The Economic Times

A tragic stampede occurred at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal resulting in the deaths of 19 individuals. Over 25 people were injured during this incident attributed to poor crowd management and narrow lanes. Seven people have been arrested, including organisers and security personnel, while government officials visited the injured. Financial support has been announced for the families of the deceased and injured individuals.

A high-powered committee led by a Calcutta High Court judge will probe the adverse incident at the Chorbagan Puja Committee. To improve crowd control, nine IPS officers have been assigned to manage the festivals crowds effectively. The disaster management secretary and other officials are inspecting various puja pandals to ensure safety measures. Compensation cheques of 25 lakh will be distributed to the bereaved families on specified dates.

Jantar Mantar has recently been officially designated as a site for demonstrations in India. Jantar Mantar's transformation follows a history of protest locations like the Boat Club lawns. The change brought about noticeable effects on protest dynamics across the region. While protests do not fade away, they often shift in location based on official designations. Authorities face increased scrutiny to manage and maintain these designated sites appropriately.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to represent India at the SCO meeting in Dushanbe on October 19. The meeting will focus on regional economic issues and approval of an Action Plan for multilateral cooperation. Singh will also engage in bilateral talks with Tajikistan and other nations during his visit. The agenda includes promoting digital trade and expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence sectors.

Jammu and Kashmir Police has registered a case against the wife of an Army officer. She is accused of sharing sensitive information with foreign intelligence operatives. Sources indicate that she unknowingly engaged with individuals linked to China. The investigation is focused on the degree of information exchanged during her research activities. The accused has not yet been arrested, and the inquiry is ongoing.

A Kashmir-bound passenger bus was attacked in Haryana, resulting in the injury of an elderly traveller. The event drew widespread condemnation from various political and religious figures in Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reported that the Haryana government assured him of swift action. Authorities in Karnal claimed to have detained two suspects involved in the incident. Calls for strict measures against those responsible have echoed throughout the region.

Gangs won't be spared, M'rashtra Deputy CM Eknath vows after firing at Tiger Shroff's car

Ventive Hospitality, a joint venture between Panchshil Realty and Blackstone, is in discussions to acquire luxury hotels. The company aims to secure two to three hotels that will generate significant EBITDA income. Currently, Ventive Hospitality operates 14 assets, including various high-end hotel brands across India and the Maldives. Plans are underway to launch the first Ritz Carlton Reserve project in India.

International investors have raised concerns regarding the Indian Income-tax authorities' invocation of the judicial anti-avoidance rule. At a recent meeting, investors communicated their issues with the Central Board of Direct Taxes on this matter. The use of JAAR to deny relief on grandfathered shares contradicts prior regulations established by the CBDT. The standing of both GAAR and JAAR remains complex due to Supreme Court rulings.

Astronomers have uncovered a remarkable white dwarf star named WD J1330+6435, situated 326 light-years away from our planet. This celestial body exhibits a striking green color, influenced by the elements present in its atmosphere, particularly sodium. This discovery broadens our perspective on the spectrum of colors that stellar remnants can possess, with the star affectionately dubbed a 'zombie star,' highlighting the intriguing afterlife saga of stars and their planetary systems.

Opener Shafali Verma scored 55 runs in just 25 balls to lead India to victory over Zimbabwe. After choosing to bat first, Zimbabwe struggled and managed to score only 102 runs in their innings. India's bowlers performed well, restricting the opposition and taking key wickets at crucial moments. Shafali and Smriti Mandhana had a partnership of 96 runs for the first wicket, making the chase easier.

The US announced a 60-day pause on sanctions against Russia to analyze the effects on the global economy. Officials clarified that no sanctions were lifted as part of the Graham Act. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for this evaluation amid geopolitical tensions. Critics from both parties expressed their discontent regarding Trump's decision to waive the sanctions.

MSM Unify India has acquired majority stakes in Kerala-based KlickEdu and Gujarat-based RJ Vision to expand its presence in healthcare education, workforce development and competitive-exam preparation. KlickEdu plans to develop allied healthcare colleges in India, while RJ Vision aims to reach 30,000 students across Gujarat over the next three years. The financial details of the acquisitions were not disclosed.

A major fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright resulted in seven fatalities according to unnamed sources. The fire erupted during a training session while winds reached up to 60 miles per hour. Health officials declared a mass casualty event to manage the medical response for the injured. Canadian National Defense officials and the Prime Minister expressed their condolences and concern.

