The Economic Times

The Supreme Court will hear a plea on July 7 alleging Tamil Nadu ministers are actively influencing witnesses in the Karur stampede case, which claimed 41 lives. The court had previously ordered a CBI investigation into the incident. Senior advocate Huzefa Ahmadi presented the application, highlighting concerns about potential witness tampering by individuals now holding ministerial positions. The bench confirmed the hearing for the following day.

Egypt has unveiled its colossal State Strategic Command Headquarters, dubbed 'The Octagon,' a sprawling military complex dwarfing the Pentagon in size. Inaugurated by President El Sisi, this advanced facility in the New Administrative Capital centralizes Egypt's military command, intelligence, and crisis management. Designed as an integrated defence city, it boasts cutting-edge technology to bolster national security and operational readiness.

Frequent traffic offenders will soon face mandatory re-tests to renew their driving licences as part of significant amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act. The government also plans to expedite compensation for accident victims and increase appeal costs for disputes. Third-party insurance premium setting will return to IRDAI, and licence suspensions will now require a three-year cooling-off period.

India has proposed a dedicated virtual working group for BRICS nations to combat evolving drug trafficking trends. Speaking at a Guwahati meet of anti-drug agency heads, NCB Director General Anurag Garg highlighted the global threat posed by sophisticated methods. The proposed group aims to facilitate real-time intelligence exchange, analyze shifting patterns, and coordinate joint operations.

Heavy rains and strong winds battered Thane and Palghar districts, causing widespread damage. A fireman sustained severe leg injuries while clearing an uprooted tree. A large billboard and two walls collapsed, disrupting traffic and damaging property. Low-lying areas experienced flooding, with rescue teams on high alert. Despite the chaos, all students at a residential school in Palghar were reported safe.

Mumbai rains today: Maharashtra is grappling with record-breaking rainfall, leading to 13 fatalities in Mumbai, Palghar, and Raigad over the past few days. The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Mumbai and surrounding areas, warning of continued heavy to extremely heavy downpours. Lonavala recorded a staggering 670 mm of rain.

The Delhi High Court ruled that families of drivers dying in borrowed vehicles cannot claim personal accident cover from the owner's insurer via the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT). Such claims are contractual, not based on negligence, and fall outside MACT's jurisdiction. The court clarified these disputes belong in consumer or civil courts, not under the Motor Vehicles Act's Section 166.

Telangana's flagship two-bedroom housing scheme is gaining momentum with fresh ownership document distributions and a commitment to build one lakh additional homes for Hyderabad's urban poor. This initiative provides free, fully funded two-bedroom houses to economically weaker families lacking permanent residences. The government prioritizes vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities and widows, in its ongoing efforts to alleviate housing burdens for low-income citizens.

Raymond Limited has appointed Bhanu Prakash Srivastava as CEO of its Defence business, aiming to build a technology-driven platform. With nearly four decades of experience at Bharat Electronics Limited, Srivastava brings expertise in defence manufacturing and strategic program execution. His leadership is expected to drive Raymond's growth in India's burgeoning defence sector, focusing on advanced capabilities and indigenous solutions.

Australia clinched a record seventh ICC Women's T20 World Cup title, defeating hosts England by seven wickets in a thrilling final at Lord's. Chasing 151, Beth Mooney's unbeaten 64 anchored a successful pursuit, marking the highest run-chase in a final. ICC Chairman Jay Shah hailed the tournament, stating women's cricket is in a golden era following the Australians' dominant, unbeaten campaign.

Bengaluru is set to witness a revolutionary healthcare model as Narayana Health plans a hospital entirely managed by nurses. Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty announced that 25 nurses will take on leadership and administrative roles, a move hailed as 'truly game-changing' by industry leaders like Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw. This initiative aims to empower nurses and redefine hospital governance, challenging traditional hierarchies.

Matt Damon joked during a promotional interview for Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey that he landed the lead role only after Leonardo DiCaprio, Christian Bale, Tom Hardy and five other A-listers had passed on it. Nolan played along, quipping that Damon was essentially the last option, drawing laughter from the cast and the interviewer.

The Allahabad High Court's Lucknow Bench will hear a PIL seeking a CBI probe into alleged irregularities in Ram Temple donations. The petition demands an audit by the CAG and an FIR. This comes as the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust holds a crucial meeting amid the controversy. Police are also questioning accused individuals in the alleged theft case.

Mumbai's monsoon fury has disrupted transport, with a Vande Bharat Express video showcasing its steady progress through waterlogged tracks going viral. Heavy rains triggered landslides, halting Mumbai-Pune train services and washing away ballast on suburban lines. Western Railway services faced delays due to waterlogging, impacting thousands of commuters. Authorities urge caution and advise checking updates before travel.

