Death sentences upheld for Islamist militant trio

DHAKA • A Bangladesh court upheld death sentences yesterday for three members of an outlawed Islamist militant group in connection with a grenade attack on the British ambassador in 2004.

The trio were convicted of murder and masterminding the May attack on then British High Commissioner Anwar Choudhury, who was only slightly injured.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Cambodian students get Valentine's Day warning

PHNOM PENH • Cambodia's government has hit out at Valentine's Day, warning students against losing the "dignity of themselves and their families", in a note sent to schools across the country on Tuesday.

Valentine's Day has left some government officials rattled, particularly in Cambodia and neighbouring Thailand - both of which have become renowned in recent years for issuing warnings about the pitfalls of young love and premarital sex ahead of the annual Feb 14 celebration.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Rescued avalanche victim dies in hospital

NEW DELHI • An Indian soldier, rescued nearly a week after being buried in 8m of snow by a deadly Himalayan avalanche, died in hospital yesterday of his injuries, the army said.

Mr Hanumanthappa Koppad was rescued late on Monday after spending six days trapped on the world's highest battlefield, after a massive block of ice fell onto his army post.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Driving licence criteria eased for disabled folk

BEIJING • More disabled people will be able to drive in China, including those with paralysed upper limbs or visual impairment in one eye, when revisions to driving licence regulations take effect on April 1.

Under the revised regulations, people with only one hand may acquire a licence for modified vehicles, while those with missing fingers on the right hand will be allowed to drive regular cars.

XINHUA