Pakistan first team to reach SAFF Championship semifinals

Pakistan became the first team to book a semifinal berth in the SAFF Championship after 19-year-old striker Najeeb Ullah Khan scored a first-half brace in a commanding 3-0 win over the Maldives at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Sunday.

Jantar Mantar ban pushes smaller protest groups in permission maze

New Delhi: The denotification of Delhis Jantar Mantar from the designated protest list has not just impacted the movement by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), but has also paralysed other protests that do not have the same pan-India bandwidth. On October 12, following the growing intense protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Krishna District: Class X Student Found Dead At BC Hostel

Protesting against the incident, the family members staged a demonstration outside the government hospital, demanding justice for the student.

'No Doubt In My Batting Line-up': Mendis Backs SLs Experienced Batters Ahead Of Pakistan Test

Sri Lanka Test: Sri Lanka Test captain Kusal Mendis is confident his side has the batting experience and technical ability to tackle Pakistan's expected change in pitch conditions, as the visitors prepare for the opening Test in Rawalpindi, beginning Monday. With Pakistan potentially preparing a greener surface that will assist fast bowlers, Mendis believes his batters are equipped to deal with the challenge, drawing confidence from their showing in England last summer. The Sri Lankan skipper pointed to the experience within the dressing room, particularly that of Dinesh Chandimal and Dhananjaya de Silva, as a major asset heading into the two-match series. With Pakitan potentially preparing a greener surface that will assist fast bowlers, Mendis believes his batters are equipped to deal with the challenge, drawing confidence from their showing in England last summer. The Sri Lankan skipper pointed to the experience We know they will be giving a little bit different wicket. I think the batters have to manage our skills and preparation well. I know we have a very good batting line-up with some very senior players... Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, myself, and a couple of other guys. Everyone knows how to play on a green wicket. We played really well in England also, so I have no doubt in my batting line-up, Mendis told reporters, as quoted by Cricinfo. The series will also mark Mendis' first assignment as Sri Lanka's Test captain since taking over the leadership from Dhananjaya de Silva in early October. Despite the demanding schedule of an extended stay in Pakistan, which has already lasted more than a month due to the preceding white-ball fixtures, Mendis said the squad was looking forward to returning to the longest format. The 31-year-old admitted that spending an extended period away from home had presented its own challenges, although the team had found ways to remain engaged while away from the field. Honestly, compared to ODIs and T20s, Test cricket is very different, he said. I think everyone mostly likes to play Test cricket. Me as well. I'm very happy to captain in Test cricket. I think we've been staying in Pakistan for more than one month. It's not easy, sometimes we stay in the hotel and come to practice and that's it... I think it's a little bit hard to stay one month in a hotel. But we do some stuff in the team room, games and individual things (to keep ourselves entertained). Overall, we're in a very good path, and when coming to Test cricket, we have to focus on our Test game. It's not easy to play Tests away from home. I think Pakistan will give a very good wicket, and we have a plan in how (we want) to play. Sri Lanka are yet to register a Test victory in their two series this year, against West Indies and India, but Mendis believes the performances of his bowling group provide sufficient encouragement heading into the Pakistan challenge. He was particularly pleased with the pace attack's progress, which has delivered consistently across formats. We have a very balanced side, both with the bowling and batting unit. I think we've done really well in the past couple of tours in the bowling side, and same in one-day cricket - the fast-bowling attack is doing well. We have a very senior bowling unit, the guys have played so many first-class and international matches. Same in the batting, so everyone is ready for tomorrow's game. Sri Lanka have a sizeable bowling arsenal at their disposal, with Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka and Eshan Malinga forming the pace contingent alongside all-rounder Milan Rathnayaka. Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya will spearhead the spin department. Beyond cricket, Mendis also acknowledged the Pakistan Cricket Board's efforts to ensure the visiting team had a comfortable stay, highlighting the security arrangements and the familiarity of the local cuisine. Sri Lanka have a sizeable bowling arsenal at their disposal, with Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka and Eshan Malinga forming the pace contingent alongside all-rounder Milan Rathnayaka. Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya will spearhead the spin department. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Kauriburi: The Cursed Temple

The fascination with the supernatural has long provided Indian filmmakers with fertile ground for exploring mythology, folklore, forgotten histories and cultural anxieties. Kauriburi: The Cursed Temple, also known as Kauriburir Mandir, directed by Sayantan Ghosal, attempts to capitalise on this tradition by placing its mythological horror narrative in the mysterious wilderness of Assam. Released in [] The post Kauriburi: The Cursed Temple Where Assam Became a Landscape of Supernatural Stereotypes appeared first on NorthEast Now .

He Will Definitely Go: CJP Leader Abhijeet Dipke Predicts Modi Govts Defeat In 2029 At Anti-SIR Rally In Kochi, Kerala

CJP, joined by Prakash Raj, mobilised hundreds in Kochi against SIR voter deletions, demanding CEC Gyanesh Kumars resignation and predicting Modis 2029 defeat.

India A dominate NZ A as Jurel, Tilak, Washington shine

India A established a commanding 428-run lead against New Zealand A on the second day of the third unofficial Test. Half-centuries from Dhruv Jurel (71), Tilak Varma (81 not out), and Washington Sundar (50 not out) propelled India A to a declared total of 464 for five. Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna then took two early wickets, leaving New Zealand A struggling at 36 for 2 at stumps.

18-year-old killed in accident, day after parents gift new bike

Hyderabad: An 18-year-old man died in an accident in Rajendranagar on Friday, November 6, a day after his parents gifted him a new bike. The deceased, Ayyappa, aka Akash, was the only son of Raju, a daily wage labourer, and Kumari, a domestic helper. Akash was reportedly demanding a bike for quite some time, and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

'Want justice for son': Woman renews rape charge against Rawat

Jenny, a resident of Assam, has reignited a nearly 23-year-old controversy by reiterating rape allegations against former Uttarakhand minister Harak Singh Rawat, demanding a fresh CBI investigation and a DNA test for her son. Rawat has denied the claims, citing a previous CBI clean chit, and threatened defamation suits against those making or supporting the allegations, including Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The case has stirred political circles ahead of upcoming assembly polls.

Fires reported at multiple locations across Delhi; no casualties

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 8 (IANS) Multiple fire incidents have been reported in Delhi, including a massive blaze at a hardware and paint store in Uttam Nagar and another fire in the basement of a building in Malviya Nagar. Several fire tenders were deployed to contain the blazes, with no casualties or injuries reported in either incident. A massive fire broke out at a hardware and paint store on Main Najafgarh Road in Uttam Nagar late Saturday evening, spreading from the ground floor to the upper floors of a three-storey building. Around five fire tenders were rushed to the spot to contain the blaze. Another fire broke out in the basement of a building in Malviya Nagar's Khidki area, prompting the deployment of eight fire tenders. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control. No casualties or injuries were reported. Speaking to IANS about the Uttam Nagar incident, Janakpuri Fire Station Officer Sarvanlal Meena said, Three fire tenders were dispatched from our station, while one came from Dwarka. As our location is slightly towards the corner, it takes us a little longer to reach the spot owing to the traffic, and the Dwarka fire tender arrived earlier. A total of around five fire tenders reached the spot. We brought the fire under control in approximately half an hour. No one was injured, and everyone was found safe. According to officials, the fire in Uttam Nagar had originated on the ground floor before spreading to the upper floors of the three-storey structure. The cause of the fire was not immediately known. In Malviyanagars Khidki Extension area, the fire was caused by a huge pile of garbage inside a basement. Eight fire tenders rushed to the spot to control the blaze. The latest incident comes amid a series of fire emergencies reported across the national capital ahead of Diwali. Earlier on Saturday, a major fire broke out at a socks warehouse located in the basement of a building near Usha Mata Mandir in the Shahzada Bagh area of Sarai Rohilla. The incident was reported at around 11.36 p.m. on Friday under the jurisdiction of Keshav Puram, and firefighting operations continued for several hours. The expanded operation involved three water tenders, three water bowsers, two breathing fire tenders, one mobile pump and one quick response vehicle. The fire had broken out in the socks godown in the basement of a building comprising a basement and a ground floor, spread across approximately 550 square yards. The blaze was brought under control at around 4.50 a.m. on Saturday, following which cooling operations were undertaken to prevent any possibility of reignition. No casualties or injuries were reported. On Friday, a fire also broke out at a building housing a car showroom and a garment showroom near Gate No. 2 of Saket Metro Station in South Delhi at around 3.26 p.m. Multiple fire tenders and emergency response vehicles were rushed to the spot. In another incident, a massive fire broke out at a four-storey commercial building in Gaffar Market during the early hours of Friday, on Dhanteras. Around 20 to 25 fire engines were deployed to bring the blaze under control. No casualties or injuries were reported in the Gaffar Market incident.

Delhi-NCR wakes up to 'very poor' air on Diwali; several monitoring stations record severe AQI

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 8 (IANS) Residents of Delhi and the surrounding areas woke up to 'very poor' air quality on Diwali morning as the national capital recorded an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 384, indicating a concerning pollution situation across the city. According to data by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), air pollution levels remained particularly alarming in several parts of Delhi, where 11 monitoring stations registered AQI readings above 400, placing them in the 'severe' category. Punjabi Bagh recorded the highest AQI at 450, followed by RK Puram at 449 and IIT Delhi at 446. Dwarka also reported a high reading of 444, while CRRI Mathura Road registered an AQI of 425 and Siri Fort recorded 423. According to the 6 a.m. update, out of the 23 monitoring stations listed, 11 recorded AQI levels exceeding 400, indicating severe air pollution. The remaining 12 stations reported readings ranging between 301 and 400, placing them in the 'very poor' category. Chandni Chowk recorded an AQI of 423, Pusa reported a reading of 415, North Campus of Delhi University recorded 423, while Burari Crossing registered 411 and NSUT Jaffarpur recorded 409. Among other locations, Narela recorded an AQI of 399, followed by ITO at 396 and Mandir Marg at 393. Talkatora Garden and Aya Nagar both registered readings of 369, while Burari recorded an AQI of 370. Uttam Nagar also reported poor air quality, with its AQI standing at 373. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 328, remaining in the 'very poor' category despite registering a comparatively lower reading than several other parts of the capital. Meanwhile, Vasundhara Enclave reported an AQI of 356, while Tikri Kalan and Badarpur both recorded readings of 349. Karala registered an AQI of 337, whereas Lodhi Road reported a reading of 333, according to the morning pollution data.

Defence Minister asks armed forces to maintain high operational readiness, counter cyber and drone threats

New Delhi, Nov 7:Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday called upon the armed forces to maintain the highest level of operational readiness, with particular focus on domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity to effectively counter emerging security threats. Interacting with Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel at Air Force Station Bagdogra in West Bengal on the eve of Diwali, he said the security environment had become increasingly complex, with warfare extending beyond conventional border engagements to include asymmetric warfare, proxy wars, cyber-attacks, drone swarms and information operations. He cautioned that adversaries were increasingly avoiding direct confrontation and attempting to exploit vulnerabilities through misleading information and social media campaigns. Through social media, the adversary may attempt to sow doubt in the minds of the local population and our soldiers by spreading misleading information. In such a scenario, your role extends beyond that of an ordinary soldier, he said. Describing Bagdogra as a strategically important location and a crucial link in Indias security framework, particularly for the North-Eastern region, Rajnath Singh praised the courage and dedication of the personnel deployed there. He said the Air Warriors stationed in the region served as a strong shield for the security of the eastern sector and that their preparedness was essential for maintaining regional stability. The Defence Minister also stressed that discipline and courage remained indispensable despite rapid technological advancements. He said the conduct, language and restraint of armed forces personnel shaped the militarys image among local communities. Urging the personnel to strengthen their engagement with people in and around Bagdogra, he said building public trust was equally important for national security. The more you engage with the local community, the weaker the adversarys conspiracies will become, he said. Reaffirming the governments commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Rajnath Singh highlighted the growing contribution of Indian start-ups and industries to the development of drones, anti-drone systems and advanced military equipment. He appreciated the armed forces for adopting indigenous technologies and acquiring new skills in drone operations and cyber security, emphasising that the military must become increasingly technology-driven to meet future challenges. Referring to the Cabinets approval of the Second Tour of Duty for Agniveers, the Defence Minister said the decision would provide them another opportunity to serve the country. He said that after completing the two-year engagement period, all Agniveers would have an opportunity to be enrolled as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and fulfilment of selection criteria. He described the decision as a significant Diwali gift for Agniveers. Rajnath Singh also extended Diwali greetings to the Air Warriors and their families, acknowledging the sacrifices made by personnel who remain away from their homes during festivals to protect the country. He expressed gratitude to their families for their contribution and assured them that the nation would always stand by them and look after their welfare. Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Bagdogra, Air Commodore Manish Sharma, and other senior IAF officials were present on the occasion.

