Bangladesh minister raids suspected drug den carrying pistol, sparks debate

<p> Dhaka, Oct 17 (PTI): A junior minister carrying a pistol raided a suspected drug den in a slum in the Bangladeshi capital on Saturday along with some associates in plainclothes, triggering a debate on social media over his actions.</p><p>State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain uploaded a video clip in which he was seen stepping out of a vehicle with a megaphone in one hand and a pistol in the other, before chasing a group of people. At least one of his associates was also seen carrying a handgun.</p><p>“You are ruining the entire town, destroying the entire area,” Hossain was heard saying in the footage recorded at a slum near Gandaria Railway Station.</p><p>  Hossain, 39, a member of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was elected to Parliament from the area in the February 12 elections.</p><p>  Some of the men detained by his associates claimed they were innocent.</p><p>“Let police come, then there will be talks,” Hossain was heard telling them.</p><p>  Police said the minister carried out the raid without informing them in advance and detained six to seven people before handing them over to the local police station.</p><p>  "The minister did not inform us about the raid in advance; we learned about it afterwards,” Dhaka metropolitan police’s additional deputy commissioner Masud Rana told reporters.</p><p>  Gendaria police station’s officer in charge Moniruzzaman Monir said: "They detained six people and claimed they were drug abusers, so we went and brought them in”.</p><p>  “Some powder was found in their possession, which will be tested to find out if the substance is a drug,” he said.</p><p>  Hossain uploaded the video in the evening with the caption, “Ishraque's Action: Drug dens smashed and dealers handed over to the police.” The clip was later deleted after it sparked debate on social media, with many questioning whether such action was appropriate for a minister.</p><p>  The post also said Hossain had previously conducted anti-drug raids in various parts of his downtown Dhaka constituency and vowed to continue the campaign to make the area drug-free.</p><p>The pistol in Hossain's hand was blurred in most of the footage, though he was clearly seen carrying it in some portions. PTI AR RD RD</p><p>RD</p><p><i>(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)</i></p>

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World News: Indian Diaspora in London Backs PM Modi Outside Indian High Commission

<p class="x12ofw9d">Amid heightened political tensions in Delhi, members of the Indian diaspora gathered outside the Indian High Commission in London to express their support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The gathering featured slogans in support of Modi, India, and national pride, including chants of &ldquo;Jai Shri Ram&rdquo; and &ldquo;Bharat Mata Ki Jai.&rdquo; According to the report, the demonstration took place in response to protests organized by the BJP and Congress in Delhi. Participants at the London gathering voiced their concerns over what they described as attempts to damage India's reputation internationally through political criticism. The demonstrators argued that India is a democracy where citizens have access to legal remedies, including approaching courts and the Supreme Court, if they have grievances. They questioned why political disputes should be taken overseas and expressed the view that allegations should be supported by evidence. The gathering brought together members of the Indian community who wanted to publicly demonstrate their support for the prime minister and the country's development. Slogans such as &ldquo;Modi Modi&rdquo; and &ldquo;Jai Bharat Mata Ki&rdquo; echoed during the event, reflecting the participants' patriotic sentiments and political views. The development highlights how political debates within India can extend beyond national borders, prompting members of the Indian diaspora to organize demonstrations and express their opinions in international cities. London, home to a large Indian-origin community, has frequently served as a venue for public gatherings related to Indian political and social issues. The event also underscores the contrasting narratives surrounding political protests, national image, and democratic expression. The demonstrators' statements represent the views expressed by participants at the gathering.</p>

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Trump Waives Russia-Linked Sanctions, Tariffs Ahead Of Deadline, Offering Relief To India And China

