Asianet Newsable

Holy Blast! Reel Stunt Near Skiathos Runway Ends in Disaster As Tourists Get Blown Away by Jet Pressure (WATCH)

Vaishnav Akash — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:58:28 +0530

Two tourists were knocked to the ground by jet blast from a departing aircraft near Skiathos airport on Monday afternoon after they approached the runway fence to film social media reels.

The incident happened around 2 PM local time as a plane began its takeoff roll. The force of the engines threw both individuals off their feet and several meters backward onto ground. They sustained minor bruises and scrapes but did not require hospital treatment. Police detained them for questioning and later released them.

The airport runway on Skiathos is known for its short length and low-altitude. It sits between a hill and the sea, making landings and takeoffs highly visible and drawing aviation enthusiasts and tourists every summer. The viewing areas near the perimeter are marked, but people frequently cross into restricted zones for closer photos and videos.

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Residents Say Warnings Have Been Ignored for Years

Local residents expressed anger after Monday's event. It is not the first time tourists have put themselves in danger near the runway. Similar incidents have occurred in previous seasons, with visitors climbing fences or standing just outside the airport boundary to capture dramatic footage.

"This has been going on for years," a local shopkeeper told reporters. “They see videos online and think it is harmless. They do not understand the power of those engines.”

Skiathos municipal authorities have installed warning signs and barriers in the past, but enforcement has been inconsistent. The airport remains open and accessible in many areas, with only basic fencing separating the tarmac from public spaces.

The two tourists involved were not identified. They are foreign nationals on holiday in Greece. Local police have not confirmed whether they will face formal charges, but they could be fined for trespassing and endangering aviation operations. Fines for such violations can go up to 1,000 euros under Greek civil aviation regulations.

The pilot did not abort takeoff and continued with the departure as scheduled. Airport operations were not disrupted.

This latest case has renewed debate about tourist behavior on the island. Skiathos depends heavily on summer visitors, and the airport viewing spots are part of its appeal. But residents and aviation officials say the line has been crossed too many times. They want stricter policing, higher fines, and clearer warnings to deter reckless stunts.

A representative from the Civil Aviation Authority said the agency is reviewing security measures at Skiathos and other Greek airports with similar layouts. No new rules have been announced yet.

Some locals have suggested installing higher fencing or restricting access to certain areas during peak flight hours. Others believe only heavy fines will change behavior.

The tourists involved in Monday's incident were lucky. Jet blast from large aircraft can exceed 100 knots and easily throw debris or people off balance. Being thrown against the fence or into nearby obstacles could have caused serious injuries.

No formal complaint has been filed by the airport authority at this time. Police said their investigation is ongoing. The tourists remain on the island but have been warned to stay away from restricted areas for the rest of their stay.

Skiathos airport handles dozens of flights daily during summer. The runway is surrounded on three sides by water and hills, leaving limited space for safety buffers. Planes often fly low over the beach before touching down, making it a popular site for planespotters.

But aviation experts have repeatedly warned that proximity to active runways is dangerous. Thrust reverse and engine suction pose risks even outside the perimeter.

Local authorities are expected to hold a meeting later this week to discuss further measures. Whether they will act before the next incident remains unclear.

Kerala Weather LATEST Update: IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Five Kerala Districts Amid Rain Warning

Amrita Ghosh — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:58:12 +0530

Kerala Weather LATEST Update: Kerala is expected to witness widespread rainfall as a coastal trough continues to influence weather conditions across the state. The IMD has issued Yellow Alerts for five northern districts

Kerala Sthree Sakthi SS-527 Lottery Result Today: Rs 1 Crore Jackpot Up for Grabs; Check Draw Time and Details

Deevika NM — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:40:56 +0530

The Kerala State Lotteries Department is set to announce the Sthree Sakthi SS-527 lottery result today, July 7, with thousands of participants eagerly awaiting the winning numbers. The weekly draw is one of the state's most popular lottery schemes and is conducted under the supervision of government officials to ensure transparency and fairness.

The draw will take place at Gorky Bhavan near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram. As per the official schedule, the draw begins at 3 pm, while the winning numbers are generally published from around 3.30 pm on the Kerala State Lotteries Department's official website.

The Sthree Sakthi lottery offers multiple prize categories, including a lucrative first prize, followed by second, third and several consolation and lower-tier prizes. Winners are selected through a transparent draw process conducted in the presence of officials.

Also Read: Kerala Bhagyathara BT-61 Lottery Result Today: Rs 1 Crore Winner, Full Winners List Here

Ticket holders are advised to verify their numbers only after the official results are released. The complete winning list will be made available through the Kerala State Lotteries Department's official result publication. Participants should avoid relying on unofficial sources or unverified messages circulating on social media.

Those who win prizes must preserve their original lottery tickets carefully. Prize claims are subject to verification, and winners must submit the required documents, including valid identity proof, within the deadline prescribed by the Kerala State Lotteries Department. Applicable taxes will be deducted from eligible prize amounts as per government norms.

The Kerala State Lottery, one of India's oldest government-run lottery systems, conducts weekly and bumper draws throughout the year. Revenue generated from ticket sales supports various welfare and development programmes across the state.

The Sthree Sakthi SS-527 result is expected to be declared later today. Once announced, participants can check the complete list of winning numbers, prize details and claim procedures through the official Kerala Lottery result portal.

Also Read: Kerala Bhagyathara BT-61 Lottery Result Today: Rs 1 Crore Jackpot Up for Grabs; Check Draw Time and Details

Karnataka Weather LATEST Update: Monsoon Fury in Karnataka; Schools Shut in 14 Taluks Amid Heavy Rain

Amrita Ghosh — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:37:05 +0530

Karnataka Weather LATEST Update: Heavy monsoon showers continue to lash Karnataka, prompting authorities to declare a school holiday in 14 taluks as a precaution. The IMD has also issued Orange Alerts for several districts, warning of more rain

Telangana Shocker: Nurse Arrested for Allegedly Killing Husband by Injecting Toilet Cleaner Into IV in Nizamabad

Deevika NM — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:32:47 +0530

A shocking murder case has emerged from Telangana's Nizamabad district, where a 37-year-old nurse has been arrested for allegedly killing her husband by injecting toilet cleaner into his intravenous (IV) line while he was undergoing treatment at a hospital. Police allege the murder was premeditated and motivated by the accused's desire to continue an extramarital relationship without opposition.

According to investigators, the victim had been admitted to the hospital after falling ill. Taking advantage of her medical knowledge and access to the patient, the accused allegedly injected toilet-cleaning liquid into her husband's IV drip, leading to his rapid deterioration and subsequent death. Initially, the death did not raise suspicion, but inconsistencies in the circumstances prompted a detailed police investigation.

During the probe, investigators examined medical records, hospital evidence and statements from witnesses. Police also reviewed CCTV footage and gathered forensic evidence, which they say pointed to deliberate foul play rather than a natural medical complication. The investigation further revealed the accused was allegedly involved in an extramarital affair, which police believe was the primary motive behind the crime.

Also Read: Hyderabad Man Loses Rs 1 Lakh Phone After Stopping to Help Biker, CCTV Captures Clever Theft

Authorities said the accused initially attempted to mislead investigators by portraying the death as a medical emergency. However, sustained questioning and forensic findings reportedly exposed contradictions in her account. She was subsequently arrested and booked on charges of murder. Police have also initiated further inquiries to determine whether anyone else had prior knowledge of or assisted in the alleged crime.

The incident has sparked widespread shock because of the accused's professional background as a healthcare worker, with many questioning the breach of trust associated with the case. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials are awaiting the complete forensic and medical examination reports, which are expected to strengthen the prosecution's case.

If convicted, the accused could face severe punishment under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Police have said additional evidence will be presented before the court as the investigation progresses.

Also Read: Telangana: 3 die in house fire, another blaze at Hyderabad court

52% of India faces rainfall deficit, Kharif sowing lags by 92 lakh ha

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:30:33 +0530

Around 52 per cent of the country remains rainfall-deficient despite a recent sequential improvement in monsoon coverage. According to a report by Dolat Capital, the agricultural backdrop across India continues to face a sizable seasonal rainfall deficit, acute moisture stress in Central India, and limited reservoir replenishment. Total kharif sowing stands at 350.9 lakh hectares, which reflects a meaningful lag of 92.0 lakh hectares compared to the early monsoon onset of the previous year.

Kharif Sowing Faces Meaningful Lag

"The current acreage position still points to a meaningful lag, with total kharif sowing 92.0 lakh ha below last year, although last year's early monsoon onset creates an adverse base for YoY comparison. Against the five-year normal, however, the seasonal shortfall is considerably narrower at 22.5 lakh ha; pulses and coarse cereals are already above normal, while the deficit remains concentrated in oilseeds, cotton and rice," the report stated.

Widespread Rainfall Deficit

On the weather front, all-India cumulative seasonal rainfall is 38 per cent below normal due to dry conditions throughout June. Central India carries the sharpest seasonal deficit at 45 per cent, followed closely by East and Northeast India at 40 per cent below normal levels.

The report stated that "The divergence between improving weekly rainfall and still-large seasonal deficits suggests that while the monsoon is gaining traction, cumulative soil-moisture conditions remain weak across several key cropping belts."

Impact on Crops and Water Storage

Deficit Concentrated in Key Crops

The report showcased rice acreage at 60.2 lakh hectares, staying 6.3 lakh hectares below the five-year normal because subdued rainfall across eastern paddy belts limits transplanting activity. Similarly, oilseeds acreage is 17.2 lakh hectares below normal at 66.3 lakh hectares, while cotton sowing stays 12.9 lakh hectares below normal at 63.2 lakh hectares. Conversely, coarse cereals and pulses show expansion, standing at 60.1 lakh hectares and 37.2 lakh hectares respectively.

Reservoir Levels and Water Stress

Water availability mirrors the rainfall crunch, as all-India live storage capacities drop marginally to 26.0 per cent. Eastern India experiences the worst water stress, with reservoirs functioning at just 19.4 per cent capacity, which represents a 23.4 per cent deficit compared to normal volumes.

Future Outlook

Looking forward, the report noted that "The southward shift of the monsoon trough towards its normal position, alongside an emerging Bay of Bengal low-pressure system, is expected to drive heavier rainfall across Central India and Maharashtra. If sustained, this should accelerate inflows into key reservoirs and support a more visible recovery in storage levels through mid-July."

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi gets grand welcome in Indonesia to boost strategic cooperation

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:30:32 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome upon his arrival in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Tuesday, marking the commencement of his official state visit aimed at deepening bilateral ties and strengthening strategic cooperation between the two nations.

The Prime Minister had arrived in Indonesia on Monday, launching the opening segment of his three-nation diplomatic visit with a high-profile ceremonial welcome that featured an escort by an Indonesian Air Force fighter jet and a personal reception by the Indonesian President at the airport. Military fighter jets escorted the Prime Minister's aircraft as it entered Indonesian airspace before he was formally received by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and greeted with a traditional cultural dance performance.

This official visit to Indonesia, running from July 6 to 8 at the personal invitation of President Prabowo, marks his fourth journey to the Southeast Asian country. Crucially, this signifies the inaugural bilateral visit between the two nations since they formally elevated their diplomatic relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018.

Deepening Strategic and Defence Ties

The high-level engagement is anticipated to inject further momentum into this Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with bilateral defence and maritime coordination positioned high on the shared agenda. Security relations between New Delhi and Jakarta have expanded significantly in recent years, driven by frequent high-level official exchanges, regular joint military manoeuvres, collaborative defence industry initiatives, and the landmark acquisition of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles by Indonesia.

India's Vision for the Indo-Pacific

Underscoring this focus on regional stability, the MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions) framework serves as India's institutional vision for promoting security, stability, and inclusive developmental growth across the maritime domain. Additionally, PM Modi stated that the diplomatic visit would build directly upon the robust momentum currently characterising India's relations with Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand, with a distinct focus on expanding cooperation across strategic, economic, and people-centric domains. "My visit to Indonesia and Australia in the Eastern and Southern Indian Ocean, respectively, followed by New Zealand, will further strengthen India's Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision, as well as our outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific," the Prime Minister said in his departure statement.

Following his engagements in Indonesia, PM Modi will proceed to Australia and New Zealand as part of his multi-nation visit.

Engaging the Indian Diaspora

Ahead of his arrival, members of the Indian diaspora community residing in Indonesia voiced strong optimism that the high-level visit would pave the way for enhanced collaborative ventures across the mining, infrastructure, energy, and emerging technology sectors. During his current stay, the Prime Minister is also slated to engage with these members of the local Indian diaspora.

Cultural and Civilisational Links

He will also accompany President Prabowo to the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple Complex situated in Yogyakarta, a historical site he has previously characterized as a visible symbol of the profound civilisational links tying the two nations together.

Booming Economic and Trade Relations

These enduring civilisational links mirror a booming modern economic relationship, where Indonesia stands as India's second-largest commercial trading partner within the ASEAN bloc. Total bilateral trade volumes reached USD 24.78 billion during the 2025-26 fiscal year, and more than 130 Indian business corporations maintain active investment footprints spanning various sectors of the Indonesian domestic economy.

Strategic Focus on Critical Minerals

Building on these established trade channels, the strategic acquisition of critical minerals is also expected to feature prominently during the bilateral state discussions. Indonesia currently holds approximately 21 per cent of global nickel reserves and ranks among the primary international producers of bauxite, copper, and tin, rendering the archipelago a vital partner for India's long-term supply chain security and renewable energy transition targets.

Ultimately, the Prime Minister's state visit aims to deepen institutional cooperation while systematically strengthening trade and investment channels within the critical minerals sector, alongside a comprehensive review of the entire spectrum of bilateral ties. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Vikramaditya Singh to chair monsoon review meet, demands SC-led probe

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:30:28 +0530

Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh said he will chair a high-level review meeting on disaster preparedness and monsoon response with senior department officials, while also demanding a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the alleged irregularities linked to donations and land transactions associated with the Ayodhya Ram Temple.

Speaking to ANI on Monday, Singh said the meeting would review road connectivity, bridge installations, deployment of heavy machinery and the state's preparedness to deal with monsoon-related disruptions.

Monsoon Preparedness Review

"We are making every effort. I have convened a high-level meeting tomorrow with senior PWD officials. We will review in detail where bridges need to be installed, where heavy machinery and robotic equipment need to be deployed and what additional measures are required. Every effort will be made to reopen roads immediately wherever they are blocked due to the monsoon," he said.

Asked about the deployment of machinery, Singh said the details would be shared after the departmental review meeting. "Yes, machinery has been deployed. The exact figures will be available after tomorrow's presentation by the department. Following the meeting, I will share the complete details with the media and the people of the state," he added.

Congress Gears Up for 2027 Polls

On the political front, Singh said the Congress has already begun strengthening its organisation for the 2027 Assembly elections following a two-day organisational brainstorming session attended by the party's Himachal Pradesh in-charge, district presidents, block presidents and newly elected Panchayati Raj representatives.

"Our state in-charge is here to strengthen the Congress party and reinforce the organisation at the grassroots level. Over the last two to three days, extensive deliberations have taken place with district presidents, block presidents and newly elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions. I am confident these discussions will produce positive results," he said.

Singh said the party has already started preparations for the next Assembly elections. "It is natural that Assembly elections are due in the state next year. We have to begin preparations from today itself. Whether at the government level, the state level or the organisational level, every possible effort will be made to strengthen the party. It is our responsibility to implement the directions given by the state leadership and the party in charge on the ground," he said.

Probe Demanded into Ayodhya Temple Irregularities

Referring to the alleged financial irregularities linked to the Ayodhya Ram Temple, Singh said the issue was not political but emotional for millions of devotees. "This is not a political issue. It is an emotional issue connected with the hearts of the people. Lord Shri Ram is deeply revered by all of us. The alleged loot in the Ram Temple is extremely unfortunate. The BJP has built its politics over the past three decades around the Ram Temple. If allegations of corruption have emerged in the very temple that it championed, it is deeply disturbing," he said.

Singh alleged that donations worth several crores and land transactions involving substantial mark-ups had raised serious questions. "Allegations have surfaced that donations worth Rs 15-20 crore were misappropriated. There are also reports of land being purchased for Rs 2-3 crore and sold overnight for Rs 20 crore, Rs 25 crore or even Rs 40 crore. Such large-scale transactions could not have happened without protection from higher authorities. This indicates that there may have been corruption at a very high level," he alleged.

He said the alleged irregularities had hurt the sentiments of millions of devotees across the country. "The faith of crores of Ram devotees has been hurt. That is why I have consistently demanded that the matter be investigated under the supervision of a sitting Supreme Court judge. Agencies such as the CBI, ED, State CID or the Anti-Corruption Bureau function under governments, so people may question the transparency of their investigations. Only a Supreme Court-monitored inquiry can establish the truth," Singh said.

The minister further said it was unimaginable that such allegations could arise in connection with the Ram Temple. "Those who once claimed they had brought Lord Ram are today facing allegations of looting in the name of Ram. We could never have imagined such allegations involving the Ram Temple. The entire country is deeply hurt," he said.

Singh added that strict action should be taken wherever irregularities involving temple donations are found. "The money offered at temples belongs to devotees. It is their hard-earned money given as an offering to God. Wherever such irregularities occur, strict action must be taken. However, in the case of the Ram Temple, all the trustees have been appointed by the government and many have backgrounds in the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh or the BJP. Therefore, an independent and fair inquiry headed by the Chief Justice of India or a sitting Supreme Court judge is essential," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA WC: We deserved this win against a top team, says Marc Cucurella

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:30:24 +0530

Spain's Marc Cucurella, while speaking to host broadcasters, hailed his side's teamwork and resilience after they edged past Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, saying the victory was thoroughly deserved.

Speaking to the host broadcaster after the match, Cucurella said Spain had executed their game plan well against a quality Portuguese side, balancing possession with disciplined defending whenever required. "I think we deserve this win, and we played against a top team. They have top players, and we know that at some moments we need to suffer, but I think the team deserved this win. In the moments that we needed to keep the ball and play long possessions, we did it, and then in the moments that we needed to suffer, we needed to run, we needed to defend, we did it as well, so I think today is an important win for us," Cucurella said.

'We play as a family'

The Spain defender also credited the squad's unity, highlighting the impact made by substitutes and insisting that every player had contributed to the team's success. "I think the most important thing is that we need to stay together, play as a family and today we showed that it's not the starting 11, probably the important players today. The goal was for two players who came from the bench, and this shows the mentality of the team. It doesn't matter who plays, it doesn't matter how many minutes. The most important thing is to make an impact and work for the team because at the end of the day, all of us want the same, that is to win every game and go through all the matches," he added while speaking to host broadcasters.

Substitutes send Spain to quarter-finals

Spain advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after substitute Mikel Merino scored a dramatic 91st-minute winner to seal a 1-0 victory over Portugal, ending Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career after six editions. Both teams created several chances in a closely contested Round of 16 clash, with Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal all testing the goalkeepers. Portugal came closest in the first half when Nuno Mendes struck the crossbar, but neither side could break the deadlock until stoppage time. Spain's substitutes combined for the decisive goal as Ferran Torres set up Merino for a clinical finish, while Portugal failed to capitalise on late opportunities, including a missed chance from Bernardo Silva. The victory booked Spain's place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Belgium. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Andhra Pradesh, Telangana Weather LATEST Update: IMD Issues Rain And Strong Wind Alert For Telugu States

Amrita Ghosh — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:27:19 +0530

Andhra Pradesh, Telangana Weather LATEST Update: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a week of rain and gusty winds across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. While most regions are expected to receive light to moderate showers

Mumbai Weather LATEST Update: Orange Alert in Place as Heavy Showers Continue Across City

Amrita Ghosh — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:15:51 +0530

Mumbai Weather LATEST Update: Mumbai remains on alert as the IMD forecasts another day of heavy to very heavy rainfall with gusty winds. Schools and colleges are closed, transport services remain disrupted, residents have been urged to stay indoors

MU, SNDK, DRAM Dip Overnight As Memory Stocks Feel Weight Of Samsung’s Post-Earnings Selloff

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:10:00 +0530

MU and SNDK stocks dropped around 4.5% in overnight trading late Monday.
Samsung said its Q2 operating profit would increase 19-fold year over year to 89.4 trillion won, and revenue would more than double to 87.3 trillion won.
Retail traders are debating whether the drops in U.S. memory stocks are a buying opportunity or the start of a protracted downward trend.

U.S. memory chip stocks declined sharply overnight late Monday, tracking a drop in Samsung Electronics shares in Seoul after the South Korean chipmaker reported preliminary quarterly results.

Samsung issued a stellar second-quarter outlook, but investors took profits after the stock’s recent surge, suggesting the strong performance had already been priced in. Samsung stock was down over 6% in Seoul around 11 am local time.

In the U.S., Micron Technology and SanDisk Corp. stocks dropped around 4.5% each, while Western Digital shares slid nearly 4%. The Roundhill Memory ETF (DRAM), which has Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron as its top three holdings, was down 4.8% overnight.

Samsung Posts Incredible Growth

Samsung on Tuesday forecast second-quarter operating profit of 89.4 trillion won ($58.44 billion), which would be a 19-fold increase over the corresponding quarter last year and more than six times the operating profit in all of fiscal 2025. The figure handily surpassed the LSEG/Reuters estimate of 87.3 trillion won.

The profit surge is notable because it came even as Samsung set aside funds for sizable bonuses for its semiconductor workers under a wage agreement reached in May that links their pay to operating profit.

Samsung forecasts April-June revenue to increase 129% year over year to 171 trillion won. The preliminary results underscore insatiable demand for semiconductors and AI servers as massive investment in AI development and new data centers continues to benefit the world’s biggest chipmakers. Samsung will release a full financial statement around the end of the month.

Shares of Samsung, which has a broad portfolio of chips and consumer electronics, have underperformed rival SK Hynix’s, which is more focused on high-end memory geared for AI’s computation needs. Samsung shares are up around 150% this year, compared with SK Hynix’s roughly 250% gain.

MU, SNDK Stock Move, Retail View

In the U.S., the memory trade is set for disruption, with SK Hynix listing its shares on Nasdaq this Friday. Its share sale, targeting an over $28 billion raise, is currently underway.

While companies and analysts contend that memory demand would remain elevated for years to come, Micron and SanDisk stocks pulled back from record highs last week. Retail investors have continued to debate whether the dip is a buying opportunity or the start of a protracted downward trend.

On Stocktwits, the retail sentiment was ‘extremely bullish’ for SNDK, ‘bullish’ for MU and DRAM, and ‘bearish’ for WDC.

“$MU $DRAM $SNDK Memory momentum stalled till August. Hang tight,” a trader wrote, while another said, “$DRAM always buy the dip has always worked $SNDK $MU.”

Traders also expressed confusion over the stock reaction. “Do you guys know that Samsung had fallen 5 consecutive sessions into earnings? The expected positive news will drive all semis higher. Yet your dummies are selling,” a trader wrote.

Year to date, MU shares are up 245% and SNDK shares are up 635%.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

TSLA Stock Cools Overnight After Miami Robotaxi Rally — But Morgan Stanley Sees 30,000-Vehicle Fleet By 2030

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:05:00 +0530

Morgan Stanley kept an ‘Equalweight’ rating and $415 price target, implying a 1% downside from current levels.
The brokerage said Tesla’s Miami robotaxi launch included unsupervised vehicles and could mark renewed rollout momentum.
The firm forecasts that Tesla’s robotaxi fleet will reach 1,500 vehicles by year-end and 30,000 by 2030.

Shares of Tesla, Inc. (TSLA) jumped 7% on Monday after the EV maker said its robotaxi service was available in Miami, with Morgan Stanley pointing to a broader rollout that could help ease investor doubts about autonomy at scale.

TSLA shares slipped 1% in after-hours trading on Monday and extended the slide into the overnight session.