Sopore bypass bridge develops fresh damage weeks after reopening

Sopore, Nov 7:Weeks after reopening following a two-week closure for repairs, the 216-metre Sopore Bypass Bridge continues to cause problems for commuters, with uneven concrete patches, structural dips and damaged expansion joints reported along the deck. Motorists say vehicles experience sudden jolts while crossing the bridge, raising questions about the quality and durability of the resurfacing work. The deterioration is particularly concerning for fruit growers and transporters who depend on the bridge to move apple consignments from Sopore Fruit Mandi. Heavy trucks carrying fruit negotiate the damaged stretches daily. The bridge was closed on October 22 for repair work and reopened after nearly two weeks. However, commuters say the work has failed to provide the expected relief. We thought the closure would lead to proper repairs. But the bridge is still uneven, and vehicles continue to experience jolts while crossing it, local commuters said. The recurring damage has raised questions about the execution of repairs, particularly around the expansion joints, which are subjected to repeated stress from moving traffic. Civil engineering experts say durable bridge-deck repairs require proper surface preparation, suitable bonding materials and adequate curing to ensure that fresh concrete adheres firmly to the existing structure. They caution that superficial patching without addressing underlying defects can result in premature failure, particularly on structures carrying heavy commercial traffic. Fruit growers and transporters have sought immediate intervention, saying the damaged surface adds to the difficulties of moving apple consignments from Sopore. Locals have urged the authorities concerned to conduct a technical inspection and restore the damaged portions in accordance with prescribed engineering standards. They said the bridge, an important link for the area's commercial traffic, needs comprehensive repairs rather than repeated temporary fixes. They have also sought accountability for the work carried out during the recent closure, saying commuters should not be left to face the same problems weeks after the bridge's reopening.

Paraguay's ousted president faces prosecutors after his removal over bank collapse

Santiago Pena was removed from office by Congress following a bank failure affecting nearly three million customers. Prosecutors ordered his arrest for alleged breach of trust and other offenses related to Ueno Bank's collapse. His successor, Vice President Pedro Alliana, began forming a new Cabinet to address the situation. Public protests demanding accountability and access to frozen funds escalated significantly in response.

Israel President Picks Gadi Eisenkot Over Netanyahu To Form Next Government

Israels President Isaac Herzog has tasked former army chief Gadi Eisenkot with forming the countrys next government, choosing him over incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Eisenkot secured the backing of 67 lawmakers, compared with 46 for Netanyahu. He now has 28 days, with a possible 14-day extension, to build a coalition commanding at least 61 seats in the 120-member Knesset.

Uris Jalil Lone selected for UN climate summit

Srinagar, Nov 07: Coming from a small and far-flung town of Uri, Jalil Lone, a humanitarian professional from Bijhama area in north Kashmir has been selected as a registered observer at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), scheduled to be held in Antalya, Trkiye, from November 9 to 20, 2026. With nearly two decades of experience working with communities affected by disasters and climate change, Jalils participation in the global climate summit is expected to provide another opportunity to highlight the concerns and experiences of vulnerable communities in international climate discussions. Currently based in Berlin, Germany, Jalil serves as Global Advisor on Disaster Risk Reduction, Climate Change and Anticipatory Action with DKH. In this capacity, he provides technical guidance and support to local partners, governments and civil society organisations across several disaster-prone regions. His professional responsibilities have taken him across Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Latin America, including Madagascar, Mozambique, Chad, Niger, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria, Yemen, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Indonesia, the Philippines, Colombia and Haiti. Beyond his field-level humanitarian engagements, Jalil has also represented and led government delegations at several international conferences and dialogue platforms focusing on disaster risk reduction and climate resilience. His international engagements have included forums in Australia, Austria, the Philippines, Berlin and Geneva, where discussions centred on strengthening disaster preparedness and protecting communities vulnerable to climate-related risks. Recently, he visited Indonesia to engage with local partners on drought and dry-spell challenges. He subsequently travelled to Trkiye, where he participated in training programmes in Istanbul for civil society organisations and government representatives, including participants from Afghanistan and Pakistan. Reflecting on his demanding international schedule, Jalil said his work gave him immense satisfaction. I am happy about the new responsibility. The travel is fun, but sometimes I run out of suitcases, he remarked with a touch of humour. Throughout his career, Jalil has worked with several internationally recognised humanitarian organisations, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations Disaster Management Team, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the German Red Cross, ActionAid International, RedR India and RedR Australia. His professional journey has taken him to some of the worlds most challenging humanitarian environments. He contributed to humanitarian response efforts during the Rohingya refugee crisis in Bangladesh and worked on humanitarian challenges in Myanmars Rakhine State. He also supported recovery initiatives following the devastating 2015 earthquake in Nepal. His assignments with the Red Cross in Tajikistan, Kenya and Bangladesh remain among the significant milestones of his career. In Afghanistan, he contributed to climate action and disaster preparedness initiatives, while in Bangladesh, he worked on programmes aimed at helping vulnerable communities cope with recurring floods. He has also been involved in Anticipatory Action, an approach that uses forecasts and early warning systems to help communities prepare for disasters before they strike, reducing their potential impact. Born and raised in Bijhama in Uri, Jalils journey from a small border village to international humanitarian platforms has been shaped by his interest in social work and community welfare. As a youngster, he dreamt of representing his country in cricket. Although that ambition did not materialise, the discipline, determination and team spirit he developed through the game later became important foundations of his professional life. After completing his studies in sociology and social Work at the University of Kashmir, Jalil began his career as a schoolteacher. His growing interest in understanding human suffering and supporting vulnerable communities eventually drew him towards the humanitarian sector. Over nearly two decades, he has worked in around 15 countries and travelled to more than 30 nations, besides undertaking numerous international training programmes and professional courses in disaster management, climate change and humanitarian response.

Job market dark reality: Man attends 55 interviews after applying for over 175 roles, gets no offers, says, 'Doesn't know what else to do...'

In a relentless job search, a determined candidate has submitted 175 applications and participated in 55 interviews but has yet to secure an offer. After advancing to the final round 25 times, financial pressure has mounted due to exhausted unemployment benefits. To increase their chances, they have turned to artificial intelligence for targeted job hunting, highlighting the struggles faced by many in todays demanding employment landscape.

CJP founder launches scathing attack on Central government

Addressing a protest named Jantar Mantar @ Kochi demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), Abhijeet Dipke stresses that Modi will go out in 2029.

Pradeep Poojary Case Should Be Handed Over to CID, Demands Brother Dilip Poojary

Pradeep Poojary Case Should Be Handed Over to CID, Demands Brother Dilip Poojary Udupi: Demanding that the investigation into the death of Perdoor resident Pradeep Poojary be handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), his brother Dilip Poojary said the family had lost faith in the district police administration and no longer believed that [] The post Pradeep Poojary Case Should Be Handed Over to CID, Demands Brother Dilip Poojary appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

NDA wins large number of MPTC seats in Godavari region

Tension prevails as former MLA Jakkampudi Raja stages protest demanding recount of Korukonda ZPTC votes

Rajnath Singh reviews preparedness of Trishakti Corps at Sukna

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 7 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday reviewed the operational preparedness of Trishakti Corps at Sukna in West Bengal on Saturday. He was briefed on infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the deployment of advanced military equipment and emerging technologies to enhance operational capabilities and combat effectiveness during his visit, according to a statement issued by the Defence Ministry. The minister expressed satisfaction with the operational preparedness of the Corps and appreciated its contribution to nation-building through infrastructure development and community welfare initiatives in border areas, aimed at strengthening ties with local communities. Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth; General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, Lt Gen VMB Krishnan; and General Officer Commanding, 33 Corps, Lt Gen Man Raj Singh Mann were present on the occasion, along with other senior army officers. Later, addressing the soldiers during Barakhana on the eve of Diwali, the Defence Minister commended their courage, professionalism and unwavering dedication towards safeguarding the nation's frontiers under challenging operational conditions. Underlining the importance of logistics in national security, he described Sukna and its surrounding region as a critical hub for the movement of supplies, weaponry, food, medical provisions and personnel to forward locations. He stated that Sukna serves as a vital link in the security architecture of Eastern India and its geographical sensitivity necessitates round-the-clock operational readiness. He added that the Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is continuously working to strengthen supply chains and ensure that soldiers deployed at forward locations have access to all essential requirements. Rajnath Singh highlighted that budgetary allocations for roads, tunnels, border infrastructure and modern equipment have been increased, with the nation steadily progressing towards 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. Highlighting the changing nature of modern warfare, the Defence Minister emphasised that security challenges are no longer confined to conventional exchanges of gunfire or artillery along the borders, but encompass hybrid warfare, proxy wars, cyber-attacks, drone incursions and information warfare. He said that adversaries increasingly resort to spreading rumours through social media, monitoring sensitive locations using drones and attempting to compromise military systems through cyber-attacks. He exhorted the personnel to remain vigilant and prepared to safeguard national security across all domains. The minister reaffirmed the Government's commitment to taking every possible step to boost troop morale and urged officers to spend quality time with soldiers whenever possible. Such interactions, he said, would foster a strong sense of belonging among personnel and reinforce their confidence that the Government and the entire nation stand firmly with them. Describing the North-Eastern region as the 'first edge' rather than the 'last edge' of India, Rajnath Singh said that the region represents the beginning of the nation's geographical and cultural landscape, as it receives the first rays of the morning sun.

Gujarat CM to meet citizens in Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad on first day of 'Vikram Samvat 2083'

Digital Desk | Gandhinagar, Nov 7 (IANS) Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will visit temples in Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad and meet citizens, government officials and police personnel on November 10 to mark the beginning of 'Vikram Samvat 2083'. Patel will begin the New Year with prayers at the Panchdev Temple in Gandhinagar at 7 a.m., followed by a visit to the Trimandir in Adalaj at 7:30 a.m. He will then meet citizens at the Community Centre in the Ministers' Residential Complex at 8 a.m. to exchange New Year greetings. At 8:50 a.m., the Chief Minister will visit Raj Bhavan to extend New Year greetings to Governor Acharya Devvrat. He will later travel to Ahmedabad, where he is scheduled to visit the Bhadrakali Mata Temple at 10 a.m. to offer prayers. At 10:30 a.m., he will meet citizens at the Annex State Guest House in Shahibaug to exchange New Year greetings. The day's engagements will conclude with a programme at the Police Officers' Mess in Shahibaug-Duffnala at 11:45 a.m., where Patel will extend New Year greetings to senior police officers and their families. The programme follows the Chief Minister's Diwali and New Year message in which he called upon the people of Gujarat to work collectively towards realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a Viksit Bharat through a Viksit Gujarat. In his message marking Vikram Samvat 2083, Patel said: The collective energy, skills and self-reliance of seven crore Gujaratis would play an important role in taking the state forward. He also called for renewed commitment to economic prosperity, good governance, security and social unity. Referring to environmental conservation, the Chief Minister highlighted initiatives such as the Green Credit programme and the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 3.0 campaign, and urged the younger generation to participate actively in such efforts. He also wished citizens happiness, peace, prosperity and good health in the New Year.

If Gyanesh Kumar goes...: Dipke predicts Modi govt's exit

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has boldly predicted the Modi government's defeat in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections, urging citizens to prepare for a change while demanding electoral reforms.

Striking Satellite Pics Show Ram Mandir In Ayodhya Ahead Of Diwali

High-resolution radar images of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya shared by ICEYE before Diwali.

Sivakasi girl threatens to kill nephew at knife-point demanding new mobile phone

Police struggle for four hours late in the night; Child rescued safely only after brand new mobile phone was handed over to her

Temple festival dispute turns fatal in Pamban; relatives stage road blockade demanding arrests

GOC Northern Command visits Siachen, extends festive greetings to troops

Srinagar, Nov 7: General Officer Commanding (GOC) Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma visited troops deployed at the icy heights of the Siachen glacier on the eve of Diwali. The Army Commander interacted with the brave hearts in the worlds highest battlefield and conveyed festive greetings to troops. Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, #ArmyCdrNC visited troops deployed at the icy heights of the #SiachenGlacier on the eve of Diwali. Interacting with the brave hearts in the worlds highest battlefield, he conveyed warm festive greetings and lauded their indomitable spirit. Amidst unforgiving terrain, the resolve of the #IndianArmy shines brighter than a thousand lights, Armys Northern Command said in a post on X. Courage in every step, fortitude in every heart: leadership stands with its troops, Army added.

Fight Against Gyanesh Kumar Will Continue: Abhijeet Dipke, Prakash Raj Join Kochi Anti-SIR Protest

Actor Prakash Raj and CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke joined hundreds of protesters in Kochi demanding the cancellation of SIR and Gyanesh Kumar's resignation.

Protesters Climb Crane, Set Off Flares At Microsoft Data Centre Site

The action was part of a wider campaign against large data centres, with activists in several European countries demanding a halt to new projects over concerns about their environmental and social costs.

Ranbir Kapoor to quit films after 10 years? Actor's remark leaves fans worried

In a recent podcast, Ranbir Kapoor opened up about his demanding work schedule, revealing that he has been moving from one film to another without taking much of a break. During the conversation, the actor made a surprising remark, saying, I think this is my last decade as an actor.