<p>US President Donald Trump has temporarily suspended sanctions and tariffs targeting countries that purchase Russian oil and gas, easing pressure on major buyers India and China just a day before the measures were due to take effect.</p> <p>Trump justified the decision on grounds of national interest, issuing an executive order late Friday that allows the restrictions under the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 to remain on hold. The legislation, signed in September, was designed to penalise countries continuing to trade in Russian energy.</p> <p>The waiver, however, does not permanently scrap the proposed penalties. The administration retains the authority to introduce the measures at a later date if Trump determines that further action is necessary.</p> <h3>Waiver Issued In National Interest</h3> <p>Explaining the decision, Trump said the suspension was necessary to protect US interests. "I am hereby waiving the application of such sanctions, restrictions, and duties provided for in the Graham Act. I have submitted to Congress a certification that the issuance of such a waiver at this time is in the national interest of the United States," Trump said in an executive order released late Friday, as per reports.</p> <p>The order specifies that the exemption will remain in force until Trump or senior administration officials conclude that "further action is appropriate."</p> <p>The legislation permits the president to waive the proposed penalties by notifying Congress that their implementation would not serve the national interest. The latest directive therefore postpones enforcement without removing the possibility of future sanctions.</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/n6x7q-SuiOE?si=QcbIosdu7NjwX3cs" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://news.abplive.com/cities/delhi-sir-ceo-orders-reverification-of-47-56-lakh-voters-final-rolls-due-december-4-1871781">Delhi SIR: Reverification Begins For 47.56 Lakh Voters Removed From Draft Rolls, Says CEO</a></strong></p> <h3>Proposed Tariffs Of Up To 100%</h3> <p>The legislation, championed by the late Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, proposed tariffs of up to 100% on imports from countries purchasing Russian energy.</p> <p>Under its provisions, the penalties could have been imposed within 30 days on goods entering the US from the five largest importers of Russian crude oil or natural gas. The legislation also covered countries that knowingly purchased Russian oil or gas 30 days after its enactment, as well as nations among the top five helping Russia evade sanctions.</p> <p>Trump signed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 in mid-September. Its implementation threatened to expose major trading partners of Russia to steep additional costs when exporting goods to the US.</p> <p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://news.abplive.com/news/india/tiranga-march-bengaluru-police-deny-cjp-permission-at-town-hall-cite-venue-restrictions-karnataka-hc-1871755">Bengaluru Police Deny CJP Permission For Tiranga March At Town Hall, Cite Venue Restrictions, Traffic Concerns</a></strong></p> <h3>India And China Raise Concerns</h3> <p>India and China, two of the largest buyers of Russian oil, had expressed concerns over the proposed restrictions and their potential economic and diplomatic consequences.</p> <p>Beijing had opposed the legislation's approach, stating that it "consistently opposed long-arm jurisdiction that lacks a basis in international law".</p> <p>India, meanwhile, warned Washington that additional tariffs could affect bilateral relations between the two countries.</p>

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White House Press Secertary Katie Zacharia Fired In Less Than A Week Amid Legal Credentials Row

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">White House press secretary Katie Zacharia has been fired less than a week after taking up the post, two US officials said on Friday, following a turbulent start marked by questions over her legal credentials and criticism of her media appearances.</p> <p>Zacharia was "let go" and is "transitioning out" of the position, news agency Reuters reported, citing two White House officials. Her departure leaves President Donald Trump without a key spokesperson just over two weeks before the November midterm elections, when his administration is seeking to highlight its achievements and help Republicans retain control of Congress.</p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EBlmV27sxFw?si=JcAioYveV1B4hyi1" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p>Trump had indicated earlier on Friday that he had urged Zacharia to reconsider continuing in the role after she faced difficult questions from the media during her first few days in office.</p> <p>"I told her: 'I think you're better off being happy, and I'm not sure you can ever be happy in this stuff.' There's nothing easy about this stuff," Trump told reporters as he left the White House for a weekend trip.</p> <p>He added: "I said to her honestly, 'If I were you, I'd reconsider... think about it. But I would reconsider.'" Trump said he planned to speak to Zacharia about the matter again later.</p> <p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://news.abplive.com/news/india/deep-concern-india-urges-us-to-ensure-indians-safety-after-foiled-temple-shooting-plot-1871787">&lsquo;Deep Concern&rsquo;: India Urges US To Ensure Indians&rsquo; Safety After Foiled Temple Shooting Plot</a></strong></p> <h3>Zacharia's Legal Credentials Under Scrutiny</h3> <p>Zacharia's brief tenure was overshadowed by questions about her professional background, particularly her claims of having practised law. Trump had also referred to her as an attorney.</p> <p>Zacharia began work on Monday and conducted her first White House press briefing on Tuesday. She said she received a call about the position on October 7 and was offered the job a week ago to replace Karoline Leavitt.</p> <p>Responding to questions about her legal background, she said in an emailed statement on Wednesday: "I practiced international transaction law, with all the appropriate credentials,"</p> <p>However, Reuters said it could not find records showing that Zacharia, a graduate of Pepperdine University law school, was registered as an attorney or member of the bar in any US state or the District of Columbia.</p> <p>During an interview with Fox News on Thursday, Zacharia acknowledged that she had not passed the bar examination. Law school graduates in the United States cannot legally practise law without first being admitted to a state bar.</p> <p>Zacharia and the White House did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment on her departure.</p> <p>Earlier on Friday, Zacharia had told reporters at the White House that she was looking forward to working with the press.</p> <p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://news.abplive.com/cities/delhi-sir-ceo-orders-reverification-of-47-56-lakh-voters-final-rolls-due-december-4-1871781">Delhi SIR: Reverification Begins For 47.56 Lakh Voters Removed From Draft Rolls, Says CEO</a></strong></p> <h3>Trump Wanted A Stronger Public Voice For His Administration</h3> <p>Trump selected Zacharia amid concerns about media coverage of his administration and a desire for a spokesperson who could more effectively communicate his achievements, Reuters reported, citing two people familiar with the conversations.</p> <p>Speaking to Fox News by phone on Friday, Trump said he was in no hurry to appoint a successor.</p> <p>Zacharia's departure within days of taking office has given her what is believed to be the shortest tenure of any White House press secretary in history.</p> <p>Anthony Scaramucci, who served as communications director for just 10 days during Trump's first administration, commented on the development on X.</p> <p>"Records are made to be broken," Scaramucci said. "But I take no pleasure in other people's pain."</p>