Actor Tiger Shroff escaped unharmed after shots were fired at him in Juhu, Mumbai. This incident adds to a series of shootings targeting Bollywood personalities over the last few years. The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has been implicated in several of these attacks, including an incident involving Salman Khan. High-profile cases include filmmaker Rakesh Roshan's injury in 2000 and T-Series founder Gulshan Kumar's murder in 1997.

Saanich election results: Rishi Sharma has been elected Saanich mayor after securing 45.31% of the vote, while 67.96% of voters rejected a proposed merger with Victoria. The 2026 municipal election also saw five newcomers win council seats, reshaping local leadership in British Columbia. According to preliminary results, 24,663 voters, or 67.96%, voted against amalgamation.

A firing incident allegedly targeting actor Tiger Shroffs car in Mumbais Juhu area has prompted the Mumbai Police to form 15 teams to investigate the case. Shroff and his driver were taken to Nanavati Hospital following the incident, with the driver sustaining a gunshot injury. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed police to conduct a swift investigation. Alleged claims of responsibility linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang remain unverified.

Eight workers tragically lost their lives after being struck by a speeding car in Punjab's Sangrur district. The incident occurred on Lehragaga-Jakhal road near Alisher village while the workers were engaged in their duties. Authorities indicated that five workers died on the spot, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries. The district administration is providing necessary medical assistance to the injured individuals following the accident.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued rainfall across southern India from October 19 to October 24, 2026, with isolated heavy to very heavy rain likely in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Karnataka and parts of Andhra Pradesh. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are also expected in several regions. Here is the state-wise weather forecast, including rainfall warnings, affected dates and the IMD's fishermen advisory for the southwest Arabian Sea.

US President Donald Trump has endorsed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, highlighting his leadership against Iran and calling him a reliable partner. Trump emphasized that Iran's threatening rhetoric could lead to serious consequences and commended Netanyahu's strength in dealing with various pressures. He warned of potential US involvement if the leadership in Israel changes. Trump's support is labeled as a complete and total endorsement for Netanyahu's re-election campaign.

France protests on October 17 drew attention to a viral TikTok campaign that reportedly garnered 132 million views and 18 million likes. The online mobilisation revived memories of the 2018 Yellow Vests movement, as students, workers and protesters voiced anger over rising fuel prices, living costs and deteriorating public services.

Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of electoral malpractice while addressing issues related to corruption and unemployment in Goa. He claimed that government officials were involved in manipulating elections and exploiting land from local farmers. Gandhi expressed concerns over the rising unemployment rates forcing youth to migrate abroad for opportunities. He criticized the Central government for allegedly favoring industrialists like Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani.

Navratri 2026 Kanya Pujan: Navratri 2026 Kanya Pujan will be observed on October 19. Devotees can check the auspicious muhurat timings, including Abhijit Muhurat, along with the traditional Kanya Pujan vidhi, rituals, prasad and offerings. Here is a complete guide to the significance of Navami Kanya Pujan, the step-by-step puja procedure and important timings for the day.

Finding purpose: Former Cognizant HR professional Arpita Sahu has opened up about the fears and financial uncertainty she faces after quitting her corporate job in Delhi and moving to Goa in search of purpose. In Instagram videos, she spoke about struggling with self-doubt, pressure to succeed and finding meaningful connections, prompting social media users to share encouragement and their own experiences of starting over.

In Chassad village, Kamjong district, fifteen houses belonging to the Kuki community were burned by suspected militants. The attack prompted many civilians to flee into the forests and a nearby Army camp. A Kuki civilian was killed earlier, and several others were injured in the violence. Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen condemned the acts of violence and called for justice.

People Against SIR will conduct nationwide protests on October 23 to seek electoral reforms and restoration of voting rights. The platform accuses Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar of violating constitutional obligations and changing electoral processes without parliamentary approval. Protesters aim to draw attention to the alleged disenfranchisement of 13.41 crore citizens through the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

The Para Asian Games opening ceremony featured the Indian contingent wearing ceremonial blazers reflecting 5,000 years of heritage. Athletes Simran Sharma and Pramod Bhagat led the team while proudly carrying the national flag. The blazers incorporated motifs from the Indus Valley civilization and highlighted the historical significance of SaptSindhu. India has fielded a 281-member contingent to compete across various disciplines in the Games.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has rolled out new initiatives aimed at enhancing devotees' access to Ram Lalla. Visitors can now reserve Sugam Darshan passes up to 90 days ahead of their intended visit, significantly boosting convenience. The trust has increased the daily online pass availability from 975 to 2,000, ensuring more people can access the site.