Adhikari gives police free hand to tackle crimes against women, drug smuggling in Bengal

Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 7 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday said he had given the police a free hand to deal with crimes against women and narcotics smuggling in the state, warning that political interference in these matters would not be tolerated. At the same time, Adhikari, who also holds the police portfolio, issued a stern warning against attacks on police personnel and vandalism of police stations and outposts, saying those involved would face prolonged imprisonment. I have given the police a free hand in tackling two issues. The first is crime against women and the second is narcotics smuggling. I will not tolerate any kind of political interference in these two issues. At the same time, as the police minister of the state, I will not tolerate any incident of attack on a cop or ransacking of any police station or police outpost. Those attacking police personnel will have to spend years behind bars, Adhikari said. He also warned that those responsible for vandalising police establishments would have to pay for the damage, along with interest. We will recover damages, along with interest, in case of ransacking of police stations or police outposts from those responsible, the Chief Minister said while distributing appointment letters to newly recruited police sub-inspectors at Lalbazar, the Kolkata Police headquarters in central Kolkata. Adhikari advised the newly appointed officers to maintain strict discipline in their daily duties and follow the instructions and orders of their superiors. Highlighting the challenges faced by the police force, he said West Bengal's vast geographical diversity, large population and varied linguistic and cultural backgrounds made policing particularly demanding. There are 11 crore people in West Bengal. On one side are mountains, on the other side are jungles, and on the other are several isolated islands. The police's responsibility is to ensure that public life remains normal. Till now, they did not get any facilities. The police did not have financial security. Now the police will be provided with financial security, he said. The Chief Minister said the state government would focus on modernising the police force and improving the quality of its training. An MoU had been signed with a police training centre in Assam for this purpose, while steps would also be taken to strengthen coordination between the state police and the Central forces. Claiming that police recruitment had remained neglected during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government, Adhikari said the new administration had already recruited 11,000 personnel into the state police force. He acknowledged that 46,000 posts were still vacant and said the government would fill them in phases. The recruitment drive would include 6,345 women police personnel and 4,000 constables, he said, adding that further appointments would be made over the coming months. Recruitment in the police will be done again in December-January, Adhikari said, indicating that the government planned to accelerate the process to strengthen the state's policing infrastructure.

Ranbir Kapoor clarifies last decade as an actor remark; plans directorial debut in 2-3 years

Ranbir Kapoor has spoken about his plans to move behind the camera, revealing that he hopes to make his directorial debut within the next two to three years. In a recent interview with BBC Asian Network alongside his Ramayana co-star Sai Pallavi, the actor also suggested that the coming decade could be his last playing the kind of demanding lead roles he currently takes on. Discussing his packed schedule and aspirations as a filmmaker, Ranbir said, I guess, its my last decade as an actor; will I get to play these parts? I do want to kind of pivot towards direction. His remark appeared to take Sai Pallavi by surprise, prompting her to respond, Ohhh... and seek clarification. Ranbir then explained that he was referring to the kind of roles he currently gets to play, rather than announcing an immediate retirement from acting. What I mean is where I can get to play these parts, he clarified, referring to films such as Ramayana. BREAKING: Superstar #RanbirKapoor ANNOUNCES that he will RETIRE from acting after this decade... to focus on directing films. Why, why, why? https://t.co/KnhaaSjjZg Box Office Chronicle (@BoxOffice_Truth) November 7, 2026 This is not the first time Ranbir has spoken about wanting to direct. During an Instagram Live session in September 2025, he revealed that he had started a writers' room and was developing two ideas. I am dying to direct a movie, he had said, adding that filmmaking was on his to-do list for the next couple of years. While Ranbir has not announced a directorial project yet, his latest comments indicate that he is actively working towards that goal. Also Read:Ramayana Box Office Update Day 3: Ranbir KapoorYash starrer witnesses BIG Saturday jump; collects Rs. 23.95 cr. by 12 noon, Rs. 70 cr. day on the cards?

Udayanidhi Stalin meets families of nine fishermen who died because of Cyclone Murasu

Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, Udayanidhi Stalin, on Saturday, met families of nine Kasimedu fishermen who lost their lives in a Cyclone Murasu-related tragedy. Speaking to ANI, Stalin mentioned that the DMK supports fishermen families' demand for government jobs. It's a very tragic accident that has happened. I've been visiting the family and giving our support. I think the TVK govt has not taken adequate steps... The families are telling me that, even though they have been submitting complaints to the police station and informing the officials, no proper action was taken. They (TN Govt) have announced Rs 7 lakhs as a relief fund and, again, around Rs 2 lakhs. They (families of the deceased) are demanding govt jobs for each family. This time, we want to stand by them and show our support... said Stalin. Earlier, nine Kasimedu fishermen who departed from Chennai on October 29 amid Cyclone Murasu experienced engine failure near Ramayapatnam Port in Andhra Pradesh...

3rd Unofficial Test: Jaiswal Hits 102 As India A Take Control Against NZ A On Opening Day

Captain Dhruv Jurel: Yashasvi Jaiswal continued his prolific run with the bat, registering his second consecutive century to put India A in a commanding position against New Zealand A on the opening day of the third unofficial Test here on Saturday. The left-handed opener struck 102 off 127 deliveries, while Sai Sudharsan remained unbeaten on 77 as the visitors reached 227/2 before persistent rain brought an early end to the days proceedings. Having remained unbeaten on 155 in the previous unofficial Test in Christchurch, Jaiswal once again demonstrated his ability to dictate proceedings against the New Zealand A bowling attack. His 175-run opening partnership with Sudharsan laid the foundation for Indias strong start, with the pair negotiating the initial movement before gradually taking control of the contest. India A were asked to bat after losing the toss, but the decision did little to unsettle the visitors. With the upcoming Test series against New Zealand beginning on November 19, India A also included Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and Prasidh Krishna in their line-up as preparations for the assignment gathered momentum. The opening session saw Jaiswal and Sudharsan adopt a measured approach against the New Zealand pacers, who found some assistance from the surface. Jaiswal frequently used his feet to counter the movement, while Sudharsan focused on building his innings through patience and disciplined shot selection. Jaiswal gradually shifted gears after settling in, finding the boundary three times in an over from Jarrod McKay. India A went into the lunch interval without losing a wicket, having successfully negotiated the early challenge. The left-hander encountered a few uncomfortable moments after the resumption, particularly when he was beaten on successive occasions while approaching his half-century. However, he soon brought up the milestone with a well-timed boundary. New Zealand A had an opportunity to break the partnership when Matthew Boyle failed to hold on to a catch at slip with Jaiswal batting on 54. The missed chance proved costly as the opener immediately accelerated, collecting three consecutive boundaries before clearing the ropes against Zak Gibson. At the other end, Sudharsan continued to occupy the crease and eventually reached his half-century after facing 129 deliveries. While his partner attacked more frequently, the Tamil Nadu batter ensured that India A maintained a steady flow of runs. Jaiswal brought up his century in emphatic fashion, reaching the three-figure mark from just 127 balls with consecutive boundaries. However, his innings came to an end shortly afterwards when he chipped a delivery towards mid-off for 102. He also required attention from the physio during his stay at the crease after appearing to experience cramps. The dismissal brought an end to the opening stand, but India A remained firmly in control. The scoring rate dipped after the tea interval as Devdutt Padikkal took time to settle alongside Sudharsan. Padikkal eventually fell for 15 after attempting an expansive drive against McKay, only to edge the delivery behind. Captain Dhruv Jurel managed to add a boundary, but rain intervened shortly after the drinks break, forcing the players off the field and bringing an end to the days play. For New Zealand A, Danru Ferns was the standout bowler, finishing with figures of 1/16 from 10 overs. McKay also picked up a wicket, conceding 45 runs. India A will resume their innings at 227/2, with Sudharsan unbeaten on 77 and Jurel at the crease, having made four. With two established batters already having laid a substantial foundation, the visitors will look to build an even bigger first-innings total when play resumes. For New Zealand A, Danru Ferns was the standout bowler, finishing with figures of 1/16 from 10 overs. McKay also picked up a wicket, conceding 45 runs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Six minor girls rescued from prostitution racket in Rajasthan

Six minor girls rescued from prostitution racket in Rajasthans Jhalawar Jaipur: The Rajasthan Police have busted a prostitution racket operating under the guise of traditional settlements (deras) in the Bhawanimandi area of Rajasthans Jhalawar district, exposing the alleged involvement of families in trafficking their own minor daughters, officials said. Police rescued six girls aged between [] The post Six minor girls rescued from prostitution racket in Rajasthans Jhalawar appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

Jeffries Drops The Hammer On Trump; Demands Miller Be Shown The Door

A fresh political showdown is brewing between Donald Trump and Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries after the President handed Stephen Miller one of the most powerful jobs in the White House. Jeffries wasted no time firing back, branding Trump's longtime immigration adviser a 'dangerous xenophobe and reckless extremist' and declaring that his presence in government should be 'eradicated like a malignant tumor'. The Democratic leader went further, demanding Trump fire Miller immediately, just days after Republicans lost control of Congress in the November 3 midterms. Miller is set to replace Susie Wiles as White House Chief of Staff on November 9, while Jeffries is positioning himself to become the next House Speaker when Democrats take control in January.

Jaiswal hits back-to-back tons in NZ, puts India A on top

Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a commanding century, his second consecutive first-class hundred, to guide India A to 227 for two against New Zealand A on day one of the third unofficial Test. His aggressive knock, alongside Sai Sudharsan's steady innings, put India A in a strong position before rain stopped play. The match also features senior players like Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja preparing for the upcoming Test series.

2nd ODI: Gurnoor Picks Four As India Bowl Out New Zealand For 134

New Zealand: A disciplined bowling performance, led by Gurnoor Brars four-wicket haul, helped India bundle out New Zealand for a modest 134 in 40.6 overs in the second ODI at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on Saturday, putting the visitors in a commanding position. Brar returned impressive figures of 4-30 from his 10 overs, while Auqib Nabi and Anshul Kamboj picked up two wickets apiece as New Zealand struggled to cope with Indias disciplined attack on a two-paced surface. India made an early impact after opting to bowl, with Nabi striking in the second over to remove Tim Seifert for a duck. Seifert mistimed a drive off a delivery that held up on the surface, handing Kamboj a straightforward catch at mid-on. The pacer then accounted for Will Young (6), who edged a delivery outside off to wicketkeeper KL Rahul, leaving the hosts struggling at 11/2. Kamboj joined the wicket-taking effort by dismissing Henry Nicholls (11) in his first over, with the left-hander getting an inside edge onto his boot before the ball rolled back onto the stumps. New Zealand were reduced to 23/3 inside nine overs and managed only 29 runs in the first 10 overs. Brar then took charge of the middle overs, producing a double strike in the 20th over to remove Tom Latham (7) and Glenn Phillips (0). Both batters fell attempting pulls against his short deliveries, with Naman Dhir and Kamboj completing the catches at deep square leg and fine leg, respectively. New Zealands slide continued as they slipped to 53/5, but Daryl Mitchell attempted to revive the innings with a patient 55 off 104 deliveries, striking five fours and two sixes. He found an able partner in captain Mitchell Santner, who contributed 31 off 38 balls, as the pair added 59 runs for the sixth wicket. However, Axar Patel broke the partnership by dismissing Mitchell in the 35th over, with Anshul Kamboj taking the catch at long-off. Brar subsequently removed Santner, who edged behind to Rahul, before Axar bowled Kyle Jamieson (7). Brar added Nathan Smiths wicket in the 40th over, while Kamboj finished the innings by bowling Blair Tickner (2) in the following over, wrapping up New Zealands innings at 134. However, Axar Patel broke the partnership by dismissing Mitchell in the 35th over, with Anshul Kamboj taking the catch at long-off. Brar subsequently removed Santner, who edged behind to Rahul, before Axar bowled Kyle Jamieson (7). Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Delhi Police crack down on illegal sale of firecrackers ahead of Diwali, recovers over 91 kg of banned stock

Delhi Police continues its crackdown on the illegal sale and storage of firecrackers. Under the drive, police apprehended five persons in five separate cases registered at Jyoti Nagar, Shastri Park and Dayalpur on November 6, recovering a total of approximately 91.910 kg of illegal firecrackers ahead of Diwali. At Police Station Jyoti Nagar, three separate operations were conducted by police teams wherein Head Constable Akash, along with Constable Rajdeep, apprehended 42-year-old Sunay Kumar near Ashok Nagar Market and recovered 26 kg of firecrackers, including Sky Shots, Bullet Bombs and Chakkaris The accused failed to produce a valid licence, and QR-code verification revealed that the recovered firecrackers were not certified green crackers, leading to the registration of an FIR over the matter. In the second operation, Head Constable Arvind, along with Constable Rajdeep, apprehended 20-year-old Atul from Hanuman Mandir Fatak Road and recovered 13 kg of illegal firecrackers. In the t...

Bengaluru IT engineer arrested for threatening Bollywood actors, remanded in police custody till November 10

According to the police, Mishra allegedly contacted celebrities through Instagram, claiming to be associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and issuing threats while demanding money.