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US lawmakers urge FBI to probe Illinois temple plot as federal hate crime

<p> Washington, Oct 16 (PTI): US Congressional Caucus on India on Friday demanded that the FBI and the Department of Justice thoroughly investigate the alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois as a federal hate crime.</p><p>In a letter to Attorney General Todd Blanche and FBI Director Kash Patel, the House India Caucus demanded that the probe should determine whether anyone encouraged, assisted, or coordinated with the 19-year-old attacker, online or offline.</p><p>“This plot did not emerge in isolation but reflects broader, troubling trends,” Congressmen Rich McCormick and Ro Khanna, co-chairs of the House India Caucus, said in the letter.</p><p>The lawmakers asked the FBI and the Department of Justice to investigate the failed plot as a potential federal hate crime and bring all charges supported by the evidence.</p><p>They also asked the FBI and the Justice Department to “share timely threat information with state and local law enforcement and with Hindu temples, Sikh gurdwaras, and other South Asian houses of worship, and offer them protective resources.</p><p>The Congressmen also asked Blanche and Patel to brief the Caucus on threats facing Hindu Americans and Indian Americans and the steps the Department and FBI are taking to address them.</p><p>The letter said that the FBI data showed an increase in reported hate crimes targeting Sikh, Hindu, and Buddhist communities in 2025.</p><p>The Centre for the Study of Organised Hate found that anti-South Asian hate posts on X rose roughly 240 per cent between January 2024 and June 2026. </p><p>In the Carnegie Endowment's 2026 survey, one in four Indian American adults reported being called a slur since the start of 2025.</p><p>The attempted attack in Aurora underscores the very real danger posed by this rising hostility.</p><p>“Every American deserves to worship without fear. We urge you to treat this case, and the hate behind it, with the seriousness it demands,” McCormick and Khanna said. PTI SKU RD</p><p>RD</p><p><i>(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)</i></p>

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US lawmakers express outrage over attempted mass shooting at Hindu temple

