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CBC
6 days ago
- General
- CBC
He called his parents to say hello from the GO train. Then this international student disappeared
Social Sharing Nearly two weeks ago, after he left the GO train station in Hamilton, Sahil Kumar called his parents as he made his way to Toronto. He told his mom he was doing fine, missed her cooking, and would call again soon. That was the last time anyone heard from him. The 22-year-old international student, from the north Indian state of Haryana, had only been in Canada for three weeks when he vanished. On May 16, he left downtown Hamilton, where he shared a home with other Indian students, and started his commute to get to class at a Humber College building near Yonge and Bloor streets. Surveillance footage later placed him near Yonge and Dundas just after 1 p.m. — walking with a backpack, wearing a white collared shirt and a black jacket. Then he disappeared. Kumar's family said he was excited about his future in Canada and had been in weekly contact since arriving in late April. The last WhatsApp call between him and his parents was just minutes before he exited Union Station in Toronto. "He told us not to worry, that he was settling in well, and would start working soon," his cousin Amit Singh, who lives in the same village of Nandgao in Haryana, told CBC Hamilton. That call ended at 11:49 a.m. According to police, his phone powered off at 1:31 p.m. Four days later, Hamilton police issued a missing persons alert for Kumar. It noted that he was unfamiliar with the area, had left his passport and laptop at home, and might have been interested in visiting Toronto's waterfront based on online activity. The investigation is now being led by Toronto police. On May 26, they released a video they believe shows Kumar around 1 p.m. on May 16 near Yonge and Dundas, captured by a security camera. Kumar's family are worried that the most critical hours for searching for Kumar were lost in those early days after his disappearance. "We only learned on May 22 that the case was being transferred to Toronto police," Singh said. "That was six days after he went missing. He was last seen in Toronto. Why did it take so long?" A delay the family can't understand The family also wonders why police can't access more security cameras. "We kept asking police if they could check more footage, but were told it's difficult unless the case is converted to criminal," Singh said. "We feel helpless." According to the family, officers told them privacy laws can make it harder to access commercial or private CCTV footage beyond initial public spaces. They believe reclassifying the case as a criminal investigation would expedite that access. CBC Hamilton asked Toronto police to comment on the designation of the case and on the access police have to CCTV footage. Toronto police said the investigation is ongoing but that releasing details about it could "compromise the investigation or infringe on the privacy of those involved," the service said in an email. "We are concerned for Kumar's safety, and we are urging anyone who was in the area of Yonge Street and Dundas Street West around 1:30 p.m. that day to review the video and photos," said an email from media relations officer Stephanie Sayer. "At this time, there is no evidence to suggest foul play. Officers continue to follow up on all leads and new information as it comes in." CBC Hamilton also asked Hamilton police for comment on the timeline of the search, including when it may have been transferred to Toronto. It did not receive a response. Limits of missing persons investigations Waterloo MPP Catherine Fife, who helped create Ontario's Missing Persons Act, which came into effect in 2019, said the legislation was intended to give police more tools to investigate when someone vanishes without evidence of a crime connected to the case. "Before this law, police couldn't access even basic phone or banking records unless a crime was suspected," she said. "This legislation was designed to address that." But Fife said the act does not currently include language around access to private security footage. That exclusion was due to concerns related to privacy, she said. But she understand that international students are particularly "vulnerable" in Canada, she added. "That should factor into how we respond," Fife told CBC News this week. No news means no peace for the family Back in Haryana, Kumar's mother has stopped eating due to the stress of his disappearance. His younger brother, who encouraged Kumar to study in Canada, now blames himself, the cousin said. The village where they live has become quiet, suspended in the absence of news, the family said. "Sahil was not someone who wandered randomly," Singh said. "He was responsible, thoughtful, always looking out for the family. We just want to know where he is. We want someone to take this seriously." Singh said the family gave power of attorney to the Indian Consulate in Toronto to receive updates on Kumar's case. But days after formal authorization, the family says the consulate called Kumar's father simply to ask for information — not to offer any. "They should be helping us get answers," Singh said. "But they are asking us what the update is." The Consulate General of India in Toronto did not respond to a request for comment. Despite the frustrations, Kumar's father Harish Kumar remains hopeful.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Formulating CRI guidelines key to improving software patent review: Experts