What More Do You Want A Player To Prove?: Shastri To Selectors After Shamis Retirement

Sony Sports Network: Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has questioned the decision to overlook Mohammed Shami for another opportunity in Indias Test setup, arguing that the veteran fast bowler had demonstrated his match fitness through consistent performances for Bengal in domestic cricket. Shastri expressed his disappointment over the lack of opportunities for Shami, pointing to the workload he managed in first-class cricket despite questions surrounding his fitness. Shami, who has been among Indias most accomplished fast bowlers in the longest format, had continued to feature regularly for Bengal, shouldering substantial bowling responsibilities. Shastri felt those performances should have carried greater weight in assessing the pacers readiness for international cricket. Drawing a distinction between physical conditioning in the gym and the demands of competitive cricket, the former India head coach stressed that a bowlers ability to sustain long spells during matches should be the real measure of his fitness. What's the point of being fit in the gym if you can't bowl 10 or 12 overs in a match? Here, you've got a workhorse who's bowling for you. So, I'm a little disappointed that he didn't get another go, Shastri said while speaking on Sony Sports Network ahead of the 2nd ODI. Shastri, a member of Indias 1983 World Cup-winning team, reiterated that Shamis domestic workload offered sufficient evidence of his ability to handle the physical demands of competitive cricket. He also highlighted the importance of having an experienced fast bowler available when teams encounter injuries to key players during a demanding international season. I've heard all these press reports about his fitness not being good, but he was playing every game for Bengal. He was bowling 15-20 overs. What more do you want a player to do to prove his fitness? If he's in good form and has a good IPL, and one of your senior bowlers suddenly breaks down, you'll be looking for experience. But you've got a player like him there. Shastri, a member of Indias 1983 World Cup-winning team, reiterated that Shamis domestic workload offered sufficient evidence of his ability to handle the physical demands of competitive cricket. He also highlighted the importance of having an experienced fast bowler available when teams encounter injuries to key players during a demanding international season. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Digital Arrest Scams Under Scanner As Centre Pushes Social Media Platforms To Act

New Delhi: The Centre has called on social media companies to step up efforts against online fraud, including digital arrest scams, while demanding greater accountability for content shared on their platforms. Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has urged companies to improve child protection, ensure transparency in content recommendation algorithms and establish stronger grievance redressal []

Six arrested for threatening Telangana MLC with deepfake videos, demanding 5 crore

Kyle Mills on India's New Zealand tour, Bumrah, Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma | Exclusive Interview

Former New Zealand pacer Kyle Mills joins TOI Sports for an exclusive interview, discussing India's tour of New Zealand, Jasprit Bumrah's impact, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's future, and Gautam Gambhir's demanding coaching style. Mills also shares his insights on India's challenges and what to expect from the series.

Iran reviewing proposals on Tehran's nuclear programme: Officials

Washington, Nov 07: Iran is reviewing proposals presented by chief mediator Qatar aimed at addressing differences with the United States about Tehran's nuclear programme, government officials from both West Asian countries said Friday. The development is raising hopes that the two sides could be inching toward indirect talks on one of the thorniest issues that US President Donald Trump says must be resolved as part of any deal meant to end the more than eight-month-old war. But one of the officials stressed that Iran, at least at the moment, is unwilling to engage in negotiations with the Trump administration over its atomic activities until the US agrees to several core conditions that Iran has been demanding be part of any ceasefire agreement. Both officials were not authorised to comment publicly on the delicate negotiations and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Iran and Qatari officials' stepped-up engagement -- and Tehran showing a glint of openness to the possibility of negotiating on its nuclear programme -- comes just days after Trump's Republican Party was dealt a stunning repudiation in Tuesday's midterm elections in the US. Signs of hope for talks emerge after Iran war contributed to Republican losses The electoral setback was stoked in part by voter dissatisfaction with Trump's execution of the conflict and elevated fuel prices, a byproduct of the war that's affected nearly every sector of the global economy. The White House declined to comment about the Qatar-presented proposals, but Trump noted Friday in an exchange with reporters that mediators' discussions with Iran continue. We are talking to Iran. We have been, said Trump, who insists the US military remains in control of the conflict with a battered Iran. Yet, Tehran insists on several concessions from the US, which Trump has declined in the past. Among the core demands Iran says must be met before engaging in nuclear talks: ending the US blockade on Iran's ports, lifting sanctions, unfreezing its assets, issuing compensation for war damage, and ending hostilities throughout the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon. Qatar and Iran discuss bridge deal to get to nuclear talks Mediators and Iran have discussed a potential bridge deal aimed at helping pave the way for further talks on Tehran's nuclear programme, according to regional officials. They said the proposal, which was recently presented to the two sides by Qatar mediators, called for implementing trust-building measures over the course of two days. These measures include lifting the US blockade and releasing some of the billions of dollars in Iranian frozen funds seized over the years as part of a US campaign to isolate Iran over its nuclear programme. In return, Tehran would allow International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors at its sites bombed by the US and Israel, the officials said. On the second day, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz in line with a modified agreement that Iran and Oman have reached on the waterway but has not been approved by the US, the officials said. That mechanism would be temporary until a permanent deal is reached on the strait in cooperation with other Gulf countries, they said. Following the implementation of the measures, the US and Iran would embark on extensive talks addressing Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium as well as other aspects of its programme, the officials said. Iran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran has 440.9 kg of uranium that is enriched up to 60 per cent purity, a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent. Diplomatic efforts pick up following US election A flurry of diplomatic phone calls in recent days between leaders in the Persian Gulf and beyond has been aimed at easing tensions in the region. Concerns have mounted over the possibility that Trump could still order the US military to carry out new strikes against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke on Friday with his Qatar counterpart, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, about developments, according to the Qatar government. Qatar announced the call between the countries' defense officials after confirming earlier Friday that Trump and Qatar's emir had a separate call to discuss efforts to deescalate tensions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held phone calls with his Iraq and Tunisian counterparts on Friday to discuss tensions in the region. Araghchi discussed with Iraq Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein Tehran's vision for resuming negotiations with the US, according to Iraq's News Agency. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, who held two calls with Araghchi this week, said in a post on X on Friday that it was critical that both sides demonstrate flexibility to achieve the compromise solutions necessary to prevent the region from sliding into a new wave of escalation. Egypt's top diplomat also held a phone call with his Emirati counterpart, Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to emphasise the importance of political negotiations to prevent another military confrontation that could fuel violence and destruction, according to a statement by Egypt's Foreign Ministry.

Protesters Occupy Microsoft's Planned Data Centre In Amsterdam

Campaigners against data centers in Europe are expected to stage protests in several countries, demanding a moratorium on large-scale developments to address social and environmental concerns around the energy-hungry behemoths.

'Mahakali' makers release powerful first single 'Aigiri Nandini' from film

Digital Desk | Chennai, Nov 7 (IANS) The makers of director Puja Aparna Kolluru's eagerly awaited film, 'Mahakali', the highly anticipated next chapter in the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU), have now released the powerful first single from the film, 'Aigiri Nandini', much to the delight of fans and film buffs. Composed, programmed and arranged by Smaran Sai, the track features powerful vocals by Anila Rajeev, Geetha Madhuri and Sai Charan. The musical arrangement seamlessly blends traditional devotional influences with a grand contemporary soundscape, bringing together an impressive range of instruments, including veena, flute, guitars, piano, tavil and mridangam. Complemented by layered backing vocals and an expansive orchestral arrangement, every musical element adds to the song's intensity, creating an experience that is both spiritually evocative and musically powerful. The rendition retains the timeless sanctity of Aigiri Nandini while giving it a distinctive cinematic scale, allowing its devotional fervour and powerful message to resonate with a new generation of listeners. Deeply rooted in India's rich spiritual and cultural heritage, the timeless verses composed by Adi Shankaracharya have found a grand musical expression in the song, which celebrates the fierce strength, divine energy and unparalleled power of the Goddess. Aigiri Nandini's release has come at a time when there is growing excitement around Mahakali, particularly following the impressive response to Akshaye Khanna's powerful war cry teaser, which was released earlier. Akshaye's commanding screen presence and intense delivery had struck an instant chord with audiences, sparking conversations and building anticipation around the film. For the unaware, 'Mahakali', which is part of the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU), is slated to hit screens worldwide on January 8 next year. Presented by RK Duggal and produced by Riwaz Ramesh Duggal under the RKD Studios banner, 'Mahakali' has been directed by Puja Aparna Kolluru. The film, which features Bhoomi Shetty in the titular role of 'Mahakali', will also feature Rohit Saraf in a pivotal role alongside Akshaye Khanna and Sriya Reddy.

Melas to mithai, Diwali lights up US, Canada

Digital Desk | Washington, Nov 7 (IANS) From Ramlila on New Jerseys Oak Tree Road to fireworks near Chicago and a street mela in Toronto, communities across the United States and Canada are marking Diwali with music, sweets and gatherings that bring the festival into neighbourhoods and shopping districts. With Diwali falling on Sunday, November 8, the weekend promises temple celebrations, festive meals and illuminated public spaces. Earlier events have already brought families together in New Yorks Jackson Heights and New Jerseys Indian shopping corridor. In Jackson Heights, Queens, the Indian Merchants Association organised a November 1 mela on 74th Street, between 37th Avenue and 37th Road. The neighbourhood event listing advertised live music and a celebration for families and friends. On Oak Tree Road in Iselin, New Jersey, gathering featured Ramlila, music and cultural performances at the Raj Jewels parking lot. The celebration included a Ramlila by Pandit Satya Narayan Charka and 40 classically trained artists. Elaborate costumes, dance and English narration brought the story of Lord Ram to the audience. Edisons annual Diwali festival follows on Saturday at Papaianni Park, with diya lighting, cultural dances, food stalls, free chai and mehndi, according to a Friday report by Patch. More than 100,000 lights are planned, with a drone and fireworks show sponsored by Patel Brothers closing the evening. The townships theme, Celebrating Diwali in America 250, links the festival to the United States 250th anniversary. Jersey City will also host Diwali Together 2026 at Exchange Place on Saturday, from noon to 7 p.m., according to its Office of Cultural Affairs. In Chicago, Indian restaurant is serving chef Jeet Singhs festive specials through Sunday, with dishes ranging from raj kachori chaat to chocolate mousse with jamun. In nearby Bartlett, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir has scheduled a fireworks and sound show for Saturday. Sundays observances include Chopda Pujan, the blessing of account books to mark a fresh beginning. In the Los Angeles region, the BAPS mandir in Chino Hills will hold a community festival on Saturday and Sunday, followed by Annakut and Gujarati New Year celebrations on Monday. Carnival rides, a sweets shop and a light-and-sound presentation feature in the programme. Musical performances and interactive exhibits will trace the journeys of Nilkanth, the youthful name of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. San Francisco is celebrating through Indian Restaurant Week, which brings together six restaurants in partnership with the Indian Consulate. Running through November 14, the event includes ROOH, Copra and New Delhi Restaurant. In Washingtons Columbia Heights neighbourhood, Tamashaa is adding sparkle to the dinner table with butter chicken finished with gold leaf, alongside rasgulla chaat and Daulat Ki Chaat. The restaurant described its offering through Sunday, in an announcement published by PoPville, as a Diwali menu thats part feast, part fireworks. Across the Canadian border, Torontos Gerrard India Bazaar will hold its annual outdoor mela on Saturday evening, with a live DJ, dancing, sparklers and sidewalk sales. The Gerrard Street district has more than 125 shops and restaurants. In Montreal and neighbouring Brossard, India Rosas celebrations through Sunday include a wish tree where visitors can leave a wish or a few words for Diwali. Mithai remains central to the preparations in Surrey, British Columbia. Beyond neighbourhood businesses, Costcos US website lists a one-ounce, 24-carat PAMP gold bar in its 2026 Diwali series, named for Lakshmi and the sacred cow. Diwali, widely known as the festival of lights, is observed by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, with traditions and religious significance varying among communities. Lamps and lights commonly symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

France deploys 70,000 security personnel ahead of fresh nationwide protests

French trade unions and student groups are organizing a day of protests against rising living costs. The Yellow Vests movement plans a separate rally in central Paris, despite an official ban on gatherings. Nationwide demonstrations have been ongoing for weeks, with participants demanding wage increases and better conditions for youth. On Monday, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu will meet with union representatives to discuss these issues.

France braces for protests on Saturday as Yellow Vests urge 'mass disobedience'

French unions, student groups, and the Yellow Vests movement are preparing for protests in Paris on Saturday. The protests aim to address the increasing cost of living while demanding improvements in wages and living conditions. Authorities are set to deploy 70,000 police officers to manage the demonstrations, which follow recent unrest. The protests will also focus on issues impacting young people and pensioners across the nation.

