress leader’s entry into lead to the emergence of a The BJP has also limited to Shah and Union MLAs had reached out to the BJP. The two leaders are new leadership in the redoubled its efforts in the minister Dharmendra the BJP, dismayed by their understood to have been in state.“He is a young, region which is the hot bed of Pradhan. On Monday this party’s leadership,” said a touch, both directly and dynamic leader, who has the caste politics and it was here issue was also discussed BJP functionary aware of through intermediaries, for experience of being in charge the protests against dilution with BJP president JP Nadda the details. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 HEALTH & FITNESS 28 Coronavirus: Attending an event or meeting? Consider these WHO precautions All sections of our society - including businesses and employers - must play a role if we are to stop the spread of this disease, said WHO.

including tissues and hand symptoms can be safely sanitiser for all participants. isolated. Have surgical masks – Have a plan for how they available to offer anyone can be safely transferred (News Agencies) In view of employers – must play a coughs or exhales, vulnerable to serious who develops respiratory from there to a health the increasing number of role if we are to stop the releasing droplets of the illnesses. symptoms. facility. Coronavirus cases and spread of this disease.” infected fluid. If the droplets *Consider whether a face- *Actively monitor where – Know what to do if a more than 100 countries Here’s a Twitter thread fall on surfaces of objects to-face meeting or event is COVID-19 is circulating. meeting participant, staff being affected, the World highlighting the such as tables, desks or needed. Could it be Advise participants in member or service provider Health Organization (WHO) same.Organizers of telephones and other replaced by a advance that if they have tests positive for COVID-19 has released guidelines on meetings & events need to people come in contact teleconference or online any symptoms or feel during or just after the organising gatherings, think about the potential with the contaminated event? unwell, they should not meeting. especially events, official risk from #COVID19 surfaces and then touch *Could the meeting or event attend. – Agree the plan in advance meetings and the likes, because: While COVID-19 their eyes, nose or mouth, be scaled down so that *Develop and agree a with your partner healthcare while stating that unless is a mild disease for most they too can get infected. fewer people attend it? response plan in case provider or health absolutely essential, such people, it can make some As per WHO, while people *Ensure and verify someone at the meeting department. meetings should be avoided very ill. Around 1 in every 5 over 40 years seem to be information and becomes ill with symptoms *Make sure all organisers, or carried out remotely. people who catch COVID- more vulnerable than those communication channels in of COVID-19 (dry cough, participants, caterers and In a press release titled 19 needs hospital under 40, those with advance with key partners fever, malaise). This plan visitors at the event provide Getting your workplace treatment,” WHO said. weakened immune such as public health and should include at least: contact details: mobile ready for COVID-19, it said: Notably, the novel systems and conditions health care authorities. – Identify a room or area telephone number, email “All sections of our society Coronavirus spreads when such as diabetes, heart and *Pre-order sufficient where someone who is and address where they are – including businesses and someone with the disease lung disease are also more supplies and materials feeling unwell or has staying. World Kidney Day: Here are 6 common bad habits that can damage your kidneys Kidney disease doesn’t just affect the elderly and alcoholic. Your lifestyle habits right now can also put you at risk. (News Agencies) There must From having too much protein to pressure and in time affect renal food can wait another day. Wondering have been numerous films where indulging in a regular intake of function.A study by the San Processed food might be the why? Kidney function is regulated actors have been shown to suffer processed foods, there are a Giovanni Bosco Hospital, Italy found answer to all your midnight by the sleep-wake cycle which from kidney disease thanks to their number of damaging behaviours that too much salt has a direct cravings, but those crispy bits of helps coordinate the workload of daily dose of tipple. And while their which puts pressure on the kidneys tissue effect on the kidney, inducing goodness can actually be pretty the organ 24X7. Researchers from sad predicaments do make a point, leading