Romain Rouquette

After the recent revelations by Canada—which accused New Delhi of being involved in the assassination of a Canadian Sikh separatist leader—and the US indictment of a former Indian intelligence officer in a murder-for-hire plot, the Modi government has come under increasing pressure from the West. To confront a more powerful adversary like China, India needs the help of these countries, which are also prone to lecturing Modi about the backsliding of democracy, treatment of religious minorities, draconian laws, the situation in Kashmir and Manipur, and ties with Russia. A détente with Beijing provides New Delhi some breathing space to assert its independence and deal with the United States from a position of greater strength. It does not mean that India will forego its strategic partnership with the United States but only that it will be able to handle the pressure from Washington better. Sushant Singh writes on how the supposed resolution of the Indo-China crisis helps Modi more than India. Read the full piece here: https://lnkd.in/gdAxd488

𝟓𝟎,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧 & 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐤, 𝐬𝐚𝐲 𝐔𝐒 & 𝐔𝐤𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬. The Russian military has assembled a force of 50,000 soldiers, including North Korean troops, as it prepares to begin an assault aimed at reclaiming territory seized by Ukraine in the Kursk region of Russia, according to US and Ukrainian officials. A new US assessment concludes that Russia has massed the force without having to pull soldiers out of Ukraine’s east — its main battlefield priority — allowing Moscow to press on multiple fronts simultaneously. Russian troops have been clawing back some of the territory that Ukraine captured in Kursk this year. They have been attacking Ukrainian positions with missile strikes and artillery fire, but they have not yet begun a major assault there, US officials said. Ukrainian officials say they expect such an attack involving the North Korean troops in the coming days. For now, the North Koreans are training with Russian forces in the far western part of Kursk. https://lnkd.in/dhkBcbaE

Image Source: AP weapons deployment in space (symbolic picture) United Nations: The United Nations Security Council has rejected Russia’s proposal to completely ban the race to send weapons into space. During the debate on the resolution in the Security Council, the US said that Russia had launched a satellite last week which could be part of the deployment of weapons in space. The member countries of the Security Council are condemning this possible global trend in the future but have failed to take steps against it. Last month, Russia’s rivals America and Japan had put forward a proposal in the Security Council which was rejected. <!-- /8323530/Khabar_Desktop_VDO_1X1 --> America’s side America and its allies say that the purpose of the resolution discussed on Monday in the 15-member council is only to divert the world’s attention from Russia’s real intention to deploy weapons in space. “The resolution put before us today is nothing but the ultimate Russian distraction,” US Deputy Ambassador Robert Wood told the council. Russia’s argument Russia’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzia, rejected the fact that his country was trying to mislead the world. He said the vote on this resolution is an important moment for our Western allies to reveal the truth. China and other countries supported this proposal. “If they do not support this resolution, it will become clear that their main objective is to maintain their independence in relation to the deployment of weapons in outer space,” Nebenzia said. Also know Every nation says it wants to keep weapons out of space, and council member states reiterated this on Monday. But when it came to voting, the council was divided on the proposals by Russia and the US and Switzerland was absent from the voting process. The resolution fell under UN rules because it did not receive the required nine votes. (Language) Also read: Ibrahim Raisi was related to Prophet Muhammad, that’s why… Explainer: Why did Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi always wear a black turban, the reason is very interesting Latest World News function loadFacebookScript(){ !function (f, b, e, v, n, t, s) { if (f.fbq) return; n = f.fbq = function () { n.callMethod ? n.callMethod.apply(n, arguments) : n.queue.push(arguments); }; if (!f._fbq) f._fbq = n; n.push = n; n.loaded = !0; n.version = '2.0'; n.queue = []; t = b.createElement(e); t.async = !0; t.src = v; s = b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t, s); }(window, document, 'script', '//https://lnkd.in/dNCd7S6K'); fbq('init', '1684841475119151'); fbq('track', "PageView"); } window.addEventListener('load', (event) => { setTimeout(function(){ loadFacebookScript(); }, 7000); });