US military carries out fresh targeted strike on Iran as Tehran weighs mediator's proposals

Washington, Nov 07: President Donald Trump said the US military on Friday carried out fresh limited strikes on Iran, targeting its air defense systems. Iranian state media reported the sound of two explosions in the Suza area of Qeshm Island, which is in the crucial waterway for oil shipments. Trump in an exchange with reporters described the military action as minor. They knocked out -- they built a little bit of an anti-aircraft device and we knocked it out in about 15 minutes, maybe five, Trump told reporters shortly after arriving in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Friday evening. The US military also reported carrying out what it described as defensive strikes on Monday. Explosions were heard on the islands of Qeshm and Hengam in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and in the nearby mainland area of Bandar Abbas. Friday's strikes are the first since Trump's Republican Party was dealt a stunning repudiation in Tuesday's midterm elections in the US. The electoral setback was stoked in part by voter dissatisfaction with Trump's execution of the conflict and elevated fuel prices, a byproduct of the war that's affected nearly every sector of the global economy. In the days since Republicans' shellacking at the polls, Trump has vacillated between threatening to destroy Iran and suggesting that a resolution to the war is near. Qatar presents new proposals to Iran officials Earlier Friday, officials from the two West Asian governments said Iran is reviewing proposals presented by chief mediator Qatar aimed at addressing differences with the US about Tehran's nuclear programme. But one of the officials stressed that Iran, at least at the moment, remains unwilling to engage in negotiations with the Trump administration over its atomic activities until the US agrees to several core conditions that Iran has been demanding be part of any ceasefire agreement. Difference over Iran's nuclear programme is the thorniest issue and one that Trump insists must be resolved as part of any deal meant to end the more than eight-month-old war. Both officials were not authorised to comment publicly on the delicate negotiations and spoke on the condition of anonymity. The US Central Command, which oversees US military operations in West Asia, announced in a post on X late Friday that the United States was offering a reward of up to USD 20 million and possible relocation for information about Iran's nuclear programme, including its facilities, equipment, and associated personnel, such as those in the scientific community, or the movement of any of the above. The post included a link to the State Department's Rewards for Justice programme. Iran insists on several concessions before nuclear talks The White House declined to comment about the Qatar-presented proposals on Iran's nuclear programme, but Trump noted earlier Friday in an exchange with reporters that mediators' discussions with Iran continue. We are talking to Iran. We have been, said Trump, who insists the US military remains in control of the conflict with a battered Iran. Yet, Tehran insists on several concessions from the U.S., which Trump has declined in the past. Among the core demands Iran says must be met before engaging in nuclear talks: ending the U.S. blockade on Iran's ports, lifting sanctions, unfreezing its assets, issuing compensation for war damage, and ending hostilities throughout the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon. Qatar and Iran discuss bridge deal to get to nuclear talks Mediators and Iran have discussed a potential bridge deal aimed at helping pave the way for further talks on Tehran's nuclear programme, according to regional officials. They said the proposal, which was recently presented to the two sides by Qatar mediators, called for implementing trust-building measures over the course of two days. These measures include lifting the US blockade and releasing some of the billions of dollars in Iranian frozen funds seized over the years as part of a US campaign to isolate Iran over its nuclear programme. In return, Tehran would allow International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors at its sites bombed by the US and Israel, the officials said. On the second day, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz in line with a modified agreement that Iran and Oman have reached on the waterway but has not been approved by the US, the officials said. That mechanism would be temporary until a permanent deal is reached on the strait in cooperation with other Gulf countries, they said. Following the implementation of the measures, the US and Iran would embark on extensive talks addressing Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium as well as other aspects of its programme, the officials said. Iran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran has 440.9 kg of uranium that is enriched up to 60 per cent purity, a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent. Diplomatic efforts pick up following US election A flurry of diplomatic phone calls in recent days between leaders in the Persian Gulf and beyond has been aimed at easing tensions in the region. Concerns have mounted over the possibility that Trump could still order the US military to carry out new strikes against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke on Friday with his Qatar counterpart, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, about developments, according to the Qatar government. Qatar announced the call between the countries' defense officials after confirming earlier Friday that Trump and Qatar's emir had a separate call to discuss efforts to deescalate tensions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held phone calls with his Iraq and Tunisian counterparts on Friday to discuss tensions in the region. Araghchi discussed with Iraq Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein Tehran's vision for resuming negotiations with the US, according to Iraq's News Agency. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, who held two calls with Araghchi this week, said in a post on X on Friday that it was critical that both sides demonstrate flexibility to achieve the compromise solutions necessary to prevent the region from sliding into a new wave of escalation. Egypt's top diplomat also held a phone call with his Emirati counterpart, Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to emphasise the importance of political negotiations to prevent another military confrontation that could fuel violence and destruction, according to a statement by Egypt's Foreign Ministry.

Iran reviewing Qatar's proposals on nuclear deal with US amid war

Iran is reviewing proposals presented by chief mediator Qatar aimed at addressing differences with the United States about Tehran's nuclear programme, government officials from both West Asian countries said Friday. The development is raising hopes that the two sides could be inching toward indirect talks on one of the thorniest issues that US President Donald Trump says must be resolved as part of any deal meant to end the more than eight-month-old war. But one of the officials stressed that Iran, at least at the moment, is unwilling to engage in negotiations with the Trump administration over its atomic activities until the US agrees to several core conditions that Iran has been demanding be part of any ceasefire agreement. Both officials were not authorised to comment publicly on the delicate negotiations and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Iran and Qatari officials' stepped-up engagement -- and Tehran showing a glint of openness to the possibility of negotiating on its ...

Kashmiri apple prices surge ahead of Diwali

Shopian, Nov 6: Apple prices in wholesale fruit markets across south Kashmir have witnessed a significant surge ahead of Diwali, with premium-quality produce fetching higher rates amid increased demand from markets outside the Union Territory. Mohammad Ashraf Wani, President of Fruit MandiShopian, said premium-quality apples are currently selling between Rs 1,300 and Rs 1,500 per box, while medium-quality, five-layer apples are fetching between Rs 1,000 and Rs 1,200 per box. There has been a rise in prices ahead of Diwali, particularly for premium-quality apples. The rates for medium-quality produce are also holding up well, Wani said. He, however, maintained that prices had remained relatively stable throughout the season, ensuring reasonable returns for growers. Although prices have witnessed a surge in the run-up to Diwali, the overall market remained good this season. Growers have received satisfactory rates for their produce, he said. Mohammad Saleem Mir, an apple grower from Aliyalpora village in Shopian, said increased demand ahead of Diwali had contributed to an improvement in prices, particularly for better-quality produce. Prices have surged in the run-up to Diwali, but overall, the market remained good throughout the season, Mir said. He said the market had offered growers a relatively favourable environment, although returns continued to depend largely on the quality and grading of apples. Those who have managed to produce good-quality apples are getting better prices. The difference in rates between premium and medium-quality apples remains significant, he said. The apple trade continues to be one of the major economic activities in South Kashmir, with thousands of trucks transporting the seasonal harvest to wholesale markets across the country. Around 2,000 fruit-laden trucks leave Kashmir every day, carrying apples to different markets outside the Valley. The daily movement reflects the scale of the seasonal trade and the importance of transportation networks in connecting local growers with buyers across the country. Shopian, one of Kashmirs major apple-producing districts, accounts for a substantial share of the Valleys apple trade. The industry supports thousands of orchardists, traders, commission agents, transporters and workers engaged in harvesting, grading, packaging and transportation. Growers said that while seasonal fluctuations in prices were common, the availability of buyers and demand for high-quality produce remained crucial in determining their returns. The improvement in prices ahead of Diwali has provided additional gains to growers, even as they maintain that the season as a whole has been relatively encouraging for the apple industry. The positive market sentiment has also had a spillover effect on other businesses, with traders reporting increased customer activity in local markets. The good prices fetched by apples have also lifted the overall market sentiment, with buyers thronging markets to purchase other commodities, said Tariq Ahmad Mir, who runs Bright Kitchen Ware store in Batapora, Shopian.

Iran reviewing proposals on Tehran's nuclear programme, officials say

Iran is reviewing proposals made by Qatar that aim to address its nuclear program and tensions with the US. As part of these discussions, Iran is demanding certain core conditions be met by the US. The White House acknowledged ongoing discussions but did not comment on the proposed measures. Regional leaders have engaged in diplomatic talks to ease tensions, with emphasis on political solutions.

Ice breaks, tempers cool

Srinagar, Nov 6:Ice finally broke between disgruntled National Conference (NC) legislators and the party high command, including NC President Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, after a meeting at the NC chiefs Gupkar residence in Srinagar on Friday, where the party high command assured the dissidents that it would address their grievances in phases. In his post-meeting interaction with reporters, Farooq Abdullah said: We have spoken to them. Their problems were genuine, and we heard them properly. We will take some steps quickly and some steps slowly. However, he rejected reports of a split, describing them as baseless, and said the NC had remained united and would not be broken. The three-time chief minister also reiterated the partys commitment to the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs statehood and Articles 370 and 35-A, saying the matter would be pursued in the Supreme Court. The meeting, in which around 15 to 16 legislators participated, was held against the backdrop of growing internal discontent within the party following the October 27 cabinet expansion. NC MLA Gurez, Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi), said there was no breakaway group and that the legislators had received assurances from the party leadership. The legislators have authorisedGurezi to speak to the media on behalf of the group. Gurezi rejected suggestions that the legislators were attempting to establish a separate faction or political formation. We are legislators of the National Conference. Whenever we have issues, we take them to our party leadership, he said. Gurezi said that certain sections on social media had portrayed their earlier meetings as the emergence of a separate party, which was not the case. On the outcome of Fridays meeting, he said: There were certain issues which we brought before the Chief Minister (Omar Abdullah) Sahab and Farooq (Abdullah) Sahab. They have assured us that whether these are political issues or other matters, some will be addressed immediately while others will be resolved gradually. The disgruntled NC legislators consultations began following the October 27 cabinet expansion. Their first closed-door meeting was held at the Humhama residence of MLA LolabQaysarJamshaid Lone, in which 17 NC legislators and an independent MLA from Thanamandi had reportedly pledged collective solidarity. The subsequent meetings were held at the TulsiBagh residence of MLA GurezNazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi) and the Haiderpora residence of MLA GulmargPirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah. The November 5 meeting at HasnainMasoodisSanat Nagar residence was their fourth meeting since the cabinet expansion in which 20 legislators participated, 16 physically and four virtually. The disgruntled group had prepared a charter of demands covering governance, ministerial accountability, and organisational restructuring. Among the reported demands were greater efforts towards restoration of statehood and special status for Jammu and Kashmir; implementation of the Dachigam resolution concerning cabinet restructuring and ministerial accountability; changes in the Chief Ministers inner circle; a consultative advisory group of two to three legislators to brief the Chief Minister regularly on governance and development; a high-powered disciplinary committee and an inquiry panel to address party grievances; strengthening the partys media and communications machinery; regular meetings of the NC Working Committee; and establishment of an election cell and comprehensive organisational restructuring.

Keenan hat-trick as six-try Ireland beat Pumas

Hugo Keenan scores a hat-trick of tries as Ireland open the home leg of the Nations Championship with a commanding bonus-point win over Argentina in Dublin.

Poonchs unexplored tourist spots await infrastructure push

Poonch, Nov 06:- Despite its scenic landscapes and vast tourism potential, several picturesque destinations in Poonch district continue to remain underdeveloped, with residents alleging a lack of attention from the government and concerned departments. Locals said the absence of basic tourist facilities at these destinations was discouraging visitors and preventing the district from tapping its tourism potential. They pointed out that while several tourist spots in the Kashmir Valley had witnessed development and promotion, many equally scenic locations in Poonch were yet to receive the required infrastructure. The district is home to several unexplored destinations, including Pir Ki Gali, Noori Chamb, Shah Sitar, Nahrian, Rangawar, Sarri Mangian, Aangan Pathri, Sultan Pathri, Nandi Chhool, Arai Base Camp, Jabi Toti, Than Peer and Doda Peer, spread across Mandi, Surankote and other areas. However, residents said many of these places lacked essential facilities such as accommodation, food outlets, public conveniences, drinking water, proper road connectivity and signboards, making visits difficult for tourists. They said visitors travelling from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir often faced difficulties in finding suitable places to stay, eat or access basic amenities, limiting the scope for longer visits. Residents maintained that developing these destinations could also create employment opportunities for local youth, particularly those living in remote and far-flung areas. They said tourism-related activities such as homestays, hotels, restaurants, transport services and local businesses could strengthen the district's economy and provide sustainable livelihoods. They urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government, Lieutenant Governor, Tourism Department, MLA Haveli Ajaz Ahmed Jan and the District Administration Poonch to prepare a comprehensive tourism development plan to bring unexplored destinations onto the tourism map. The residents called for the identification and development of tourism circuits, improved road connectivity, accommodation, sanitation, drinking water facilities and effective publicity to attract visitors throughout the year. They expressed hope that the authorities would take concrete measures to promote Poonch's lesser-known destinations, saying focused investment in tourism could boost the local economy while creating much-needed employment opportunities for youth.

'MY INSANITY...': What Triggered Tampa Gunman's SHOOTING Spree? Investigators Reveal CHILLING Motive

A chilling warning, a terrifying ultimatum and then a deadly shooting spree. New details are emerging about the shirtless gunman who stormed Citibanks Tampa campus in Florida, killing an employee before an armed security guard stopped him. Authorities say 35-year-old Jacob Pearson allegedly contacted a bank-linked attorney just hours before the November 4 attack, demanding that an upcoming court hearing be cancelled. During the call, he reportedly made a disturbing reference to his insanity and threatened to arrive armed with an AR-15. Pearson allegedly drove through a security fence and opened fire on the campus, where thousands of employees were present. His first victim was 41-year-old Citibank employee Leanne Selman.