TSLA Robotaxi Rollout Gains Momentum

On Monday, Morgan Stanley reiterated an ‘Equalweight’ rating and $415 price target on Tesla, implying a 1% downside from current levels. “Tesla launched robotaxi in Miami over the weekend,” Morgan Stanley said, noting that the Friday launch included unsupervised vehicles.

The brokerage noted that Miami had already been listed as a market where “preparations” were underway, alongside Phoenix, Orlando, Tampa and Las Vegas. “We expect Tesla to launch in all of these metro areas by year-end,” Morgan Stanley said.

Morgan Stanley expects Tesla’s supervised and unsupervised robotaxi fleet to reach 1,500 vehicles by year-end and 30,000 by 2030. The firm said robotaxis are unlikely to materially affect earnings this year, but rollout speed could matter more for sentiment.

“While the absolute number of robotaxis is likely immaterial to earnings this year, the rate of change in the rollout provides more clarity for investors who may be skeptical about Tesla’s autonomous technology at scale,” the brokerage added. Morgan Stanley said the update could be “well received” after signs of slower rollout momentum, though it cautioned that third-party fleet-tracker data is not validated by Tesla. The brokerage also noted sightings of presumed robotaxi test vehicles in New Orleans, though Tesla has not confirmed them.

Tesla Bulls Eye July 22 Earnings

The robotaxi update followed Tesla’s stronger-than-expected Q2 delivery report. Tesla reported 480,126 global vehicle deliveries in Q2, up 25% from a year earlier. Energy deployments also rose 41%, extending momentum in a business that has become increasingly important as investors watch margins and auto demand. Gary Black of The Future Fund expects TSLA shares to rebound this week as analysts lift estimates after the beat. Still, he said Tesla remains “fully priced,” citing a 2026 P/E above 200x and a 6x PEG ratio.

Additionally, Morningstar raised its Tesla fair value estimate to $450 from $425 after the delivery report, while keeping the stock in ‘3-star territory.’ Tesla reports full second-quarter results on July 22. Investors will watch for updates on margins, robotaxi expansion, FSD, Cybercab, Semi production and the broader AI roadmap.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About TSLA?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for TSLA was ‘bullish’ amid a 742% jump in 24-hour message volumes.

TSLA sentiment and message volume as of July 6| Source: Stocktwits

One user said, “The market looked beyond vehicle deliveries over a decade ago lol, if that still mattered this is a $5-10 stock. The extra Trillion+ market cap is coming from the robotaxi business that is just ramping up. You priced this in ten years ago. Now Tesla has to deliver on a TAM that doesn't exist, and take 100% market share of that TAM”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user said, “Everyone is buying teslas wow. FSD, Oil prices resulting in massive deliveries. Apparently US aging population wants FSD due to anxiety and panic attacks while driving on roads with crazy drivers. Helps reduce stress. FSD is being subscribed at record pace. Massive growth ahead with Robots as well!! Love it. Nice dip buying”

View this Stocktwits post

So far this year, Tesla's stock has lagged its "Magnificent Seven" peers, making it the group's third-worst performer, down about 7%.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Chennai Weather LATEST Update: Where Will It Rain Today? IMD Issues Fresh Update

Amrita Ghosh — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:04:01 +0530

Chennai Weather LATEST Update: Tamil Nadu is expected to witness light to moderate rainfall in several regions on July 7, while Chennai may receive light showers. The IMD has also issued a strong wind advisory for fishermen venturing into nearby seas

Gujarat HC to deliver verdict in 2008 Ahmedabad serial blast case

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:01:02 +0530

The Gujarat High Court is set to pronounce its verdict on Tuesday in the 2008 Ahmedabad serial blast case, in which 56 people were killed and over 200 others injured in a series of coordinated bomb explosions across the city. The verdict is scheduled to be delivered at 11 am.

On July 26, 2008, 21 serial bomb blasts took place at 20 locations across Ahmedabad within a span of around 70 minutes, triggering panic across the city. The terror attack claimed 56 lives, while more than 200 people sustained injuries in the explosions.

The Islamic terror group Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HuJI) had claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Delhi Red Fort Blast Investigation

Meanwhile, another investigation is underway in the Delhi Red Fort blast case, in which the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a forensic report in relation to the body parts of the deceased who died during the blast. The Court listed the matter for scrutiny of the forensic report.

According to the NIA, the high-intensity Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) explosion killed 11 people and injured several others, besides causing extensive damage to nearby property. The NIA produced nine accused persons before the Special Judge (NIA) Pitambar Dutt, who extended their judicial custody till the next date. The court has listed the matter on July 13.

Charge Sheets Filed

The NIA has already filed a charge sheet against 10 accsued persons, including Shaheen Saeed and others.A supplementary charge sheet filed against Zamir Ahmed Ahangar and Tufail Ahmed Bhat is also pending consideration before the NIA court at Patiala.

The NIA filed a supplementary charge sheet against Zamir Ahmed Ahangar and Tufail Ahmed Bhat and one absconded accused in the Delhi Balast case of November 2025. Zamir and Tufail were arrested in February 2026. The Agency has already filed a main Charge sheet in this case. It is alleged that Zamir and Tufail were collecting arms and ammunition. Zamir was given a rifle, a pistol and live ammunition by Umar, Irfan and Adil. Both are associated with Ansar Ghazawat Ul Hind.

This case pertains to the November 2025 Red Fort car bomb blast. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Baruipur case: Dilip Ghosh slams Opposition's 'drama' over protest

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:00:33 +0530

Ghosh Accuses Opposition of 'Staging Drama'

West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Opposition over its protest following the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in Baruipur. Speaking to reporters, Ghosh accused the Opposition leader of "staging drama" and questioned her track record on issues of crime and development.

"People have given her a chance to sit in the opposition. She's such a popular leader who couldn't win on her own. Now she's out there staging drama on the streets. You are in the opposition. You know how to protest; you've done that your whole life. You don't know anything about development. Thousands of rapes and murders have happened during her rule--have you ever seen her on the streets for those? Going to the home of any victim to offer condolences? No, you haven't seen that," he said.

TMC Hits Back at Government

Ghosh's remarks came after the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee, along with party workers and leaders, held a candlelight march on Monday condemning the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in Baruipur. TMC leaders have accused the state police of confining her to her residence and preventing her from visiting the victim's family.

Speaking on the incident, TMC MP Pratima Mandal said, "We stand with the victim's family. On Mamata Banerjee's instructions, 4 of our TMC members went there. Mamata Banerjee spoke to the victim's father from Dola Sen's phone. She wanted to go there since yesterday, but the police have created an environment like house arrest. The public is still with Mamata Banerjee today."

The girl went missing on Saturday and was later found dead in a pond, with an alleged case of rape and murder triggering outrage and protests in the area. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has spoken to the girl's father on the phone and reportedly assured capital punishment for the accused.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Man held captive, given electric shocks by wife in Uttar Pradesh's Fatehpur

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:00:24 +0530

A man in Fatehpur has alleged that his wife tied him up, held him captive and assaulted him, including giving him electric shocks with live wires, police said. The incident came to light after an emergency call was made to the 112 service on Saturday morning from the Parsadepur area under the Aung Police Station jurisdiction.

Superintendent of Police Abhimanyu Manglik said a man reported that his wife had confined him and assaulted him the previous night. "An incident occurred this morning in Parsadepur under the Aung Police Station jurisdiction, where the 112 emergency service received a report regarding an injured person. Sanjeev Tiwari reported that his wife had tied him up, held him captive, and assaulted him the previous night; he further alleged that she had subjected him to electric shocks using live wires," SP Manglik said.

Police Action and Arrest

Police said they reached the spot immediately after receiving the information. The injured man was first taken to hospital for treatment, and his statement was recorded."Once his condition improved, his brother submitted a formal complaint against the wife," the SP added.

Based on the complaint, a case has been registered, and the wife has been taken into custody. Further investigation is underway. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bankipur bypolls: Giriraj Singh says BJP will win, hits out at Kishor

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:00:24 +0530

BJP Confident of Victory, Slams Kishor

Saying that Bihar's Bankipur Assembly constituency will once again "honour Nitin Nabin" by electing a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate in the upcoming bypolls, Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Tuesday expressed confidence in the party, dashing the hopes of Prashant Kishor in making his debut in the assembly.

Saying that Kishor has already been exposed in the 2025 elections, the Union Minister said that the party would face a similar defeat in the upcoming by-polls. In the previous elections, the Jan Suraaj Party (JSP) contested more than 230 seats but failed to win any of them. The party also lost deposits in multiple seats.

"Prashant Kishor has contested elections before as well. His face has already been exposed," Begusarai MP Giriraj Singh told reporters here.

Bankipur assembly fell vacant after the now Bharatiya Janata Party President Nitin Nabin was nominated to the Rajya Sabha representing Bihar. He earlier represented 182-Bankipur assembly constituency, a seat he has held since 2010.

"BJP's candidate will contest from Bankipur Assembly. The people of Bankipur made Nitin Nabin an MLA, and the party made him the national president, which is a matter of pride for us. The people of Bankipur will once again honour Nitin Nabin," Minister Singh said.

Kishor's Electoral Debut and Rationale

While Nabin won against RJD candidate Rekha Kumari by a margin of more than 50 thousand votes, Prashant Kishor is set to make his electoral debut with claims that he wants to give voters choices beyond to exercise their franchise beyond caste and religion.

However, Kishor faces a tough battle ahead. Choosing to contest a long time BJP bastion, the JSP founder is looking to break over 15 years of the party winning the seat. Since 2010, the seat has been represented by Nitin Nabin.

However, Kishor has said that he was not looking for a "safe seat" and had deliberately chosen to contest from Bankipur, to send a message that Bihar's voters should move beyond caste and religion while exercising their franchise. He also urged people to stop voting out of fear for either Lalu Prasad Yadav or the BJP.

Speaking to ANI, Kishor said, "I am telling the people of Bihar that if Bihar is to change, they must vote beyond caste and religion. They must stop voting out of fear of Lalu for BJP, or fear of BJP for Lalu. To prove the point I am explaining to the people of Bihar, I am contesting from a place where votes should not be sought in the name of caste or religion."

Bypoll Schedule

Bankipur will go to the polls on July 30, along with constituencies in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. In Bihar, the by-election will be held for the 182-Bankipur Assembly constituency. The scrutiny of nomination papers will take place on July 14, while candidates can withdraw their nominations until July 16. Polling will be held on July 30 from 7 am to 6 pm, and the entire election process will be completed by August 4, 2026. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pochettino takes responsibility for US' crushing 4-1 World Cup exit

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:00:20 +0530

Pochettino Accepts Responsibility for Defeat

United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino accepted responsibility for his side's disappointing FIFA World Cup 2026 exit after a crushing 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 16, admitting the hosts never found their rhythm during the contest.

Speaking to FOX Sports after the match, Pochettino said the United States failed to approach the game with the same intensity and quality they had displayed throughout the tournament. "Everyone saw that from the beginning, we did not connect with the game. Even when we scored the equaliser, we conceded with the next action. It was really tough; we didn't show what we can normally show. We need to see why we didn't approach the game in the same way we did the rest of the World Cup. Maybe the explanation is easy, and it just wasn't our day collectively and individually," Pochettino told FOX Sports, as quoted by Sky Sports. Taking responsibility for the defeat, the United States manager added, "The principal responsibility falls on me, but it wasn't the way we normally play."

Belgium Ends USA's World Cup Run

Coming to the match, Belgium stormed into the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a commanding 4-1 victory over the hosts, the United States, at Seattle Stadium. Charles De Ketelaere starred with a brace to earn the Player of the Match award, while Hans Vanaken scored his first-ever FIFA World Cup goal and substitute Romelu Lukaku added a stoppage-time strike, marking his third consecutive World Cup match with a goal.

Belgium dominated much of the contest despite the USA briefly equalising through Malik Tillman's deflected free-kick. A costly goalkeeping error by Matt Freese allowed Belgium to extend their lead before Lukaku sealed the emphatic win late on. The defeat ended the United States' campaign, making them the last of the three co-host nations to exit the tournament after Canada and Mexico. Belgium will next face Spain in the quarter-finals on July 10 after the Spanish side knocked out Portugal in the Round of 16. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Why Is BABA Stock Rising In Overnight Trading?

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:00:06 +0530

Alibaba challenged its inclusion on the Defense Department's Section 1260H list and won a reprieve on lobbying restrictions.
Alibaba told employees to stop using Anthropic's Claude AI tools over data security concerns.
Retail traders on Stocktwits expressed optimism about Alibaba's valuation and cloud leadership.

Alibaba Group Holding (BABA) stock rallied overnight after investors cheered a temporary U.S. court victory and the company's latest AI security measures, developments seen as easing regulatory and technology-related risks.

Alibaba’s Legal Relief Against Pentagon’s Blacklist

Investors appeared encouraged after a U.S. federal judge temporarily blocked restrictions tied to the Pentagon's designation of Alibaba under its Section 1260H list.

According to a Bloomberg report, the order allows the company to continue working with U.S. lobbying firms while its legal challenge moves through the courts, preserving its ability to engage policymakers on issues affecting its cloud computing, e-commerce and capital markets businesses.

The legal dispute follows the U.S. Department of Defense's June decision to add Alibaba, alongside other Chinese companies, to its list of entities identified as having ties to China's military.

Alibaba challenged the designation in court, saying the decision lacked sufficient justification. The temporary injunction pauses enforcement of lobbying-related restrictions until the broader case is resolved.

Alibaba Group stock traded over 1% higher overnight, ahead of Tuesday. In Hong Kong, the stock was up 2%.

BABA Initiates AI Security Measures

Separately, Alibaba instructed employees to stop using Anthropic's Claude AI models and Claude Code beginning July 10. The company reportedly made the decision after concerns emerged about potential data security risks associated with the software.

By requiring employees to rely on its internally developed AI tools instead, Alibaba aims to strengthen the protection of proprietary information while increasing adoption of its own AI ecosystem.

Investors interpreted the company's decision as an effort to reduce dependence on foreign AI platforms while boosting development and usage of Alibaba's in-house Qwen and Qoder technologies.

The developments suggested Alibaba is taking steps to defend both its international business interests and its long-term AI strategy, helping fuel the stock's rally.

Alibaba's cloud business is growing as demand for its AI services increases. To support that growth, the company plans to spend more than its previously announced RMB380 billion ($56 billion) on AI infrastructure over the next three years.

What Are BABA Retail Traders Saying

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for BABA turned ‘neutral’ from ‘bearish’ the previous day with a 405% spike in message volume over the last 24 hours.

Retail traders expressed optimism about Alibaba's attractive valuation and strong leadership in the cloud market, viewing the company as well-positioned for long-term growth.

A user said, “Loaded up way too much $BABA today. Definitely not a small position. Still, the setup feels interesting here: value is finally getting some attention, and BABA has the kind of room that can move hard when sentiment flips. Risk is real, but the tape feels better than it has in a while.”

Another user said, “China cloud share reportedly rose to 40.1% per Frost & Sullivan.That’s a big lead. Alibaba Cloud keeps strengthening its grip on the domestic market, and this kind of share gain matters for the longer-term setup.”

BABA stock has cratered 33% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Delhi Weather LATEST Update: IMD Issues Yellow Alert, Rain and Thunderstorms Likely

Amrita Ghosh — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:36:36 +0530

Delhi Weather LATEST Update: Delhi-NCR is expected receive light to moderate rainfall today as monsoon activity strengthens. The IMD has issued a yellow alert, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds, while humidity is likely to remain high

Sanjeev Jain appointed India's next Ambassador to North Korea (DPRK)

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:30:33 +0530

Sanjeev Jain Appointed India's New Ambassador to North Korea

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has appointed Sanjeev Jain as India's next Ambassador to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), also known as North Korea. In its official statement on Monday, the MEA said that Jain is expected to take up the assignment shortly.

A 2008-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, is currently serving as the Ambassador of India to the Republic of Cabo Verde. Jain will be succeeding Aliawati Longkumer, who is currently serving as the Ambassador of India to North Korea, having been appointed to the post on June 16, 2025.

India-North Korea Diplomatic History

As per the MEA, relations between India and North Korea have been generally characterised by friendship, cooperation and understanding. The consular relations with North Korea were set up in March 1962. According to the MEA, the Consulate General of India in North Korea was established in 1968, with diplomatic relations between the two countries at the embassy level established on December 10, 1973.

As per the MEA, after the 1950-1953 Korean War, the United Nations had formed a 9-member Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission under the Chairmanship of India. The Commission's role in the exchange of POWs under the Chairmanship of Major General K S Thimayya was highly appreciated.

India's Stance on Korean Peninsula Peace

Regular and meaningful exchange of views on bilateral issues of mutual interest and concern is conducted through the mechanism of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC).

MEA in a previous statement had noted that India urged North Korea to refrain from nuclear and ballistic missile tests to ease tensions on the Korean peninsula. India supports all efforts to bring about peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and diplomacy.

Previously, India welcomed the inter-Korean Summit meeting held at Panmunjom on April 27, 2018 and in Pyongyang in September 2018. India also welcomed the historic summit held on 12 June 2018 in Singapore and on 27-28 February in Hanoi between US President Donald Trump and North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un, and hoped that such engagement would help in reducing tensions and pave the way for lasting peace and reconciliation in the Korean Peninsula. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Consumer durables to see 21% YoY sales growth in Q1 FY27: Report

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:30:29 +0530

The first quarter of financial year 2026-2027 is likely to be a seasonally healthy quarter for the consumer durable sector, according to a report by Centrum. Driven by an intense summer season and a higher prevalence of cooling products, the report expects a healthy Q1 led by favourable base and seasonality. "Q1FY27 is likely to be a seasonally healthy quarter for Consumer Durable sector with our coverage universe posting 21% YoY value growth in sales," the report stated.

Product Category Outlook

The product category outlook indicates distinct growth trajectories across different appliances. Room air conditioners are likely to see 30 per cent value growth, with 18-20 per cent of this expansion driven by volumes stemming from the heatwave, while price hikes contribute another 8-10 per cent. Washing machines and televisions are expected to grow in early double digits, supported by a 5-7 per cent price hike. Conversely, the refrigerator segment underperformed and faced visible growth constraints.

Summer Demand and Favourable Base Boost Growth

This surge is further supported by a low base from the previous year when widespread rains during the summer months restricted sector growth to just 1 per cent in the first quarter of financial year 2025-2026. "For Q1FY27, we expect our coverage universe to post 21% YoY sales growth at Rs461bn (on a favourable base of 1% growth)," the report mentioned.

The demand driven by summer heat picked up significantly from mid-April and remained robust through May before it started tapering off in June. Value growth is projected to remain exceptionally high in the cables and wires, alongside the air conditioners segment, with both categories seeing growth upwards of 30 per cent.

Financials and Operational Headwinds

On the financial performance front, the sector shows signs of overall recovery despite persistent operational challenges. The report stated, "EBITDA margin is likely to rise 10bps YoY to 9.4% (100bps YoY margin decline in base qtr). PAT growth is likely at 22% YoY to Rs29bn (11% de-growth in base qtr)." However, the sector continues to face pricing pressures on its margin front. High commodity costs for essential raw materials like copper, aluminum, PVC, and resins weigh on manufacturers. This is further compounded by the depreciation of the rupee, import delays, higher ocean freight, and rising petrol and diesel prices across the country.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mumbai: 12-year-old boy dies after falling into faulty elevator shaft

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:30:29 +0530

12-year-old dies after falling into elevator shaft

A 12-year-old child died after allegedly falling into an elevator shaft from the 10th floor of Shamim Tower in Mumbai's Nehru Nagar, according to local residents.

Speaking to the media, a neighbour said the children were playing hide-and-seek and often hid near the elevator. According to the neighbour, the child was leaning against the elevator doors while hiding when they suddenly opened, causing the child to fall from the 10th floor to the third floor.

The neighbour also alleged that the building's elevator had been malfunctioning for the past seven months. "There has been a persistent issue with the elevator here. It's not a new problem; it's been going on for about seven months. The elevator never really functions properly. The power was out on our floor, so it was dark," the neighbour said. Describing the incident, the neighbour added, "While playing hide-and-seek, the children would often hide in the corners near the elevator. The other children said he was hiding in the corner by the elevator and leaning against it when the doors suddenly opened. He fell from the 10th floor to the third floor. The boy had passed away."

6 killed in Mankhurd shanty collapse

In a separate incident, at least six people were killed on Monday after two to three shanties housed within a ground-plus-three structure collapsed in Mumbai's Janata Nagar area of Mankhurd on Sunday evening, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said.

The incident occurred amid relentless heavy rainfall that has lashed Mumbai and its suburbs over the past several days.

According to the Mumbai Police, the collapse took place at around 8:30 pm in the Mandala area under the jurisdiction of the Mankhurd Police Station. A neighbouring building reportedly gave way and crashed onto the shanties, trapping several people beneath the debris. Rescue operations were launched to search for and evacuate those trapped. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA chief condemns senator's racist remarks against Kylian Mbappe

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:30:29 +0530

FIFA President Gianni Infantino strongly condemned racist remarks directed at France captain Kylian Mbappe by Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla, reaffirming football's commitment to combating racism and ensuring the sport remains an inclusive space for all. In a post shared on his Instagram Story, Infantino said football had demonstrated its power to unite people throughout the ongoing FIFA World Cup and stressed that there was no place for racism in the sport or society. "Football has shown during this FIFA World Cup how it is such a powerful unifier in society - our sport must remain an inclusive and safe space for all and our efforts continue in order to kick the scourge of racism out from our beautiful game and society," Infantino wrote.

In another Instagram Story, the FIFA chief unequivocally condemned the remarks made against Mbappe and expressed solidarity with the France skipper. "I unequivocally condemn the racist remarks made against Kylian Mbappe by Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla. The entire football world and society stand in solidarity with the France captain: we must fight racism and defeat it together," Infantino said. Reiterating FIFA's anti-racism stance, he added, "Throughout this FIFA World Cup, football has demonstrated what a powerful force for unity it is in our lives. Our sport must remain an inclusive and safe space for everyone, and we will continue our efforts to eradicate the scourge of racism from our beautiful game and from society."

Macron backs Mbappe

Earlier, French president Emmanuel Macron backed national men's football side captain Kylian Mbappe for taking a stand against controversial comments by Paraguay senator Celeste Amarilla, saying that he has scored "another goal", this time against racism. "Another goal for Kylian Mbappe. Against racism this time. All my support. When words defile, our values respond: dignity, respect, fraternity. @KMbappe," Macron said. Un but de plus pour Kylian Mbappé. Contre le racisme cette fois. Tout mon soutien. Quand les mots salissent, nos valeurs répondent : dignité, respect, fraternité. @KMbappe — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 6, 2026

Senator's controversial remarks

The remarks came after a Paraguayan Senator called Mbappe a "colonised Cameroonian" and "pretending hard to be French, resentful, newly rich, arrogant, and ugly". Amarilla also said that France "won by a fluke and Mbappe was nervous and scared to death the whole match, like his entire team."

Mbappe called her a "despicable woman" who is unworthy of her position."Another goal for Kylian Mbappe. Against racism this time. All my support. When words defile, our values respond: dignity, respect, fraternity. @KMbappe".

Paraguayan government distances itself from comments

The Paraguayan government also issued a statement on the controversial remarks made by Amarilla. "The Government of the Republic of Paraguay deplores and rejects the statements made by Senator Celeste Amarilla, directed at the captain of the French national football team. These statements are contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity, which our country promotes," said a statement from the government.

"Paraguay is a democratic republic governed by the principle of the separation and independence of the branches of government. In this context, the statements made by the aforementioned legislator correspond exclusively to the exercise of her individual responsibility as a member of the Legislative Branch and in no way represent the position of the Government of the Republic of Paraguay or of the Paraguayan people," it added.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Cristiano Ronaldo's FIFA World Cup Dream Over, Legend Leaves Field In Tears (WATCH)

Vaishnav Akash — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:30:25 +0530

Cristiano Ronaldo in tears: The whole world saw Neymar crying after Brazil crashed out of the FIFA World Cup 2026 against Norway. Just 24 hours later, it was Cristiano Ronaldo's turn. The Portuguese legend was in tears after his team lost 0-1 to Spain in the Round of 16. Ronaldo just couldn't control his emotions on the field.