Mumbai's legislative assembly was adjourned due to forecasts of heavy rains and strong winds, with the IMD issuing a red alert. Concerns over rain-related deaths were raised in the House. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured that the government and administration are on alert, urging citizens to stay vigilant and avoid non-essential travel as winds up to 90 km/h are expected.

ACG Sports has appointed former Rajasthan Royals CEO Jake Lush McCrum as its new leader to spearhead the launch of the India Basketball League (IBL) in early 2027. Based in Mumbai, McCrum's extensive experience in commercial growth and digital expansion with the IPL franchise will be crucial in building the IBL into a premier global sporting property.

Pune weather: Maharashtra is grappling with intense monsoon rains, prompting Pune to declare a holiday for all schools and anganwadis due to a red alert. Authorities are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay clear of rivers and streams. Mumbai also faces waterlogging and traffic disruptions. The India Meteorological Department forecasts continued heavy rainfall across the state, with concerns of localized flooding and landslides.

Londoner Zainab Hussain once saw air conditioning as a luxury in Britain. However, after sweltering at night through the second heatwave of 2026 last month, the Hussain family were undeterred, opting to add AC upstairs at their semi-detached home in the south London suburb Selsdon.

Desperate India, yet to secure a win on their UK tour, is set to bolster their pace attack by dropping leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi for the third T20I against England. Following a series loss to Ireland and a costly performance by Bishnoi, the team aims to leverage pace on a batting-friendly Trent Bridge pitch.

The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the Centre regarding pleas challenging eviction proceedings against the Delhi Gymkhana Club. The club and its Staff Welfare Association are contesting the Land and Development Office's order to vacate the Lutyens' Delhi premises. The Centre cited defence infrastructure needs, but a member alleges the grounds are vague and a sham, aiming for forced eviction.

Norway's Erling Haaland delivered a stunning performance, scoring twice in the final minutes to secure a 2-1 victory over Brazil and advance to the World Cup quarter-finals. The Manchester City star's brace brings his tournament goal tally to seven, matching Messi and Mbapp. Fans are captivated by the Viking's incredible journey, from his childhood achievements to his rise as a global football icon.

China's naval forces have successfully test-fired a strategic missile from a nuclear submarine in the Pacific Ocean. The launch occurred on Monday, following regional concerns about Beijing's missile testing plans. A spokesperson confirmed the missile, carrying a training warhead, accurately hit its designated target in international waters. This development comes amid heightened regional tensions.

Waking up to a barrage of small decisions can drain your mental energy, impacting your ability to tackle important tasks. Psychologists suggest automating routine choices, like what to eat or wear, can preserve cognitive resources. This decision fatigue concept highlights how making numerous choices depletes self-control. By simplifying daily routines, you can free up mental bandwidth for more critical thinking.

Diljit Dosanjh Satluj OTT removal: Actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh has addressed the abrupt removal of his film 'Satluj' from ZEE5 in India, stating he's no longer concerned about its availability. Dosanjh believes the film, based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has already reached its audience through downloads, making its impact indelible. The film's disappearance from the platform has sparked renewed debate on sensitive historical narratives.

Zimbabwe vs Bangladesh live streaming: Zimbabwe is set to host Bangladesh for a three-match ODI series starting July 6th in Harare. Cricket enthusiasts in India can catch the action live on FanCode. While the Harare Sports Club pitch might favor spinners, chasing could be the preferred strategy. Bangladesh, boasting a stronger squad, is tipped to win the opening encounter, with a few showers potentially in the forecast.

Baruipur rape case: Heavy police and central forces deployment outside Mamata Banerjee's residence sparked TMC allegations of preventing her visit to Baruipur's rape-murder victim's family. BJP dismissed this, calling it routine security for a Z-plus protectee. The controversy erupts amid public outrage over the 11-year-old's death and subsequent violence, including an alleged lynching.

Mumbai work from home advisory: Financial capital braces for heavy downpours as the State Disaster Management Authority advises private offices to implement work-from-home arrangements. Non-essential government offices will operate on a half-day basis. This advisory follows a 'red alert' issued by the India Meteorological Department, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds across the financial capital.

Quote of the day by Leo Tolstoy: Leo Tolstoy's timeless advice urges us to pause and truly observe. The renowned author of 'War and Peace' advocated for stopping our relentless work, not to shirk duty, but to reconnect with life's essence. His wisdom emphasizes appreciating present blessings, reminding us that genuine happiness lies in mindful living, not just constant doing.