Three friends, one mission to give walnuts a new identity

Srinagar, Nov 05: What began as an idea to build something of their own has turned into an effort to give Kashmirs walnuts greater value. Three young friends from Handwara have launched a walnut butter venture, linking local farmers with new markets while creating livelihood opportunities at home. After completing their studies in agriculture, the trio identified as Arfaat Rasool Malik, Raja Shoaib and Mohammad Faizan , initially considered moving outside Kashmir in search of jobs. However, recognising the potential of walnuts grown in the Kupwara district, they decided to establish their own venture and contribute to the local economy. Their startup, Fame Farm, produces walnut butter, a nutritious spread marketed as an omega-3-rich product. With growing awareness about healthy diets and nutrition, their product is gradually reaching customers in different parts of the country. Explaining the idea behind the venture, the founders said walnuts are among the most important cash crops in Kashmir, but farmers often struggle to get fair prices, particularly for broken walnuts. We bring farmers on board and have entered into buy-back arrangements with five farmers. Broken walnuts, which earlier fetched them around Rs 100 to Rs 200 per kilogram, are now purchased at better rates. This helps farmers sustain their livelihoods and manage their orchards, said Arfaat Rasool Malik. The founders said their aim is to build a community around walnut cultivation and ensure that local growers benefit from the value addition of their produce. Walnut is one of the most important cash crops here. We thought of starting something at the grassroots level that could benefit farmers, generate employment for local people and create opportunities for ourselves as well, said Raja Shoaib. The startup purchases walnuts directly from local farmers, reducing their dependence on distant mandis and middlemen. The team is also working with growers in rural Kupwara, guiding them on better cultivation practices, proper tree care and ways to improve the quality of their produce. Apart from supporting farmers, the venture has created employment opportunities, particularly for local women. Employees are involved in handling online orders, billing, packaging and other operations. Mohammad Faizan said the team was focused on taking a locally produced product to wider markets through modern production methods, packaging and digital platforms. The founders said their website and social media platforms have helped them receive orders from outside Jammu and Kashmir, expanding the reach of their walnut-based product. The initiative comes at a time when Jammu and Kashmir remains India's leading walnut-producing region. During 2024-25, India produced over 3.22 lakh metric tonnes of walnuts. Through their venture, Arfaat Rasool Malik, Raja Shoaib and Mohammad Faizan are attempting to connect traditional walnut farming with modern food processing, while creating local employment and better market opportunities for farmers.

Chile Students Clash With Police, Demand Justice Minister's Resignation Over Sentence Cuts

Clashes broke out between students and police in Chile's capital, Santiago, during protests demanding the resignation of Justice Minister Fernando Rabat. Demonstrators are opposing controversial prison sentence reductions for people convicted of sexual abuse and rape of minors, as well as human rights violations. Protesters hurled petrol bombs and other objects at police, who responded with tear gas and water cannons. The controversy follows reports that the government issued 56 decrees reducing prison sentences. Rabat has defended the decisions, saying they were legally justified and backed by a Supreme Court interpretation.

Jharkhand minister triggers row over 'Nepal, Bangladesh-like' regime change remarks, BJP seeks Cabinet removal

Jharkhand Health Minister and Congress leader Irfan Ansari triggered a controversy over his remarks warning that the situation in India could become worse than that in Bangladesh and Nepal, with the opposition BJP demanding legal...

SC issues contempt notice to Kerala Congress leaders over post seeking CJI Surya Kant's resignation

The Supreme Court has issued a show-cause contempt notice to Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee office-bearers over an October 12 social media post demanding Chief Justice Surya Kant's resignation. The bench said freedom of expression cannot be used to interfere with the administration of justice and warned against attempts to undermine judicial authority.

Maiden BIMSTEC maritime exercise culminates in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS) The maiden Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Maritime Security Exercise culminated at Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands following harbour and sea-phase operations, with naval ships from India, Myanmar and Sri Lanka taking part, the Ministry of Defence said on Friday. The maiden BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise culminated successfully at Sri Vijaya Puram on November 3, following a series of engagements and coordinated maritime activities conducted from October 30 to November 3 under the aegis of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), India's only Operational Quad Service Command, led by Vice-Admiral Vineet McCarty, Commander-in-Chief of Andaman and Nicobar Command, the Ministry said in a statement. The maiden BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise culminated at Sri Vijaya Puram following harbour and sea-phase operations and diplomatic engagements. The exercise underscored the shared commitment of all stakeholders to maritime security and stability across the Bay of Bengal, the Ministry said on social media platform X. The exercise saw the participation of Indian Naval Ships INS Taragiri, INS Karmuk and INS Saryu, Myanmar Navy Ship UMS King Aung Zeya and Sri Lanka Navy Ship SLNS Gajabahu. The exercise brought together senior dignitaries and distinguished representatives, including Indra Mani Pandey, BIMSTEC Secretary General; Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (Retd), National Maritime Security Coordinator; Rear Admiral Kyaw Kyaw Htoo, Commander of Myanmar Navy's Central Naval Command; Air Vice Marshal MDR Prasad (Retd.), Director (Monitoring and Evaluation) of Sri Lanka's Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation; and Captain Mohammad Monzurul Islam, Commanding Officer of Bangladesh's BNS Prottoy, the statement said. The exercise is among the key initiatives announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand last year. The harbour phase at Sri Vijaya Puram featured high-level engagements, professional interactions and cultural exchanges, providing opportunities for participating delegations to deepen institutional ties and strengthen bonds of friendship. The subsequent sea phase, conducted off Sri Vijaya Puram from November 2 to 3, involved coordinated maritime deployments and collaborative operational activities, underscoring the collective commitment of BIMSTEC member states towards a secure and stable maritime environment, the Ministry said. The successful culmination of the maiden exercise marks an important step towards institutionalising greater maritime engagement among BIMSTEC member states, the statement added. BIMSTEC is a regional organisation comprising Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

Super Mario Odyssey Runs Natively On Apple TV 4K Thanks To AI

Nintendos popular titles, including Super Mario Odyssey and Animal Crossing: New Horizons , can now run natively on the Apple TV 4K through a new AI-assisted software port. Developed by a Reddit user known as FloatingFalafel , the open-source project is called TVPort . TVPort functions as a fork of the nxnative toolkit , utilizing Claude Opus 5.5 to recompile Nintendo Switch games on a Mac so they can operate on Apples streaming box. According to the creator, Super Mario Odyssey achieves a smooth 60 frames per second (fps) , while Animal Crossing: New Horizons runs at 30 fps . Although additional titles have not yet been tested, the open-source software is publicly available for users to experiment with other games. [Release] TVPort Port switch games to run natively on AppleTV (4k 3rd gen) by u/FloatingFalafel in decomps Running these titles requires users to supply their own game files extracted from physical cartridges using a modified Nintendo Switch , as game files are not bundled with the software. Furthermore, hardware limitations may restrict performance. More demanding titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom , could face thermal throttling issues on the third-generation Apple TV 4K . However, the upcoming fourth-generation Apple TV 4K scheduled to launch commercially on November 13 may handle heavier workloads that current hardware cannot support. The project also faces potential legal scrutiny given Nintendos history with unofficial software. Nintendo actively protects its intellectual property, exemplified by its 2024 lawsuit against the Yuzu emulator team , which concluded with a $2.4 million settlement and the discontinuation of the project. Because of these enforcement measures, the longevity of TVPort remains uncertain. Super Mario Odyssey Runs Natively On Apple TV 4K Thanks To AI , original content from Ubergizmo . Read our Copyrights and terms of use .

Punjabi singer Kamal Grewal gets death and extortion threat for Rs 5 crore

As the security of celebrities continues to be a matter of concern, Punjabi singer Kamal Grewal recently received a death and extortion threat, with the caller demanding Rs 5 crore. The police have registered a complaint in Ludhiana

Why Integrity of Election Commission is Critical to Save the Constitution and Democracy in India

THE FRAMERS OF THE constitution recognised the paramount significance of free and fair elections for sustaining democracy and seeking mandate of people for governance of India. Now wonder that much later the conduct of free and fair elections was recognised as the basic structure of the Constitution. The members of the Constituent Assembly were acutely conscious of the possibility that the government of the day might influence the electoral process to secure its own political and partisan interests. Consequently, the Constituent Assembly sought to separate the functions of political governance and electoral administration. This marked a departure from the framework under the Government of India Act, 1935, which did not envisage an independent, all-India constitutional body to supervise elections. ECI and Legislative Intent of Constituent Assembly Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, during the debate on Article 289 of the draft Constitution (now Article 324) on 15 June 1949, observed: In the interests of purity and freedom of elections to the legislative bodies, it was of the utmost importance that they should be freed from any kind of interference from the executive of the day. Although the Assembly eventually decided not to place the provision concerning elections in the Fundamental Rights Chapter, there was little disagreement about the underlying and paramount principle: the conduct of elections had to be insulated from executive interference. The Assembly aspired to establish an impartial institution that would inspire confidence across political parties and communities. However, these aspirations were accompanied by apprehensions about how such independence could be secured in practice. Article 289 contemplated that the President would appoint the Chief Election Commissioner and such other Election Commissioners as might be considered necessary. Members, however, questioned whether presidential appointment would genuinely guarantee independence because the President as per constitutional mandate would act on the advice of the Council of Ministers, headed by the Prime Minister. Prof. Shibban Lal Saxena, seeking to address this concern, suggested that appointments of the Election Commissioners be approved by a two-thirds majority in a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament. Such a requirement, he argued, would foster cross-party consensus and prevent a single ruling party from imposing its preferred candidate. He also raised a second concern: since Article 289 did not prescribe qualifications for appointment as Chief Election Commissioner or Election Commissioner, there was no constitutional assurance that the appointee would possess the necessary competence, independence or integrity. Ambedkar himself cautioned: There is no use making the tenure of the Election Commissioner a fixed and secure tenure if there is no provision in the Constitution to prevent either a fool or a knave or a person who is likely to be under the thumb of the Executive. Pandit Hriday Nath Kunzru echoed these concerns and proposed that Parliament regulate appointments through legislation. Ultimately, on 16 June 1949, the Assembly adopted Article 289 with amendments. It became Article 324 of the Constitution, vesting the superintendence, direction and control of elections in the Election Commission. The debates reveal that the framers were concerned not merely with the existence of an Election Commission, but with the conditions necessary to make it genuinely independent. Golden Jubilee of ECI Celebrated its High Credibility The Election Commission of India (ECI) was established on 25 January 1950, a day before the Constitution came into force. Over the decades, it acquired a reputation as an institution capable of conducting elections on an extraordinary scale and, for much of its history, commanding public confidence. At the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the ECI on January 17, 2001 , former President K.R. Narayanan ( http://www.krnarayanan.in/html/speeches/others/jan17_01.htm ) acknowledged the institutions phenomenal contributions to Indian democracy. He commended the fact that both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition were present to pay tribute to the Commission, observing that their presence itself demonstrated the honoured position it occupied in Indias political structure. For that moment, they were in spite of being political adversaries had a shared vision of ECI as an independent institution meant to serve democracy on a bipartisan basis. SIR and Questions raised on Integrity of ECI Twenty-five years later, the picture is considerably different. ECI, once an institution that commanded respect and integrity, which had been the product of the careful craft and dogged determination of the Constituent Assembly, faces questions about its impartiality. Streets across India have witnessed protests by opposition groups, student organisations and civil society members against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and the conduct of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. A central concern surrounding the SIR exercise has been the possibility that genuine voters could be removed from electoral rolls, resulting in mass disenfranchisement. Critics have particularly raised concerns about the alleged misuse of Form 7 to object to existing voter registrations, with women and minority communities among those said to be disproportionately affected. A report published by The Indian Express on 23 September 2026 (https://indianexpress.com/article/express-exclusive/election-commission-sir-14-objections-gyanesh-kumar-sukhbir-singh-sandhu-vivek-joshi-10889737/ )brought these concerns into sharper focus by documenting objections reportedly raised by the other two Election Commissioners to the manner in which CEC Kumar had handled aspects of the SIR process. These included unauthorized changes to Form 6, the centralisation of access to the voter database and the exclusion of other Commissioners from important decisions. The report has raised questions not only about the conduct of the revision exercise, but also about transparency and decision-making within the Commission itself. Tracing Erosion of ECIs Credibility The erosion of public trust in the ECI, however, has been gradual; it has not emerged out of the blue. It can be traced, at least in part, to a series of controversies that have accumulated over the years. In 2017, the Commission came under scrutiny for announcing the Assembly election schedule for Himachal Pradesh without simultaneously announcing the dates for Gujarat, departing from the convention of announcing elections in the two states together. Critics questioned whether the delay could benefit the ruling party in Gujarat. In 2018, the ECI's recommendation to disqualify twenty Aam Aadmi Party MLAs for allegedly holding offices of profit was set aside by the Delhi High Court, which held that the process had violated the principles of natural justice because the MLAs had not been given an adequate opportunity of hearing. Thereafter, in the run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, opposition parties raised allegations of EVM manipulation, while civil society groups expressed concern that the ECI was not adequately responding to public queries and suggestions. The Commission was also accused of selectively addressing violations of the Model Code of Conduct, particularly after it gave clean chits to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah despite the dissenting opinions of Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa, which were not reflected in the final orders. Concerns over transparency also arose from alleged discrepancies between votes polled and votes counted, with the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Common Cause approaching the Supreme Court in 2019 and ADR raising similar concerns after the 2024 elections. Further, the ECI was accused of favouring BJP-aligned factions in disputes over party names and election symbols, particularly following the splits in the Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party, by relying on legislative strength disregarding the extent of support such splits received at wider levels of organisations. Collectively, these controversies have raised questions about the Commissions neutrality, accountability and credibility as an independent constitutional body. The SIR controversy is perhaps the most serious flashpoint in this gradual erosion of trust. There is a peculiar irony in the protests against the SIR of electoral rolls: one of the most visible large-scale mobilisations in independent India explicitly centred on protecting the very right to vote that the Constitution had made a foundational premise of Indian democracy. When the Constituent Assembly adopted universal adult franchise, it made a remarkably ambitious choice: political participation would not be conditional upon property ownership, education, wealth or social standing. Unlike the early United States, where voting qualifications in several states restricted the franchise to men meeting property or tax-paying requirements, India began its constitutional life by recognising the political equality of its adult citizens. The Assemblys confidence in universal suffrage was, in itself, an extraordinary act of faith in ordinary Indians. Agitations Defending Right To Vote Yet, decades later, Rahul Gandhis Voter Adhikar Yatra through Bihar in AugustSeptember 2025, protesting the alleged disenfranchisement of eligible voters through SIR, brought people onto the streets to defend a right that was supposed to be secure for every adult citizen. This irony is also a reminder that the right to vote is the means through which citizens exercise control over the institutions that determine their access to education, healthcare, employment, welfare and justice and not only an isolated political entitlement. When a person loses their political voice, they also risk losing an important means of demanding these other rights. Martin Luther Kings Straggle for Right to Vote Martin Luther King Jr., in his 1957 address Give Us the Ballot , captured this interdependence when he declared: Give us the ballot, and we will no longer have to worry the federal government about our basic rights. The SIR protests, therefore, concern the preservation of political equality and the ability of ordinary citizens to hold the State accountable. There is something deeply unsettling about having to take to the streets to demand the protection of a right that the framers had entrusted to every adult citizen. The Issue of Right to Protest The Central Government and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party have accused protesters, primarily those mobilising under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and supported by opposition parties such as the Congress, of engaging in political agitation and violence rather than seeking genuine grievance redressal. However, it is important to recognise that protests demanding an impartial and accountable Election Commission are not necessarily expressions of hostility towards the constitutional establishment. They can, instead, be expressions of faith in the Constitution itself. To question an institution's functioning is not necessarily to reject its legitimacy; it may be to insist that the institution live up to the constitutional purpose for which it was created. The Supreme Court recognised this democratic significance of protest in Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan v. Union of India (2018). While considering restrictions on demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, the Court recognised that peaceful demonstrations through which citizens air their grievances and ensure that these grievances reach the relevant authorities are protected under Articles 19(1)(a) and 19(1)(b) of the Constitution. Importantly, the Court described legitimate dissent as a distinguishing feature of democracy. It also recognised that the right to protest must be balanced against the rights of other citizens and the requirements of public order. There is, therefore, a fundamental difference between challenging the legitimacy of constitutional democracy and demanding that constitutional institutions fulfil their responsibilities. Peaceful protest, when directed towards restoring the integrity of those institutions, can be an exercise in constitutional faith rather than constitutional defiance. Significance of Peoples Struggle for Right to Vote As mentioned earlier President Narayanan while inaugurating the golden jubilee celebrations of the Election Commission of India in 2001 observed that elections had aroused the hopes and aspirations of the unempowered sections of society. He was speaking of the extraordinary promise of universal adult suffrage: the promise that every citizen, irrespective of their social or economic position, would have a voice in the making of the Republic. Perhaps the people taking to the streets today are seeking to preserve and defend precisely that promise. The framers placed their faith in the people by entrusting every adult citizen with the vote; the people, in turn, are asking the institutions created by those framers to remain worthy of that faith. Framers of our Constitution trusted every adult citizen with the power to give shape to our democracy and fashion the destiny of our country. The leaders of the political regime at the centre operating the apparatus of the Indian State must also have the humility to listen when those very citizens take to the streets to defend the ECIs integrity which has been tragically has been eroding.