Donald Trump, known for his negotiation skills, has faced criticism for his failed deals and claims. His presidency has shown that many of his promised agreements did not materialize as expected. Some real accomplishments during his administration included the Abraham Accords and trade agreements. Experts have noted that Trump's approach often hinged on leveraging chaos to maintain control over negotiations.

Following a tragic stampede during Durga Puja celebrations, Kolkata Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced reforms for crowd management. The government may ban VIP gates to ensure equal access for all puja revellers. A special investigation team will be formed to examine the incident's circumstances and police actions. Compensation will be provided to victims and their families, with a focus on improving future safety measures.

Columbus Marathon 2026: Columbus Marathon 2026 brought more than 15,000 runners to Columbus, Ohio and has raised more than $15 million since 2012. The race is known as Americas Most Meaningful Race because it puts children receiving medical care and their families at the centre of the event.

Donald Trump has advised France to close its borders and manage immigration to confront ongoing problems. He claimed that diversity has contributed to various national issues and warned that the situation could worsen. Trump mentioned that immigrants often bring negative sentiments, affecting the social fabric of the country. His comments come amid rising tensions related to immigration policy in France.

Chennai has been placed under a red alert due to forecasts of extremely heavy rainfall expected soon. Surrounding districts such as Kancheepuram and Coimbatore also received an orange alert for heavy rainfall. The Greater Chennai Corporation has undertaken proactive measures to manage the situation effectively. Relief centres have been established, and food distribution efforts are ongoing for affected residents.

Former Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja Committee general secretary Jayanta Banerjee has expressed anguish over the stampede that killed 19 people in north Kolkata, saying this year's shift in the idol's position went against long-followed community practices. He said he had repeatedly cautioned organisers against the change but did not link it to the tragedy.

Delhi Police successfully intervened to stop significant financial losses from digital arrest scams in various states. The Financial Monitoring Cell traced suspicious transactions and contacted victims to prevent further payments. Several elderly people were targeted, with some initially transferring large sums of money out of fear. Intervention efforts included counseling and assisting victims in filing complaints with local cybercrime helplines.

Protests in Delhi could put business transactions worth over Rs 400 crore at risk daily, according to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT). Its estimate is based on the capital's average daily turnover of Rs 2,200 crore. Traders have warned that prolonged disruptions could affect supply chains, livelihoods and festive-season business.

The fatal Lake Apopka alligator attack in Florida has raised concerns about the state's large alligator population. Florida has an estimated 1.3 million alligators, with Lake Okeechobee, Lake Jesup, Lake Kissimmee and Orange Lake among the waterways known for their large populations. Here's what to know about these alligator hotspots and the safety precautions recommended by wildlife officials.

Police arrested around 1,800 individuals during protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions. Protests involved significant violence, including clashes with officers, looting, and destruction of property. Some cities experienced severe damage, with notable incidents occurring in Limoges and Marseille. French President Emmanuel Macron is set to hold an emergency meeting following the unrest. The Interior Minister condemned the violence and highlighted the need for order during

Authorities in Pakistan have secured a historic Hindu temple following protests by local residents and civil society members against its demolition. The Ram Leela Temple in Dera Ismail Khan faced demolition attempts to develop a commercial plaza, leading to community intervention. Local activists and the Hindu community requested an investigation regarding the temple's ownership and construction legality.

Rahul Gandhi addressed Congress workers in Margao, South Goa during the party's 'Goy Rakhon Yatra'. He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others of undermining the Constitution through vote theft. Gandhi emphasized that this action represents an attack on democratic principles and the sacred duty of citizens. He stated that the Congress party would not accept these alleged actions. The remarks highlight ongoing tensions regarding electoral integrity in the country.

Schools closed on October 19: Schools in several Indian states will remain closed on Monday, October 19, 2026, due to festive holidays, including Durga Puja, Maha Navami, Ayudha Pooja and Vijayadashami. Schools in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand will also remain closed, while Telangana schools covered by the Dasara vacation will continue their break. Students and parents should check state-wise holiday schedules and official announcements for the latest updates.