Ukrainian lawmakers approve nationwide state of emergency
Kyiv (AP): Lawmakers in Ukraine have approved a nationwide state of emergency amid fears of an all-out Russian invasion.
The parliament approved Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's decree that imposes the measure for 30 days starting Thursday.
The state of emergency allows authorities to impose restrictions on movement, block rallies and ban political parties and organisations in the interests of national security and public order.
The move follows Russian President Vladimir Putin's move Monday to recognise the independence of rebel regions in eastern Ukraine, where the nearly eight-year conflict has killed over 14,000.
Putin has sanctioned the deployment of Russian troops there to maintain peace and received a parliamentary approval to use military force outside the country.
Ukrainian authorities have repeatedly voiced concern that Russia could try destabilise the country by relying on Moscow supporters inside the country, including a pro-Russia political party represented in parliament.
The document also bans information materials that could destabilise the situation in the country, and gives government the right to impose curfews and conduct checks.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Stampede at ‘Bekal Beach Festival’: One killed, more than 15 viewers injured
Kasaragod: In a second incident of a stampede during a programme in the district in recent times, a 19-year-old youngster died and more than 15 people were injured in a stampede that occurred during the ‘Bekal Beach Festival’ near Bekal Park on Monday night.
The deceased is identified as Shivananda of Poyinachi. Injured persons, including many children and senior citizens, are being treated in hospital.
ALSO READ: BJP has given free hand to mining mafias in Haryana: Surjewala
While the musical event of singer Vedan during the festival was reportedly cancelled after the stampede, it had initially attracted hundreds of people, with the audience gathering till the railway track near Bekal Park. The chaos, however, resulted in several people running away from the venue.
Shivananda reportedly died as he was hit by a train running on the track. Another person from the audience, who was with Shivananda, is also learned to have been hit by the train.
The organizers are accused of holding the event later than scheduled initially.
About a month ago, a stampede broke out during the musical event of Hanan Shah in Kasaragod, injuring more than 15 people.