MANUU students on hunger strike demanding NCAHP recognition

Hyderabad: I come from a farming family in Bihar. Families like mine do not encourage girls to get an education. I had to fight my way out, says a vocational training student at the Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) in Hyderabad. With lots of convincing and reassurance of a better future, her family finally Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Nisha Bhagat suicide case: BJP demands probe, seeks action against those named in Facebook Live (Ld)

Digital Desk | Ranchi, Nov 6 (IANS) The death of tribal activist Nisha Bhagat, who allegedly died by suicide after going live on Facebook, has triggered a political row in Jharkhand, with BJP leaders questioning the role of the state government and police administration and demanding an impartial investigation into the incident. The BJP has sought a response from Chief Minister Hemant Soren and demanded immediate action against those whom Bhagat held responsible in her Facebook Live video. Leader of the Opposition in the Jharkhand Assembly, Babulal Marandi, said the young activist, who had been fighting for the rights of the tribal community, had named Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the officer-in-charge of Pithoria police station, and Ajay Tirkey in her live video. The suicide of Nisha Bhagat, who fought for the rights of Adivasis, has shaken everyone to the core. The pain she expressed in her Facebook Live just before taking her life is heart-wrenching. Nisha Bhagat's words were not just her personal agony; they also laid bare the state of affairs in the state. Chief Minister @HemantSorenJMM and his MLA wife, Kalpana Soren, are misleading society by announcing from platforms their commitment to fighting for Adivasi rights. In Nisha Bhagat's statement before her death, the frustration, anguish, and pain with the system clearly reveal that today, not just Adivasi society but the entire state is groaning in agony, Marandi said in a post on X. Marandi alleged that some people were attempting to encroach upon tribal land at the behest of the Chief Minister. He demanded the arrest of those named by Bhagat and an impartial investigation into the entire episode. He also said that the Chief Minister should resign, taking ownership of the situation. BJP state president Aditya Sahu also accused the police and administration of negligence. He said Bhagat had expressed her distress and apprehensions through a Facebook Live session before the incident, which was watched by a large number of people. Despite this, the police allegedly failed to reach the spot in time, Sahu said, adding that timely intervention could have helped rescue her. He described Bhagat as an activist who raised her voice against injustice and alleged oppression. Sahu also called for the identification and investigation of those whose conduct and alleged remarks, as mentioned in the live video, had reportedly hurt her. Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth expressed grief over the incident and said Bhagat had levelled serious allegations against the state government and people linked to the land trade in her Facebook Live video. Seth said an investigation was necessary to establish the circumstances that led a socially active tribal woman to take such an extreme step. The Union Minister also referred to earlier cases involving tribal women in Jharkhand, including those of Rupa Tirkey, Pushpa Toppo and a Paharia woman, and said questions surrounding justice in these cases remained. He said the state government needed to seriously examine the concerns surrounding women's safety and the law-and-order situation. Nisha Bhagat, a prominent tribal rights activist from Pithoria in Jharkhand's Ranchi district, died on Friday after allegedly attempting to commit suicide during a Facebook Live session. She was admitted to the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in a critical condition, where doctors later declared her dead, officials said. Before the incident, Bhagat went live on Facebook in a video that has since gone viral. In the livestream, she appeared visibly distressed and emotional while speaking about her prolonged struggle against alleged land mafias, attempts to defame her, and several issues related to the system and governance. According to information, Bhagat had spoken to the officer-in-charge of Pithoria police station shortly before the incident. During the livestream, she said she had been fighting alone for a long time and felt abandoned by those around her. She also expressed concern about the grief her actions would cause her parents. She further claimed that people associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), whom she believed would support her, had failed to stand by her. Bhagat voiced anger over being labelled a dalal and alleged that no action had been taken against those who were tarnishing her image.

You cannot claim Teji unless you have stood through the Mandi, says Nilesh Shah, Kotak Mutual Fund

Nilesh Shah urges investors to remain disciplined through market volatility, emphasising that participating in bull market gains requires enduring downturns. He advocates patience, consistent asset allocation and commitment to investment strategies throughout market cycles.

Pakistan: Islamabad must act as PoK burns

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS) What began as protests over rising electricity tariffs, wheat prices, and governance failures has evolved into a broader challenge to Pakistan's administrative model in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit-Baltistan, exposing a reality that Islamabad has long sought to bury. What it tried to conceal behind a false faade were deep political dissatisfaction, economic grievances, and growing demands for accountability in territories under Pakistan's control. In recent times, PoK has witnessed repeated waves of agitation led by civil society groups such as the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC). Residents have protested against inflation, high costs, shortages of essential goods, and what they view as systematic neglect by Islamabad. Investigators from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also noted that the large-scale protests in 2024 were driven by demands for subsidised electricity and flour, greater accountability, and an end to excessive privileges enjoyed by political elites and bureaucrats. Local unrest stems from grievances against the local administrations as well as the political system through which Pakistan governs these territories. Critics argue that key decisions affecting political representation, resource management and security remain heavily influenced by Islamabad, limiting genuine local autonomy. The evolving economic aspect of the present crisis is more damaging for Pakistan's narrative, where protesters frequently point out that while PoJK generates substantial hydropower resources, residents have to shell out high electricity charges and inconsistent services. Along with demands for lower tariffs, wheat subsidies and a fairer share of resource revenues have become recurring themes in protests in the region. In response, authorities have clamped down with renewed oppression rather than addressing the tensions. Reports of communication blackouts, mass arrests, deployment of security forces and violent clashes have accompanied successive protest movements. Unrest continued through 2025 and 2026, and led to multiple deaths and injuries, highlighting the widening gap between public expectations and state responses. Another contentious issue has been the reservation of legislative seats for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir who reside elsewhere in Pakistan. Residents have argued that these reserved seats distort regional representation and enable Islamabad to retain influence over political outcomes in the territory. The controversy has evolved into a wider debate about democratic legitimacy and self-governance. Similar concern is arising from the situation in Gilgit-Baltistan, where residents have repeatedly raised questions about constitutional status, political representation, taxation and the exploitation of local resources. Observers note that despite its strategic importance and natural wealth, the region continues to face demands for greater autonomy and more meaningful participation in decision-making processes. Such developments raise an uncomfortable question for Pakistan: if Islamabad is unable to effectively govern territories already under its administrative control, how credible are its claims regarding the future of the broader Jammu and Kashmir issue? Pakistan has consistently sought to internationalise developments within India, while unrest in its own territory increasingly highlights governance deficits at home. Yet, while Islamabad regularly focuses attention on developments across the Line of Control, growing sections of the population in PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan are questioning their own political arrangements and demanding solutions to local problems. Allegations that local institutions operate under strong federal influence have further fueled perceptions of democratic deficits. The recurring cycles of protest in Pakistan suggest structural governance issues that cannot be permanently managed through crackdowns or oppression. Ultimately, the PoK turmoil and Gilgit-Baltistan underscore a larger contradiction. Even as Islamabad continues to project itself as an advocate for Kashmiri aspirations, it is facing growing criticism from residents in territories it already administers. The continuing protests, Islamabad's use of political manipulation and military suppression, and disputes over resource distribution suggest that Pakistan's immediate challenge lies not across the LoC but within areas under its own control.

New York buyer loses $1 million lawsuit after demanding $270,000 cut on $550,000 Bronx home deal

'Americans Have No Money To Buy Medicines': U.S. Senator EXPOSES Ugly Reality Under Trump | Watch

Bernie Sanders unveils Democrats' agenda against Trump after winning back control of Congress, demanding sweeping political and economic changes. Sanders says voters have rejected authoritarianism and calls on Democrats to tackle record wealth inequality through a billionaire wealth tax. He also demands an end to the US war in Iran, cuts to military spending and an end to funding for Israel's government. The progressive senator warns Democrats cannot ignore the crises facing America when they assume power in January.#BernieSanders #Democrats #Trump #USMidterms #Congress #WealthTax #ElonMusk #IncomeInequality #IranWar #Pentagon #USPolitics #DonaldTrump #Israel

Hundreds rally in Manipurs Ukhrul demanding end to ethnic violence and SoO pact

Europe Still Sees Trump As Powerful, Especially in Foreign Policy

The commanding victory of the Democrats has brought private relief to some Europeans but no official glee, with Ukraine, Iran and NATO all hanging in the balance.

Polavaram project-displaced families boycott polling, demand separate panchayat

Voters in Koruturu R&R Colony stayed away from the polling centre, demanding a separate panchayat after being placed under P. Ankampalem panchayat

Polavaram project-displaced families boycott polling, demand separate panchayat

Voters in Koruturu R&R Colony stayed away from the polling centre, demanding a separate panchayat after being placed under P. Ankampalem panchayat

IPL Stars Seek Rs 40 Cr as Retention Fee

Some of the IPL's biggest stars are reportedly demanding Rs 40 crore to be retained ahead of the 2027 season.