He had already announced this was his last World Cup. He was hoping it wouldn't end here, but it did. While his great rival Lionel Messi won the World Cup for Argentina, Ronaldo leaves without the trophy for Portugal. This will be a regret he carries forever.

Retiring from international football?

A few days back, Ronaldo's sister hinted that the legend might announce his retirement from international football very soon. Now that Portugal is out of the World Cup, that announcement could come any day.

The national team doesn't have any major matches lined up for now. Ronaldo is 41 years old. By the time the UEFA Euro 2028 comes around, he'll be 43. The team might look to build for the future with younger players, and he may not get a spot. That's why everyone is talking about Ronaldo's possible retirement.

Cristiano Ronaldo llorando tras jugar su último partido.Estoy hundido pic.twitter.com/MiIx0kiXgY

— (fan) REAL MADRID FANS (@AdriRM33) July 6, 2026

A record-breaking run ends without the trophy

It's a bitter end for a player who made history in this tournament. Ronaldo became the only footballer in the world to score in six different World Cups. But even that incredible record couldn't bring the ultimate prize for Portugal. The World Cup trophy remains the one thing missing from his cabinet.

For more news updates, follow our WhatsApp channel, click here.

FIFA World Cup 2026: USA Crashes Out! Belgium Dominates Hosts in a 4-1 Thrashing

Vaishnav Akash — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:26:41 +0530

Dallas: The American dream of winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil has come to a crashing end. The host nation, USA, was knocked out of the tournament after a heavy 4-1 defeat to a powerful Belgian side in the pre-quarter-finals.

Charles De Ketelaere was the hero for Belgium, scoring a fantastic brace. Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku also got on the scoresheet for the dominant European team.

Folarin Balogun's return couldn't save the day

Even the return of their star player, Folarin Balogun, wasn't enough for the Americans. Balogun, who was suspended for one match after a red card, got a special clearance from FIFA to play in this crucial game. This news had given the hosts a huge boost, but it couldn't fix the team's leaky defence, which ultimately cost them the match.

Total dominance by Belgium

Belgium was in control right from the first whistle. They took full advantage of the mistakes made by the American defenders, scoring two goals in the first half itself.

The situation got worse for the USA early in the second half. A massive blunder by their goalkeeper, Matt Freese, gifted Belgium their third goal. Freese made a wrong pass, which was easily picked up by Hans Vanaken, who made no mistake in putting the ball into the net. To rub salt in their wounds, Romelu Lukaku scored in the third minute of injury time, sealing a dominant victory for Belgium.

Next up: A quarter-final clash with Spain

With this win, Belgium has booked its spot in the quarter-finals. They will now face Spain, who are coming off a big win against Portugal in their pre-quarter match. The clash between an in-form Belgium and a strong Spanish side promises to be a nai-biter.

Kolkata Weather LATEST Update: Yellow Alert Issued in Several Districts as Low Pressure Brings Heavy Rain

Amrita Ghosh — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:23:18 +0530

Kolkata Weather LATEST Update: A low-pressure system over Bay of Bengal is set to bring widespread rain across West Bengal. The IMD has issued yellow alerts for several districts, with Kolkata, many parts of South Bengal expected to witness showers

Gold, Silver Prices Today (July 7): Check Latest Gold and Silver Rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru & More

Deevika NM — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:20:48 +0530

Gold and silver prices in India continued to reflect global bullion market trends on July 7, with investors closely tracking international gold prices, the US dollar, central bank policy expectations and domestic demand. While precious metals remain a preferred hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty, retail prices continue to vary across cities due to local taxes, transportation costs and jewellers' pricing policies.

According to the latest market update, 24-carat and 22-carat gold prices remained largely stable across major cities, while silver prices also witnessed limited movement. Analysts say bullion prices are being influenced by global economic cues, fluctuations in the rupee against the US dollar and expectations surrounding interest rate decisions by major central banks.

City-wise Gold & Silver Rates (July 7)

City 22K Gold (Rs /10g) 24K Gold (Rs /10g) Silver (Rs /kg)

Delhi Rs 1,34,820 Rs 1,47,080 Rs 2,39,900

Mumbai Rs 1,34,670 Rs 1,46,930 Rs 2,39,900

Chennai Rs 1,37,190 Rs 1,49,660 Rs 2,49,900

Kolkata Rs 1,34,670 Rs 1,46,930 Rs 2,39,900

Bengaluru Rs 1,34,670 Rs 1,46,930 Rs 2,39,900

Hyderabad Rs 1,34,670 Rs 1,46,930 Rs 2,39,900

For jewellery buyers, 22-carat gold remains the preferred choice because of its durability, while 24-carat gold is commonly purchased for investment purposes. Silver continues to attract both investors and industrial buyers due to its growing use in electronics, solar energy and manufacturing.

Also Read: Gold, Silver Prices Today, July 6: Precious Metal Rates Rise; Check Latest Prices in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata & More

Industry experts advise consumers to compare prices across jewellers before making purchases, as making charges, GST and other levies can significantly increase the final bill. Buyers should also verify BIS hallmark certification to ensure the purity and authenticity of gold jewellery.

Gold and silver prices are updated regularly based on movements in international bullion markets. Factors such as geopolitical developments, inflation expectations, global economic data and currency fluctuations continue to determine the direction of precious metal prices in India. As a result, retail rates may differ from one city to another and can change throughout the trading session.

With the festive and wedding season expected to boost demand in the coming months, market participants will continue monitoring international developments for further cues on bullion prices. Investors are also keeping a close watch on global monetary policy signals, which could influence the movement of both gold and silver in the near term. Consumers planning to purchase jewellery or invest in bullion are advised to check the latest rates before making a buying decision.

Also Read: Gold, Silver Rates Today, July 4: Check Latest Gold and Silver Prices Across Major Indian Cities

Why Did REE, HTZ, ORLY Stocks Slump To 52-Week Lows Today?

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:05:01 +0530

REE Automotive fell sharply after deciding not to appeal its Nasdaq delisting.
Hertz stock fell to a five-year low of $2.02 as investors remained concerned about its recent $100 million equity offering and ongoing fleet depreciation.
O'Reilly Automotive fell to a 52-week low of $82.71 as investors weighed reports of a potential $10 billion acquisition of Genuine Parts' automotive business.

REE Automotive (REE), Hertz Global Holdings (HTZ) and O'Reilly Automotive (ORLY) all dropped to fresh 52-week lows on Monday as investors reacted to a mix of corporate restructuring, financing concerns and acquisition-related uncertainty.

While REE Automotive (REE) stock plunged 63%, Hertz Global and O'Reilly Automotive stocks tumbled over 3% and 6%, respectively.

Nasdaq Delisting Sparks Sharp Selloff In REE

REE Automotive stock tumbled to a fresh 52-week low of $0.068 on Monday after the electric vehicle technology company confirmed that its shares will be suspended from trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market before moving toward delisting.

The steep decline came as investors reacted to the company's decision not to challenge the exchange's determination, accelerating selling pressure ahead of the transition to over-the-counter trading.

Nasdaq notified REE Automotive that its listing would be suspended after the company failed to regain compliance with the exchange's minimum bid price requirement before its final deadline.

The company said it would not seek a hearing or appeal the decision, leaving the delisting process to proceed as scheduled. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around the stock turned to ‘bullish’ from ‘neutral’ territory the previous day.

Hertz Global Struggles With Fleet Values

Hertz stock hit a five-year low of $2.02, extending its long decline as investors assessed the company's recent financing moves, lower earnings outlook, and ongoing fleet management challenges.

Investors grew concerned after Hertz raised fresh capital in late June through a $100 million stock offering and a $350 million debt sale due in 2030 to improve liquidity. These fundraising efforts, along with weaker financial guidance, have hurt investor confidence.

Also, depreciation costs continue to pressure Hertz as used-vehicle prices remain soft, particularly for electric vehicles. Retail sentiment around the stock remained in ‘bullish’ territory.

ORLY’s Acquisition Plan Raises Investor Concerns

O'Reilly Automotive’s stock fell to a fresh 52-week low of $82.71 on Monday after investors reassessed the potential impact of a reported $10 billion acquisition.

Investors focused on reports that O'Reilly is pursuing the automotive business of Genuine Parts Co. (GPC), the parent of NAPA Auto Parts. The size of the potential transaction raised concerns about financing, future debt levels and the possible effect on the company's ongoing share repurchase program.

Investors believe the deal could face regulatory review because the two companies have overlapping store locations in several U.S. markets. This could force them to sell some stores or make other changes before the deal is approved.

Retail sentiment around the stock rose to ‘bullish’ from ‘neutral’ the previous day.

So far this year, REE and HTZ stocks have crashed 89% and 60%, respectively, while ORLY stock has declined over 7%.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup ends in heartbreak for Portugal

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:00:32 +0530

PM Hails Team Amid World Cup Exit

Portugal's Prime Minister Luis Montenegro hailed the men's national side for their FIFA World Cup 2026 run, which ended in the round of 16 against Spain, saying that "the team will face the future with ambition and confidence".

Once again, Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo, the 41-year-old icon playing his last FIFA World Cup, saw their FIFA World Cup dreams sink in front of their eyes minute-by-minute as multiple chances went to waste and a 91st-minute strike from Mikel Merino proved to be the killer blow for the team, who had not made it into the last four since the 2006 FIFA World Cup, which marked Cristiano's debut. Luis posted a picture of him hugging Cristiano, saying, "These athletes bring prestige and pride to Portugal. We fought until the end, and now we will face the future with ambition and confidence. Let's make things shine even brighter. Thank you, @portugal" View this post on Instagram

A Look Back at Ronaldo's World Cup Career

Since Cristiano's debut at the grandest stage, Portugal has achieved fourth place in his debut tournament in 2006, followed by a round of 16 in the 2010 edition, then a group stage exit in 2014 and then another pre-quarterfinal exit in 2018. The 2022 edition saw Portugal doing slightly better, making it to the quarterfinals, but it was his long-time rival Lionel Messi who pretty much ended the 'GOAT' debates by capturing the prestigious trophy for Argentina and delivering a sensational performance in the final.

Record-Breaking Final Tournament

Cristiano's FIFA World Cup career ends with 27 matches (second most by a player) and just 11 goals, underwhelming for a player of his stature and level of club accomplishments. Heading into the tournament, there were a lot of questions around Cristiano's participation, but as an individual, he had a rather decent outing, with three goals in five matches in this edition. However, during his final match, he made an unfortunate record, recording 17 shots during a FIFA WC, without creating a single chance for his teammates, the most by any player.

The ongoing tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico saw Cristiano break into the record books once again despite the dips and give the world a statement of his longevity. Against Croatia in the round of 32, a match which Portugal won 2-1, CR7 became the first player in history to feature in a FIFA World Cup knockout match at the age of 41 or older. The match also marked a unique milestone, as it was the first in World Cup history to feature two outfield players aged 40 or above, with Ronaldo facing former Real Madrid teammate Luka Modric.

Milestone Knockout Goal

The appearance also saw him extend another record, as he became the oldest goalscorer in World Cup knockout history at 41 years and 147 days, further underlining his longevity and enduring impact at the highest level. This was also his first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout goal, removing a massive stain from his illustrious career.

Group Stage Performance

Portugal started off with a dull 1-1 draw against DR Congo in the group stage, with Cristiano failing to make an impact and inviting a lot of criticism with his poor performance.

Surpassing Eusebio's Record

During the match against Uzbekistan, a 5-0 win, Ronaldo led Portugal's charge with two goals, while Nuno Mendes and Rafael Leao also found the net. An own goal involving Uzbekistan goalkeeper Abduvohid Nematov further compounded the misery for Fabio Cannavaro's side as Roberto Martinez's men secured their first win of the tournament in emphatic fashion. Ronaldo's brace saw him become Portugal's all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history, taking his tally to 10 goals, surpassing Eusebio's record of nine. Eusebio, a Portuguese legend and 1965 Ballon d'Or winner, famously guided the team to third place at the 1966 World Cup. Behind Ronaldo and Eusebio, Pauleta is third on Portugal's World Cup scoring list with four goals. Ronaldo also became the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments, ending his 10-match goalless streak across major competitions (the FIFA World Cup and the Euro Championship).

Portugal ended their group stage with an underwhelming goalless draw against Colombia. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

ASTS Stock Slips Overnight Despite BlueBird 11 Heading To Cape Canaveral For Next Month’s Launch

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:00:07 +0530

The company previously said BlueBirds 11, 12 and 13 are targeted to launch from Cape Canaveral in the first half of August.
The mission follows the June 17 launch of BlueBirds 8, 9 and 10, which the company says are now in orbit and operational.
BlueBirds 11, 12 and 13 are expected to deliver nearly double the peak speeds of initial Block 1 satellites.

Shares of AST SpaceMobile (ASTS) slipped over 1% overnight late Monday despite the space firm saying that BlueBird 11 is launch-bound and BlueBirds 12 and 13 are set to follow soon.

ASTS stock slid 5% on Monday, joining a broader pullback in space stocks as the sector gave back part of last week’s sharp gains.

BlueBird 11 Moves Toward Launch Pad

AST SpaceMobile said on X that BlueBird 11 is “on its way from Midland to Cape Canaveral” ahead of next month’s orbital launch, calling the update “Execution in Motion.” The company added that BlueBirds 12 and 13 will follow soon, while production continues through BlueBird 38 in Texas.

The update comes after AST SpaceMobile said last month that BlueBird satellites 11, 12 and 13 are targeted for launch from Cape Canaveral in the first half of August. The mission will send the next batch of next-gen satellites into low Earth orbit, further expanding the company’s direct-to-device network to provide voice, data and video service to standard, unmodified smartphones.

In a June 17 mission, BlueBirds 8, 9 and 10 lifted off from Cape Canaveral aboard a Falcon 9 rocket and are now “in orbit and operational,” with BlueBirds 11, 12 and 13 next in line and production continuing through BlueBird 37.

ASTS Eyes Bigger BlueBirds, Faster Speeds

BlueBirds 11, 12 and 13 are expected to feature commercial communications arrays measuring about 2,400 square feet, matching the scale of the BlueBird satellites currently operating in orbit. AST SpaceMobile said the satellites are expected to deliver nearly double the peak data speeds of its initial Block 1 BlueBird satellites, which recently achieved peak download speeds of 98.9 Mbps directly to standard smartphones.

The company is relying on a stackable satellite architecture and advanced composite carbon structures to support multi-satellite launches and faster constellation deployment.

ASTS Faces Launch Cadence Test

Investors are currently tracking whether AST SpaceMobile can scale manufacturing, ship satellites on schedule and maintain a steady launch cadence of 45 satellites by the end of the year. The company has agreements with nearly 60 mobile network operators globally, representing more than 3 billion subscribers combined. Its partners include AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Rakuten, Google, Bell, Telus, stc Group and American Tower.

AST SpaceMobile has also highlighted its U.S.-based manufacturing footprint, including its Midland, Texas facilities, as a key part of the rollout. The company has said it operates more than 500,000 square feet of manufacturing and operations facilities worldwide, supported by a workforce of more than 2,250 people and a technology platform backed by over 3,900 patents and patent-pending claims.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About ASTS?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for ASTS flipped to ‘bearish’ from ‘bullish’ levels a day ago amid a 214% jump in 24-hour message volumes.

ASTS sentiment and message volume as of July 6| Source: Stocktwits

One user said, “Launch in 4-5 weeks - all that matters. In a 2 month span, they will have 6 next gen sats up, which is more in space than the previous 2-3 years total. Progress is being made. The real question is, can they get 3 more launches Sept - December.”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user said, “$ASTS Had to get more on that dip...430 more shares.”

View this Stocktwits post

ASTS stock has risen 77% over the past year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Petrol, Diesel Prices Today July 7: Check Latest Fuel Rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and More

Deevika NM — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:40:24 +0530

Petrol and diesel prices across India remained unchanged on July 7, offering motorists price stability even as international crude oil prices have softened over the past week. The decline in global oil prices has been driven by easing geopolitical tensions in West Asia and increased crude production by OPEC+, but the benefits are yet to be reflected at fuel stations across the country.

State-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs) continued to maintain retail fuel prices without any revisions, leaving petrol and diesel rates steady in major metropolitan cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. Fuel prices in India are reviewed daily at 6 am, but any revision depends on several domestic and international factors, including crude oil prices, the rupee-dollar exchange rate, freight costs, taxes and dealer commissions.

Also Read: Petrol, Diesel Prices Today: Check Latest Fuel Rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru & Other Cities as Crude Oil Eases

As of July 7, petrol is priced at Rs 102.12 per litre in Delhi, while diesel costs Rs 95.20 per litre. In Mumbai, petrol is retailing at Rs 111.21 per litre and diesel at Rs 99.19 per litre. Chennai and Kolkata also continue to witness stable fuel prices, with regional tax structures contributing to differences in retail rates across states.

Petrol & Diesel Prices Today (July 7)

City	Petrol (Rs /litre)	Diesel (Rs /litre)
Delhi	Rs 102.12	Rs 95.20
Mumbai	Rs 111.21	Rs 97.83
Kolkata	Rs 113.51	Rs 99.82
Chennai	Rs 108.01	Rs 99.63
Bengaluru	Rs 110.89	Rs 98.80
Hyderabad	Rs 115.73	Rs 103.82

Although crude oil prices have eased globally, retail fuel prices in India have not followed suit. Analysts attribute this to multiple pricing components beyond crude, including central excise duty, state VAT and distribution costs. These factors significantly influence the final amount consumers pay at the pump.

Earlier this month, some petroleum products such as commercial LPG cylinders and aviation turbine fuel witnessed price reductions following the decline in international crude prices. However, domestic petrol and diesel prices have remained unchanged nationwide.

Motorists are advised to check daily fuel prices through official OMC platforms or mobile applications before refuelling, as rates can vary from one city to another due to state-specific taxes and local levies. While global oil markets continue to remain relatively stable, consumers will be watching closely to see whether lower crude prices eventually translate into relief at Indian fuel pumps.

Also Read: Petrol, Diesel Prices Today July 4: Check Latest Fuel Rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Other Cities

Croatia files FIFA complaint over 'abuse of technology' in WC exit

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:30:22 +0530

Croatia has submitted a formal complaint to FIFA following their FIFA World Cup exit in the round of 32 stage at the hands of Portugal, alleging "abuse of technology" during a critical moment in the match that cost them a slot in the round of 16. Croatia's WC journey ended dramatically with a 2-1 loss to Portugal, which saw a goal being disallowed during stoppage time when Josko Gvardiol appeared to have scored. The goal stood initially, but was turned down following a lengthy VAR review by referee Espen Eskas, citing an offside that became apparent through data present within the match ball itself.

Croatia's football governing body feels that the spirit of the game has taken a hit, while FIFA stands by its officiating terms. The world football governing body had to defend the VAR process after backlash from Croatian fans and the team alike. The TV replays should the goal to be legal, the technology employed by FIFA in its Trionda match ball detected a microscopic touch from Igor Matanovic's hair that changed the whole math around offside.

FIFA Defends Technology Amidst Backlash

FIFA defended their process, saying in a statement as quoted by Goal.com that, "IMU sensors housed within the Trionda ball are capable of determining any slight contact, displayed to viewers in the broadcast as a 'heartbeat graphic,' and allowing officials an unprecedented level of data to make fast, accurate decisions." But Croatia feels that such a high level of data moves from the "clear and obvious" spirit of VAR and relies on data players cannot see in real time.

The country's governing body was also critical of the call that helped Portugal level the scores with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring the penalty in the 68th minute. The formal complaint by HNS, the country's football governing body, focuses on protocols used by the Video Assistant Referee and whether it exceeded its intended mandate. HNS argues that "clear and obvious error" threshold was not met and the review broke the rhythm and flow of what could have been a fair match.

HNS Details Formal Complaint

HNS spokesperson Tomislav Pacak told RTL Danas, as quoted by Goal.com, "The Croatian Football Association sent a letter to FIFA President Gianni Infantino in which we expressed deep disappointment and disagreement with the match with Portugal, not because of the refereeing decisions as such, because they can be discussed after every match, but because of the process itself that led to those decisions.

"To begin with, we believe that the VAR protocol was completely incorrectly applied to the penalty kick for Portugal, and the referee should not have been called to review the footage. And more importantly, with Guardiola's equalizer, Pasalic was awarded offside against the rules and spirit of football due to Matanovic's non-existent ball play , because the sensor showed so."

"We believe that this is an abuse of technology, which we welcome in football, but we believe that this application is not beneficial to FIFA, teams and football fans, and we know that our letter will not reduce the pain and disappointment of fans and players, but we believe that it is important to warn FIFA and request a detailed explanation of all decisions," he signed off.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Canada announces largest defence deal with Germany's TKMS for subs

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:00:54 +0530

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday announced that Canada has selected German manufacturer TKMS as the preferred supplier for its next fleet of submarines, describing the project as the largest defence procurement in the country's history.

In a post shared on X, Carney said the agreement would strengthen Canada's strategic capabilities while creating significant economic benefits for Canadian workers and industries. "Canada is designating German manufacturer TKMS as the preferred supplier for our next fleet of submarines. This will be the largest defence procurement in our nation's history and it will have enormous, lasting benefits for Canadian industries and workers," Carney said.

He added that Canada would work closely with Germany and Norway on the project. "Together with our German and Norwegian Allies, we will build at speed and scale to expand our strategic capabilities and defend our sovereignty. We will build this fleet to build Canada strong," Carney said. https://x.com/markjcarney/status/2074250224726409629

German Chancellor Welcomes Transatlantic Cooperation

The announcement was welcomed by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who described the procurement as a strong signal of transatlantic and European cooperation. "This is a strong signal for our transatlantic and European partnership: Canada is procuring German-Norwegian 212CD-class submarines. Thank you for your trust, @MarkJCarney and @jonasgahrstore," he wrote on X. https://x.com/bundeskanzler/status/2074230025591587210

Canada's Largest-Ever Defence Programme

Canada has selected German shipbuilder TKMS to build up to 12 submarines as part of its plan to replace its ageing fleet in what is expected to be the country's largest-ever defence procurement programme, Al Jazeera reported.

"In a more dangerous and divided world, Canada must be prepared to defend our interests, protect our citizens, build our economy, and secure our future," Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Monday ahead of his visit to Turkiye for the NATO leaders' summit, as reported by Al Jazeera.

"Together with our German and Norwegian Allies, we will build at speed and scale to expand our strategic capabilities and create greater strategic autonomy. We will build this fleet to build Canada strong," Carney said.

Carney did not reveal the financial value of the proposed deal.

Cost and Timeline

TKMS, majority-owned by German industrial group Thyssenkrupp, submitted its bid jointly with Norway and was selected over South Korea's Hanwha Ocean after months of competition. Germany, Norway and Canada are all members of NATO, as reported by Al Jazeera.

Canada has said the contract is expected to be finalised by the end of next year, with the first four submarines scheduled for delivery by 2034. Canada currently operates a fleet of four submarines.

According to Al Jazeera, Canada's The Globe and Mail estimated the submarine acquisition could cost between 20 billion and 30 billion Canadian dollars (USD 14 billion to USD 21 billion), while the total lifetime cost, including operations, maintenance and upgrades, could reach between 40 billion and 50 billion Canadian dollars (USD 28 billion to USD 35 billion).

NATO Defence Spending

Canada has faced continued pressure from US President Donald Trump to increase defence spending, similar to other NATO allies. The country has since achieved NATO's target of spending 2 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defence ahead of schedule. NATO member states have also agreed to raise defence and security-related spending to 5 per cent of GDP by 2035.