New Delhi: The formulation of guidelines for examining computer-related inventions (CRIs) would help strengthen the patent examination framework for software and digital innovations , according to experts. As India positions itself as a global technology hub, these guidelines would also address the complexities of patenting CRIs while aligning with judicial precedents and the demands of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and blockchain computing, they said. CRIs comprise inventions, involving the use of computers, computer networks or other programmable apparatus and techniques related thereto and include such inventions having one or more features of which are realised wholly or partially by means of a computer hardware/software. The Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (CGPDTM) issued the draft guidelines for the examination of CRIs on March 25 this year. "This is a welcome move, as it signals India's intent to foster innovation in high-growth sectors while ensuring that speculative or abstract concepts do not clog the patent system," KAnalysis Partner Amit Singh said. The significance of these rules grows as recent developments in the field of information and communication technology and computer science, such as advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain technology, quantum computing, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), are rapidly transforming industries and reshaping innovation. These technologies often involve complex algorithms, data processing techniques, and hardware-software integrations. This rapid pace of innovation brings a need to develop a complementary regulatory system for patent examination, the draft guidelines said, adding that creators of knowledge in the domain of CRIs have consistently endeavoured for appropriate protection of their patent rights. The objective of these rules is to bring out clarity in terms of exclusions expected under Section 3(k) so that eligible applications of patents relating to CRIs can be examined efficiently and effectively. Section 3(k) of the Indian Patents Act , 1970, excludes certain inventions from patentability. It included a mathematical or business method or a computer programme per se or algorithms. These draft guidelines "mark a significant milestone in refining the patent examination framework for software and digital innovations", Singh said. He said Section 3 has long posed a challenge by excluding 'computer programmes per se from patentability, creating ambiguity for both inventors and examiners. "The 2025 draft guidelines represent a progressive shift by incorporating judicial interpretations, notably from cases like Ferid Allani v Union of India, decided by the Delhi High Court on December 12, 2019, which emphasise that inventions demonstrating a "technical effect" or "technical contribution" are patentable, even if they involve computer programs or software," Singh added. He said that these guidelines also introduce a refined five-step inventive step test to ensure that CRIs offer genuine technical advancements over routine computational methods. However, challenges remain, he said, adding that guidelines, though comprehensive, are not legally binding, which may lead to inconsistent application by examiners or patent attorneys. "The absence of illustrative examples, unlike earlier iterations, could leave room for subjective interpretation, potentially affecting uniformity in patent grants," Singh added. Another expert said that formulation of these guidelines is key at a time when usage of new technologies like AI is increasing at a rapid pace.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Formulating CRI guidelines key to improving software patent review: Experts
New Delhi: The formulation of guidelines for examining computer-related inventions (CRIs) would help strengthen the patent examination framework for software and digital innovations , according to experts. As India positions itself as a global technology hub, these guidelines would also address the complexities of patenting CRIs while aligning with judicial precedents and the demands of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and blockchain computing, they said. CRIs comprise inventions, involving the use of computers, computer networks or other programmable apparatus and techniques related thereto and include such inventions having one or more features of which are realised wholly or partially by means of a computer hardware/software. The Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (CGPDTM) issued the draft guidelines for the examination of CRIs on March 25 this year. "This is a welcome move, as it signals India's intent to foster innovation in high-growth sectors while ensuring that speculative or abstract concepts do not clog the patent system," KAnalysis Partner Amit Singh said. The significance of these rules grows as recent developments in the field of information and communication technology and computer science, such as advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain technology, quantum computing, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), are rapidly transforming industries and reshaping innovation. These technologies often involve complex algorithms, data processing techniques, and hardware-software integrations. This rapid pace of innovation brings a need to develop a complementary regulatory system for patent examination, the draft guidelines said, adding that creators of knowledge in the domain of CRIs have consistently endeavoured for appropriate protection of their patent rights. The objective of these rules is to bring out clarity in terms of exclusions expected under Section 3(k) so that eligible applications of patents relating to CRIs can be examined efficiently and effectively. Section 3(k) of the Indian Patents Act , 1970, excludes certain inventions from patentability. It included a mathematical or business method or a computer programme per se or algorithms. These draft guidelines "mark a significant milestone in refining the patent examination framework for software and digital innovations", Singh said. He said Section 3 has long posed a challenge by excluding 'computer programmes per se from patentability, creating ambiguity for both inventors and examiners. "The 2025 draft guidelines represent a progressive shift by incorporating judicial interpretations, notably from cases like Ferid Allani v Union of India, decided by the Delhi High Court on December 12, 2019, which emphasise that inventions demonstrating a "technical effect" or "technical contribution" are patentable, even if they involve computer programs or software," Singh added. He said that these guidelines also introduce a refined five-step inventive step test to ensure that CRIs offer genuine technical advancements over routine computational methods. However, challenges remain, he said, adding that guidelines, though comprehensive, are not legally binding, which may lead to inconsistent application by examiners or patent attorneys. "The absence of illustrative examples, unlike earlier iterations, could leave room for subjective interpretation, potentially affecting uniformity in patent grants," Singh added. Another expert said that formulation of these guidelines is key at a time when usage of new technologies like AI is increasing at a rapid pace.