The Canadian government is closely monitoring the social media activities of Indian journalists due to allegations of foreign interference. A report has been submitted to the foreign interference commission, assessing information manipulation linked to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's comments on the killing of Hardeep Nijjar. This report, prepared by Canada's rapid response mechanism unit, scrutinizes interference from India, China, and Russia, especially in the context of ongoing tensions surrounding Nijjar’s death. The report highlights how pro-India groups have intensified narratives against Canadian officials, painting Trudeau and the High Commissioner to India as terrorists. These narratives emerged in response to assertions of a possible connection between Indian agents and Nijjar's death, as he has been labeled a terrorist by India. Additionally, claims have surfaced that Canada is harboring extremists associated with the Khalistani movement, which has generated considerable online debate. Further documented narratives criticize Canadian diplomats, question Canada's treatment of Khalistan supporters, and suggest Nijjar's association with extremist groups. Notable accusations include claims about Trudeau’s family ties influencing his position on Khalistan and assertions that granting Nijjar citizenship equated to appeasing terrorism. The discourse also targeted NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and implied foreign funding for the Khalistani movement from Pakistan. The report emphasizes a disparity in media reach, noting that Modi-aligned outlets may have a greater influence, thus skewing perceptions of Canada’s actions concerning Nijjar's case. #AsiaRisk #GeopoliticalConflictandDisputes #India Get a full accounting of the security situation in Asia by subscribing to Security Asia. Subscribe now--free of charge--at https://lnkd.in/g7Cs8Gkf https://lnkd.in/gtKvvEcA

#VantageOnFirstpost After Quad & AUKUS, US Forms "The Squad" to Counter Chinese Aggression | Vantage with Palki Sharma Tensions are flaring in the Indo-Pacific as China's provocative actions in the region are raising concerns about regional stability and security. Earlier this week, the Chinese Coast Guards attacked a Philippine vessel using water cannons in the South China Sea. This follows a string of similar incidents this year, raising alarm in Manila. Beijing’s massive military presence in the disputed waters of South China Sea poses a big threat to its neighbouring countries including Japan, Taiwan and Philippines. In a bid to push back against Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific region, the US has come up with a new regional alliance nicknamed, the Squad. This new alliance includes four countries - Australia, Japan, the Philippines and the US. The Squad aims to be a united front against Chinese threats in the Indo-Pacific. The plan is two-pronged: firstly, increased joint military drills to improve interoperability among member nations. Secondly, bolstering the Manila’s defences through security assistance and potential upgrades to their military equipment. However, previously formed alliances such as the Quad and AUKUS intended to counter China's regional influence are yet to achieve significant results. Will the new Squad alliance be more effective? Palki Sharma tells you more. --- USA | The Squad | China | Indo-Pacific | Chinese Coast Guards | Philippines | Vessel | South China Sea | AUKUS | Australia | Japan | Taiwan | Firstpost | World News | News Live | Vantage | Palki Sharma | News #usa #squad #china #southchinasea #indopacific #philippines #australia #japan #firstpost #vantageonfirstpost #palkisharma #worldnews

A 47-year-old Indian national, Periyasamy Mathiyazhagan, has been sentenced to nine weeks in prison for failing to return SGD 25,000 mistakenly sent to him. The funds were intended for a company loan repayment. Despite knowing the money was not his, he used it to pay off debts and sent some to his family in India. Interestingly, this case highlights the legal complexities surrounding misappropriated funds and the challenges in recovering them. What do you think should happen in such situations? Share your thoughts!

India’s Modi urges BRICS to unify stance on terrorism #bne #bneEditorsPicks #India #Brics #terrorism Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for unified efforts against terrorism at the 16th BRICS Summit, stressing the need for member states to avoid "double standards" when tackling this global threat. Modi emphasised that combating terrorism and its financing requires collective, unwavering support from all nations, and highlighted the importance of preventing youth radicalisation across the bloc, Indian state owned DD News reported. The Indian Prime Minister also advocated for advancing discussions on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations. Addressing new technological risks, he underscored the necessity for international regulations on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Modi's remarks came as the summit unfolded amid geopolitical tensions, following China's move in June 2023 to block a UN proposal aimed at designating Sajid Mir—a terrorist linked to the 2008 Mumbai attacks and based in Pakistan—as a "global terrorist."

The Manipur government has extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in the hill districts for an additional six months, effective October 1, excluding 19 police station areas in seven valley districts. This decision aims to maintain order amidst ongoing ethnic violence between the Kuki-Zo populations in the hills and the Meitei community in the valley, resulting in at least 237 deaths and over 60,000 displacements since May 3, 2023. The Governor stated that violent activities by extremist and insurgent groups necessitate armed forces to support civil administration, with specific exemptions for designated police stations. A comprehensive review of the disturbed area status was deemed impractical due to security forces being occupied, highlighting the sensitivity of the situation. AFSPA, in effect since 1981, allows the Army and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) to act decisively, including warrantless arrests and searches, and protects them from prosecution unless sanctioned by the central government. The Act has seen previous exemptions, such as the withdrawal from the Imphal Municipality area in 2004. Currently, only state governments issue AFSPA notifications in Manipur and Assam, while the Ministry of Home Affairs handles this for Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. #AsiaRisk #GeopoliticalConflictandDisputes #India Follow us for daily updates on risk and operations in Asia! https://lnkd.in/dBF8mqUv