Shares of TKMS closed 11 per cent higher following the announcement, Al Jazeera reported. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Iran Slams Germany's 'Shameful' Remarks on Strait of Hormuz Crisis

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:00:34 +0530

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei on Tuesday sharply criticised Germany over remarks by German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Berlin of complicity in military aggression against Iran.

In a post shared on X, Baghaei described Wadephul's comments as "utterly shameful" and alleged that Germany bore responsibility for supporting actions against Iran. "The German Foreign Minister's rhetoric on the Strait of Hormuz is utterly shameful -- a grotesque distortion of reality that reeks of Mephistopheles in Goethe's Faust," Baghaei wrote. "Germany must be held fully accountable for its complicity in military aggression against Iran and bear the heavy costs of its active participation in the crime of aggression," he added. Baghaei also asserted that Germany could not avoid responsibility through its statements. "No amount of offensive posturing will allow the Berlin regime to evade responsibility for its role in this illegal war and the war crimes committed against the Iranian people," he said. https://x.com/irimfa_spox/status/2074233814671614093

Germany's Stance on Mine Clearance

His remarks came after German FM Wadephul on Monday said that Iran should bear the cost of clearing mines from international shipping routes, accusing Tehran of unlawfully laying mines in a key maritime corridor, Al Jazeera reported.

"We do not need to offer Tehran anything at all; quite the contrary: Iran has unlawfully mined an international shipping lane," Wadephul had told a newspaper, Al Jazeera reported. He added that although Germany is not currently planning to charge Iran for mine clearance operations, "it would be justified" for Tehran to pay the costs "since we would be remedying damage caused by the regime".

US-Iran Tensions and Negotiations

Meanwhile, last week, Wadephul met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, where the two welcomed the agreement between the US and Iran to halt mutual attacks and continue negotiations. Also, Tehran has denied reports of any imminent bilateral negotiations with the US, with Baghaei saying no talks were scheduled at any level in the coming days. He said an Iranian expert delegation would travel to Doha to follow up on the implementation of the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Trump's 'Finish the Job' Warning

On Monday, US President Donald Trump said the US would either reach a deal with Iran or "finish the job," while claiming the US had the capability to destroy Iran's critical infrastructure if necessary.

Trump said he preferred diplomacy but warned that Washington could cripple Iran's bridges, energy infrastructure and power-generation facilities "in a small part of an afternoon." Iran has repeatedly condemned Trump's remarks.

Earlier, the Iranian Embassy in Armenia criticised the US President over comments suggesting Washington could eliminate Iran's surviving leadership, accusing the United States of lacking "civilisation, history, nor honour." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Spain end Portugal's World Cup run; "we weren't at our best": Bruno

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:00:33 +0530

'We were not at our best level': Bruno Fernandes

Following his side's FIFA World Cup exit in the round of 16, Portugal and Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes said that "the team is not at its best level" and the team could have secured a better result had they performed as well as they did in the first half.

Portugal, hailed as one of the favourites to finally lift the trophy, ended their FIFA World Cup journey, falling way short again, in the round of 16. A late Mikel Merino strike helped Spain clinch the quarterfinal spot with a 1-0 win in a match that was expected to feature goals, with the likes of Bruno, Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal and Cristiano Ronaldo featuring in the match.

Portugal star rues second-half performance

Speaking after the match, Bruno said, as quoted by FIFA, "Obviously, we are sad. We came here with one goal: to win the whole thing. Unfortunately, we were not at our best level. I think we played better in the first half today, but in the second half we made the same mistake of defending too low on the pitch, giving the ball to them."

"When this happens, sooner or later, you are going to concede a goal. Congratulations to Spain; they have quality, but I think that if we continued doing what we did in the first half, we could have had a better result," he signed off.

Spain achieve historic clean sheet record

Spain achieved a historic FIFA World Cup feat, becoming the first team ever to keep six consecutive clean sheets in the tournament. Spanish goalie Unai Simon, who stood unbeaten for 90 minutes and helped his side register its fifth successive clean sheet of the tournament. Overall as well, this is Spain's sixth successive FIFA WC clean sheet, with the streak dating back to the 2022 edition.

Unai has gone 609 minutes without conceding a goal in FIFA World Cup matches, extending his own record that he set during the clash against Austria, which ended in a 3-0 win for Spain. Simon etched his name into FIFA World Cup history after setting a new record for the longest run without conceding a goal, leading La Roja into the last 16 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Austria. According to Opta Jose, Simon has now gone 519 consecutive World Cup minutes without conceding, surpassing the previous record of 517 minutes held by Italy's Walter Zenga.

The match was full of chances for both sides to score, but none could really capitalise it untill a late winner from Merino. Portugal, in particular Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo, missed out on a lot of chances. It was Merino, who combined with Ferran Torres, another substitute, to create the much-needed magic for Spain.

Tearful Ronaldo's World Cup dream ends

Following a missed free kick, which marked a final chance for Portugal, Cristiano was seen breaking down in tears as, despite all his skill set, enormous goal-scoring records and club/individual accomplishments, the FIFA World Cup trophy eluded one of the sport's finest ambassadors.

A look at Ronaldo's World Cup journey

Before the match, Cristiano had announced that the ongoing edition would be his last WC; however, he has not offered any hint on his international football future as he chases the record of 1,000 professional goals.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Health Ministry holds consultation on action plan for zoonotic diseases

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:00:31 +0530

The Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare organised a National Multistakeholder Consultation on the National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Zoonoses: A Strategic Framework with One Health Approach in New Delhi on Monday. According to a release from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the consultation brought together senior representatives from the human health, animal health, wildlife, environmental, academic and development sectors to deliberate on strengthening India's preparedness and response to zoonotic diseases.

National Action Plan Framework

Addressing the gathering, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Rakesh Gupta highlighted that zoonotic diseases continue to pose significant public health, animal health and economic challenges globally and in India. He emphasised that the Government is committed to having stronger multisectoral coordination, integrated surveillance systems through IHIP 2.0, enhanced laboratory networks, a skilled workforce, digital innovations and evidence-based decision-making. He stated that the proposed National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Zoonoses will provide a comprehensive strategic framework to strengthen governance, surveillance, laboratory systems, preparedness and response, risk communication, research and innovation, monitoring and evaluation, and sustainable financing. The Action Plan will also support States and Union Territories in developing context-specific State Action Plans aligned with national priorities, the release noted.

Speaking at the Occasion, Sujata Chaudhary, Additional Director General of Health Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, emphasised the need for sustained coordination among all relevant ministries and stakeholders to operationalise the One Health approach and strengthen India's preparedness against zoonotic diseases.

Launch of Key Technical Resources

Director of the National Centre for Disease Control, Ranjan Das, underscored the growing public health significance of zoonotic diseases and reiterated NCDC's commitment to strengthening integrated disease surveillance and fostering During the inaugural session, the dignitaries jointly launched two key technical resources developed under the National One Health Programme for Prevention and Control of Zoonoses--the Learning Resource Package on 10 Priority Zoonotic Diseases and a comprehensive suite of E-Learning Modules, the release said.

The Learning Resource Package covers ten priority zoonotic diseases, namely Anthrax, Brucellosis, Kyasanur Forest Disease, Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever, Nipah, Mpox, Rabies, Leptospirosis, Scrub Typhus and Zika. These technical resources have been developed to strengthen the knowledge and competencies of healthcare professionals, veterinarians, public health officials and other frontline stakeholders engaged in zoonotic disease surveillance, prevention and control.

Deliberations on Strategic Areas

The consultation featured a series of thematic technical sessions during which experts reviewed the draft chapters of the National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Zoonoses. Extensive deliberations were held on critical thematic areas, including governance and institutional mechanisms, surveillance and early warning systems, laboratory strengthening, prevention and preparedness, outbreak response, research and innovation, risk communication, workforce development, financing, monitoring and evaluation, and implementation strategies.

The release further stated that the discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening integrated surveillance systems through expansion of sentinel surveillance sites, enhancing laboratory networks, promoting timely data sharing through the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) 2.0, and building the capacities of frontline professionals across sectors. Participants also emphasised leveraging digital technologies and artificial intelligence to strengthen disease intelligence, facilitate early warning systems and improve outbreak prediction and response.

Advancing India's One Health Agenda

The recommendations emerging from the consultation will be consolidated and incorporated into the final National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Zoonoses. The Action Plan will serve as the national strategic framework for coordinated multisectoral action and provide guidance to States and Union Territories in developing context-specific State Action Plans aligned with the principles of the One Health approach.

The consultation marks a significant milestone in advancing India's One Health agenda and reinforcing the country's commitment to strengthening preparedness against zoonotic diseases. By institutionalising sustained collaboration across the human health, animal health, wildlife and environmental sectors, the National Action Plan seeks to establish a resilient and coordinated framework for preventing, detecting and responding to zoonotic threats. The initiative is expected to strengthen national health security, improve preparedness for future public health emergencies and contribute meaningfully to global efforts towards preventing and controlling emerging infectious diseases, the release noted.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Macron Backs Mbappe's Stand Against Racism, Says He Scored 'Another Goal'

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:00:27 +0530

Macron Backs Mbappe's Stand Against Racism

French president Emmanuel Macron backed national men's football side captain Kylian Mbappe for taking a stand against controversial comments by Paraguay senator Celeste Amarilla, saying that he has scored "another goal", this time against racism.

Paraguayan Senator's Controversial Comments

Mbappe's remarks came after she called Mbappe a "colonised Cameroonian" and "pretending hard to be French, resentful, newly rich, arrogant, and ugly". Amarilla also said that France "won by a fluke and Mbappe was nervous and scared to death the whole match, like his entire team." Mbappe called her a "despicable woman" who is unworthy of her position.

"Another goal for Kylian Mbappe. Against racism this time. All my support. When words defile, our values respond: dignity, respect, fraternity. @KMbappe". Un but de plus pour Kylian Mbappé. Contre le racisme cette fois. Tout mon soutien. Quand les mots salissent, nos valeurs répondent : dignité, respect, fraternité. @KMbappe — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 6, 2026

The World Cup clash saw high-intensity, highly physical football, with tempers flaring on both sides, and Celeste harshly ranted against Mbappe and the French team's after the match, as the French captain called out Paraguay's "dirty football" tactics.

Paraguayan Government Condemns Senator's Remarks

The Paraguayan government also issued a statement on the controversial remarks made by Amarilla. "The Government of the Republic of Paraguay deplores and rejects the statements made by Senator Celeste Amarilla, directed at the captain of the French national football team, Kylian Mbappe. These statements are contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity, which our country promotes," said a statement from the government.

The government reaffirmed its firm committment to "the promotion of human rights, equality, and respect among all people, as well as to the fight against racism, xenophobia, intolerance, and every form of hatred or discrimination."

French Football Federation to Take Legal Action

French Football Federation (FFF) also stepped in support of Mbappe, describing the comments as "criminal and reprehensible" and said that they are "filing a report with the prosecutor's office for the purpose of judicial action". FFF extended its support to Mbappe, the whole team and the victim of "such odious remarks" everywhere. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA WC: Merino's late strike ends Ronaldo's career, Spain in QFs

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:00:25 +0530

Spain and Arsenal star Mikel Merino, who scored the quarterfinal berth-sealing goal for the national side in the the Round of 16 against Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal, was captured in a celebratory mode in the changing room, saying that playing around the traditional 'San Fermin' festivities brings him luck and it seems that he is specialised in scoring crucial goals for his side. The Portugal-Spain FIFA World Cup showdown featuring a subplot of generational battle between 18-year-old Lamime Yamal and 41-year-old Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo saw a lot of chances going to waste, with players across both sides failing to capitalise, with some top-notch defending witnessed. However, it was stoppage time 91st-minute strike by Merino, which showed Portugal the door again and ended Cristiano's FIFA WC career without a title.

'San Fermin protects me'

Speaking in a video posted by Spain Football's official Instagram, he said that playing around the 'San Fermin' festival, which takes place from July 6 to 14 in Spain in honour of Saint Fermin, the patron saint and first bishop of Pamplona, Spain, brings him luck. The festival is known for featuring energetic street parties, music and 'Running of the Bulls' ritual. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@sefutbol) "Last minute... it is crazy! Crazy, truly I do not know. San Fermin protects me or something, but every time it is the 6th or near the festivities, I have that luck. Very happy."

'Specialised in scoring important goals'

On being asked if he has taken a specialisation in scoring important goals, he said, "It seems so, it seems so. It is what happens when you're prepared, you are looking forward to helping, and they give you the opportunity. So, well, I scored it, but it was also thanks to the good work of all my teammates," he signed off.

Spain's Quarterfinal Clash

Spain will now play the winner of the US-Belgium last 16 clash in the quarterfinals. (ANI) (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

RIVN Stock Slumps Overnight: Rivian Director, Foundation File Stock Sale Notices Amid $1.5B Offering Plan

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:00:06 +0530

Director Karen Boone filed to sell 20,000 shares worth $372,600, while the Rivian Foundation filed to sell 166,668 shares worth about $3.11 million.
Together, the director and foundation sale notices cover 186,668 shares valued at roughly $3.48 million.
Rivian’s larger 75 million-share offering could raise about $1.51 billion based on Monday’s closing price.

Shares of Rivian, Inc. (RIVN) slumped 9% overnight late Monday after the EV maker unveiled a 75 million-share offering, with separate stock-sale notices from a director and the Rivian Foundation adding to pressure from the dilutive raise.

RIVN stock wiped out most of an 8% rally in the regular session, driven by strong delivery numbers and a raised annual outlook.

RIVN Director, Foundation File Stock Sale Notices

Fresh filings from Monday showed stock sales by Rivian director Karen Boone and the Rivian Foundation. Boone filed to sell 20,000 Rivian shares valued at $372,600, according to the filing. The shares were acquired through a private placement from Rivian in January 2021.

The Rivian Foundation, listed as an affiliate, filed to sell 166,668 shares valued at $3.11 million. The shares were acquired as founder shares from the issuer in November 2021. Together, the two notices cover 186,668 shares worth about $3.48 million.

Rivian Plans 75M Share Offering

The bigger pressure point came from Rivian’s plans for a public offering of 75 million shares of Class A common stock. Rivian also intends to grant underwriters a 30-day option to buy up to an additional 11.25 million shares. Based on Monday’s closing price, the base offering would raise $1.51 billion before underwriting discounts and expenses, or about $1.74 billion if the underwriters exercise their full option to buy additional shares.

The company said it plans to use proceeds for “general corporate purposes,” including “funding of certain equity contribution requirements” under its amended loan agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

The DOE financing is related to Rivian’s Georgia manufacturing facility, a key piece of its strategy to scale production beyond its Illinois plant. Rivian expects to begin drawing from the $4.5 billion loan in early 2027.

RIVN Preliminary Q2 Revenue Update

In a separate filing, Rivian provided preliminary second-quarter estimates showing strong revenue and liquidity. The company expects second-quarter revenue of $1.55 billion to $1.65 billion, up from $1.3 billion a year earlier. Rivian said the increase was mainly driven by higher vehicle deliveries, partly offset by lower average selling prices from a higher mix of commercial vans. It also cited higher revenue from vehicle electrical and software development services, as well as regulatory credit sales.

Rivian estimated cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments of $5.3 billion as of June 30, up from $4.8 billion at the end of the first quarter.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About RIVN?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for RIVN flipped to ‘bullish’ from ‘bearish’ levels a week ago amid a 2,643% surge in 24-hour message volumes.

RIVN sentiment and message volume as of July 6| Source: Stocktwits

Notably, Rivian retained decent retail support, with a Stocktwits poll showing 42% of 1,500 voters preferred owning RIVN over the next decade, compared with 58% for Tesla.

RIVN stock has risen 54% over the past year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Zelenskyy seeks US licences to produce Patriot missiles in Ukraine

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:30:27 +0530

Zelenskyy Seeks US Licenses for Patriot Production

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday (local time) renewed his appeal for enhanced air defence support, urging the United States to grant Ukraine licences to produce Patriot missile systems domestically, saying it would significantly strengthen the country's ability to protect lives amid continued Russian missile attacks.

In a post shared on X, Zelenskyy said Ukrainian air defence forces had successfully intercepted all six Kalibr cruise missiles and 31 of the 33 cruise missiles launched by Russia overnight. "All six Kalibr missiles were shot down last night, and 31 out of 33 cruise missiles were intercepted, meaning whenever the necessary capabilities are available, our warriors deliver truly high interception rates," he said.

Interceptor Shortage for Ballistic Missiles

Zelenskyy, however, stressed that Ukraine continued to face difficulties in countering ballistic missile attacks because of a shortage of interceptor missiles. "That is the only explanation for the problem with ballistic missiles - insufficient number of interceptors. This is especially true for Patriots," he said.

Calling for greater cooperation with the US, Zelenskyy said Ukraine was capable of manufacturing Patriot systems if granted the required licences. "We have long made the case that we are capable of producing such defensive weapons ourselves. If Ukraine were granted U.S. licenses to produce Patriots, our own production would be sufficient both to protect Ukraine and to help partners in need," he said.

He added that securing additional air defence missiles remained Kyiv's foremost priority. "We are in contact with everyone around the world who can provide air defense missiles now. This is our top priority," Zelenskyy said.

Earlier in the day, he urged the US and its European allies to take "strong decisions" to strengthen Ukraine's air defences following a massive overnight Russian missile and drone attack that killed at least 14 people in Kyiv and the surrounding region.

According to Zelenskyy, Russia launched 68 missiles and 351 attack drones during the assault, damaging more than 10 locations across the Ukrainian capital, including residential buildings. He had said Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted drones and cruise missiles but lacked sufficient interceptor missiles to stop Russian ballistic missiles.

NATO Summit to Address Ukraine Support

The renewed appeal also comes as NATO leaders gather for the alliance's summit in Ankara. Ahead of the summit, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said allied nations were expected to present "clear, concrete and credible" plans to meet NATO's target of spending five per cent of GDP on defence by 2035.

Rutte also underlined continued support for Kyiv, stating, "Allies and NATO partners must continue to ensure Ukraine gets what it needs."

"And let me be clear, all Allies need to pull their weight, so that our support to Ukraine continues to flow. Because Ukraine's security is so closely linked with our own," he added.

Rutte said the summit would focus on strengthening NATO's deterrence capabilities, expanding defence industrial production and ensuring continued military assistance to Ukraine as it confronts ongoing Russian aggression. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bomb blast at anti-Sheikh Hasina rally in Savar injures three

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:30:27 +0530

Bomb Blast at Anti-Hasina Rally

A reported bomb explosion occurred in Savar, near Dhaka, during a rally organised by the newly formed National Citizen Party (NCP), injuring at least three people. The rally of the newly formed political party, the National Citizen Party (NCP), was led by students opposing former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

"Terrorists detonated a bomb at the post-march rally venue of the NCP in Savar. The explosion took place at around 9:45 PM on Monday while the rally was underway at the Savar Thana Stand Eidgah field," NCP said in a statement on Monday night.

Context of the 'July March'

The bomb explosion in Savar occurred on the first day of the July March, which was organised to demand the implementation of a referendum, job creation, resolution of the power crisis, control of commodity prices, and border protection. As part of the nationwide march planned for July, marking the second anniversary of the student protest against Sheikh Hasina, NCP had previously announced this march across the country.

India Reviews Extradition Request for Sheikh Hasina

Sheikh Hasina left for India on August 5, 2024. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on April 17 this year had confirmed that it is officially reviewing a formal request for the extradition of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina through established legal and judicial channels.

The announcement, delivered by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, comes at a pivotal moment as India seeks to stabilise its partnership with the newly established government in Dhaka following the dramatic political shifts of the "July Revolution". (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA WC: Yamal played 'most important' match of his life, says coach

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:30:23 +0530

Following his side's qualification to the quarterfinals of the ongoing FIFA World Cup, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said 18-year-old Lamine Yamal played "one of the most important" matches of his life and will help him grow a lot. Yamal, hailed as the next big football sensation who will take the baton from Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, featured in a clash of generations versus Portugal, with the 41-year-old icon Cristiano Ronaldo on the other side. It was Yamal's side which eked out a 1-0 win courtesy of a late strike from Mikel Merino, shattering Cristiano's dream of lifting the trophy as the tournament marks his last-ever FIFA WC.

"One of the most important matches of his life"

Speaking after the match, de la Fuente said as quoted by Reuters, "For me, Lamine has played one of the most important matches of his life. Beyond whether he was brilliant or not, for me , it has been one of the matches that will help him grow the most."

Lamine arrived at the World Cup with a hamstring injury and started the campaign on the bench, and was drafted in the second group stage match against Saudi Arabia, in which he scored a goal. Against Portugal, Lamine had three attempts on goal, including two on target and kept the 2010 champion side's attacking juices flowing.

The coach also said that Lamine did a "spectacular job". "He suffered for the team, he defended for the team. When he had the ball, he always created doubt and uncertainty for the opponent. He generated a lot of fear. We still need Lamine in this World Cup to keep growing and delivering these kinds of performances," he added.

Looking ahead to the Quarterfinals

Spain will face the winners of the US-Belgium round of 16 clash.

On his preference for the opponent in the QFs, the coach said on a concluding note, "Any opponent you face at this stage will have done enough to deserve being there, and whoever comes next will be an even greater challenge than those we have encountered up to now," he said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

ZETA Stock Jumps Over 5% — CEO Alerts Shift From Marketing To AI Infrastructure

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:15:01 +0530

Stenberg said in a post on X that the company is adding business intelligence as its fourth core use case, alongside customer acquisition, retention and monetization.
Zeta announced last week that it has entered into a partnership with Palantir Technologies to build an enterprise AI infrastructure.
Koyfin data shows 12 out of 14 analysts rate the stock ‘buy’ and two say ‘sell.’

Zeta Global Holdings (ZETA) share price jumped 5.4% on Monday and extended gains by 2.5% after hours, after the company’s CEO said it is evolving from marketing to an AI infrastructure firm.

“For years, we've been building what many have viewed as a marketing platform… today marks the beginning of our next chapter,” David Steinberg, CEO of Zeta said in a post on X.

“Marketing was our first application and still very important for our clients. Today, we're expanding beyond customer acquisition, retention, and monetization into a fourth use case, business intelligence. We call it the Zeta Business Intelligence (ZBI) Engine, helping organizations make better decisions with AI,” Steinberg added.

The company had recently partnered with Palantir Technologies (PLTR) to build an enterprise AI infrastructure layer for agentic marketing.

ZETA And PLTR Partnership

Earlier last week, Zeta announced a partnership with Palantir to build the enterprise AI infrastructure layer that connects operational intelligence, customer intelligence and marketing execution.

The partnership pairs two complementary platforms in a deep technical integration. Palantir Foundry brings the ontology, governance and operational infrastructure that enterprise data demands. Zeta's Data Cloud will be rearchitected on Foundry, with Athena, Zeta's AI-powered intelligence layer, turning that data into decisions and measurable outcomes at enterprise scale.

“Palantir and Zeta are using Ontology to create a next generation marketing environment, giving Zeta all the advantages of AI while protecting against many of the known dangers,” said Alex Karp, co-founder and CEO of Palantir Technologies. “Bringing together containerized architecture and AI in the context of marketing will transform this industry.”

ZETA Stock: Retail View

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits was ‘bullish’ with ‘normal’ message volumes. Retail chatter on the stock soared 800% from the previous session and has jumped 180% over the past month.

One user highlighted the stock has potential to go up further but will take time.

View this Stocktwits post

Zeta stock has gained nearly 7% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

ALGS Stock Rallies 16% After-Hours On $25M Cash Boost From China Hepatitis B Drug Deal

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:10:01 +0530

Under the licensing deal signed earlier this year, Aligos granted Xiamen Amoytop Biotech exclusive rights to develop and sell its experimental hepatitis B treatment drug, pevifoscorvir sodium, in Greater China.
Under the deal, Aligos is eligible for up to $420 million in milestone payments tied to clinical, regulatory, and sales achievements.
Aligos Therapeutics had $54.9 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments as of March 31, 2026.

