kolkata / The Times of India
The Iran-Israel conflict has halted Indian tea exports to Iran, a major importer. Consignments are stuck at Mumbai's port, disrupting a revival in exports seen earlier in 2024. Exporters are concerned about payments and rising freight costs, leading them to explore alternative markets like the UK and Europe, shifting focus away from premium Darjeeling tea.
Kolkata experiences a typical monsoon day today with warmth and patchy showers expected, reaching a high of 33.2C and an 89% chance of rain later. The week ahead forecasts continued rain and fluctuating warmth, with temperatures potentially hitting 36.1C. Tuesday is anticipated to be the wettest day, so plan accordingly for potential waterlogging.
The Calcutta High Court commuted the death penalty of Suresh Paswan, convicted in 2019 for the 2013 rape and murder of a toddler in Kidderpore, to life imprisonment without remission for 50 years. The court cited that the crime didn't qualify as 'rarest of rare' and considered Paswan's 'mild mental disability' and socio-economic background.
In Kolkata's Kasba area, a family of three, including an elderly couple and their son, were discovered deceased in their apartment, with authorities suspecting suicide. A note found at the scene stated no one was responsible for their actions, hinting at financial struggles. Neighbors reported the family had moved in recently and faced economic hardship, exacerbated by the pandemic.