to chronic kidney disease. hypertrophy and fibrosis. Too much harmful for your kidneys. Boston’s Brigham and Women’s alcohol is not the only cause of Here’s looking at a few habits that salt may also cause kidney stones. Processed foods are a storehouse Hospital studied the sleep habits kidney damage. Rather they form may harm the kidneys: 3. Overusing painkillers of sodium and phosphorus and can of women volunteers and found that a part of a long list of dietary and 1. Eating too much protein That continuous headache may lure lead to kidney disease. Studies too little sleep was linked to a more lifestyle habits that can prove Animal protein generates high you to the medicine cabinet for have shown that diets that rely rapid decline in kidney function. detrimental for the organs in the amounts of acid in the blood which some painkillers on a regular basis, mostly on junk food and processed 6. Drinking too much alcohol human body. can cause acidosis–a condition in but overusing them can prove food may cause long-term damage Not being able to survive without The second Thursday of March which kidneys cannot eliminate dangerous for the kidneys. Yes, to the kidneys and trigger diabetes whiskey or wine could spell doom every year is observed as World enough acid, leading to detrimental they alleviate your aches and pains, as well. For diabetics, since the for your kidneys. Studies have found Kidney Day across the globe. A effects on the organs. but can cause kidney cancer as body does not produce enough that more than four drinks a day is global awareness campaign, it A diet should be well balanced with well. According to a study published insulin, the sugar from processed linked to double the risk of chronic aims to highlight the importance of proteins, fruits, and vegetables. in the Archives of Internal Medicine, foods can accumulate in the blood kidney disease.Experts say kidneys for our health and to reduce 2. Consuming too much salt long-term use of painkillers increase and lead to diabetic kidney disease. alcohol causes changes in the impact of kidney disease and health Diets high in salt have a lot of the risk of kidney cancer by 50%. 5. Not sleeping enough function of kidneys hampering their problems associated with it. sodium, which can increase blood 4. Eating too much processed If you are tired, go to sleep. Work ability to filter blood. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 BUSINESS 29 Yes Bank founder Rana Kapoor’s ED custody extended till March 16 Kapoor was produced before the special PMLA court on Wednesday and sought his further custody for seven more days. The court later extended Kapoor’s custody to ED till March 16. they needs to check where registered a case. Manashinde denied the the money has gone and if “Predicate offense was allegations that Kapoor the transactions were registered much later by CBI recieved kick backs for giving genuine. The special judge and before that ED began loan. He added that no bribe however, sought documents probe and case of ED was was taken. Kapoor was from the agency to support registered,” defense lawyer hightest paid banker and their claim. “You don’t bring contended. As per law ED received amost Rs 50 crores documents in support of the can begin probe only after a per year from the bank since (News Agencies) A special NPA. court that he has been ground you raise,” the court predicate offense is 2004 till recently, court in Mumbai on Kapoor, 62, former MD and taken for treatment and has told agency. The agency registered by other agency Manashinde argued added Wednesday extended Yes CEO of the private bank, no complaints against the later produced records of for financial fraud. The ED that he had recieved awards Bank founder Rana was arrested by the ED in agency. forensic audit of the Yes countered the issue and from various institution as Kapoor’s custody with Mumbai on March 8 under The ED counsel Sunil bank for the perusal of the claimed that the searches best banker. The defense Enforcement Directorate till provisions of the PMLA as Gonsalves later began his court. were conducted in respect further argued that there March 16. Kapoor has been he was allegedly not arguments and told the The plea was later objected of case of money laundering cannot be allegations of held by the probe agency cooperating in the probe. court that Kapoor and his by Kapoor’s lawyer Satish against DHFL. It was during money laundering in the on the charges of money Kapoor was produced family are linked to 78 Manashinde saying that that the agency found transactions of bank with laundering. before the special PMLA companies. The agency when Kapoor left the bank material related to money DHFL as the money taken The Enforcement court on Wednesday by the claimed they