Shares of Aligos Therapeutics (ALGS) rose 21% in after-hours trading on Monday after the company announced it had received a $25-million upfront payment from its Chinese licensing partner.

The payment gives Aligos non-dilutive funding as it advances its pipeline of treatments for liver and viral diseases. Aligos Therapeutics had only $54.9 million in cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments as of March 31, 2026.

The Licensing Deal

Under the licensing deal signed earlier this year, Aligos granted Xiamen Amoytop Biotech exclusive rights to develop and sell its experimental hepatitis B treatment, pevifoscorvir sodium, in Greater China. Aligos keeps full rights to the drug in the United States, Europe, Japan, South Korea, and all other markets.

Under the deal, Aligos is eligible for up to $420 million in milestone payments tied to clinical, regulatory and sales achievements. It will also earn tiered royalties in the high single digits on net sales in the licensed region.

The treatment has already received Breakthrough Therapy Designation from Chinese regulators, which can speed up the approval process. A joint steering committee between the two companies is now overseeing the program. As part of the broader collaboration, the partners also plan to start clinical testing in China of another Aligos drug candidate in the third quarter of this year.

How Did ALGS Retail Traders React?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around ALGS stock jumped from ‘neutral’ to ‘bullish’ over the past 24 hours, while message volume stayed at ‘high’ levels.

A Stocktwits user opined that the stock is highly undervalued.

“Cash-in now, but the real read is whether this deal de-risks the story and adds validation for the asset. Market will watch follow-through on the platform, not just the headline,” another user wrote.

ALGS stock has fallen by about 37% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

CRNX Stock Soars Nearly 100% After-Hours On Vertex's $10B Acquisition

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:05:01 +0530

Vertex said the acquisition will strengthen its pipeline and could eventually add around $5 billion in annual revenue.
Crinetics focuses on developing treatments for endocrine diseases.
Vertex will finance the deal using a combination of cash on hand and debt.

Shares of Crinetics Pharmaceuticals (CRNX) surged nearly 100% in after-hours trading on Monday after Vertex Pharmaceuticals (VRTX) announced it will buy the company for about $10 billion.

The deal values Crinetics at $85 per share in cash, representing a potential upside of about 100% from the stock’s closing price on Monday. Vertex said the acquisition will strengthen its pipeline and could eventually add around $5 billion in annual revenue. The deal is expected to close later this year, in the third quarter, subject to regulatory approvals and other conditions.

VRTX stock was down 2% after-hours at the time of writing.

Why The Deal?

Crinetics focuses on developing treatments for endocrine diseases — conditions related to hormones and glands. Its main product, PALSONIFY (paltusotine), treats acromegaly, a rare disorder that causes excessive growth.

The company has additional drugs in its pipeline targeting other hormone-related conditions, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Vertex, best known for its successful cystic fibrosis medicines, has been looking to expand beyond that area. The company said the move supports its goal of delivering innovative treatments across multiple diseases and added that it expects the deal to be accretive to adjusted operating income in 2029.

Vertex will finance the deal using a combination of cash on hand and debt. The deal is one of the largest this year in the biotech sector, in the league of Sun Pharma's acquisition of Organon and AbbVie's acquisition of Apogee Therapeutics.

How Did Retail Traders React?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around CRNX jumped from ‘bearish’ to ‘bullish’ over the past 24 hours, while message volume rose from ‘high’ to ‘extremely high’ levels.

Meanwhile, sentiment around VRTX stayed within the ‘extremely bullish’ territory over the past day, while message volume was at ‘high’ levels.

A Stocktwits user highlighted the bullishness across the biotech sector.

Another user termed the 100% premium as “insane” and voiced hopes for a similar buyout for Biocryst Pharmaceuticals.

A third user opined that the deal was unexpected.

While VRTX stock has gained 17% year-to-date, CRNX shares have fallen 10%. State Street SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) has risen 32% in the meantime.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

JPM, BofA Eye Payments Deal — Why JPMorgan, Bank Of America And Other Banks Want Fiserv’s Debit Network

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:00:06 +0530

Big banks have held early-stage talks to acquire a debit-card network owned by Fiserv.
Owning a payments network could exempt banks from federal caps on debit-card interchange fees.
Fiserv owns the STAR and Accel debit networks, key infrastructure for processing U.S. debit-card transactions.

Fiserv (FISV) share price gained 4% after-hours amid a report that several top financial institutions are looking to acquire a network owned by the firm to bypass federal caps on debit card transaction fees.

Wall Street giants, including JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo and PNC Financial Services Group, have engaged in early, tentative discussions to buy a proprietary debit-card processing network from financial technology company Fiserv, according to an exclusive report by The Wall Street Journal.

The move comes as banks look to replicate an edge gained by Capital One Financial following its massive $50.6-billion acquisition of Discover Financial, which granted the lender its own direct-to-merchant payment rails.

FISV Takeover Interest: An Effort To Bypass Dodd-Frank

At the center of the industry’s interest is a specific section of the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act known as the Durbin Amendment. The federal rule caps the interchange fees that institutions with $10 billion or more in assets can charge merchants when a consumer swipes a debit card.

But under the current legal framework, if a bank owns the underlying network infrastructure, it is legally exempt from government-imposed fee limits.

Consumer banks in the U.S. have fiercely fought the Durbin amendment, stating that they lose billions in revenue and are forced to eliminate popular customer perks, such as debit-card reward programs.

Merchants and consumer advocacy groups have countered the claims, maintaining that lower interchange fees have directly translated to lower retail prices for the public, as per WSJ.

FISV’s Ongoing Turmoil

Fiserv shares have plummeted around 70% from its 2025 highs. This decline is attributed to several factors, including a sharp deceleration in organic growth, intensifying competition in the payment point-of-sale (PoS) sector, and executive-level instability following several CEO changes. Furthermore, the company is facing significant pressure from activist investors calling for asset divestiture.

However, Fiserv, is an important fintech middleman that owns two major transaction processing networks, STAR and Accel.

FISV Stock: Retail View

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits was ‘bearish’ with ‘low’ message volume, but retail chatter around the stock has surged over 1,000% from last week.

One user witnessed an increase in Clover PoS usage. Clover is a hardware and cloud-based software system used for processing payments, backed by Fiserv.

View this Stocktwits post

FISV stock has dropped 23% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Marco Rubio backs FIFA's 'right decision' on Flo Balogun's red card

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 05:30:32 +0530

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the decision to take suspend the red card issued against US striker Flo Balogun by FIFA was a "right decision", saying that if a team is playing, they would want their opponents to be at their best so that the victory feels even better and does not get "tainted" without the presence of the best from the other side.

FIFA has dismissed Belgium's challenge over the eligibility of Folarin Balogun after world football's governing body suspended the United States forward's one-match ban ahead of the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash between the two sides.

Balogun was shown a red card in the 64th minute of the United States' 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

'Right Decision to Reverse It': Marco Rubio

"It was a bad decision (to give Flo a red card). They shouldn't even be reviewing these things in slow motion, right? It should be reviewed in live action. I think it was the right decision to reverse it. And if you are Belgium, why would you want to play a game and win a match, and then you win this match, and then everyone will argue you did not really win it because their best player, leading scorer, was not on the pitch during that match. So it is kind of unusual, because generally speaking, I mean, if you are playing, you want the other side to be at its best so that your victory is not tainted in that, in that way," the Secretary of State said as he stood alongside Minister of Foreign Affairs of Chile, Francisco Mackenna.

FIFA announced that the implementation of Balogun's automatic one-match suspension had been suspended under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, following an intervention by US president Donald Trump, who urged the organisation to review the case.

Rubio said that he had heard from a lot of people that Balogun's head was not looking down at his opponent's leg with an intention to cause damage, and it was not like he knew he stepped on the opponent's leg. He also expressed hope that both the US and Belgium will play their Monday's FIFA WC round of 16 match with a "full strength". He also hoped that Belgium could move on and if they go on to win, they get to beat a full-strength US side, which will make the victory as sweet as England's 3-2 win over Mexico at the iconic Azteca in Mexico City to seal the QF spot.

"So I think it was the right decision, obviously there's a lot of drama around it and so forth, but I think it was the right decision to reverse it because that decision initially, from everyone I have heard, I am not an expert, you know, I do not claim to be an expert on soccer, but from everyone I have heard that knows about this, they all say that that, you know, the guy's head was not even looking down, it was not like he knew where he was stepping," he said.

"So look, I... maybe it turned into an international incident, I do not know, maybe we will bring it up at NATO tomorrow or whatever with the Belgians and everybody else, but I just hope the match will go on, everyone will be at full strength, and the winner will be the winner. And if it is Belgium, they have a very good team, you know, they will move on and they can say they beat the US at full strength at home, and that would be a big victory like what you saw the UK do last night, you know, on the road in Mexico, in a very tough environment," he signed off.

Belgian FA Expresses 'Astonishment'

Earlier, the Royal Belgian Football Association (RFBA) expressed its "astonishment" at FIFA's decision to let Balogun play. In a statement, they said, "The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) has received the decision of the FIFA Appeal Committee, signed by its member Mr Salman Al-Ansari, which declares the RBFA's case inadmissible and confirms the earlier decision allowing United States player Folarin Balogun to play."

They also alleged that FIFA did not give them any grounds for the decision, and they have not received the information that they had been requesting all the while. They made serious allegations against FIFA of breaching its own regulations. They are also ready to contest the eligibility of the player if he is listed on the US team sheet, added the statement.

"To date, the RBFA has still not received any grounds for this decision, nor has it received the information it has been requesting since the start of this procedure, i.e., a copy of the decision and the motivation declaring the player eligible as well as the referee's report. This is a breach of FIFA regulations. The RBFA has informed the United States Soccer Federation that it contests the eligibility of the player should the player be listed on the referee's team sheet. This leaves all further actions open," the statement added.

Trump's Intervention

Earlier, Trump said he spoke to FIFA president Gianni Infantino to "review" the footballer Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension triggered by a red card, which was later suspended, allowing the forward to feature in Monday's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 encounter against Belgium at Seattle Stadium. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

IIM Nagpur unveils Strategic Roadmap 2026-31 for global impact

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 05:30:26 +0530

Strategic Roadmap 2026-31: A Vision for Global Impact

Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Nagpur has unveiled a Strategic Roadmap 2026-31, aiming to emerge as a globally respected, multi-campus institution with major thrust on Executive Education, artificial intelligence, India-centric research, energy and climate leadership, entrepreneurship and regional development.

Sharing the roadmap during a media interaction on Monday, Bhimaraya Metri, who has been reappointed as Director for a second tenure, said the next five years would take the Institute from rapid growth to wider national and global impact. "Our next phase is about scale with purpose. We want IIM Nagpur to be globally respected, deeply rooted in India's priorities and capable of creating meaningful impact through education, research, innovation and leadership," Metri said.

Key Strategic Pillars

The Institute's multi-campus strategy envisages expansion to Goa, along with international collaborations with foreign universities, while promoting borderless learning, joint research and faculty and student exchange.

IIM Nagpur also aims to position itself among India's Top 3 institutions in Executive Education, creating a globally benchmarked, industry-integrated ecosystem of flexible and lifelong learning.

Another major pillar is AI-led management education through AI-integrated pedagogy, future-ready programmes and the MARVEL AI R&D Centre. The Institute also seeks to position itself among the world's Top 100 business schools and Asia's Top 10.

Energy and climate leadership is another priority, building on the Executive MBA in Energy Management with NPTI, engagement with ONGC Green Limited, and the proposed Centre of Excellence for Heat Resilience and Sustainable Cooling with NRDC. The Institute will also advance Phase II campus development, its Net-Zero vision and the already commissioned solar power initiative.

"Our responsibility extends beyond the classroom. IIM Nagpur must contribute to job creation, regional transformation, clean energy, public policy, entrepreneurship and India's journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047," Metri said.

Major Expansion: A New Campus in Pune

IIM Nagpur is set for major expansion with a full-fledged 70-acre campus at Moshi in Pune. Prof. Metri said the Maharashtra Government has allotted the land on a Rs 1 lease, while its market value is estimated at over Rs 180 crore. He thanked the Chief Minister and Revenue Minister of Maharashtra for their support.

"Several IIMs have smaller satellite or extension centres, but our vision for Pune is fundamentally different," Metri said.

The Pune campus will focus on manufacturing, Industry 4.0, digital technologies, AI and IT management. Proposed offerings include an integrated BBA-MBA programme and a five-year BTech-MBA programme in collaboration with leading IITs.

"Pune gives us a unique opportunity to rethink management education and develop leaders who understand technology, management and industry as an integrated whole," Metri said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

RIVN Stock Drops After-Hours On Potential $1.5B Offering Despite Upbeat Q2 Guidance

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 05:10:01 +0530

Depending on the stock’s Monday closing price of $20.41, the base offering represents gross proceeds of about $1.5 billion.
Rivian said it intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes.
In a separate filing, the company provided preliminary consolidated revenue estimates of $1.55 billion to $1.65 billion for Q2 2026.

Shares of Rivian Automotive Inc. (RIVN) dropped around 9% in after-hours trading on Monday despite the company reporting preliminary second-quarter revenue estimates above Wall Street estimates, as investors focused on the company's intent to sell 75 million shares in a public offering.

Depending on the stock’s Monday closing price of $20.41, the base offering represents gross proceeds of about $1.5 billion.

Why Is Rivian Having A Share Offering?

Rivian said it intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes, including funding certain equity contribution requirements tied to its loan arrangement with the U.S. Department of Energy.

The equity raise comes as Rivian advances its R2 platform launch, expands manufacturing capacity in Georgia, and progresses on autonomy and commercial vehicle initiatives.

RIVN Q2 Guidance

In a separate filing, the company provided preliminary consolidated revenue estimates of $1.55 billion to $1.65 billion for Q2 2026, up from $1.30 billion in the year-ago quarter. The increase was driven primarily by higher vehicle volumes, partially offset by a higher mix of lower-priced commercial vans.

Rivian also estimated cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments at approximately $5.3 billion as of June 30, 2026, up from $4.8 billion at the end of the first quarter, owing to investments from partners Volkswagen Group and Uber Technologies.

Full second-quarter financials are now slated for July 30.

Q2 2026 Operational Performance

Last week, Rivian reported that it delivered 12,194 vehicles in the second quarter of 2026, exceeding its own guidance range of 9,000–11,000 units. The company produced 12,613 vehicles during the period. Strong demand for R1 trucks and SUVs, continued commercial van sales, and initial customer deliveries of the new R2 SUV contributed to the beat.

The company subsequently also raised its full-year 2026 delivery guidance to 65,000–70,000 vehicles, sending shares 8% higher on Thursday.

How Did RIVN Retail Traders React?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around RIVN stock stayed within the ‘bullish’ territory over the past 24 hours, while message volume remained at ‘high’ levels.

A Stocktwits user expressed optimism for the upbeat revenue guidance, sending the shares rallying on Tuesday.

Another user voiced hopes for the company’s strengthened balance sheet.

A third user framed the offering as essential to the company’s plans to advance R2 SUV production.

Another, however, raised concerns about dilution.

RIVN stock has gained 2% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

WMT Stock In Focus As Trump Says Walmart Will Cut Prices To Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 05:05:01 +0530

Trump said Walmart will reduce the price of a pound of ground beef by nearly 15% and lower prices on a range of other items at his administration's request.
Walmart confirmed broad price rollbacks across Walmart and Sam's Club, covering categories including fresh produce, beverages, toys, grills and summer apparel.
In May 2025, Trump publicly urged Walmart to absorb the cost of his tariffs instead of passing them on to consumers.

President Donald Trump said on Monday that Walmart Inc. (WMT) has agreed to lower prices on a range of products at his administration's request to mark the country’s “250th birthday.”

WMT shares closed 1.09% lower in Monday’s regular session and slipped another 0.09% in after-hours trading at the time of writing. The retailer was also among the 10 most-trending stocks on Stocktwits at the time of writing.

WMT To Lower Prices, Trump Says

Trump said on Monday in a post on Truth Social that Walmart will lower prices on ground beef and a range of other products at his administration’s request to celebrate the country's 250th anniversary.

In the post, Trump said he had been informed that Walmart, which he described as “one of the biggest, best and smartest retailers in America,” would be “lowering prices, by a lot” to mark the occasion. He said the retailer would reduce the price of a pound of ground beef by nearly 15%, along with cuts on several other products, calling it “a huge deal” for the millions of Americans who shop at Walmart.

Trump praised Walmart for “stepping up in a big and bold way” and urged other retailers to follow its example, saying the move would help make the country “stronger and greater than ever.”

Last year, Trump publicly urged Walmart to absorb the cost of his tariffs instead of passing them on to consumers. In a May 2025 post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, "Walmart should STOP trying to blame Tariffs as the reason for raising prices throughout the chain. Between Walmart and China they should, as is said, 'EAT THE TARIFFS,' and not charge valued customers ANYTHING. I'll be watching, and so will your customers!!!"

WMT Details Rollbacks On Groceries, Summer Essentials

Walmart said in a press release that both Walmart and Sam’s Club, its warehouse club chain, are rolling back prices across a wide range of high-demand products, including beef, fresh produce, beverages, grills, pools, toys and summer apparel.

Walmart added that Sam’s Club is continuing to offer competitive fuel prices during the summer travel season while lowering prices on more than 250 items, including road trip snacks, grilling essentials and other seasonal favorites.

WMT Stock: What Retail Traders Feel

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for WMT was ‘bullish,’ unchanged in the past 24 hours, while message volume was ‘high.’

The WMT stock has lost nearly 1% so far this year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Rutte expects 'credible' plans for 5% defence spending at NATO summit

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 05:00:33 +0530

NATO Defence Spending Target

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Monday (local time) said allied nations are expected to present "clear, concrete and credible" plans to meet the alliance's target of spending five per cent of GDP on defence by 2035, as leaders gather for the NATO Summit in Ankara.

Previewing the summit, Rutte said the commitments made by NATO leaders at last year's summit in The Hague were already producing significant results. "Here in Ankara, I expect nations to present clear, concrete and credible plans to reach that 5% goal. And the evidence we see so far is impressive," Rutte said.

Highlighting progress made over the past year, he added, "Just one year into a 10-year project, we see that European Allies and Canada are already investing around 4% of their GDP in defence and security."

Turning Investment into Capability

According to Rutte, European allies and Canada spent nearly 20 per cent more on core defence last year than in the previous year, amounting to an additional USD 258 billion in defence investments across 2025 and 2026.

He said NATO now needs to translate increased spending into military capabilities by strengthening defence industries, boosting innovation and cutting bureaucratic hurdles.

"We will announce tens of billions in new contracts that will provide the crucial kit we need to deter and defend," Rutte said. "This will help grow our economies, spread innovation and support hundreds of thousands of jobs, on both sides of the Atlantic," he added.

Support for Ukraine a Key Focus

Rutte also stressed that support for Ukraine would remain a key focus of the summit, noting that Kyiv continues to face sustained Russian missile and drone attacks.

"Allies and NATO partners must continue to ensure Ukraine gets what it needs," he said. "And let me be clear, all Allies need to pull their weight, so that our support to Ukraine continues to flow. Because Ukraine's security is so closely linked with our own," Rutte added.

Referring to the latest Russian strikes, the NATO chief said Ukraine's armed forces continued to change the dynamics on the battlefield through "bravery, dedication and ingenuity" but required continued international assistance, particularly in air defence.

Broadening Alliance Cooperation

He said the summit brings together leaders of NATO's 32 member states along with partners from Ukraine, the European Union, the Indo-Pacific and the Gulf region.

Rutte added the alliance would continue implementing the commitments agreed at The Hague Summit by increasing defence investments, strengthening deterrence capabilities and expanding cooperation with industry to meet evolving security challenges.

He also said European allies and Canada were assuming greater leadership within NATO's command structure while stepping up conventional defence, reinforcing the alliance's eastern flank, the Baltic region and the Arctic, and continuing support for Ukraine.

"Together we represent nearly two-thirds of the world economy. And we're coming together because we know that cooperation is key. We're stronger together in NATO, with partners, to ensure the freedom and security we all hold dear," Rutte said.

NATO is a security alliance of 32 countries from North America and Europe. The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation was created in 1949 by the United States, Canada, and several Western European nations to provide collective security against the Soviet Union. NATO membership is open to "any other European state in a position to further the principles of this Treaty and to contribute to the security of the North Atlantic area." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

HTZ Stock Hits Record Low — Extends Losing Streak To Nine Sessions As Short Interest Hits Record High

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 05:00:06 +0530

Negative wagers against Hertz have surged to an all-time high as bearish investors capitalize on the company's severe market downturn.
The massive surge in short interest was triggered after the rental car company's stock plummeted by roughly 60% in less than 14 days.
The steep sell-off follows a disappointing preliminary second-quarter earnings report, a sudden capital-raising push via a new stock issuance, and a concurrent bond offering.

Hertz Global Holdings (HTZ) share price dropped 3.3% on Monday to a record low, marking the ninth straight session of declines. The drop has intensified short-selling pressure on the stock, data from S3 Partners showed.

The dramatic drop was set off by a multi-pronged financial update that severely disappointed Wall Street. Hertz issued a profit warning and reported preliminary second-quarter adjusted corporate EBITDA that missed consensus analyst expectations.

Following the announcements, the stock plunged a record 41% in a single session—marking its steepest one-day decline since its 2021 post-bankruptcy relisting—before continuing its downward trajectory.

HTZ Stock Sees Surging Short Interest

As the stock rapidly devalued, bearish traders moved in quickly to maximize their positions. As of Thursday's close, more than 56% of Hertz’s float has been borrowed by traders betting on its stock price falling further, S3 Partners data showed as reported by Bloomberg.

“Short interest has increased dramatically,” said Ihor Dusaniwsky, managing director at S3 told Bloomberg. Hertz has seen an additional 13.7 million shares shorted — worth $30 million — since June 24, according to Dusaniwsky. That means about 20% of short positions have been opened in less than two weeks.

Hertz Depreciation Concerns

Hertz stock fell to record lows as concerns about the company’s rising vehicle depreciation costs and weakness in the used-car market have triggered a sell-off.

The rental car company also slashed its second-quarter earnings forecast to a range of $50 million to $80 million, citing unexpected weakness in the used car market.

Last month, the company also completed a $350 million secured exchangeable notes offering, with an option to raise an additional $50 million, which it said would help boost liquidity and financial flexibility as it advances its turnaround efforts.

HTZ Stock: Retail View

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits was ‘bullish’ with ‘high’ message volumes. Retail chatter on the stock surged over 1,600% from the previous session.

HTZ stock has lost 62% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

FIFA WC: PM Sanchez hails Spain after late goal knocks out Portugal

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:30:32 +0530

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez congratulated the men's national side on their qualification to the quarterfinals of the ongoing FIFA World Cup, saying that they have proven that "talent, teamwork, and ambition can take you very far".

A late, 91st-minute strike from substitute Mikel Merino helped Spain secure a narrow 1-0 win over Portugal in their FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash, sending the Cristiano Ronaldo-led side out of the competition in front of a packed Dallas crowd on Monday.

In a post on X, the Spanish PM said, "To the quarterfinals! You've once again proven that talent, teamwork, and ambition can take you very far. The whole country is with you. Let's go, Spain!" https://x.com/sanchezcastejon/status/2074239301823435260

Dramatic Finish Sends Spain to Quarterfinals

The match was filled with chances to score for both sides, but substitutes Ferran Torres and Merino made magic for Spain in the stoppage time, and it was just enough to end Cristiano's FIFA World Cup spanning six editions.

First Half: A Battle of Missed Opportunities

The match started with Lamine Yamal knocking over Joao Neves, inviting some fury from Portugal manager Roberto Martinez. In the fourth minute, Mikel Oyarzabal had his first shot at the goal, but the ball was safely caught by goalie Diogo Costa.