Gold smuggling, phone tapping, solar scam cover-ups, a murder linked to gold smuggling, and allegations against the Chief Minister's political secretary—these are the troubling headlines Malayalis have been waking up to in recent days. It's particularly alarming that a ruling party MLA has come forward with serious accusations against the police department and high-ranking officials. This issue goes beyond mere political interests; it raises a significant concern for public safety and governance. When those tasked with safeguarding lives and upholding law and order become allies of criminal gangs, how can anyone feel safe? Is this unholy nexus between politics and crime turning the state into "God's Own Country" for criminals? Like past scandals, this one might fade with a token investigation. However, the deeply rooted corruption in the state's home department needs more than surface-level fixes. Real change can only come through the power of the people's vote. . . #Kerala #PoliticalCorruption #GovernanceCrisis #CrimeAndPolitics #JusticeForAll

India and China have withdrawn troops from contentious areas in Demchok and Depsang, following an agreement to ease tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Both countries have returned to troop positions from before April 2020, dismantling previous temporary structures. Verification of this withdrawal is set to occur in the coming days, allowing for the resumption of coordinated patrolling. Both armies will maintain dialogue, with a traditional sweets exchange expected during Diwali. The Indian Army plans to resume patrols in Demchok and Depsang by month-end, giving advance notice to the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to prevent conflicts. The agreement also requires the PLA to inform India of their patrols ahead of time. The disengagement process began around October 24, with both sides withdrawing from key friction points and disassembling temporary installations. The Indian Army is repositioning westward, while Chinese forces move east. This agreement grants access to previously restricted patrol areas, including the Depsang plains and Galwan Valley, though timelines for patrols remain unclear due to seasonal weather considerations. #AsiaRisk #GeopoliticalConflictandDisputes #India Get a full accounting of the security situation in Asia by subscribing to Security Asia. Subscribe now--free of charge--at https://lnkd.in/g7Cs8Gkf https://lnkd.in/gMc292GV

North Korea fires presumed ballistic missile towards Sea of Japan The projectile splashed down outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone TOKYO, September 12/ North Korea launched at least one projectile presumed to be a ballistic missile in the early hours of Thursday, the Japanese coast guards said. The projectile splashed down outside Japan’s exclusive economic zone, according to the NHK television. Its flight lasted approximately seven minutes. Later, the Japanese Defense Ministry said several ballistic missiles were launched from the western coast of the Korean Peninsula in the northeastern direction. Two of these projectiles covered the distance of 350 km, reaching the maximum altitude of 100 km. Meanwhile, South Korea’s Yonhap news agency reported, citing the Joint Chiefs of Staff, that the launch of multiple projectiles occurred at approximately 7:10 a.m. local time on Thursday (10:10 p.m. GMT on Wednesday). The Japanese coast guards urged vessels in the area to stay away from the missile’s debris and contact officials immediately if they spot any fragments. According to NHK, no damage was reported as a result of the launch. The Japanese Foreign Ministry described the launches as "a threat to peace and stability of the country, region and the global community," adding that they were carried out in breach of UN Security Council violations. In this regard, Japan lodged a diplomatic protest with North Korea. This is the tenth North Korean missile launch this year. The previous one occurred on July 1. According to the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff, one short-range ballistic missile and one unidentified ballistic missile were fired on that day. In turn, North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency said the country had successfully test-launched Hwasong-11Da-4.5 short-range ballistic missile, capable of carrying a 4.5-ton payload. #business #finance #financialservices

ICYMI: (MNN) India: return to coalition politics good for Christians?: India (MNN) — BJP loss forces PM Modi to return to coalition politics for the first time in a decade. India (MNN) — The winds of change are sweeping through India’s politics. In an unexpected turn, last-minute election results showed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political party, the BJP, lost its outright majority in Parliament. This loss forces Modi to return to coalition politics for the first time in a decade. While stock markets tremble at the uncertainty, Christians see a glimmer of hope. Under the past ten years of BJP rule, “They (Hindu nationalists) have been persecuting the people as well as the pastors; many shut down the church or left the town because of the harassment from the authorities,” David* with A3 says. “People [were] driven out of their homes; they were not allowed to enter the village because they are Christians. Only if they renounced their faith could they get back to their village.”       India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi campaigning for the BJP in 2009.(Photo courtesy of Al Jazeera English via Flickr under Creative Commons License)         Modi and the BJP turned a blind eye to Hindu nationalists during their rule, which sent persecution skyrocketing over the last decade. Now, instead of ramrodding Hindu nationalist policies through Parliament with BJP support, Modi will have to rely on the cooperation of his political alliance to govern. David explains in an email to MNN that alliance members often support secular agendas, which protect the interests of minorities like Christians: “…we are returning to coalition politics. This approach will involve collective leadership, with a diverse group of leaders contributing their perspectives. Such diversity can bring about greater wisdom and more balanced decision-making. Secular principles, with a focus on protecting the interests of weaker sections and minorities in our society, will need to be prioritized. The interests of all groups will be taken into account. Historically, India has thrived under coalition politics. For a country as diverse as ours, coalition politics is the way forward. It ensures that various voices and interests are represented, fostering inclusivity and unity in our governance. Nobody will be left behind.” Only the Lord knows what tomorrow brings. Pray He will give Christian leaders His wisdom and discretion. “Pray that we will be united in our effort to stand with one another and share our resources to show solidarity with other churches across India,” David requests.   *Pseudonym   Listen to the broadcast (story starts at 1:37) Direct Link: https://lnkd.in/gww5VyFM   More Information * This story by Katey Hearth was originally published… @missionnetworknews #news #A3 #missionnetworknews

