The Economic Times

AMMK chief T T V Dhinakaran has urged the Tamil Nadu government to initiate contempt proceedings against Karnataka for proceeding with Mekedatu dam construction, allegedly violating Supreme Court orders. He called for Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and halt the unilateral work.

Former batter Sanjay Manjrekar has labelled India's decision to drop Sanju Samson for the second T20 against England as izarre. While praising 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's historic debut, Manjrekar questioned Samson's exclusion, suggesting both could have been accommodated. Samson, a T20 World Cup star, was replaced by Sooryavanshi, who impressed in the IPL. India lost the match, trailing the series 0-1.

Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed has been named an accused in the Pahalgam terror attack supplementary chargesheet by the NIA. Filed in Jammu, the chargesheet implicates Saeed for waging war against India and hatching conspiracies from across the border. This follows an earlier charge sheet naming a Pakistani handler and slain terrorists involved in the deadly attack that claimed 26 lives.

The Allahabad High Court has directed the Centre and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to respond to a petition claiming a temple exists within the Taj Mahal premises. The plea, filed by a temple trust and others, challenges lower court rejections of requests for an advocate commissioner to survey the disputed site.

George Clooney, the acclaimed actor, offers a poignant perspective on aging, suggesting life's true value lies in the journey, not a perfect ending. He acknowledges life's inherent difficulties and the pain of loss, but emphasizes cherishing experiences and relationships. Clooney's reflections encourage appreciating the present moments and the connections we forge, making each stage of life meaningful despite its inevitable challenges.

Prince Harry will not be staying at Buckingham Palace during his UK visit this week, despite earlier reports. He reportedly did not formally accept an offer for royal accommodation by a deadline. The estranged royal's trip for charity engagements is overshadowed by security disputes and his family's absence. Harry has lived in the US since stepping down as a working royal in 2020.

A public toilet in China's historic Dunhuang city is captivating the world, drawing crowds and becoming an unexpected tourist hotspot. Industrialist Harsh Goenka shared a viral video of the five-star facility, inspired by the Mogao Grottoes. Boasting a labyrinthine cave design, it offers premium amenities like free beverages, phone booths, and luxury toiletries, transforming a basic utility into a cultural attraction.

A tragic single-vehicle collision in Nova Scotia, has resulted in the death of a man from Springhill. Emergency crews responded to the scene on Highway 321 where a Honda Civic reportedly veered off the road and struck a culvert. The driver, who was the sole occupant, was transported to the hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari vowed capital punishment for culprits in the heinous crime of a 12-year-old girl's alleged rape and murder in Baruipur. Three arrests have been made, with police investigating further. The CM also highlighted incidents of mob lynching, vandalism, and injuries to security personnel, hinting at political instigation. Prohibitory orders are in effect in Baruipur to prevent further tension.

Anime enthusiasts, rejoice! Solo Leveling is returning with a new movie, 'Beyond the System,' slated for release in late 2026. Co-produced by industry giants, this film promises to continue Sung Jinwoo's epic journey after the events of Season 2. While a third season's fate remains uncertain, this cinematic adventure offers a thrilling glimpse into the future of the beloved franchise.

Best Proverb of the day: The German proverb Krummes Holz gibt auch gerades Feuer (Crooked logs also make straight fires) teaches that imperfections do not determine a person's worth or ability. The proverb reminds people to look beyond appearances and recognise the value in everyone. Its enduring message promotes acceptance, resilience and the understanding that true character is revealed through actions, not outward perfection.

Unpaid care work, not job scarcity, keeps most Indian women out of the workforce in major cities, a new survey reveals. While female labour force participation is slowly rising, it remains low globally. Despite better job quality in these cities, a significant wage gap persists, with women earning considerably less than men, especially in self-employment. Longer working hours are also noted.

Hamas is preparing to dissolve the body that has governed the Gaza Strip for nearly two decades, officials from the group said Monday, clearing the way for a Palestinian technocratic committee to implement civilian rule. The dissolution of the Hamas body paves the way for the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), headed by Palestinian official Ali Shaath, to assume administrative responsibilities.

The Delhi High Court has directed the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to decide within two weeks on a show-cause notice issued to grappler Vinesh Phogat concerning indiscipline and alleged anti-doping rule violations. The court noted that Phogat's grievance regarding Asian Games selection trials was now resolved, but she may need to file a fresh petition for broader selection policy challenges.

Residents of Wah Model Town are facing severe urban flooding and overflowing sewage due to clogged drains and administrative neglect. Developed in the 1990s under the Wah Cantonment Board, infrastructure has failed to match its expansion. Residents regularly pay taxes but receive inadequate municipal services, worsening environmental and public health concerns.