While Joao Cancelo had an attempt from distance for Portugal, the Spanish unit continued to put together fine passes, with Oyarzabal missing another attempt while searching for a far corner.

Bruno Fernandes, in the 11th minute, slipped the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo, who beat Aymeric Laporte with a stepover and unleashed a strike, which was stopped by Unai Simon, who parried it out for a corner.

In the 16th minute, Yamal's left-footed brilliance and a rebound from Alex Baena made quick efforts at the goal, but Portugal managed to clear and avoid adversity.

In the 21st minute, Portugal won a free kick but could not make much out of it, heading into the hydration break.

Spain went on to dominate some of the action untill Cristiano Ronaldo made an acrobatic effort at scoring, hooking the ball towards the goal. Pedro Neto delivered a fine cross from the right, and Felix's header came into Ronaldo's path, who tried to score but saw his attempt saved by Simon.

The 39th minute saw Joao Felix, included in the attack by Portugal for the match, take a big whack on his shoulder as he crashed into an advertising hoarding, needing medical attention.

Towards half-time, Nuno Mendes took a chance for Portugal from the edge of the box, which took a nick from Pedro Porro, and it crashed into the crossbar.

In the additional time added to half-time, both Ronaldo and Yamal made chances for their respective sides, but to no avail. The scoreline was undisturbed at 0-0.

With Spain enjoying almost 55 per cent of ball possession, having eight shots (as compared to Portugal's five) and 11 touches in the opposition box (as compared to Portugal's four), the 2010 champions had a slightly better showing.

Second Half Deadlock Broken at the Death

After the resumption of the play, Ronaldo was fouled by Olmo, giving Portugal a free kick, with Fernandes firing it straight into the hands of the goalie Simon.

In the 59th minute, CR7 got a chance, with Felix cutting inside and clipping a ball to the back post. Cristiano tried a volley but could not get enough connection and saw the effort go wide of the near post.

The stalemate continued as Fernandes wasted a chance, with his volley crashing into the side netting. Despite the power it possessed, it failed to make it to the back of the net.

In stoppage time, just barely a few seconds into it, Mikel Merino spelt out death for Portugal's FIFA WC campaign with a stunning goal. Spain fell short with a free-kick, and Fabian Ruiz found Ferran Torres, who had come as a substitute. Torres slipped the ball to another substitute, Merino, who delivered a clinical finish into the bottom corner.

Bernardo Silva missed a massive chance to score, and later, another free kick from Portugal missed the goal by miles, sending Portugal out of the competition and ending Ronaldo's journey in the FIFA WC. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Indian Army busts hideout, recovers huge cache of arms in Kupwara

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:30:31 +0530

The Indian Army busted a hideout and recovered a significant cache of arms and ammunition in the Keran Sector of Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir, following a search operation carried out on specific intelligence input, the Chinar Corps said on Monday.

In a post on X, the Chinar Corps said the operation was launched in the general area of the Keran Sector. The recoveries from the hideout included five AK-series rifles, nine AK magazines, one hand grenade, and a large quantity of ammunition, along with other war-like stores. "On 06 Jul 2026, based on specific intelligence input, a Search Operation was launched by Indian Army in the general area Keran Sector, Kupwara. During search, security forces busted a hideout and recovered five AK Series Rifles, nine AK magazines, one Hand Grenade, a huge cache of ammunition and other war-like stores," the post said.

National Flag Inaugurated for Amarnath Yatra

Meanwhile, earlier on June 4, the Chinar Corps of the Indian Army inaugurated a magnificent High Mast National Flag at Chandanwari, the gateway to the sacred Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra along the traditional Pahalgam route.

The installation of the towering Tricolour by the Chinar Corps reflects the unwavering commitment of the Indian Army towards fostering national unity, strengthening the spirit of patriotism and reinforcing the bond between the Armed Forces and the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Standing tall amidst the picturesque mountains of Chandanwari, the High Mast National Flag will inspire lakhs of pilgrims, tourists and local residents, serving as a constant reminder of the nation's unity, resilience and collective resolve. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Haaland's late double knocks Brazil out of World Cup; Ancelotti backed

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:30:31 +0530

Carlo Ancelotti still enjoys support from the country's football federation after Brazil were knocked out in the round of 16 of the ongoing FIFA World Cup courtesy of another masterclass from Erling Haaland.

Haaland's late heroics seal historic win for Norway

Erling Haaland produced a sensational late double as Norway shocked five-time champions Brazil 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, booking a place in the quarter-finals for the first time in the nation's history. The Scandinavian side, who had never progressed beyond the Round of 16 at the World Cup, withstood sustained Brazilian pressure before striking twice in the closing stages through their star striker. Neymar's stoppage-time penalty reduced the deficit, but it came too late to prevent Brazil's exit.

Federation backs Ancelotti for long-term cycle

Brazil's national team coordinator Rodrigo Caetano said after the game, as quoted by ESPN, "It is now up to us to emphasise the need for a cycle that proceeds normally, with a little more calmness; continuing our work with the coach through the 2030 World Cup while making the necessary adjustments."

"May we have at least a minimum of tranquillity to move forward and prepare for the next World Cup," he added.

Ancelotti took charge of the men's national team in May last year after leaving Real Madrid. The five-time UEFA Champions League winner and a serial winner at the club circuit signed a contract extension in May with Brazil's Football Confederation (CBF), which will keep him through the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Ancelotti, 67, aimed to lift the sixth WC title for Brazil, having achieved everything there to be won at the club level. But instead, Brazil had their worst WC performance since the group stage exit dating back to 1966.

'Still picking up the pieces'

Caetano said that they are "still picking up the pieces" and chose to focus on the positives, such as the committment and professionalism shown by the unit for the entire length of their run in the World Cup.

"Obviously, we're still picking up the pieces," Caetano said. "Everyone is very sad, frustrated, and disappointed -- the players, the staff and the coaching staff. On the other hand, we cannot dismiss the time we spent together. Specifically those 38 days during which the players, all of us, and you all had the opportunity to witness their level of commitment and professionalism -- from the first day to the last," he added.

'We will return even stronger'

Ancelotti said after the match that they will use the loss as a "fuel for the next cycle", and CBF also expressed their support for this sentiment of the manager, posting on X, "The story of the Brazilian National Team is one of great achievements, but also of moments that strengthen our journey. Today we bid farewell to the World Cup, certain that we will return even stronger. Thank you, Brazilian fans."

Marquinhos issues apology, urges for support

Brazil skipper and Paris Saint-Germain star Marquinhos issued a public apology post-loss and urged the people to still support the men's team. Yet to win a WC since the 2002 triumph, the skipper said fans have "four years to work toward achieving great things at the next World Cup".

On his opponents, Marquinhos said, "They managed to be effective, while we squandered many of the chances we had. We had a penalty kick saved and other opportunities. In the World Cup, the team that makes the fewest mistakes ends up coming out on top."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ayodhya Ram Mandir: 'Systematic' theft by staff, SIT probe reveals

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:00:33 +0530

A preliminary probe by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) pointed towards serious security lapses in the counting room of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, stating that staff here allegedly concealed wads of cash in their clothes, pockets, shoes, and other personal belongings and suggested that the alleged theft was "systematic" and repeated, rather than being isolated incidents.

SIT Probe Details Security Lapses

According to the SIT, CCTV footage reviewed between April 27 and June 5 captured around 70 suspicious incidents of counting staff allegedly seen concealing cash bundles. The SIT's preliminary findings pointed to lapses in the security protocols. It said that there was "no frisking for staff at the entry and exit points of the counting hall, along with poor oversight of personal belongings carried in and out by employees." The report noted that cash from multiple donation boxes was counted together rather than being segregated.

Six Identified, Over ₹81 Lakh Recovered

The SIT has identified six persons with prima facie evidence of involvement in the alleged theft, including Avinash Shukla, Anukool Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Manish Kumar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey and Ramshankar Mishra. The report mentioned that approximately Rs 78.94 lakh has been recovered from some of the employees even before the investigation got underway. A further Rs 2.25 lakh was allegedly recovered from the counting room itself on June 4. The SIT stated that some employees showed deposits and transactions disproportionate to their declared income. It also flagged lapses in CCTV monitoring, non-compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs), supervision of counting staff, and security arrangements inside the counting room.

Claims of Missing Valuables Dismissed

Addressing social media claims about missing silver bricks and other valuable offerings from the temple, the SIT said: "It found no prima facie evidence to support such allegations".

Trust Takes Action, Top Officials Resign

The SIT has described its findings as preliminary, with further investigation and legal action still underway. Meanwhile, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which met on Monday, accepted the resignations of general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra and announced some administrative measures. According to a press release issued after a meeting of the trustees in Ayodhya, the Trust also decided to remove Gopal Nagarkote from the list of special invitee members. The meeting reviewed the alleged irregularities, the ongoing investigation, media reports, and interim administrative arrangements." Upon learning of irregularities, Trust officials gathered initial information and requested an impartial investigation from the Uttar Pradesh government, which subsequently formed a high-level Special Investigation Team (SIT)," the release stated.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

LenDenClub co-founder on P2P lending pilot talks with Nepal Rastra Bank

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:30:41 +0530

Dipesh Karki, the Nepal-born co-founder of Mumbai-based peer-to-peer lending platform LenDenClub, spoke about the state of talks with Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) on a P2P pilot, whether remittances can become cross-border credit, and where the two countries' human ties translate into real economic trust and where they don't.

P2P Lending in Nepal: A Matter of Confidence

In an exclusive interview with ANI, Karki confirmed discussions with NRB on bringing a P2P model to Nepal and said the holdup isn't political will. "What I realised is the blocker is definitely not the intent. NRB has already released a white paper on what could be the potential way of achieving P2P lending in the country. The biggest blocker as of now is confidence, which I believe is valid for the regulators because P2P, among many other instruments, is the one that is supposed to reach to a mass, both on the lender side as well as on the borrower side. So, when it becomes a product of a mass, you have to be sensitive about the kind of irregularities that it may bring, the kind of confidence it may bring into the populace and the kind of challenges that it may bring during the operations." Further adding, "the regulators are definitely doing their assessment. They are looking to build a framework in the near future wherein innovators would be encouraged to produce something or create a POC around the same. They may also release some sandboxes so that the innovators could come forward and build on top of those, try out in a selected control group and figure out whether this model would be viable or localised as per the need in this country. It may not be the same playbook as it is operating in India. There will definitely be some Nepali flavour added to it."

Leveraging Remittances for Cross-Border Credit

With millions of Nepali workers in India remitting money home, on being asked whether that flow could become productive credit and what it would require from regulators on both sides. Karki stressed more on utilising it in a more creative and modernised way. "Of course, remittance has been a steady source of income for this country, and definitely it has contributed heavily over the last couple of decades. However, it has just been a simple source of cash flow for many families. It can definitely be used in a much more creative and modernised way. It can be used for borrowing, for agricultural needs, and to support educational loans. In fact, the government itself had proposed a diaspora bond," he added. So, if a diaspora bond is launched, I am sure remittance can be a good source of funding for such kind of bond or purchasing it remotely, he said. "However, this would require a couple of stringent cross-border observations. For example, cross-border remittance checks and balances would be required. Regulatory evaluations on the use cases should be more stringent, and of course, the borrower's interest protection is equally important. Consent-based data sharing would be equally important because if such sources of income are tracked and absorbed, it could lead to a lot of social issues as well. There are a lot of opportunities to work."

Bridging Human Ties and Economic Trust

Asked whether the everyday human connectivity between Nepali and Indians actually shapes how the two countries do business, or stays separate from diplomacy and trade figures. "The cultural exchange, human exchange, has been before the political border era. The two countries share a relationship of bread and families wherein the two countries have been associated, be it for marriage or be it for small shop access, be it for access to the market, be it for tourism. Religious tourism is one of the prime reasons why both countries exchange a lot of population here and there. So, diplomacy happens at the top level. However, cultural exchange, trust, and the value that common people hold definitely is not blended with diplomacy, I suppose. That's the reason the two countries share a common border, an open border, much more lenient and much more accessible to both sides. It also helps shape the way we follow our trend, be it in terms of food culture or in terms of addressing styles. Cinema is definitely one of the biggest influences on the culture. Bollywood has shaped the way this country has uplifted itself in terms of cultural evolution. Businesses have been sharing or accessing cross-border since ages. Of course, a bit of diplomacy would definitely be required there, but beyond that, the businesses that are fostered in Nepal get a good market in India."

"India is one of the largest importers of Nepali goods and vice versa. Nepal's largest import comes from India. So, yes, diplomacy and border cultural value exchange are two different things, but yeah, they do work hand-in-hand," Karki said.

From Sentiment to Substance

On being asked whether cultural and religious goodwill has translated into something concrete for him as a founder, or whether it's more sentiment than substance, the co-founder of one of the largest fintech in India said, "Cultural goodwill does start as a sentiment, but it can become substance. Cultural familiarity helps in first conversation. It does reduce distance. People are curious, warmer, and more often open, but it does not replace execution. Investors still ask for numbers. Regulators still ask for compliance. Customers still ask for value. So, goodwill may open the door, but performance keeps you inside the room. As a founder, being Nepali in India gave me both humanity and hunger. People respected the journey, but ultimately LenDen Club had to stand as a product, regulation, risk, and skill."

An 'Innovation Corridor' for Startups

Asked for one concrete initiative, not a general call for "more cooperation", he'd push policymakers in Kathmandu and New Delhi to commit to this year, the entrepreneur stressed on more locally available ideas to work on. "There is a lot of innovative stuff happening in Nepal, but they are not able to scale at the speed or pace at which Indian startups scale. Fortunately, among the thousands, one or two get exposure of American ecosystem, but I believe that the kind of cultural values that we share, the kind of ecosystem that we share, and the kind of familiarity that we have with the Indian market, there should be an open corridor for startups and innovation. This will help foster innovation on both sides of the border to work collaboratively and build a much bigger product at scale. Let's say India has the market, but Nepal definitely has a good number of strong innovators. Some of them have made it to the top. I mean, we do hear about the Achiever Indian CXOs around the world, but there are definitely a good number of Nepali CXOs as well. India has worked quite heavily in order to call their talents back to the country through their brain gain initiative, and Nepal is also looking to do the same," he said.

He added, "If this innovation corridor is open, then Nepal gets an opportunity of a 1.5 billion population with the fourth largest economy of the world. So, yeah, it would be a great opportunity for both countries to work hand-in-hand and grow together."

A Call to Indian Institutions

Karki closed with what he'd ask Indian institutions to do differently for the next Nepali founder like him. "Don't just build for Nepal. Build from Nepal's inside, but for a larger market. Your background is not a weakness. It gives you a unique lens, but you need world-class execution, speed, regulatory understanding, and courage to compete outside of your comfort zone. To Indian institutions, I would say make it easier for serious Nepali students, founders, and entrepreneurs to access networks, internships, the startup ecosystem, and long-term professional pathways. Talent from Nepal should not only come to India for jobs, but they should also come to build companies there and build opportunities there. Tomorrow, when we talk about the LendDen Club kind of story, it should not come just as an exception, but it should come as a repeatable path and the journey for innovators in the future."

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

AMD, TER Stocks Jump After Goldman Sachs Lifts Price Targets

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:15:01 +0530

Teradyne surged more than 8% and AMD climbed as much as 10.5% on Monday, before trimming gains later in the session.
Stocktwits sentiment for both stocks remained ‘bullish,’ with message volume staying ‘high’ as traders reacted to the analyst note.
In a Stocktwits poll, AMD is ranked as the second-most favored long-term semiconductor stock, behind Nvidia.

Shares of Teradyne, Inc. (TER) and Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD) jumped on Monday after Goldman Sachs raised its price targets on both semiconductor stocks.

While the TER stock surged more than 8%, AMD shares climbed as much as 10.5% in morning trading. By afternoon, both stocks had pared some of their gains.

At the time of writing, TER stock was up 3.5%, while AMD shares traded nearly 7% higher.

TER, AMD Get Fresh Price Target Hikes From Goldman Sachs

Goldman Sachs raised its 12-month price target on Teradyne to $465 from $350, implying nearly 26% upside from the stock's last closing price, according to CNBC. The brokerage also lifted its target on AMD to $640 from $450, suggesting roughly 24% upside from its previous close.

Goldman Sachs maintained its 'Buy' rating on both stocks, signaling continued confidence in their long-term growth prospects.

AMD Sits Second Behind NVDA In Stocktwits Retail Poll

A live Stocktwits retail poll shows AMD as the second-most popular long-term semiconductor pick among retail investors.

Nvidia (NVDA) currently leads with 42% of the votes, while AMD follows with 33%. Broadcom (AVGO) and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSM) round out the poll with 15% and 10%, respectively.

Around 1,600 users had voted at the time of writing.

TER, AMD Stocks: What Stocktwits Retail Sentiment Says

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for both TER and AMD remained ‘bullish,’ unchanged over the past 24 hours, while message volume was ‘high’ at the time of writing.

One retail trader on Stocktwits said the price target hike for AMD gives it a fresh bullish catalyst, but added that “traders will be watching if price can keep up with the target raise.”

https://stocktwits.com/GeraldSuk190/message/658339781

Goldman Sachs’ optimism broadly aligns with Wall Street’s consensus. According to Koyfin, 13 of the 18 analysts covering Teradyne rate the stock ‘Buy’ or ‘Strong Buy,’ while four recommend ‘Hold.’ The average 12-month price target stands at $423.41, implying nearly 15% upside from the stock’s last close.

For AMD, Koyfin data shows that 42 of the 51 analysts covering the chipmaker have a ‘Buy’ or ‘Strong Buy’ rating, while the remaining nine rate it ‘Hold.’ The consensus 12-month price target is $423.41, implying a 1% downside from its last closing price.

The TER stock has gained 93% year-to-date, while AMD shares have surged 161% in the same period.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

S&P 500, Nasdaq End Higher On Support From Strong Tech Gains Led By Nvidia, Dow Hits Record Highs — MSFT, NVDA, LMT, AVGO, SPCX In Focus

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:10:01 +0530

The S&P 500 ended 0.8% higher, while the Nasdaq 100 added 1.3% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.3%.
Nvidia Corp. said “our road map is intact” after a report on server delays.
SK Hynix Inc. kicked off the process for its $28 billion U.S. listing.

U.S. stock indices ended higher on Monday, with the Dow Jones index hitting record highs as technology stocks reversed course from previous week’s declines.

The S&P 500 ended 0.8% higher, while the Nasdaq 100 added 1.3% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.3%. The Russell 2000, which tracks stocks with small market capitalizations, rose 0.5%.

Among ETFs tracking benchmark indexes, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY) rose 0.9% and Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ) ended Monday around 1.4% higher, while the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust (DIA) added 0.4%.

Meanwhile, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) rose 2%. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index (SOX) rose 2.2%, signaling a mild rebound from previous week’s losses.

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits for SPY, QQQ and DIA was ‘bullish’ with ‘normal’ to ‘high’ message volumes.

US Market Drivers

Index	Move	Close
Dow Jones Industrial Average	0.3%	53,055.91
S&P 500	0.8%	7,537.43
Nasdaq 100	1.3%	29,697.87

Chipmaker shares jumped on Monday, led by gains in Nvidia (NVDA) and Broadcom (AVGO) stock, supporting the Nasdaq. The State Street Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLK) climbed almost 2%, led by a 7% climb in Western Digital (WDC) and a 2.8% jump in Teradyne (TER).

Technology and chipmaker stocks dropped significantly in the previous week over rising investor concerns on the longevity of AI demand and the need for a better degree of justification for sky high capex plans.

“This week, investors will look for signs that tech’s recent volatility is stabilizing,” said Mark Haefele, chief investment officer at UBS, in an interview with Bloomberg. “Markets will also assess whether recent pressure on hyperscaler shares changes the perceived path for AI capital expenditure.”

Morgan Stanley strategists warned in their latest note that momentum in chip stocks is fading, as investors shift focus to hyperscalers that have been laggards.

According to a Bloomberg report citing a Morgan Stanley note, the firm picked Microsoft Corp. (MSFT), Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN), and Meta Platforms Inc. (META) as its favorites among AI hyperscalers.

Meanwhile, Microsoft shares were in focus after the company announced layoffs that targeted about 2.1% of its global workforce.

Trending Stocks To Watch

Nvidia (NVDA): A day after a report claimed that one of Nvidia Corp.’s (NVDA) key next-generation products had been delayed, the chipmaker pushed back, saying its roadmap remains on track.

Lockheed Martin (LMT): The defense contractor entered a definitive agreement to purchase naval systems specialist Ultra Maritime for $3.45 billion, marking a significant step to fortify its capabilities in the rapidly evolving undersea defense market.

TeraWulf (WULF): The company announced a 20-year lease agreement with Anthropic.

SpaceX (SPCX): Shares of Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SPCX) were in focus on Monday, ahead of the company’s inclusion in the Nasdaq 100 index on Tuesday.

Broadcom (AVGO): Apple (AAPL) signed a long-term pact with the company to secure its chip supply amid a shortage of semiconductor components due to AI demand.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Why Dan Ives Sees NVDA And Korea Memory Stocks Driving AI Demand

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:05:01 +0530

Ives says investors are underestimating the earnings power of AI, with benefits set to spread from chips to hyperscalers and software.
He highlights memory chip makers like Samsung and SK Hynix as central to the AI ecosystem, calling them the “epicenter” of the cycle.
Ives highlights a growing U.S.-China tech rivalry, pointing to robotics and physical AI as battlegrounds shaping the industry.

Tech strategist Dan Ives said the artificial intelligence-driven tech rally remains in its early stages, pointing to strong chip demand trends across Asia ahead of a key earnings season. He said investors are underestimating the scale and earnings power of the AI revolution, which he expects to expand beyond semiconductors into broader parts of the technology ecosystem as adoption deepens, while speaking on CNBC’s Power Lunch.

Chip Trading In Taiwan And Korea Signals Demand Strength

Ives said chip trading across Taiwan and Korea is “the sign you want to see,” adding that it reflects strong demand across Asia. He said “chips are gonna continue to weed this market higher.”

He also said that when looking at Nvidia (NVDA) and others, “investors are underestimating the earnings power, and the scale and scope of what we're seeing in the AI revolution.” Ives said the cycle is expected to spread into second-, third-, and fourth-order derivatives across hyperscalers, software, and other areas.

Ives said investors are underestimating the earnings power and scale of the AI revolution. He described the AI revolution as being in its “third inning,” and added that the upcoming earnings season will be important for providing the validation and monetization the AI cycle needs.

Samsung, SK Hynix Seen As ‘Epicenter’ Of Memory Cycle

Ives highlighted Samsung and SK Hynix as key players in the global memory market, calling it the “epicentre” of the AI ecosystem. He said it is a market that, for many years, investors were not focused on, but added that it has now become central. He said memory remains essential and noted continued expansion from Korean semiconductor companies.

While Samsung is set to report quarterly earnings later this month, South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix (SKHY) launched a roughly $28.1 billion U.S. share sale on Monday, taking a major step toward its Nasdaq Global Select Market debut.

Ives Flags US-China AI Tech Arms Race

Ives said China is ahead in areas such as robotics and physical AI, adding that it continues to be a major player and winner in the sector. He added that the situation reflects a broader U.S.-China technology arms race, where issues around sovereignty and government involvement are increasingly creating “gray areas” in big tech.

Retail Take On NVDA, Key Semi ETFs

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for NVDA improved to ‘neutral’ from ‘bearish’ a day earlier, while message volume was ‘low’.

Meanwhile, retail sentiment for the Roundhill Memory ETF (DRAM) eased to ‘bullish’ from ‘extremely bullish’ a day earlier, while sentiment for the iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) remained ‘bullish’ over the past 24 hours.