<p> Washington, Oct 15 (PTI): US lawmakers on Thursday expressed outrage over the attempted mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois, saying the incident was a stark reminder of the racial hatred and threats faced by different communities.</p><p>US lawmakers Rich McCormick, Ro Khanna, Ami Bera, Jamie Raskin, Haley Stevens, among others, said no American should have to fear for their safety when practising their faith.</p><p>A 19-year-old was arrested in Palatine near Chicago for planning a mass shooting at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Aurora, Illinois on Sunday. The plan failed as the gun carried by the teenager jammed and could not fire.</p><p>    “Americans are outraged by this planned mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois. We must stand together—and strong—against white supremacist hate and violence targeted at temples, synagogues, churches and mosques,” Congressman Jamie Raskin said in a post on X.</p><p>Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi from Illinois was at the temple in Aurora on Sunday when the planned mass shooting failed.</p><p>“The plot to massacre innocent Americans at a Hindu temple is unequivocally wrong. Violence toward anyone based on a religion, political orientation, or race is evil,” Congressman Rich McCormick said.</p><p>“As a Hindu American, I am angered by the attempted mass shooting at a Temple by a white supremacist. The shooter's evil is only surpassed by his ignorance. Hinduism teaches non-violence,” Congressman Ro Khanna from California said.</p><p>Congressman Ami Bera said he was horrified to learn that Krishnamoorthi and his family were worshipping when a white supremacist attempted a mass shooting targeting Indian Americans. </p><p>“This incident is a stark reminder of the threats facing Hindu communities and other communities targeted by religious and racial hatred. Every American has the right to worship in peace. Congress must do more to combat hate-fueled violence and protect our communities from these threats,” Bera said.</p><p>Congressman Shri Thanedar expressed shock over the attempted mass shooting targeting Congressman Krishnamoorthi and his family while they were worshipping, and called on Congress to "fight the horrifying rise in anti-Hindu attacks: everyone should be able to practice their faith without fear."</p><p>“The rising trend of hate-filled violence, especially at Houses of Worship, must stop. No American should have to fear for their safety when practicing their faith,” Congresswoman Haley Stevens said.</p><p>“I’m proud to represent one of the largest Indian American districts in Congress—they contribute so much to our community and our country. They deserve better,” said Stevens, who visited India recently.</p><p>“I am incredibly grateful that local law enforcement thwarted this attempted mass shooting by a white supremacist and that the worshipers at this temple are safe,” Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal said.</p><p>“Attacks on South Asians have been on the rise, online and by leaders in our own government. This hate, racism, and violence are absolutely unacceptable, are traumatising our communities, and must end,” Jayapal said.</p><p>Congressman Nick LaLota condemned the "alleged plot" to target Hindu Americans during a religious gathering in Illinois, saying no American should fear for their life because of their faith, race or ancestry.</p><p>"Religious liberty is a cornerstone of our nation, and defending it is among our government's most solemn responsibilities," LaLota said. PTI SKU RD RD</p><p>RD</p><p><i>(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)</i></p>

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Houthis Fire Missiles At Yemen’s Presidential Palace In Aden, Two Security Guards Killed

<p>Yemen&rsquo;s Iran-aligned Houthi rebels fired missiles at the presidential palace complex in the southern port city of Aden on Thursday, killing two security guards, according to two government officials cited by Reuters. Prime Minister Shaya al-Zindani and cabinet members present at the Maashiq palace were unharmed, Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani said. Witnesses reported loud explosions around the complex, while the Associated Press said at least six blasts were heard.</p> <p>The strike marks a rare direct attack on the seat of Yemen&rsquo;s internationally recognised government as fighting intensifies across the wider region.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Four ballistic missiles struck the Maashiq Palace, the seat of Yemen's internationally recognized government in Aden, Saudi Al-Hadath reports. Prime Minister Shaya al-Zindani and government ministers were unharmed. https://t.co/xeRD4r2L7K</p> &mdash; Ariel Oseran أريئل أوسيران (@ariel_oseran) <a href="https://ift.tt/4SsIb79 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <p> <script src="https://ift.tt/nXBOFYv" async="" charset="utf-8"></script> </p> <h2>PM, Ministers Safe</h2> <p>Al-Eryani said the Houthis fired five missiles at the complex, where the prime minister and other cabinet members were present. Two government officials told Reuters that the attack killed two security guards.</p> <p>The Houthi-run Saba news agency, citing a military official, said the group targeted a military operations headquarters operated by Saudi officers and weapons depots inside the complex.</p> <p>The Houthis&rsquo; military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, said the strike was part of the group&rsquo;s policy of targeting Saudi military build-ups. The attack has raised concerns about the security of Yemen&rsquo;s internationally recognised government, which operates from Aden and receives backing from Saudi Arabia.</p> <p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://news.abplive.com/news/opinion-granting-statehood-to-ladakh-is-the-best-rebuff-to-china-1871625">OPINION | Granting Statehood To Ladakh Is The Best Rebuff To China</a></p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7Zb4sNv0tF8?si=jMRpZ9dma176_40k" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2>Regional Tensions Rise</h2> <p>The attack comes amid renewed hostilities between the Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition. The rebels have intensified strikes on Saudi infrastructure, including airports and oil facilities. The escalation follows a period of reduced fighting after a United Nations-brokered truce in 2022.</p> <p>The wider regional conflict has added another layer of uncertainty, with tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel continuing to shape security calculations across the Middle East.</p> <p>The Houthis have also targeted shipping routes in the Red Sea, raising concerns over maritime security and the potential disruption of international trade.</p> <p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://news.abplive.com/news/world/28-children-killed-after-school-roof-collapses-in-peshawar-pakistan-1871585">28 Children Killed After School Roof Collapses In Peshawar, Pakistan</a></p>

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