Indonesian ambassador says Su-35 fighter jets contract remains in force Indonesian Ambassador to Russia Jose Tavares said that around 30% of weapons in service with his country’s armed forces are Russian-made MAKHACHKALA, May 8/ Indonesia has never terminated a contract to purchase Su-35 fighter jets from Russia and is waiting for the situation to become "more accommodating" to return to its implementation, Indonesian Ambassador to Russia Jose Tavares told TASS. "Indeed, at some point Russia and Indonesia signed this treaty. Indonesia has never terminated it, but it was put on hold to avoid certain potential inconveniences," he said. The ambassador added that Indonesia will return to this question when the situation becomes "more accommodating." In his estimates, around 30% of weapons in service with his country’s armed forces are Russian-made. CNN Indonesia news portal reported in late December 2021 that the Indonesian government abandoned its plans to purchase 11 Russian-made Su-35 multirole fighters due to lack of funds. News about the signing of a $1.1 billion contract with Jakarta for the delivery of 11 Su-35 fighter jets became known in early 2018. In July 2019, former Indonesian Ambassador to Russia Mohamad Wahid Supriyadi said that the delay in the implementation of the contract was due to the complexity of the trade scheme, which involved both government agencies and companies. In March 2020, Bloomberg reported that Indonesian authorities decided to give up on plans to implement the Su-35 contract with Russia due to a lack of funds in the budget caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and also due to threats from the US to impose sanctions on Indonesia if the contract was implemented. #business #finance #financialservices

Fang Free India: Addressing the Snakebite Crisis in India: Insights from Madhya Pradesh India is facing a significant public health challenge, with snakebites accounting for a staggering number of fatalities. A recent study published in the Transactions of The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene has revealed the profound financial impact of this issue in Madhya Pradesh, where ₹231.16 crore was disbursed in compensation for snakebite deaths from 2020 to 2022. The Scale of the Tragedy Led by Dr. Priyanka Kadam, founder of the Snakebite Healing and Education Society, the study uncovered that 5,779 snakebite deaths were recorded in Madhya Pradesh during the specified period. This translates to a compensation of ₹4 lakh per death for families who filed successful claims. While financial support is essential, it underscores the urgent need for effective preventive measures. Mapping the Crisis The research team created a heat map illustrating snakebite mortality across districts in Madhya Pradesh. Alarmingly, Sagar and Satna districts reported the highest number of deaths, while Burhanpur and Bhopal had the lowest. This geographical data is crucial for targeting interventions and raising awareness in high-risk areas. Understanding the Risk Factors Dr. Kadam emphasized that the combination of India's rich biodiversity and high population density significantly contributes to the incidence of snakebites. With 70% of the population living in rural areas, where living conditions are conducive to snake encounters, the risk is amplified. The study also found that many bites occurred while victims were sleeping or engaged in agricultural work—situations well-known for increasing vulnerability. The Global Context A 2022 study estimated that of the 63,400 snakebite deaths worldwide in 2019, an alarming 51,100 occurred in India, making it the most affected country. The World Health Organization recognizes snakebites as a neglected tropical disease and aims to reduce related mortality by 50% by 2030. Addressing this issue is essential not only for public health but also for social and economic stability in affected communities. The findings of this study underscore the urgency of addressing the snakebite epidemic in India. NGOs, government bodies, and communities need to collaborate on awareness programs, healthcare improvements, and preventive measures. Together, we can work towards a future where snakebites no longer claim lives and the financial burden on families is significantly reduced. If you’d like to learn more about our initiatives or how you can help, please reach out. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the fight against snakebite fatalities.