The NVDA stock has gained 4.77% year-to-date, while DRAM is up nearly 140% and SOXX has advanced around 92% over the same period.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

FIFA WC: Haaland's double sinks Brazil in 2-1 shock, Norway in QFs

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:00:35 +0530

Norway's men's national side fandom has taken the ongoing FIFA World Cup by storm with their 'Viking Row' celebration. During the clash against five-time champions Brazil, a super fan named Rune was also seen sharing his story with fans, having been there when Brazil was beaten by Norway during the team's last FIFA WC appearance in 1998 and 28 years later, still cheering for his side with his 'Viking hat and trumpet'.

Haaland Double Secures Historic Quarter-Final Berth

Superfan Rune's 'Dream' Comes True

In a video posted by FIFA, Rune, with a Viking-themed hat and trumpet, said, "You probably do not know me, but you have definitely heard me. You think wearing the Viking hat will be enough, but I wanted to go the extra mile, to bring my trumpet too. It is my job to get the fans singing. Go Norway!" View this post on Instagram A post shared by FIFA World Cup (@fifaworldcup)

"Honestly, nothing puts a big smile on my face as when we are all together cheering for our team. This is a dream. 26 years ago, I was in France to see Norway beat Brazil. And now, I am going to see the same," he added.

Key Moments in a Tense Clash

Brazil dominated large spells of the match and missed a first-half penalty through Bruno Guimaraes, while Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland produced a string of crucial saves. Haaland's late brace proved decisive before Neymar converted a stoppage-time penalty for Brazil, whose tournament ended with a seventh straight World Cup knockout defeat to European opposition.

Norway to Face England in High-Voltage Quarter-final

Norway will now face England in a high-voltage quarterfinal contest after the Three Lions eliminated co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a thrilling Round of 16 clash in Mexico City on Sunday (local time). (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Macron arrives in Syria, first EU leader to visit since Assad ouster

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:00:33 +0530

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday (local time) reaffirmed France's support for the Syrian people and called for a sovereign, united and peaceful Syria as he arrived in Damascus on his first official visit to the country. The event marks the first official visit to Syria by a serving European Union head of state.

In a post shared on X, Macron said, "I have come to express France's commitment to the Syrian people. For a sovereign Syria, united in its diversity and at peace with its neighbours. Together, let us open a new chapter of stability and peace." https://x.com/emmanuelmacron/status/2074175478227669488

The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates confirmed Macron's arrival in a post on X, stating that Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani received the French President in the Syrian capital. "Foreign Minister and Expatriates Mr. Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani received His Excellency the President of the French Republic Mr. Emmanuel Macron in the capital Damascus, upon his arrival to the Syrian Arab Republic in the first official visit he is conducting to the country," the ministry said. https://x.com/syrianmofaex/status/2074200502468780426

A Landmark Visit in a New Era

According to France 24, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has been working to restore the country's international standing and revive its struggling economy following the ouster of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Macron's visit marks the first by a French president since Nicolas Sarkozy travelled to Syria in 2009, before Assad's crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011 triggered a civil war that claimed more than half a million lives and left much of the country's infrastructure and industry in ruins, as reported by France 24.

A deadly bombing at a cafe in Damascus last week underscored the security challenges facing Syria's new Islamist-led authorities as they seek to reunify the country after more than 13 years of conflict, France 24 reported.

Economic and Diplomatic Agenda

Meanwhile, Macron hosted Syrian President in May 2025 during his first official visit to a European country, ahead of Sharaa's subsequent trip to Washington, where he met US President Donald Trump. The French President is accompanied on the visit by senior business leaders, including CMA CGM chief executive Rodolphe Saade and TotalEnergies chief Patrick Pouyanne. Discussions are expected to focus on Syria's reconstruction and potential investments, although French businesses remain cautious about returning to the country, as reported by France 24.

Macron is also expected to press Sharaa to uphold his commitment to protecting minority communities following sectarian violence in Syria's Alawite and Druze regions last year. Counterterrorism efforts against the Islamic State group and the continued presence of a small number of French jihadists in Syria are also expected to feature in the talks, according to France 24.

Navigating Regional Tensions

Syria joined the international coalition against the Islamic State last year. Neighbouring Turkey remains a key backer of Syria's new leadership, while Israel has carried out repeated strikes and military incursions into the country since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, France 24 reported.

Macron is scheduled to travel to Ankara on Tuesday evening for the NATO summit and hold talks with Turkey's president the following day. Meanwhile, the White House has said that US President Donald Trump is expected to meet Sharaa on the sidelines of the summit on Wednesday. France has opposed suggestions by Trump that Syria could take action against Hezbollah in Lebanon, where Israel and the Iran-backed group have been engaged in war. Sharaa has denied that Syria intends to intervene in Lebanon, as reported by France 24. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

SpaceXAI Drops New Logo — xAI Fully Merges Into SpaceX

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:00:07 +0530

The new logo and the official rechristening were announced in a post on X.
The changed logo is yet to reflect on the company’s website or in official filings.
In its IPO prospectus, SpaceX laid out what it called the largest actionable total addressable market in history at $28.5 trillion, of which $26.5 trillion is attributed to AI.

Elon Musk’s rocket manufacturing company rebranded as SpaceXAI and unveiled a new logo to reflect the acquisition of his AI startup xAI into its business on Monday.

The new logo and the official rechristening were announced in a post on X.

Shares of SPCX closed down 1% on Monday ahead of the company joining the Nasdaq-100 index before market open on July 7.

The New Logo

Musk confirmed in May that his artificial intelligence startup xAI will be dissolved as a standalone company and fully integrated into SpaceX, rebranding its AI efforts as SpaceXAI. SpaceX had already absorbed xAI in a formal acquisition earlier this year, but the new “SpaceXAI” framing highlights that all AI development will now operate directly under the SpaceX umbrella. Musk also confirmed that the company will have a new logo as well.

SpaceX’s previous logo was designed by a New Jersey-based creative agency called RO Studio. xAI’s previous logo, the simple ‘xAI’ wordmark, meanwhile, was designed in-house by one of xAI’s co-founders called Toby Pohlen. The new logo retains parts of the older logos.

The changed logo is yet to reflect on the company’s website or in official filings, implying the name is more of a rebrand than an official renaming.

SpaceX-xAI Acquisition

SpaceX acquired xAI on February 2, in a record-setting all-stock deal that made xAI a wholly owned subsidiary of SpaceX. xAI investors received 0.1433 shares of SpaceX for every share of xAI, consolidating Musk’s empire and giving rise to further speculation that the billionaire’s EV company Tesla will also eventually merge with SpaceX.

In June, SpaceX debuted on Nasdaq, surging nearly 20% on its first day after the largest IPO in history at $135 per share. In its IPO prospectus, the company laid out what it called the largest actionable total addressable market in history at $28.5 trillion, of which $26.5 trillion is attributed to AI — dwarfing its traditional space ($370 billion) and connectivity ($1.6 trillion) segments. The bulk of the AI opportunity is projected to come from enterprise applications, alongside AI infrastructure, consumer subscriptions, and advertising.

How Did SPCX Retail Traders React?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around SPCX stayed within the ‘bearish’ territory over the past 24 hours, while message volume stayed at ‘extremely low’ levels.

A Stocktwits user said that SPCX will plummet to $120 per share.

Another user expressed anticipation for SpaceX’s upcoming earnings report. “Key levels, volume, and follow-through will determine whether bulls can regain momentum or if weakness continue,” they wrote.

SPCX closed at $160.42 on Monday, still implying a significant 7% premium to its debut price of $150 per share.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

FIFA World Cup 2026: Mexico Fan's Audacious 'Flag-Straw' Beer Hack Goes Viral at the Azteca (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:59:33 +0530

Mexico fan found an innovative yet hilarious way to ‘borrow’ a drink during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against England at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Sunday, July 5. The co-host of the tournament suffered a 2-3 defeat at the hands of the Three Lions, ending their dreams of a maiden World Cup title.

The clash between Mexico and England was more than just a match, with both sides carrying deep historical narratives into the high-stakes encounter. England were reduced to 10 men after Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute, forcing the Three Lions to mount a relentless attack on the Mexican side in the final hour of the match.

Despite two goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez, Mexico’s desperate push for an equaliser fell agonizingly short, as England’s goalkeeper Jordan Pickford’s heroics denied the hosts in the dying minutes, ensuring the Harry Kane-led side survived the Mexican onslaught to book their place in the quarterfinals and keep their World Cup dream alive.

Also Read: FIFA dismisses Belgium's challenge over US forward Folarin Balogun

Mexico Fan Goes Viral For Beer-Drinking Hack

As the atmosphere inside the Estadio Azteca was reaching a fever pitch, one creative fan decided to find a ‘refreshing’ solution to the packed crowd’s limitations. Since the beer is served in hand-sized cups and aisles are often congested, getting to the concession stand meant risking a missed moment in such a high-stakes fixture.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), a server is seen weaving through the crowd carrying a tray with two beers, holding one hand up as he walks. However, the Mexican supporter, who was standing just above the server passing through, took advantage of the proximity to perform his daring stunt.

In the blink of an eye, the fan lowered his hollow flag pole, dipped it perfectly into the unguarded cup on the tray, and managed to siphon a quick, refreshing drink without the knowledge of the server, who was too focused on navigating the narrow when hilarious theft happened above his shoulder.

This man went VIRAL after finding out a way to get free beer at the Mexico vs. England World Cup match pic.twitter.com/eiCvvnh9tA

— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) July 6, 2026

The video cuts off after the Mexican fan spits the beer out in sheer laughter, unable to contain the absurdity of his own successful heist. Since the stadium was packed to its absolute capacity, the video highlights the chaotic and communal nature of the World Cup atmosphere, where the boundary between spectator and prankster can become hilariously blurred.

Though the Mexican fan apparently didn’t intend any malice, viewing the act as more of a lighthearted, opportunistic prank than a serious theft.

Beer Cup Trick Leaves Social Media Split

The viral video of a Mexican fan sipping beer through a hollow flagpole sparked mixed reactions among fans and football enthusiasts on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter).

Taking to their X handles, fans and football enthusiasts praised the supporter’s creativity and sense of humour, with many calling it a ‘genius hack’ and joking that he deserved a World Cup award. Others admired his boldness and clever timing, while some raised hygiene concerns, pointing out that dipping a flagpole into someone else's drink was unsanitary and potentially unsafe.

However, a few warned the fan could have faced trouble if stadium security had spotted the stunt, despite admitting it was a clever and hilarious piece of improvisation.

Holding the flag at the same end he’s dipping it in the cup imagine the germs from coughs, ass and nut scratches that’s blissfully floating in your $30 cup of beer

— misc (@thirdaccountlol) July 6, 2026

Work smarter, not harder! That’s definitely one way to make the most of the stadium atmosphere.

— Zaid (@Zayd__08) July 6, 2026

The dedication is insane... I'd never have the balls (or the pole) to try this

— SoggyBread (@TheSoggyBreadX) July 6, 2026

This man has better passing accuracy than half the players on the pitch.

— Balveer Gurjar (@Balveergurjar11) July 6, 2026

This dude deserves an honorable mention in the World Cup awards

— Gregg Waters (@greggwaters369) July 6, 2026

They say the best things in life are free, and apparently, that includes beer at a World Cup match if you’re creative enough. I’m just here for the chaos and the fun. Respect to the man for the hustle!

— Soma (@NfttCreator) July 6, 2026

Great hack but risky, stadium security might not find it funny if they spot the pole. Still, legend move for saving cash at the World Cup.

— StreetBrawlHub (@StreetBrawlX) July 6, 2026

Football fans always come up with the craziest ideas

— THC Humor (@THChumor) July 6, 2026

Quite clever He came prepared I'm sure he's been doing this from the start of the world cup

— Combat Era (@CombatEra_) July 6, 2026

Love it. Just having some fun!

— Eric Nelson ☘️ (@starside8) July 6, 2026

never seen someone one use 100% of their brain cells like that

— Emperor.SOL (@Solana_Emperor) July 6, 2026

We need to find out what his childhood was like Must have put his whole fam under mental disarray.Another Home Alone Kevin

— #gioVinco® (@VincoAfro) July 6, 2026

Meanwhile, with a defeat to England in the Round of 16, Mexico extended their quarterfinal drought to over four decades, leaving a capacity crowd at the Azteca heartbroken as the Three Lions marched on to the final eight, where they face Norway for a place in the semifinal.

The last time Mexico reached the quarterfinals was in 1986 on home soil, and they will now have to wait until at least 2030 to attempt to break the cycle and return to that stage of the tournament.

Also Read: FIFA WC: Belgium fans rally for 'Golden Generation' ahead of USA clash

Mamata holds protest march for Baruipur victim, alleges house arrest

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:30:34 +0530

Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee, along with party workers and leaders, held a candlelight march on Monday condemning the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in Baruipur. TMC leaders have accused the state police of confining her to her residence and preventing her from visiting the victim's family.

TMC leaders allege 'house arrest' for Mamata

Echoing similar concerns, TMC MP Saugata Roy said, "Mamata Banerjee wanted to go there yesterday, but she was not allowed by the police. Today, a TMC team, including MLAs and MPs, reached there. They met the victim's family; TMC stands with the victim's family."

TMC MP Dola Sen alleged that Banerjee had been placed under restrictions since the previous day. "Our leader, Mamata Banerjee, has been placed under house arrest since yesterday. She tried to go to Baruipur alone, but she was stopped without any reason. Today, we--a group including two MLAs, two MPs, and members of civil society--met with the victim's family. We conveyed Mamata Banerjee's stance to them. Didi is with them; they have also spoken to Didi on the phone," Sen said.

Expressing concern over the law and order in the state, TMC leader Sovandeb Chattopadhyay raised concerns over a string of similar incidents in the state, saying, "In these 50 days, there have been 8 rape incidents. It is a good thing that the Chief Minister has said that the death penalty will be given. The government should fulfil its responsibility. Mamata Banerjee was not allowed to go to Baruipur. A heavy police force has been deployed here. This does not happen in a democratic system. She has been the Chief Minister for 15 years; the way she is being treated in a democratic system is not right. The culprits should be punished."

Commenting on the candlelight march, TMC leader Madan Mitra said Banerjee protested peacefully to bring light to the situation. "What is the job of the Police? They will do whatever they are ordered to do from the top. But the candle will indeed burn because this is a symbol of protest. Mamata Banerjee did not hurl bombs, shoot bullets or block roads. She protested peacefully. This candle has been a symbol of protest for thousands of years. A candle might look tiny, but it has immense power. It shook the Government," she said.

BJP blames previous governments for lawlessness

Reacting to the fresh case, RG Kar Medical College rape-murder victim's mother and BJP MLA Ratna Debnath described the incident as "heartbreaking" and assured that justice will be served under the current BJP-led government. "Another brutal incident has occurred. This is very heartbreaking. Once again, parents have to witness this sorrow; it is very heartbreaking for me. A new government has come in; justice will be served in this case. It won't be like the previous government. But the void of the parents will remain. Why do such incidents happen? This TMC and the previous government, especially TMC, focused only on games, fairs, and such things. That's why such incidents are happening. Our new government has come in; action will be taken in this case."

Investigation updates: 2 arrested, SIT formed

Earlier on Sunday, security was tightened outside the residence of former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as central forces took positions ahead of her scheduled visit to Baruipur following the alleged rape and murder of the minor.

Meanwhile, the Baruipur Police District confirmed that significant progress has been made in the investigation as two individuals have been arrested in connection with the minor girl's death. Jadavpur MP Saayoni Ghosh had said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the case, and she held a conversation with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kylian Mbappe condemns 'despicable' racist remarks by Paraguay senator

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:30:25 +0530

French star striker Kylian Mbappe have condemned the 'racist' remarks made by Paraguay senator Celeste Amarilla towards the former following France's hard-fought 1-0 win in the FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash over the South American side, calling her a "despicable woman" who is unworthy of her position. Mbappe's remarks came after she called Mbappe a "colonised Cameroonian" and "pretending hard to be French, resentful, newly rich, arrogant, and ugly". Amarilla also said that France "won by a fluke and Mbappe was nervous and scared to death the whole match, like his entire team."

Mbappe responded on X, "Madame Celeste Amarilla, you are a despicable woman and unworthy of your position. You do not represent Paraguay, that country which has sweated passion and honour throughout the competition. Through your recklessness and your brazen racism, the entire world has already forgotten the journey and the historic effort that your players accomplished during this World Cup, making way for an incompetent woman who gives the worst possible image of her country." On a picture that showed Mbappe celebrating on the face of Paraguay goalie Orlando Gill, she commented that Mbappe "sucked on coconuts instead of mother's milk and the most educated thing he heard was chimpanzees". Responding to such remarks, Mbappe added, "I will never allow people like her the freedom to spread their hatred and racism across the world."

Madame Celeste Amarilla, Vous êtes une femme méprisable et indigne de sa fonction. Vous ne représentez pas le Paraguay, ce pays qui a transpiré la passion et l’honneur tout au long de la compétition. Par votre inconscience et votre racisme décomplexé, le monde entier a déjà… pic.twitter.com/EnYmgQXvPL — Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) July 6, 2026

French Football Federation Takes Action

French Football Federation (FFF) also stepped in, describing the comments as "criminal and reprehensible" and said that they are "filing a report with the prosecutor's office for the purpose of judicial action".

"FFF COMMUNIQUÉ: The racist remarks by Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla targeting Kylian Mbappe are utterly abhorrent and unacceptable. How can anyone make such statements? These remarks are criminal and reprehensible. They must be prosecuted here as elsewhere. The FFF is filing a report with the prosecutor's office for the purpose of judicial action," the federation stated.

FFF extended its support to Mbappe, the whole team and the victim of "such odious remarks" everywhere. "Now more than ever, the FFF is committed to fighting racism and all forms of discrimination. These remarks dishonour those who make them and those who spread them. The players of the France National Team represent France; it is our country that is being insulted," FFF concluded.

COMMUNIQUÉ DE LA FFF : Les propos racistes de la Sénatrice paraguayenne Celeste Amarilla visant Kylian Mbappé sont totalement abjects et inacceptables. Comment peut-on tenir un tel discours ? Ces propos sont délictueux et condamnables. Ils doivent être poursuivis ici comme… pic.twitter.com/AMVDvfrrYD — FFF (@FFF) July 6, 2026

Mbappe, with seven goals in the competition, is one of the contenders for the Golden Boot, tied with Argentina legend Lionel Messi (seven goals). France will next battle Morocco in the quarterfinals on July 10. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi on Mookerjee's legacy: A visionary dedicated to India's integrity

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:00:33 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that Syama Prasad Mookerjee fiercely opposed the talk of two constitutions, two prime ministers, and two flags in the country and understood that the essence of nation-building lies in building institutions.

Mookerjee's Ideas Guiding Modern India

The Prime Minister, who addressed a gathering via a video message on the 125th birth anniversary of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, spoke of the significance of the day for the entire nation and specifically for West Bengal. "Today the country is reverently remembering a visionary dedicated to the integrity of India," he said.

Reflecting on the enduring legacy of the revered leader, the Prime Minister noted how the foundational thoughts planted decades ago are now visibly blossoming across the societal and political landscape. He credited this robust ideological framework with playing an indispensable role in charting the course for the nation's contemporary progress. "Today we are praising the seed of that idea which is playing a major role in giving direction to modern India."

Outlining the essential ingredients for achieving monumental national goals, he described a powerful synergy where grounded intellectual strength, pure intentions, and absolute dedication seamlessly converge. He presented the celebrated visionary's life as the ultimate embodiment and practical demonstration of this successful formula. "When all these links connect with each other, then the fulfillment of the resolution is certain," asserted Shri Modi.

'Nation First' Ethos and Honoring Heritage

Marking the milestone 125th birth anniversary, he respectfully offered his deep personal veneration to the late leader. He paused the address to solemnly honour the towering legacy and sacrifices of the great patriot. "I bow down to Dr. Mookerjee on this occasion and offer my tributes," he said.

Connecting the current administration's 'Nation First' ethos with the rightful recognition of historical figures, the Prime Minister detailed the ongoing two-year national festival dedicated to this anniversary. He explained that this extended commemoration, which began last July, represents a concerted, long-term effort to follow and honour the visionary's path. "When there is a government with the resolution of Nation First, then national heroes also get due respect," noted Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister observed how the newly formed state government in Bengal has significantly amplified the grandeur of these national celebrations. He specifically praised the recent majestic organisation of Paschim Banga Divas as a beautiful, culturally resonant salute to the region's rich heritage. "Today's program is also a part of that same respect for one's heritage."

Champion of National Unity and Integration

Delving into crucial historical parliamentary records, the Prime Minister recounted the intense crisis of 1947 when conspiracies threatened to sever the entirety of Bengal from the nation. He praised the leader's rock-solid political resistance and masterclass in shaping public opinion to definitively secure the state's permanent integration with India. "As Dr. Mookerjee famously stated, the foundation of a golden future can be laid only on the ground of national unity," PM Modi said.

Transitioning to the fight for absolute national integration, the Prime Minister detailed the fierce historical opposition against maintaining dual administrative and symbolic systems within the country's borders. He recalled the powerful rallying mantra demanding strict uniformity in governance and national identity. "He (Syama Prasad Mookerjee) fiercely opposed the talk of two constitutions, two prime ministers, and two flags in the country. He understood very well that the essence of nation-building is in the building of institutions. His belief was that if India has to become a self-confident nation, its education must be connected to the Indian soul. The dream that Dr. Mookerjee saw that regarding local languages, our government has fulfilled it," PM Modi said.

Architect of India's Economic Strength

Exploring the economic foresight of independent India's first Industry Minister, he referred to the establishment of monumental entities like Chittaranjan Locomotive Works, Sindri Fertilizer Plant, Damodar Valley Corporation, and IFCI. He credited these foundational institutions with successfully powering the nation's railway, agricultural, energy, and financial sectors for decades. "He laid the foundation for such national institutions which became India's economic strength for decades to come," the Prime Minister said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA WC: Belgium fans rally for 'Golden Generation' ahead of USA clash

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:00:30 +0530

Belgium's 'Golden Generation' Faces USA in Knockout Clash

Belgium fans rallied for the national men's side ahead of their FIFA World Cup clash against co-hosts USA, scheduled for Monday.

Belgium, the 2018 bronze medalists, will be aiming to continue their deep run in the tournament, in quest of their maiden FIFA World Cup trophy for what has been called a 'Golden Generation' of Belgium for a long time. On the other hand, co-hosts USA will be aiming to enthral the home crowd by producing a fine performance and making it to the quarterfinals.

Fan Fervour Builds

The official handle of Belgium Football on Instagram posted colourful visuals of fans cheering, playing drums and waving the country's flag ahead of the match. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DadDnmajDNP/?hl=en

Dramatic Road to the Knockouts

Belgium started off their group stage on a tough note, with a 1-1 draw against Egypt and a goalless draw against Iran, before going all out to thrash New Zealand 5-1 in their final league stage match and punching a ticket to the round of 32.

In the round of 32, they registered a comeback win over Senegal by 3-2 in a FIFA World Cup classic. After Habib Diarra (24th minute) and Ismaila Sarr (51st minute) scored and another giant seemed to be on its way out, Romelu Lukaku (86th minute) and Youri Tielemans (89th minute) changed the course of the game, taking it to extra time.

Record-Breaking Penalty Seals Victory

Tielemans took the penalty after the VAR review awarded his team one for Lamine Camara's foul on Tielemans, sealing one of the tournament's most dramatic victories and rewriting the World Cup record books. His winning penalty in the 124th minute and 44th second broke the previous timeline records for late game-winners, becoming the latest goal ever scored in FIFA World Cup history.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Donald Trump hails 'great player' Harry Kane after England's WC win

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:00:26 +0530

Trump Hails 'Great Player' Harry Kane

Following England's win over Mexico in the round of 16 FIFA World Cup clash, US President Donald Trump hailed Harry Kane as a "great player", while also pointing out that he has played golf with him. Trump was addressing a presser in Washington DC. Speaking during the presser, Trump said, "I watched last night. What a game that was with Mexico and England. I mean, two countries. I do not know the players. Although I think Kane is a great player. See, I played golf with him, and I like him a lot. He is a good golfer. But he is really great. But I watched, and and no reason for me to watch, and you could not take your eyes off the game."