are scanning the NPA account was only laundering by Kapoor and was much prior to the said Directorate on Wednesday ED, which sought his further the companies which are 1% of the total loan. He hence separate case was transaction.The agency told the special Prevention custody for seven more linked to Kapoor and his alleged that Kapoor has later registered. claimed that Yes Bank of Money Laundering Act days. The court later family. been made scapegoat. Manashinde further bought debentures worth (PMLA) court that Kapoor extended Kapoor’s custody Gonsalves contended that The defense raised contended that when he left Rs.3700 crores of DHFL. In had sanctioned loans worth to ED till March 16. the agency is now checking questions on searches the bank the condition of the lieu of the same DHFL Rs 30,000 crore, out of On being produced Kapoor, if the money worth Rs conducted by the bank was much better but sanctioned a Rs.600 crore which loans to the tune of was asked by the court if 20,000 crore have been Enforcement Directorate at the management which loan to Doit Urban Ventures Rs 20,000 crore have he had any complaints of diverted to the 78 Kapoor’s house much before subsequently took over Pvt Ltd, a company in turned into non-performing ill-treatment against the companies linked to Kapoor the case was registered. failed.”I cannot be held which Kapoor’s daughters assets (NPA). The agency officers of ED. Kapoor, who and his family and if there Manashinde argued that responsible for the failure of are directors. The loan is now looking into the admittedly suffers from was ‘quid pro quo’. when ED conducted the present management,” was given without accounts which have turned hearing ailment, told the The ED also claimed that searches, CBI had not Manashinde argued. adequate collateral. Microsoft co-founder Rupee hits record low of 74.50 against Bill Gates leaves board US dollar amid coronavirus scare Regularly listed among the world’s richest people, Gates was a geeky- The dollar stood tall on Friday as investors scrambled for the world’s most looking young man when he and Paul Allen co-founded Microsoft in 1975. liquid currency amid deepening panic while the euro nursed losses after Gates left his CEO position in 2000, handing the company reins to Steve the European Central Bank disappointed by not cutting rates. Ballmer to devote more time to his charitable foundation. Microsoft on Friday announced that co- learned from Bill over the years,” The Indian rupee dropped to as investors scrambled for 74.5075 against the dollar founder Bill Gates has left its board of Microsoft chief executive and company a record low on Friday, the world’s most liquid before recovering slightly to directors to devote more time to veteran Satya Nadella said in a release. weighed down by worries currency amid deepening trade at 74.4445 by 0355 “Bill founded our company over the coronavirus panic while the euro nursed GMT. Traders expect the with a belief in the pandemic that has losses after the European central bank to step in to democratizing force of prompted investors to dump Central Bank disappointed prevent further sharp falls in software and a passion to riskier assets and move by not cutting rates. The the currency but don’t see solve society’s most towards safe havens. The partially convertible rupee it protecting the rupee at pressing challenges; and dollar stood tall on Friday dropped to a record low of any particular level. Microsoft and the world are better for it.” Nadella added Stocks Rally as Trump and that Microsoft will continue to benefit from Gates’ Business Leaders Pledge Support “technical passion and advice” in his continuing role Stocks rallied Friday, rebounding to develop a website to determine as a technical advisor. from their worst day in more than 30 whether an individual needs a test — a “I am grateful for Bill’s years, after President Trump said leaders move aimed at avoiding overwhelming the friendship and look forward of private companies in the United States health system with people who are ill but philanthropy. The 64-year-old stopped to continuing to work alongside him,” had agreed to help with efforts to test for do not necessarily need to be tested being involved in day-to-day operations Nadella said. Regularly listed among the coronavirus, and declared a national for coronavirus. Google later said the at the firm more than a decade ago, the world’s richest people, Gates was emergency that would free billions in site would initially only be used around turning his attention to the foundation a geeky-looking young man when he funding to fight the epidemic. The S&P San Francisco, “with the hope of named after him and his wife, Melinda. and Paul Allen co-founded Microsoft 500 rose more than 9 percent, making