Iran goes to polls first time after N-deal

FEBRUARY 26, 2016 | EDIT

Feb 26, 11:25 AM

Iranians went to the polls today in parliamentary and Assembly of Experts elections, seen as a contest between hardliners entrenched in power and allies of pragmatist President Hassan Rouhani seeking to expand their influence.

The 290-seat parliament vote will have scant impact on Iran’s foreign policy, in which Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has the final say, but could strengthen Rouhani’s hand before next year’s presidential vote. The 88-member Assembly will select Khamenei’s successor. Both bodies are currently in the hands of hardliners.

The contest pits supporters of Rouhani, who championed last year’s nuclear deal with world powers and is likely to seek a second presidential term next year, against conservatives deeply opposed to detente with Western powers.

India won’t vacate Siachen glaciers: Manohar Parrikar

FEBRUARY 26, 2016 | EDIT

Feb 26, 6:13 PM

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has said India will not vacate the Siachen glaciers as Pakistan cannot be trusted.

Replying to supplementaries during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha today, Mr Parrikar said if India vacates the position, the enemy can occupy it and they would have the strategic advantage. He said the country knows the experience of 1984 Siachen conflict.

The statement comes few weeks after ten soldiers were buried alive under snow after their camp in the northern part of the glacier was hit by a major avalanche.

Mr Parrikar said regular medical support is given to those serving in the Siachen which is six times more than the normal medical care. 19 categories of clothing are provided to the soldiers in addition to various other assistance like snow scooters.

Replying to another question, the Minister said the 7th Pay Commission has recommended substantial increase in benefits to those serving in hostile terrain and the Ministry will ensure that defence personnel working in the areas are compensated properly.