Xabi Alonso Explains Why There Are No Easy Games In The Premier League

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stressed the demanding nature of the Premier League, saying there are no easy fixtures in the competition and teams cannot afford to lose focus even for a moment

Taking reforms to the road: From Ranchi protest to a Statewide yatra

The students protest in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in Jharkhands recruitment exams for government jobs has remained in the news for most of August. Amit Bhelari examines the fallout of the governments decision to cancel exams, which has left both aspiring candidates and already-appointed government employees caught in the dispute. It has pushed student leader Devendra Nath Mahto from a prolonged protest in Ranchi to a Statewide yatra demanding transparency, accountability and reforms in the government recruitment system

How Venus Williams Inspired Janice Tjen Ahead Of Chennai Open Defense

Indonesian tennis sensation Janice Tjen returns to Chennai to defend her WTA singles title, reflecting on a demanding season where she learned to manage expectations and bounce back from setbacks. She discusses the increased competition on the WTA Tour, the growing popularity of tennis in Indonesia, and the invaluable lessons learned from playing doubles with Venus Williams. Tjen also credits her parents' strict upbringing and her collegiate pathway for instilling the resilience needed to navigate professional tennis.

Jammu And Kashmir News | NC President Farooq Abdullah Says No Dissension In Party Post MLAs Meet

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has denied any dissent within the party after meeting disgruntled MLAs in Srinagar. He said their concerns were genuine and would be addressed, some immediately and others over time. However, the dissenting legislators have reportedly set a 15-day deadline, demanding a complete cabinet overhaul and removal of all eight existing ministers. They have also sought the removal of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's adviser Nasir Aslam Wani. The leadership faces pressure to resolve the internal differences.

X says police order demanding removal of Indian free-speech groups

BENGALURU, Nov 6 (Reuters) Police orders asking X to block online accounts of two of Indias most prominent free speech groups were fake, the social media company told an Indian court on Friday, days after the purported content removal requests sparked a public outcry. The orders, submitted through Xs online reporting form in the name of a senior Delhi police officer, sought the removal of the accounts of the Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) and the Software Freedom Law Centre, India (SFLC.in), claiming they had defamed the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the Hindu nationalist group from which Prime Minister Narendra Modis

Baloch activist urges UN to hold Pakistan accountable for human rights violations in Balochistan

Digital Desk | Geneva, Nov 6 (IANS) Baloch National Movement (BNM) Chairman Naseem Baloch raised grave concerns over systematic repression and human rights abuses by Pakistani authorities in Balochistan, during his meeting with members of the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) in Geneva urging the Committee to hold Pakistan accountable for failing to meet its international obligations. Naseem also called on the UN to establish a dedicated mechanism to investigate and monitor human rights violations in the region. He also sought a formal platform for the Baloch people to present their concerns directly before the international body. Describing enforced disappearances and collective punishment in detail, he said thousands of Baloch families have lived through this ordeal, and its effects reach far beyond the direct victims. Families lose their breadwinners, children lose their chance at an education, and entire households are pushed into poverty. He also raised concern over the imprisonment of Baloch human rights defenders, including Dr Mahrang Baloch and other leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), the BNM stated. He also cited the 10-year prison sentences handed down to human rights lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and her husband, Hadi Ali Chattha, by a Pakistani court, as evidence of a severe crackdown on those who speak out for the rights of the people in Balochistan. Citing Article 1 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), Naseem told the Committee that all people have the right to self-determination and may, for their own ends, freely dispose of their natural wealth and resources. He also referred to other provisions in the covenant, which protect the rights to an adequate standard of living, health and education. Challenging Pakistans claim of compliance with its international obligations, Naseem asked: How can Pakistan claim compliance while these rights are being denied in Balochistan? He told Committee members: We are not asking for sympathy. We are demanding justice, accountability and our fundamental rights. Naseem also attended the Committees formal review session, where a Pakistani delegation of about 12 representatives appeared to respond to questions on the countrys implementation of the Covenant. During the session, Julieta Rossi repeatedly asked about the worsening situation in Balochistan, while Michael Windfuhr also raised issues concerning the region. Their interventions brought the situation in Balochistan into the Committee's formal scrutiny of Pakistan's compliance with the Covenant. At the end of the session, the BNM chairperson submitted dossiers to the Committee Chair and members L. E. Perez and Fiorio Vaesken, documenting human rights violations in Balochistan and their implications under the Covenant.

BJP demands dismissal of Jharkhand Minister Irfan Ansari over regime change remarks

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded the immediate dismissal of Jharkhand Cabinet Minister Irfan Ansari following his controversial remarks cautioning that India could witness mass unrest and regime change similar to recent upheavals in Bangladesh and Nepal. Senior BJP leaders have urged Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren to remove the Congress leader from his cabinet and have appealed for the cancellation of the Congress party's political recognition. Jharkhand BJP General Secretary Amar Kumar Bauri claimed that the Congress' collusion with foreign forces has been revealed by Irfan Ansari. What Congress desires, the conspiracy it is running from within, in collusion with foreign forces, involving regime change and violent conflict, appears to have been revealed through the words of Irfan Ansari, a senior Congress leader and Health Minister in Jharkhand. I believe this should not be taken lightly and must be treated very seriously, he said. Demanding decisive administrati...

There're no easy fixtures in Premier League, you cannot switch off for a moment: Xabi Alonso

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS) Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stressed the demanding nature of the Premier League, saying there are no easy fixtures in the competition and teams cannot afford to lose focus even for a moment, as the quality across the league can punish any lapse in concentration. Chelsea have made a strong start to the 2026-27 Premier League season, sitting fourth in the standings with 16 points from nine matches. Speaking in an interview shared by JioStar, Alonso reflected on the challenges of managing in Englands top-flight competition. The Premier League is a really demanding competition, for sure. I knew about it before joining Chelsea, but once you experience it, you see the level of all the teams and all the players and how challenging each game is. There are no easy fixtures in this league. Every week you face a different test, whether it is a team fighting for the title or one fighting to stay up. That makes us demand a lot from ourselves and prepare for each game with full focus. You cannot switch off for a moment, because the quality across the league will punish you, Alonso said. The Chelsea manager also acknowledged his teams defensive issues and insisted that improving their defensive record remains a priority, adding that several goals conceded this season have resulted from individual mistakes rather than opposition teams breaking through their defensive structure. There isnt just one reason behind our defence conceding a lot of goals, but for sure its one area we are determined to do better in, and I think we will. We are in that process and developing, but we need to compete and know that conceding fewer goals is a must, he said. We need to be more compact as a unit, win our duels, and make better decisions in the final third. The players know this, and they are taking responsibility. Defending is not just about the back four. It starts from the front, with how we press and how we track back, he added. Alonso also identified Palmer as a central attacking midfielder, explaining that the England international is most effective when operating between the oppositions midfield and defensive lines. For me, the best position for Cole Palmer is that of a central attacking midfielder. When Cole gets the ball behind the forwards and in front of the last line of defence, hes able to play the last pass, to have the last dribble, to score goals, and to make the runs. Between the lines is where he hurts teams the most, Alonso said.

Kerala Vigilance probe adds new dimension to Congress campaign against CEC

Digital Desk | New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 6 (IANS) With the Congress leadership preparing to intensify its campaign for the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Kerala has opened a fresh front with a Vigilance probe into an alleged bribery case dating back to his tenure as a state government official. The two developments have given a new political dimension to the growing confrontation with CEC Kumar, who is already facing a concerted campaign by the INDIA bloc over alleged irregularities in the revision of electoral rolls. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is hosting a gathering of senior party leaders in Delhi on Friday, with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and other top functionaries expected to attend. Though officially described as a Diwali get-together, the meeting assumes significance amid the party's plans to decide its next course of action against Kumar. Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has also reached the national capital to attend the meeting. The Congress leadership is expected to discuss how to take forward the demand for CEC Kumar's removal, particularly with the next session of Parliament likely to be held later this month. The INDIA bloc is also considering fresh parliamentary moves against the CEC. The Opposition had already held a symbolic public impeachment of CEC Kumar on October 31, followed by a massive rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on November 1. It has been demanding his removal over alleged electoral irregularities. The Kerala development, meanwhile, could add another dimension to the campaign. The state Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau has ordered a Preliminary Enquiry into a complaint alleging that CEC Kumar demanded a bribe of Rs 2 crore when he was the PWD Secretary. The complaint was filed by former contractor Sajan V.O., who was associated with Patibel, the company involved in the Kerala State Transport Project roadworks. Vigilance Director Manoj Abraham has directed the Special Investigation Unit-I to register the enquiry and examine documents and statements from an earlier Vigilance investigation dating back to 2007. The complaint alleges that four bills worth crores of rupees were withheld after the alleged bribe demand was not met. The political and legal implications of the Kerala enquiry are expected to figure in the wider debate over CEC Kumar. However, the Vigilance proceedings and the parliamentary process for removal are separate matters. Under the Constitution, a CEC can be removed only through the procedure applicable to a Supreme Court judge, requiring special majorities in both Houses of Parliament.

Arunachal: No talks on Siang project until detainees freed, armed forces withdrawn, says SIFF

Itanagar: The Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF) has declined the Arunachal Pradesh governments invitation for talks on the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), demanding the release of all detainees and withdrawal of armed forces before any dialogue can take place. In a letter dated November 3, the Chief Ministers Office invited SIFF representatives to [] The post Arunachal: No talks on Siang project until detainees freed, armed forces withdrawn, says SIFF appeared first on NorthEast Now .

Sandeep Reddy Vanga calls Ranbir Kapoor and Yash 'Commanding' in 'Ramayana'

No funds for blood tests, shortage of medicines in govt hospitals, says K'taka LoP

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Nov 6 (IANS) Senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Karnataka Assembly R. Ashoka on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Congress government, accusing it of pushing the state towards financial bankruptcy and neglecting the healthcare needs of the poor. Addressing Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Health Minister U.T. Khader, Ashoka questioned whether the government had brought the state to such a situation that even government hospitals did not have funds for basic blood tests. He alleged that government hospitals, which were meant to serve as a lifeline for the poor, were facing a shortage of funds and that patients were being forced to approach private laboratories and medical stores. Ashoka alleged that while hospitals had equipment, there were no funds available for blood tests. He further claimed that laboratories were being shut and poor patients were being pushed towards private laboratories, alleging that this was part of a commission-driven racket. He also alleged that government hospitals were facing shortages of basic medicines, including cough tablets and paracetamol, forcing poor patients to spend thousands of rupees at private medical stores. Who is responsible for all this? Who should be held accountable? Ashoka questioned. He further alleged that the government did not have funds for blood tests for poor patients or scans for pregnant women and accused it of neglecting public healthcare while benefiting private laboratories. Reacting to reports of alleged fund shortages in government hospitals, Ashoka charged that the Congress government was squeezing the blood of the poor and had reduced the public healthcare system to a state of financial distress. The Congress government has completely looted the state treasury, pushed the government towards bankruptcy and destroyed the entire administrative system. It should be ashamed, he said. In a separate attack on the government, Ashoka alleged that fellowship funds had not been released for 45 research students under the Minority Welfare Department for the past 11 months, pushing financially vulnerable students into debt and distress. He said students, farmers and transport employees had all been pushed into difficulties due to what he termed the Congress government's misgovernance. Listing what he described as examples of the state's financial crisis, Ashoka alleged that the government did not have funds to pay Gruha Lakshmi scheme beneficiaries, clear dues to transport corporations and electricity supply companies, provide drought relief to farmers, purchase diesel for government buses or release fellowships for research students. Ashoka questioned the Chief Minister about the state's finances and asked where the crores of rupees collected through increased taxes and price hikes had gone if the government did not have funds for development across various sectors and for the future of poor students. The government has hit the poor hard and pushed the state into a complete financial crisis. It has no moral right to continue in office, he charged, demanding that the government apologise to the people of Karnataka and resign. Ashoka said the Congress government's days were numbered and alleged that its financial mismanagement and neglect of the poor would ultimately lead to its downfall.

Crucial meeting between CM, dissident legislators set to begin

Srinagar, Nov 06: The meeting between Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and legislators unhappy over the recent cabinet reshuffle-cum-expansion is set to begin shortly at the Gupkar residence of National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah. Sources said that the MLAs have arrived at the venue in the morning. The meeting is being held in a bid to pacify the legislators and prevent further widening of differences within the party. As already reported, the NC top brass had this morning asked the aggrieved legislators to keep independent MLAs out of the delegation meeting the Chief Minister and the party president. The aggrieved legislators are understood to have the support of three independent MLAs, who have been backing them over the reshuffle issue. Muzaffar Khan, MLA Thanamandi, is not attending the meeting, sources said. The legislators are upset over being ignored in the recent reshuffle-cum-expansion and have sought redressal of their grievances from the party leadership. The outcome of the meeting is likely to decide the future course of the dissenting camp within the National Conference(KNO)