expanding it more broadly over Gates served as chairman of Microsoft’s in 1975.Gates left his CEO position Friday its best day since 2008, with most time.”The chief executives of board of directors until early in 2014 and in 2000, handing the company reins of the gains coming late in the day as Walmart, Target and Walgreens all has now stepped away entirely, to Steve Ballmer to devote more time government officials and business said they had agreed to make according to the Redmond-based to his charitable foundation. He gave executives spoke at a news conference facilities available for testing. technology giant. up the role of chairman at the same time at the White House. Though he was short Executives from CVS Health, Roche “It’s been a tremendous honor Nadella became Microsoft’s third CEO on details, Mr. Trump said the Diagnostics and Signify Health were also and privilege to have worked with and in 2014. administration was working with Google in attendance at the news conference. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 ENTERTAINMENT 30 Ghar Ki Murgi review Sakshi Tanwar shines in Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari’s short film saluting the silent toil of homemmakers Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari’s nuanced portrayal of a wrung-out homemaker’s life has Sakshi Tanwar delivering a solid performance. Anurag Arora Day, shows the drudgery response. It is only when metaphor for her bottled up in the life of homemaker the household threatens to emotions desperately A homemaker is the glue Seema Bhatia (Sakshi come to stasis in her looking for a release. She that binds the family Tanwar), who selflessly absence that her family infuses the part with the together. From the time puts her family’s interests members sit up and take right blend of quiet she wakes up in the above her own, day after notice of her contribution. resilience and vulnerability, morning till she tiredly day, but it all goes As per a World Bank and is ably supported by falls asleep, she wears unacknowledged. When study in 2018, India ranks Anurag Arora, who delivers many hats. She efficiently her husband mocks her 120 among 131 countries a solid act as the runs the household, side business of running a in female labour force neglectful husband.Ghar juggling chores such as beauty parlour one participation rate. With Ki Murgi has a linear and cooking, washing, evening, it triggers her more than 75 per cent predictable graph but still cleaning and shopping for feelings of discontent and adult women staying manages to be affecting, groceries; at the same she decides to go on a home,director Ashwiny without resorting to any time, she supports her month-long holiday to Iyer Tiwari’s nuanced melodrama or cliche. As husband, guides her Goa, to take a break from portrayal of the wrung-out we celebrate the children and looks after her the confines of domestic homemaker’s life is as achievements of women in in-laws. It is a thankless life. relevant as it is hard- the workforce on Women’s job, but then again, is it a “Tum kaam thodi na karti hitting. Sakshi Tanwar Day, let us not forget to job or is it her “duty”? ho. Ghar pe hi toh rehti ho makes you feel for her the honour the homemaker The short film Ghar Ki (But you don’t work. You moment the screen opens and her invaluable Ghar Ki Murgi Iyer Tiwari Murgi, which premiered on stay at home all day),” is with the pressure cooker contribution to the family Director: Ashwiny Cast: Sakshi Tanwar, Sony LIV on Women’s her bewildered husband’s releasing steam - a ecosystem. Spenser Confidential movie review Mark Wahlberg’s Netflix film isn’t a good enough reason to stay at home because of the coronavirus Spenser Confidential movie review: Mark Wahlberg’s new Netflix film is perfectly suited for domestic flights and hospital waiting rooms; distracting enough to prevent you from wondering if you’ve contracted the coronavirus. position. Can a movie be Spenser Confidential Cruise’s Jack Reacher We meet Spenser, played criticised for lacking in Director - Peter Berg and Jason Statham’s by Wahlberg with that ambition even though it Cast - Mark Wahlberg, Parker — films about trademark ‘is-that-dung-I- had never promised Winston Duke, Alan Arkin, mysterious do-gooders smell?’ expression on his anything of the sort? It Iliza Schlesinger whose adventures are face, as he pounds a can’t. But can Berg and Only the least demanding perfectly suited for viewing police captain to pulp in Wahlberg be pulled up for members of the audience on domestic flights and in his own house. Spenser, delivering their least will be satisfied by hospital waiting rooms; in a Boston police officer impressive film together? Spenser Confidential, both scenarios providing himself, pleads guilty to Absolutely.Spenser director Peter Berg’s fifth just enough distraction to assault and is locked Confidential will likely collaboration (in a row) prevent you from away for five years, losing Alfred conduct stakeouts being lazy. No attempt, for spawn a sequel, with Mark Wahlberg. It is wondering if you’ve his badge and honour. and foot-chases, instance, has been made especially with Netflix’s an obvious attempt by contracted the When the police captain infiltrations and busts. It’s to elevate the material into new viewership metrics — Netflix to create a coronavirus or is killed the very day all meant to be light- something more than a you need to have seen franchise of its own, as not.+Movies like this Spenser is released from hearted and humorous, dad-thriller. only two minutes of a film the streamer attempts to understand that life is prison, making him the but like the dusty For a film about police for your curiosity to be corner every niche market busy, and that one can’t de-facto prime suspect, paperbacks that it is corruption and unchecked counted as a ‘view’ — imaginable. be expected to pay the former cop goes rogue based on, can’t help but violence, Berg restricts taken into consideration. This time, Netflix has sets undivided attention to and launches an feel outdated and the drama to one man and But for a service that has its sights on a sub-genre Mark Wahlberg, as he investigation that exposes obsolete. his good intentions. The already released seven — Boston crime — that scowls his way through corruption in the highest Virtually every element of plot twists are Adam Sandler movies witnessed somewhat of a bad guys, and prances levels of authority. the film — the writing by foreshadowed with the (with five more in the boom around a decade about with a swagger that He is joined in his Sean O’Keefe and Oscar- subtlety of an incoming offing) to incredible ago, with hits such as The could put Salman Khan to mission by his winner Brian Helgeland, locomotive at a small- success, Spenser Departed, The Town, Gone shame. And so they mountainous roommate the cinematography by town railway station, and Confidential genuinely Baby Gone and Mystic routinely insert clunky (played by Black Berg’s longtime most attempts at humour feels like the product of River. Based on a series exposition, periodically Panther’s Winston Duke) collaborator Tobias fall flat. Netflix’s famous of novels by Robert B peppered with snappy and his old friend Henry Schleissler, and the non- This isn’t to say that the algorithmic approach to Parker and Ace Atkins, one-liners and loud action (Alan Arkin, as dry as existent music by Steve film doesn’t achieve what green-lighting films, and Spenser Confidential is to jolt you out of your ever). Together, the self- Jablonsky — feels it had set out do -- which not a decision made by a like a cousin to Tom slumber. styled Batman, Robin and generic to the point of leaves us in an awkward rational human being. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 ENTERTAINMENT 31 Janhvi Kapoor is the Neha Dhupia's Chat LEAKED By Meme Page "favourite sibling" and her After Being Called A Hypocrite And Fake Feminist latest Instagram post is proof! Neha Dhupia, who is currently one of the gang leaders on Roadies Revolution recently made headlines commenting about cheating in a relationship. In one of the recent episodes, Neha Dhupia was seen losing her cool when a male contestant revealed that he slapped his ex-girlfriend as she was cheating on him with multiple partners. Neha Dhupia was seen getting angry stating that in no capacity he has the right to slap her. Neha Dhupia also was seen saying that it was the girl’s choice to be with multiple partners. These statements made by Neha Dhupia were not liked by netizens who trolled her for being a hypocrite. Now, as per reports, a meme page has revealed their chats with Neha Dhupia who is asking them to stop posting memes. However, it has not been officially confirmed by Neha that the chats are legitimate. Kim Kardashian ‘proves’ she's forgiven Tristan just a year after Jordyn Woods scandal