Severe weather is impacting multiple US states following Fourth of July storms. Dangerous heat advisories are in effect for the Mid-Atlantic and Arizona, with temperatures soaring. Wildfire smoke has led to air quality alerts in Colorado. Meanwhile, heavy thunderstorms are causing flooding concerns in Tennessee and Louisiana, while Florida braces for strong storm activity.

The Allahabad High Court has refused to hear a public interest litigation demanding an independent probe into alleged misappropriation of donations at Ayodhya's Ram Temple. The court cited a similar petition already pending before the Supreme Court as the reason for dismissing the plea. The petitioner had sought an investigation into embezzlement and a CAG audit of temple finances. The High Court chose not to delve into the case's merits.

Comcast's Sky is acquiring ITV's broadcast channels and streaming service for 1.6 billion, aiming to create a British media giant capable of challenging global streaming players. This landmark deal, set to face regulatory scrutiny, combines the UK's largest free-to-air broadcaster with a leading pay-TV provider. The merged entity will dominate the UK TV ad market.

Norway's World Cup triumph over Brazil has sparked a secondary sensation: a viral clip appearing to show Princess Ingrid Alexandra hugging a shirtless Erling Haaland. While the hug remains unconfirmed by royal officials, the princess and her brother were visibly jubilant in the stands. This historic win, Norway's first quarterfinal appearance, offers a welcome ray of sunshine amidst the royal family's recent health challenges.

Bryan Johnson autoimmune disease: Anti-aging personality Bryan Johnson's recent revelation of autoimmune disease has ignited public interest in these complex conditions. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. While causes are often a mix of genetics and environment, symptoms vary widely. Early diagnosis and management are crucial for conditions like autoimmune gastritis, impacting millions globally.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee's contributions to nation-building and West Bengal's inclusion in India will be incorporated into the school and university syllabus from the next academic year. He highlighted Mookerjee's role in undivided India and his efforts in education. The Chief Minister also pledged modernization for Mitra Institution School and announced a 125-foot statue in his honor.

Mumbai faced severe disruptions on Monday as heavy monsoon rains and strong winds lashed the city. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport saw 17 flights cancelled and over 200 delayed. The India Meteorological Department issued a red alert for Mumbai and surrounding districts, warning of continued intense downpours. This has led to widespread waterlogging, affecting train services and causing traffic issues on key highways.

The Congress party has strongly criticized the VHP's request to the Ayodhya police to question opposition leaders regarding alleged donation theft at the Ram temple. Congress leaders described the VHP's move as he pot calling the kettle black, accusing the organization of attempting to deflect from its own past controversies and moral rot. They demanded an independent, Supreme Court-monitored probe into the temple's finances.

Goa's iconic motorcycle taxi service is now online with the launch of the 'Mhaje Driver App'. Commuters can easily locate and book the nearest motorcycle pilot via their smartphones, enhancing convenience and expanding pilots' customer reach. The government is also exploring welfare initiatives like electric bike subsidies and a pension scheme for these trusted transport providers.

Mumbai grapples with heavy monsoon downpours, prompting a Red Alert for several districts. Waterlogging has disrupted normal life and traffic, with warnings of potential flooding and structural damage. While intense rain is expected to continue on July 7, conditions are forecast to improve from July 8 with moderate showers. Authorities urge residents to exercise caution and stay informed.

America's wealthiest families, led by the Waltons with a staggering $520 billion, continue to dominate the economic landscape. Their fortunes, built over generations in sectors like retail, energy, and food, highlight the enduring power of long-term private ownership. The Kochs, Mars, and Johnsons also feature prominently, showcasing how sustained family control fuels immense wealth and influence across key industries.

Political parties and Sikh bodies in Punjab have strongly condemned the removal of Diljit Dosanjh's film Satluj from ZEE5 in India. Critics argue the movie, based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, confronts a dark chapter of Punjab's history and its censorship is an assault on truth and freedom of expression. They demand the film be reinstated for public viewing.

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.

Rahul Gandhi has accused the transport ministry of deliberately strangling small bus and truck body-building workshops, calling 'Make in India' and 'Vocal for Local' mere slogans. He highlighted that artisans, who create jobs and drive the nation's momentum, are being unfairly blamed for technical faults and face regulations that favor large corporations.

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.

Bypolls for three Rajya Sabha seats from West Bengal, vacated by Trinamool Congress MPs, are scheduled for July 24. The resignations followed internal dissent after the party's assembly election defeat. The Election Commission announced the date, with vote counting set for the same evening. This development is expected to boost the BJP's strength in the upper house.

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.

SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal has strongly condemned the abrupt removal of Diljit Dosanjh's film Satluj from ZEE5 in India, calling it an assault on Punjab's collective memory and freedom of expression. The movie, based on human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra's life and investigation into extrajudicial killings, faced censorship issues for years.