Jaswant Singh Khalra movie: Actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj', based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been removed from Zee5 in India shortly after its release. The movie, which faced significant certification hurdles, sheds light on Khalra's courageous investigation into alleged illegal killings and secret cremations in Punjab during the 1980s and 90s. Khalra's own disappearance and subsequent murder trial brought his work to national attention, and his legacy contin

Mumbai faced severe weather on Monday, prompting a city-wide shutdown of educational institutions. The University of Mumbai postponed all exams due to heavy rain and strong winds, with schools across the city also closed. Authorities urged residents to stay indoors as gusty winds caused numerous trees to fall. The city remains on high alert, prioritizing safety over routine as more rain is forecast.

A product manager's job offer was reportedly lost due to a single question during his final interview. After impressing throughout the process, he was asked by the CEO if he believed the company should expand into the two-wheeler market. Lacking preparation on this specific area, his fumbled response may have cost him the role, highlighting the importance of anticipating all interview questions, even those posed by the candidate.

China is preparing to test-fire a nuclear-capable missile into the Pacific Ocean, Papua New Guinea'on Monday. A New Zealand government source told AFP China had also alerted them of an upcoming intercontinental ballistic missile test. sft/bes/mjw

Cristiano Ronaldo admitted at the World Cup on Sunday he is not the player he once was but came out fighting against critics rying to kill me for the past 23 years. Asked again about his international future, You have been trying to kill me for the past 23 years, but you must have seen that is not worth it, it's a waste of time, but you try and try and try and try and try.

Amidst the Persian Gulf war, the UAE secretly navigated its oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz using 'dark' ship transits. Korean shipping tycoon Ga-Hyun Chung's Sinokor Group played a pivotal role, leasing a significant portion of vessels for these risky shuttle runs. This covert operation allowed the UAE to maintain pre-war export levels, capitalizing on surging oil prices and creating immense profits for Sinokor and its partners.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a significant three-nation tour to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand, aiming to bolster India's Act East Policy and its vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. The visits, scheduled from July 6-11, 2026, will focus on deepening strategic partnerships, enhancing trade, and strengthening people-to-people ties with each nation. Interactions with the Indian diaspora are also a key highlight of this diplomatic outreach.

A Boeing 747-8, gifted by Qatar, is now serving as a temporary Air Force One for President Trump. While awaiting new presidential aircraft, this jet, valued at $400 million and further modified with taxpayer funds, is expected to become a centerpiece at Trump's planned Miami presidential library. However, the donation has faced scrutiny over its ethics and the significant upgrade costs.

President Trump heads to Turkey to press NATO allies on defense spending pledges. He expects immediate action on the 5% GDP target, a key focus after last year's summit. Despite ongoing disputes, Trump seeks to solidify his influence on the alliance's future, while also planning meetings on Ukraine and Syria. This summit serves as a crucial test of commitment to increased defense contributions.

The US Department of Justice has strongly defended dropping bribery charges against Gautam Adani, citing weak evidence and jurisdictional issues. Senior Advocate Harish Salve suggested the case was a ame and shame tactic with a political agenda to pressure India. The DoJ's firm stance, emphasizing prosecutorial discretion and the case's Indian locus, leaves little room for the presiding judge to continue proceedings, with experts anticipating the case's closure.

Mumbai Rain Local Train Status: Mumbai's rail network faced significant disruption Monday as landslides in the Bhor Ghat section halted Mumbai-Pune long-distance services. While suburban locals on Central and Western Railway lines are running with minor delays, commuters are advised to check live status. Restoration efforts are underway, but no reopening timeline is confirmed. The IMD has issued an orange alert for Mumbai, with a red nowcast warning for intense rain and gusty winds.

Mumbai's flight operations are facing significant disruptions due to heavy rainfall and poor visibility. Major airlines like IndiGo, Akasa Air, SpiceJet, and Air India have issued travel advisories, urging passengers to check their flight status. Several flights were diverted over the weekend, and the impact is expected to persist as airlines work to normalize schedules. Commuters are advised to stay updated before heading to the airport.

Iran is holding a grand funeral procession in Tehran for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whose coffin, along with those of family members lost in an airstrike, is being transported through the capital. The nation anticipates massive public turnout to demonstrate solidarity. Meanwhile, US-led negotiations concerning the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program are reportedly paused until after Khamenei's burial in Mashhad.

Tripura anticipates a massive Rs 1 lakh crore investment at the upcoming Destination Tripura Business Conclave-2026, commencing July 9. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia will attend the event aimed at boosting employment and state income. Focus sectors include health, education, IT, and tourism. Last year's conclave saw Rs 30,000 crore in MoUs, with Rs 8,000 crore already initiated. Over 500 national and international delegates are expected.

France, Norway, and England have advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after thrilling Round of 16 encounters. Kylian Mbappe's penalty secured France's win, while Erling Haaland's late brace stunned Brazil. England, despite a red card, triumphed over hosts Mexico in a dramatic five-goal contest. Today's fixtures include Portugal vs. Spain, USA vs. Belgium, and Argentina vs. Egypt.