Mumbai, India
A high-ranking minister in India has been accused of sexual assault by at least 10 women. M.J. Akbar is a former journalist and is being accused by female journalists who used to be his subordinates. Akbar is calling the allegations against him “wild and baseless,” and he will take legal action against the women. These allegations come in the wake of the #MeToo movement taking off in India the past few weeks.
Original story by Reuters., Oct. 14, 2018. The New York Times.
Canada
Wednesday, Oct. 17, Canada will become the second country in the world to legalize marijuana. Statistics reveal that over 40 percent of Canadians have tried pot previously, and market analysts expect the cannabis industry in Canada to reach $5 billion USD by 2020. With the regulations that will be put in place for businesses, many expect police to crack down on illegal marketplaces already selling. Original story by Catherine Porter, Oct. 14, 2018. The New York Times.
Izmir, Turkey
At least 22 people, including children, were killed in a truck crash Sunday, Oct. 14. The truck was carrying migrants, and at least 13 others were injured. Local reporters said the truck veered off the road, crashed through a barrier, tipped over and fell about 65 feet from a highway. An investigation into the crash has begun by a state prosecutor and the truck driver could face arrest after hospital treatment.
Original story by The New York Times, Oct. 14, 2018. The New York Times.
Rome, Italy
Two retired Chilean priests were expelled from priesthood by Pope Francis as a consequence of sexual abuse of minors. It was made clear they had no possibility of appealing the decision. This sentence comes in the midst of a sprawling sexual abuse scandal and echoes of doubts of whether Francis would hold accountable those responsible for covering up the abuse. Original story by Jason Horowitz, Oct. 13, 2018.
The New York Times.