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Time for ICAO to reclaim PoK airspace and hand it over to India
Capt. Amit Singh is an aviation professional with over 35 years of experience in commercial airlines, including pivotal roles in three startup airlines, where he developed systems for efficient, low-cost, and profitable operations. A leader in flight operations, safety, and pilot training, he channels his expertise into writing insightful articles on aviation, history, and strategic thinking. Capt. Singh is a sought-after speaker at international safety and training conferences, blending technical knowledge with a passion for storytelling and analysis. Additionally, he explores his creative side through painting, reflecting a well-rounded personality committed to growth and innovation. LESS ... MORE Introduction: Fir vs sovereignty in the skies The skies above Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) are a silent witness to a diplomatic and operational anomaly. While the region is legally part of India, Pakistan controls its airspace under the Lahore FIR, approved by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). This arrangement contradicts international law and undermines India's sovereign rights as per Article 1 of the Chicago Convention. This blog explores why ICAO must reassign Flight Information Region (FIR) control over PoK to India, aligning global airspace governance with international legal principles and geopolitical realities. Understanding ICAO FIR and airspace sovereignty An FIR (Flight Information Region) is an airspace zone within which a state is responsible for air traffic services. ICAO allocates FIRs for operational convenience, but FIR allocation does not define sovereignty. However, in practice, FIR control often: Imparts legitimacy to the controlling authority. to the controlling authority. Enables control over overflight permissions . . Affects international aviation policy and airline routing. India's sovereignty over Jammu & Kashmir, including PoK, is recognised through the Instrument of Accession (1947). The UN Security Council has consistently referred to the region as disputed, without recognising Pakistan's sovereignty over any part of it. Current anomaly: Pakistan controls FIR over Indian territory Despite India's legal claim, ICAO continues to allow Pakistan to: Control air traffic over PoK via the Lahore FIR . via the . Deny overflights to Indian aircraft across its own territory. to Indian aircraft across its own territory. Use FIR control as a tool of geopolitical leverage (e.g., post-Balakot 2019 airspace closures). This setup is a symbolic undermining of sovereignty and a practical aviation and safety risk. Why ICAO must reorganise the FIR over PoK 1. Legal Sovereignty vs FIR Control Article 1 of the Chicago Convention states: 'Every state has complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above its territory.' India's legal claim is grounded in international law . . FIR control should not contradict recognised territorial boundaries . . Pakistan's FIR over PoK violates the spirit of ICAO's neutrality. 2. Safety and operational risk in conflict zones Kashmir is a known conflict zone ; both countries maintain active military deployments. ; both countries maintain active military deployments. Pakistan has continuously unilaterally closed its airspace , affecting global air traffic. , affecting global air traffic. Civil-military coordination in Pakistani-administered areas lacks transparency, increasing the risk to international aviation. 3. Misuse of airspace control Pakistan often denies India overflight rights over PoK airspace. As per ICAO, closure of the airspace should not be selective. over PoK airspace. As per ICAO, closure of the airspace should not be selective. Airlines are forced to reroute, increasing fuel burn, emissions, and cost . . This violates the principles of peaceful overflight under Article 5 of the Chicago Convention. Global examples: FIRs managed across borders ICAO allows FIRs to extend beyond borders only under mutual agreement or when the neighbouring country lacks capacity. These examples reinforce that cross-border FIRs must be consensual and temporary. a. Singapore FIR over southern Malaysia Singapore manages Malaysian airspace near Johor. Based on technical capabilities and Malaysian consent . . Malaysia has raised sovereignty concerns, triggering renegotiation. b. Bahrain FIR Over Qatar and Saudi Arabia Bahrain controls parts of Qatari and eastern Saudi airspace . . Qatar filed a case with ICAO, demanding FIR realignment. ICAO approved the creation of a Doha FIR, confirming that change is possible. c. Senegal-Gambia Senegal manages Gambian airspace through a formal ICAO agreement . . Gambia consented due to infrastructure limitations. d. Serbia-Kosovo FIR managed via EUROCONTROL Despite Kosovo's partial recognition, the FIR was reassigned based on safety needs, not sovereignty status. In