Janhvi Kapoor and her little One year on since the Kardashian sister Khushi Kapoor share a family was ripped apart by one of its good bond and their Instagram biggest scandals ever, it seems Kim has proven she’s finally forgiven Tristan posts have always proved the Thompson for cheating on her sister same. And being the youngest Khloe. kid in the family, Khushi is In honour of the Cleveland Cavaliers everyone's favourite amongst all basketball star turning 29 on Friday, Boney Kapoor's kids. Janhvi, her Kim Kardashian tweeted two photos brother Anushala Kapoor and to wish Tristan a happy birthday.One actor Arjun Kapoor have always snap featured her and husband Kanye stated the same in various West sitting courtside as she cheered media interactions. on the player, while the other was a And recently, Anshula took to selfie of herself and the birthday boy her Instagram for an ask me giving a thumbs up.Kim, 39, captioned session and she collaborated the selfie: “I think this is our only pic together @realtristan13.”The Keeping with Janhvi for the same. And Up With The Kardashians star seemed during the session, Janhvi got to suggest all was forgiven as she the tag of being a "favourite tweeted the pics with the message: sibling". In the boomerang video “Happy Birthday @realtristan13!!!! shared by the 'Dhadak' actress, Cheering loud for you today! Can’t wait we can see her sitting with to celebrate soon!” Anshula and a few Khloe Kardashian was left merchandises with Janhvi on it. heartbroken when her boyfriend Tristan She captioned the post, "Khushi Thompson, the father of her daughter might be the favourite daughter True, was caught kissing her sister but I’m the favourite sibling."But Kylie Jenner's BFF Jordyn Woods. It what we couldn't miss is the was the second time Tristan, 29, had been publicly outed as a cheat, and door behind Anshula, which Khloe, 35, broke up with him for the totally resembled the door from final time.A huge feud erupted between the popular TV show her and Jordyn, 22, with Kylie, also F.R.I.E.N.D.S. 22, awkwardly caught in the middle. Priyanka Chopra Only Bollywood Female Celeb To Own This Expensive Luxury Car Priyanka Chopra, one of the about Priyanka Chopra’s car favourite cars. The actor, in an most popular Indian actors of collection. As per reports, old interview, revealed that she the decade, lives a life dreamt Priyanka Chopra’s car loves the luxury car for the by many. The actor, who collection boosts of luxurious recliner seat and comfortable resides with her husband Nick cars like BMW 5 Series, BMW floor rug. Besides Priyanka Jonas in their posh property 7 Series, Audi Q7, Mercedes Chopra, actors like Hrithik in Los Angeles’ Beverly Hills, Benz S-Class, among others. Roshan, Sanjay Dutt, Akshay has a magnanimous collection However, but one of Kumar, and Shah Rukh Khan of cars in her garage. As per Priyanka’s most expensive own cars from the British reports, Priyanka Chopra is cars is the Rolls Royce brand. Being an owner of one of the few female actors Ghost. The car that is popular Rolls Royce car also makes to own one of the most for its starlit ceilings and Priyanka Chopra the only expensive cars in Bollywood. stardust carpets, is known as Bollywood female actor to Here is all you need to know one of Priyanka Chopra’s own a car from the brand. Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 Harvey Weinstein sentenced32 to 23 years in prison

Voice of South Asian Community Since March 2002 Page 2431 Vol. 16 Issue 42 Friday 14 March to 20 March 2020 $1 www.thesouthasianinsider.com Jyotiraditya Scindia is India was 2nd largest BJP’s Rajya Sabha candidate arms importer in 2015-19 from Madhya Pradesh Jyotiraditya Scindia quit the Congress party on Tuesday Russia’s share of Indian arms market declined and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today. Saudi Arabia, India and China were also among the top five importers during 2010–14. During 2015-19, Pakistan was ranked the 11th largest arms importer in the world.

(News Agencies) Shortly after he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Jyotiraditya Scindia was named one of the two Rajya Sabha nominees from Madhya Pradesh by the BJP. The party released a list on?Wednesday evening, which said that Scindia’s name was cleared by the central election committee meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday. The Rajya Sabha elections are scheduled for March 26. The last day to file nomination on Friday. The biennial elections will be held to fill three seats from Madhya Pradesh and a change of Page 2131 guard in the state will have an impact on the Rajya Sabha polls as well. (Contd on page 21) Coronavirus spread 70 Percent Of Germany Could Become Infected By Coronavirus: Chancellor How countries are managing cost of treatment German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned the majority of the country could In India, insurance regulator IRDAI had last week asked insurance companies to come out with policies become infected and said her priority is to slow the spread of the coronavirus. to cover treatment costs for coronavirus infection. (News Agencies) German Chancellor Angela Merkel is citing expert estimates that up to 70% of the population could be infected by the new coronavirus as she insists on the necessity of measures to slow its spread. Germany had confirmed some 1,300 infections as of Wednesday, with two deaths. Page 2131 (Contd on page 21)