contrast, India neither lacks capability nor has given Pakistan consent to manage the airspace over PoK. India's rightful claim and ICAO's responsibility India is a founding ICAO member and has one of Asia's most advanced air traffic systems. Pakistan has no operational reason to control the airspace over Indian land. FIR realignment is: Legally justified Technically feasible Consistent with ICAO precedents ICAO must act on its responsibility to maintain neutrality, legal alignment, and operational safety. Conclusion: Restoring balance in international airspace governance The FIR over Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir represents an outdated, unjust, and unsafe arrangement. It fails the test of international law, undermines India's sovereignty, and exposes civil aviation to geopolitical risk. ICAO must correct this imbalance. It must initiate a structured transition plan to reassign FIR responsibility to India for the airspace above its legally recognised territory. This move will: Align global airspace with UN-recognised borders . . Enhance regional aviation safety . . Uphold the principle of sovereignty for all member states equally. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
Mint
25-05-2025
- Business
- Mint
Formulating CRI guidelines key to improving software patent review: Experts
New Delhi, May 25 (PTI) The formulation of guidelines for examining computer-related inventions (CRIs) would help strengthen the patent examination framework for software and digital innovations, according to experts. As India positions itself as a global technology hub, these guidelines would also address the complexities of patenting CRIs while aligning with judicial precedents and the demands of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and blockchain computing, they said. CRIs comprise inventions, involving the use of computers, computer networks or other programmable apparatus and techniques related thereto and include such inventions having one or more features of which are realised wholly or partially by means of a computer hardware/software. The Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (CGPDTM) issued the draft guidelines for the examination of CRIs on March 25 this year. "This is a welcome move, as it signals India's intent to foster innovation in high-growth sectors while ensuring that speculative or abstract concepts do not clog the patent system," KAnalysis Partner Amit Singh said. The significance of these rules grows as recent developments in the field of information and communication technology and computer science, such as advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain technology, quantum computing, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), are rapidly transforming industries and reshaping innovation. These technologies often involve complex algorithms, data processing techniques, and hardware-software integrations. This rapid pace of innovation brings a need to develop a complementary regulatory system for patent examination, the draft guidelines said, adding that creators of knowledge in the domain of CRIs have consistently endeavoured for appropriate protection of their patent rights. The objective of these rules is to bring out clarity in terms of exclusions expected under Section 3(k) so that eligible applications of patents relating to CRIs can be examined efficiently and effectively. Section 3(k) of the Indian Patents Act, 1970, excludes certain inventions from patentability. It included a mathematical or business method or a computer programme per se or algorithms. These draft guidelines "mark a significant milestone in refining the patent examination framework for software and digital innovations", Singh said. He said Section 3 has long posed a challenge by excluding 'computer programmes per se from patentability, creating ambiguity for both inventors and examiners. "The 2025 draft guidelines represent a progressive shift by incorporating judicial interpretations, notably from cases like Ferid Allani v Union of India, decided by the Delhi High Court on December 12, 2019, which emphasise that inventions demonstrating a "technical effect" or "technical contribution" are patentable, even if they involve computer programs or software," Singh added. He said that these guidelines also introduce a refined five-step inventive step test to ensure that CRIs offer genuine technical advancements over routine computational methods. However, challenges remain, he said, adding that guidelines, though comprehensive, are not legally binding, which may lead to inconsistent application by examiners or patent attorneys. "The absence of illustrative examples, unlike earlier iterations, could leave room for subjective interpretation, potentially affecting uniformity in patent grants," Singh added. Another expert said that formulation of these guidelines is key at a time when usage of new technologies like AI is increasing at a rapid pace.