England Secures Historic Win at Azteca

With the victory, England became the first team in FIFA World Cup history to defeat Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, where the hosts had previously gone unbeaten in 10 World Cup matches. Prior to the England match, Mexico had lost only two competitive matches there since first playing at the iconic venue in 1966. Before facing England, El Tri had won 70 and drawn 17 of their 89 matches at the stadium, highlighting the formidable home advantage they had enjoyed over the decades.

Player Milestones and Records

Kane also contributed to the 3-2 win, with a penalty strike, his sixth goal of the tournament. With the goal, Kane has equalled Gary Lineker's record of six goals to become the joint-highest English scorer in World Cup knockout stage history.

Jude Bellingham became the first player since Diego Maradona in 1986 to score twice in a FIFA World Cup match at the Azteca Stadium, guiding England to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Mexico on Sunday (local time) and securing a quarter-final clash against Norway on July 11, according to ESPN. Maradona achieved the feat against Belgium in the 1986 semi-finals.

Path to the Quarter-Finals

England have reached their 11th FIFA World Cup quarter-final, with only Brazil (15) and Germany (14) having made more appearances at this stage.

Coming to the match, Mexico conceded three goals in the match at the Azteca for the first time since August 1999, when they lost 4-3 to Brazil. In fact, they conceded more goals in the England game (3) than they had in their previous 10 World Cup matches at the stadium combined (2).

Mexico pushed relentlessly for an equaliser after being down 2-3, which would have forced extra time, but England defended resolutely to seal a place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Norway in Miami on July 11. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

CRTO Stock Clocks Best Day In Nearly 5 Years On 50%+ Premium Buyout Offer From Vista — TTD Edges Higher

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:00:07 +0530

Details such as the exact offer price, deal structure, financing or conditions were not disclosed in the report.
Criteo specializes in performance marketing and commerce media solutions, helping brands and retailers target consumers across digital channels.
Criteo has previously explored strategic sale processes multiple times in recent years without reaching a completed transaction.

NASDAQ-listed shares of French adtech company Criteo (CRTO) jumped 21% on Monday following reports that it has received a takeover offer that values the company at a significant premium.

Vista Equity Partners has teamed up with Quinti Capital to submit a bid for Criteo SA in recent days, according to a Bloomberg report, citing people familiar with the matter. The offer values the company at more than a 50% premium to its share price in recent weeks, the company said.

The bid remains non-public, and details such as the exact offer price, deal structure, financing, or conditions were not disclosed in the report. Criteo’s board is expected to review the proposal in the coming days or weeks, though no formal response or exclusivity period has been announced. The stock clocked its best day on Monday since November 2021.

Shares of Criteo’s rival Trade Desk also jumped 1% on the news.

What Does Criteo Do?

Criteo specializes in performance marketing and commerce media solutions, helping brands and retailers target consumers across digital channels. Vista Equity Partners, meanwhile, is a prominent private equity firm focused on software and technology investments.

Criteo has previously explored strategic sale processes multiple times in recent years without reaching a completed transaction. Reports indicate that during former CEO Megan Clarken’s tenure, the company appointed investment bank Evercore to explore potential exit options. In late 2024, the company held discussions with retail media firm Skai, though those talks later stalled. As recently as December 2025, sources cited by Reuters said Criteo had relaunched a formal sale process after earlier discussions with potential acquirers failed to advance.

How Did CRTO Retail Traders React?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around CRTO stock jumped from ‘neutral’ to ‘bullish’ over the past 24 hours, while message volume stayed at ‘extremely high’ levels.

A Stocktwits user expressed hopes for a takeover of Criteo’s rival Trade Desk after the report.

Another user opined, “If real, this is the kind of bid that can re-rate a sleepy small-cap fast.”

CRTO stock has gained 12% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Dalai Lama's 91st birthday: Monks hold special prayers in Shimla

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 01:30:31 +0530

Prayers and Celebrations in Shimla

With celebrations underway on the 91st birthday of 14th Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhist monks at the Dorje Drak Monastery offered special prayers for his long life and reflected upon his path of peace and compassion.

Speaking to ANI, Tibetan Buddhist monk Dawa Tsering called the birthday an important day and that devotees across the world are celebrating it. "Today is a very important day. It is the birthday of our Guru and our spiritual master, His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Across the world, devotees are celebrating his birthday and praying for his long life. Since morning, we have been offering prayers for his health and long life. After the prayers, we also celebrated by cutting a cake." He added, "His Holiness has always shown us the path of compassion and peace. He is spreading peace across the world, and we pray that he lives a long life and that there is peace throughout the world."

A Revered Figure for Tibetans

A local Tibetan resident and teacher of English and the Tibetan language, Tenzin Chemi, told ANI how the Tibetans are honoured to celebrate his birthday every year. "This is not just another birthday celebration. His Holiness is an extremely important figure for us and is recognised around the world as a promoter of peace. For Tibetan people, he is our Guru and an incarnation whom we deeply revere. From birth, we are taught to observe every important occasion connected with His Holiness, whether small or large," she said.

She underlined, "Our prayers today are especially for His Holiness's long life and for all his wishes to be fulfilled. We have been conducting prayers since early morning, and tomorrow a larger function will be organised in Shimla, where Tibetans from different parts of India are expected to participate."

From Humble Beginnings to Global Leader

This worldwide reverence traces back to his early life in Tibet. Born to a small farming family in Takster on July 6, 1935, he was originally named Lhamo Thondup, which literally means "Wish-Fulfilling Goddess", according to the Dalai Lama's website.

At the age of two, he was recognised as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama and was brought to Lhasa in October 1939 before being formally installed as the head of the State of Tibet on February 22, 1940. Named Tenzin Gyatso at the age of six, he officially assumed full temporal leadership of Tibet on November 17, 1950, in a ceremony held at the Norbulingka Palace.

An Enduring Symbol of a Broader Struggle

More than six decades after he first entered exile, the anniversary serves as an enduring symbol of the broader struggle over faith, identity, and legitimacy. This remains a complex geopolitical and cultural challenge that Beijing has still failed to solve.

This event, organised systematically every year by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), remains a major draw for followers worldwide. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

TMUS Stock Jumps For Third Straight Day — BofA Says Starlink Isn’t A Threat To US Telecom

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 01:05:01 +0530

The recent sell-off hitting major U.S. telecom stocks is deemed excessive by Wall Street experts, who anticipate a potential relief rally driven by strong upcoming earnings reports.
BofA upgraded T-Mobile to a “Buy" rating, stating that its strong foothold in metropolitan markets shields it from satellite-based competition.
Deployment of SpaceX's upgraded V3 satellites maintains a lingering, long-term competitive pressure on fixed wireless and cable providers.

The sharp decline in telecommunications stocks following anxiety over SpaceX’s satellite expansion is likely an overreaction, according to analysts at Bank of America (BofA) who view the immediate competitive threats as overblown.

Fears regarding the disruption potential of Elon Musk’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet service, Starlink, triggered notable industry losses this year. The sell-off intensified following reports that Charter Communications (CHTR) explored a potential mobile partnership with SpaceX, sending SpaceX shares up more than 7%.

KeyBanc Capital Markets analyst Brandon Nispel noted that the negative sentiment surrounding the sector weighs heavily despite a clear absence of near-term fundamental damage, projecting a relief rally backed by solid corporate guidance.

Strong Urban Footprint Benefits US Telcos

A core factor shielding established carriers from immediate satellite intrusion is geographic infrastructure. Starlink has primarily targeted rural and underserved communities where traditional ground infrastructure is lacking.

In a note to investors, BofA Securities analyst Michael Funk upgraded T-Mobile from Neutral to Buy, establishing a $220 price target. Funk emphasized that T-Mobile maintains a dominant 50% household share in major urban areas like New York City and Los Angeles, compared to just 24% in rural areas.

Satellite direct-to-device (D2D) capabilities face severe physical constraints, such as signal propagation hurdles and strict data capacity limits, when attempting to operate in dense metropolitan markets. As a result, urban-centric carriers face very little near-term threat from space-based alternatives.

Long-Term Risks Persist

Despite the near-term optimism, the telecom landscape is expected to evolve as SpaceX prepares to deploy its next-generation V3 satellites, which promise significantly stronger data connectivity.

While Starlink's exact mobile game plan remains unmapped, experts like Wolfe Research analyst Peter Supino point out that its broadband service already poses a highly credible, direct alternative to legacy cable and fixed wireless access.

TMUS, T, VZ Stock: Retail View

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits was ‘bullish’ with ‘high’ message volumes for all three major telecom stocks. Retail chatter on the Stocktwits platform for TMUS, T and VZ stock soared between 100% and 300% compared to the previous session.

A user highlighted strong demand for fiber optics compared to satellite connectivity.

View this Stocktwits post

AT&T (T) shares have plummeted 17% year-to-date (YTD), T-Mobile (TMUS) has slid 10% YTD, while Verizon Communications (VZ) rose about 3.5% for the same period.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

adidas reveals TRIONDA FINAL ball for FIFA World Cup closing stages

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 01:00:37 +0530

With fewer than two weeks to go until the final of the biggest-ever FIFA World Cup in New York, New Jersey, adidas has revealed the TRIONDA FINAL - the Official Match Ball for the semi-finals, bronze final and final of the record-setting tournament.

Building on the TRIONDA Official Match Ball unveiled in October 2025, TRIONDA FINAL evolves the design of the Official Match Ball while maintaining the same performance-driven construction. https://x.com/adidasfootball/status/2074150240861429873?s=20

A Design for the Final Stages

For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, adidas has moved beyond a traditional colour update, introducing a dedicated design that reflects the magnitude of the tournament's closing matches, as per the FIFA website.

The design of TRIONDA FINAL is inspired by the journey towards football's ultimate prize. A premium gold finish references the FIFA World Cup™ trophy, set against a black base to elevate the ball's look and feel, creating a bold and refined visual identity for the final stages of the competition.

Celebrating the Host Cities

Uniquely, TRIONDA FINAL celebrates the 16 iconic Host Cities that have welcomed the world for the biggest FIFA World Cup ever. As hosts of the semi-finals, bronze final, and final, Dallas, Atlanta, Miami and New York and New Jersey are prominently featured within the main blocking of the design. Meanwhile, Boston, Guadalajara, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Monterrey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, Toronto and Vancouver are incorporated within the triangular graphic elements, ensuring their significant contributions to the success of the tournament are recognised right through to the final whistle.

'Etched into FIFA World Cup folklore'

"The TRIONDA FINAL ball for the last four matches of the FIFA World Cup is here," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. "The iconic TRIONDA has brought so much joy every time it has hit the back of the net in this FIFA World Cup, and it perfectly embodies the unity and passion of the tournament's host nations, Canada, Mexico and the United States. For the final four matches of the tournament, this TRIONDA FINAL will be at the feet of the best players on the planet. Through every touch, dribble, flick, pass, cross, save, strike and goal, the 16 cities that have helped FIFA stage the record-breaking 23rd edition of the tournament will be further etched into FIFA World Cup folklore."

Advanced Technology

The TRIONDA FINAL also carries the latest evolution of adidas Connected Ball Technology, delivering precise ball data in real time to support faster decision-making by match officials, while enhancing insights into the game. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

MU, F Stocks Climb After Micron And Ford Sign Major Memory Pact

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 01:00:12 +0530

Micron and Ford signed a deal focused on providing a reliable, long-term supply of memory and storage solutions for Ford’s next-generation vehicles.
Ford CEO Jim Farley welcomed the partnership, stating that building high-volume vehicles in the U.S. requires a strong domestic supply chain.
The agreement comes amid a shortage in memory chips caused by explosive demand from artificial intelligence growth.

Shares of Micron Technology (MU) gained roughly 2% while Ford Motor Co (F) stock edged up 4% on Monday after the companies announced a new long-term agreement to secure critical memory components for Ford’s future vehicles.

The deal comes just days after Micron signed a similar pact with General Motors, signaling growing collaboration between the U.S. chipmaker and major automakers.

Ford-Micron Deal

Micron and Ford signed a deal focused on providing a reliable, long-term supply of memory and storage solutions for Ford’s next-generation vehicles. The pact includes technology collaboration and commitments from Micron to expand production capacity to support Ford’s manufacturing needs over many years.

Ford CEO Jim Farley welcomed the partnership, noting that building high-volume vehicles in the U.S. requires a strong domestic supply chain.

Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra said the agreement helps ensure consistent support for Ford’s production as vehicles grow more intelligent and data-heavy. The deal is one of 16 similar long-term supply agreements Micron has highlighted with major customers.

Last week, Micron announced a comparable long-term agreement with General Motors. That pact secures memory and storage components for GM’s vehicle platforms and includes joint development of future technologies.

Why The Deal Matters

Modern vehicles rely heavily on advanced electronics for safety systems, driver assistance features, connected services, and emerging AI capabilities. These systems need large amounts of specialized memory and storage. The deals give automakers like Ford and GM greater certainty over supply after past semiconductor shortages disrupted production worldwide.

The agreements come amidst a shortage in memory chips caused by explosive demand from artificial intelligence growth. Big tech companies are building massive data centers packed with AI chips that require enormous amounts of high-performance memory, creating a shortage for consumer device manufacturers like everyday electronics makers and carmakers.

How Did F, MU Retail Traders React?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around F stock stayed within the ‘bullish’ territory over the past 24 hours, while message volume jumped from ‘normal’ to ‘high’ levels.

Meanwhile, sentiment around MU stock stayed within the ‘bullish’ territory, while message volume slipped from ‘high’ to ‘normal’ levels.

A Stocktwits user expressed hopes for Samsung earnings pushing Micron stock higher. Both companies compete in the memory chip market.

Another user voiced optimism in the run-up to Ford’s second-quarter earnings and voiced hopes for a deal involving the company’s Energy segment before that.

While F stock has risen 4% year-to-date, MU gained over 200%.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Haryana adopts PM Modi's model, gives 2 lakh jobs: CM Nayab Saini

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:30:38 +0530

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has said that the state has adopted Prime Minister Modi's model of good governance. He said the government works not for any caste, family, or vote bank but for the progress of every citizen.

Over the last few years, nearly two lakh youth have been provided jobs without any "parchi-kharchi". The Chief Minister was addressing a gathering on Sunday in Pathankot, Punjab, on the occasion of the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Pathankot MLA Ashwani Sharma, former Deputy Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Dinesh Babbu, former MLA Seema Kumari, and several other senior leaders were also present on the occasion.

CM Saini Contrasts Haryana's Progress with Punjab's Issues

He said that when he looks towards Punjab, he feels concern and pain. Today, every section of society in Punjab feels let down. Promises of employment were made to the youth, but many young people are now trapped in drug addiction.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab's farmers were promised prosperity and better returns, yet they continue to struggle for fair prices for their produce. In contrast, Haryana has become the first state in the country where all 24 crops are being procured at the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

According to a release, he said that grand promises of financial assistance were made to women, but even after four years those promises remain unfulfilled. In Haryana, women are being provided Rs 2,100 per month.

He further said that Haryana is providing full compensation to farmers for crop losses. Between 2004 and 2014, the Congress government provided only Rs 1,136 crore as compensation for crop damage, whereas the present government has provided nearly Rs 16,500 crore to farmers since 2014.

A Call for Change in Punjab

The Chief Minister said that Punjab's future will not be determined by Delhi's politics but by the people of Punjab themselves. The farmers, youth, mothers, and sisters of Punjab will decide the direction and destiny of the state.

He said that the Bharatiya Janata Party is not seeking power from the people of Punjab but an opportunity to serve them. With the blessings of the people, Punjab will once again become a "Rangla Punjab."

Homage to Syama Prasad Mookerjee

He said that this would be the true tribute to Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee and a strong foundation for building a Viksit Bharat.

The Chief Minister said that Pathankot is not merely a city but the northern frontier of 'Bharat Mata'. It is the land of brave warriors, martyrs, patriots, and great sons of the nation who sacrificed everything to protect the country's borders. The soil here carries the fragrance of valour, and the air is filled with the spirit of patriotism.

He said that history remembers certain personalities not merely through books but through generations that adopt their ideals in life. Syama Prasad Mookerjee was one such visionary leader who dedicated his entire life to India's unity, integrity, self-respect, and national consciousness. He was not only a leader of his time but also a guide for future generations.

The Chief Minister said that Syama Prasad Mookerjee was not only a renowned educationist but also an outstanding statesman. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA WC: Ronaldo faces Spain's next-gen stars in round of 16 clash

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:30:24 +0530

Spain vs Portugal: Team News

Spain named an unchanged playing line-up, while Portugal brought in Joao Felix in the attack, replacing Rafael Leao for their FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash at Dallas on Monday.

The Portugal versus Spain clash in the round of 16 will witness a 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, a football institution in himself, go face-to-face with the next generation of Spanish football, of which Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Gavi are amongst some of the promising flag-bearers. As per Reuters, the Spain manager Luis de la Fuente is persisting with the team that beat Austria 3-0 in the round of 32 clash, with Pedro Porro on the right back and Dani Olmo as their playmaker. For Portugal, Joao is a starter alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Pedro Neto, with Leao on the bench.

Lineups

Lineups: Portugal: Diogo Costa; Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves, Bruno Fernandes; Pedro Neto, Joao Felix, Cristiano Ronaldo. Spain: Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

MSFT's Xbox Business Has Become 'Almost Irrelevant', Says Analyst — ‘Every Investment Dollar Now Is Going To AI’

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:20:01 +0530

Luria added that Microsoft’s AI bet has taken priority over its gaming efforts, with the software giant realizing bigger markups from its data centers than it would from games.
He said that the narrative around Microsoft has turned very negative, while noting that the two bear cases about the company’s prospects are contradictory.
Luria added that the negative narrative around Microsoft is an opportunity and that he expects the company to report accelerating Azure growth.

Microsoft Corp.’s (MSFT) Xbox business has become “almost irrelevant,” according to DA Davidson's Head of Technology Research, Gil Luria.

During an interview with CNBC, Luria said that Microsoft is directing its investments to fund its AI efforts and data centers.

“That was the growth engine before AI... they just closed the Activision acquisition and they thought gaming was the move to accelerate growth. But obviously, since then, every investment dollar now is going to AI, to building data centers,” he said.

Microsoft shares were down over 1% in Monday's midday trade.

MSFT’s AI Bet Takes Priority Over Gaming, Says Luria

Luria added that Microsoft’s AI bet has taken priority over its gaming efforts because it earns higher returns from AI infrastructure than from gaming.

“AI drives more infrastructure software sales, then it drives more Office sales with Copilot. They have a much better place to invest right now. The gaming business doesn’t have much growth, so they might as well cut costs there in order to fund AI investment,” he said.

Luria’s comments come after Microsoft laid off around 4,800 employees, or 2.1% of its global workforce. The job cuts in the Xbox division stood at 1,600 on Monday, with another 1,600 roles set to be cut through fiscal year 2027. Cumulatively, the 3,200 role reductions account for about 10% of Xbox’s headcount, according to a CNBC report citing people familiar with the matter.

MSFT’s Xbox Head Says Business Is Not Healthy

In an email published on the company’s official portal, Xbox CEO Asha Sharma said that the business is not healthy, while adding that growth across the division’s portfolio has not kept pace with the company's expectations.

“We are operating at margins that are 3-10x lower than comparable platform and publishing businesses. We entered Gen 9 with a smaller install base and a higher cost structure,” she said.

Sharma added that the headcount reduction will affect Activision, Blizzard, King, Mojang, and Xbox Game Studios. “Our core business weakened, and we added more teams, more investment, and more time, hoping for a better outcome. And now the industry is facing the most severe hardware crisis in its history. We must reset Xbox,” she said.

In an official statement posted on Microsoft’s website, the company’s Chief People Officer, Amy Coleman, said that the roles being cut are not going to be replaced by AI. She also cautioned that similar changes will need to be made in other parts of Microsoft’s businesses.

“We are still early on this journey, and there will be more changes ahead; other parts of our business will need to make similar changes,” she said.

Luria Says Narrative On MSFT Has Turned Very Negative

Luria said that the narrative around Microsoft has turned very negative. He added that investors are overlooking Microsoft's strengths by buying into two conflicting bear cases, one that AI will erode software demand and another that the company is overspending on AI infrastructure.

He disagreed with both arguments, saying Microsoft's software business remains resilient while AI investments continue to support accelerating growth.

“The narrative on Microsoft has turned very negative, but that's an opportunity, because when they report in three weeks, they're going to report accelerating Azure growth and they're going to report capex growth that's at a lower rate than that,” he said.

Microsoft is scheduled to report its fourth-quarter (Q4) earnings on July 29, 2026. According to data from Fiscal.ai, Wall Street expects Microsoft to report 15% year-on-year revenue growth to $87.66 billion. The company’s earnings per share (EPS) is expected to rise to $4.24 from $3.65 in the same period a year ago.

What Retail Traders Think Of MSFT Stock

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits around Microsoft trended in ‘neutral’ territory at the time of writing.

MSFT stock is down 20% year-to-date and 23% over the past 12 months. The S&P 500 ETF (SPY) is up 20% over the past 12 months, while the Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ) is up 30%.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

NVDA Stock Climbs Over 1% — Nvidia Says Its AI ‘Roadmap Is Intact’ After Report Of Kyber Rack Delay

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:15:01 +0530

Research firm SemiAnalysis said in a post on X post that Nvidia’s Kyber NVL144 rack-scale system has slipped by more than a year due to manufacturing issues involving a critical circuit board.
Kyber is a rack-scale system that packs 144 of Nvidia’s most powerful chips into a single unit, enabling them to operate as one giant computer.
A Stocktwits retail poll showed 41% of respondents would choose Nvidia as their top semiconductor stock for the next decade.

A day after a report claimed that one of Nvidia Corp.’s (NVDA) key next-generation products had been delayed, the chipmaker pushed back, saying its roadmap remains on track.

The response came after SemiAnalysis reported that Nvidia’s next flagship product, the Kyber rack-scale architecture designed to house its 2027 Rubin Ultra chips, has been pushed back by more than a year to 2028.

The NVDA stock rose about 1.4% on Monday before trimming some of its gains. At the time of writing, the shares were up 1%.

NVDA Pushes Back On Delay Report

An Nvidia spokesperson told Bloomberg in an emailed statement that the company’s “road map is intact,” pushing back against the delay claims.

The response followed a SemiAnalysis post in X published on Sunday, which said Nvidia's upcoming Kyber rack has been delayed. “Just 3 months after Jensen demoed Kyber NVL144 at GTC, it has faced major setbacks and has been delayed by more than 12 months, pushing it back to 2028,” stated the post.

The report came at a time when AI investors are increasingly sensitive to signs of slowing momentum, with even minor setbacks triggering sharp market reactions after a yearslong rally. Last week, global tech stocks swung on headlines pointing to potential AI overcapacity and intensifying competition, stated the Bloomberg report.

Kyber is a rack-scale system that packs 144 of Nvidia’s most powerful chips into a single unit, enabling them to operate as one giant computer. According to the report, the delay stems from manufacturing challenges involving a critical circuit board at the heart of the system.

NVDA Stock: What Stocktwits Retail Sentiment Says

On Stocktwits, the retail sentiment for NVDA improved to ‘neutral’ from ‘bearish’ a day ago, while message volume was ‘low’ at the time of writing.

In a Stocktwits retail poll asking traders if they had to pick just one, which semiconductor stock would they own for the next decade, 41% of users said NVDA, followed by 33% for AMD, 16% for AVGO and 10% for TSM. The poll had drawn about 1,500 votes at the time of writing.

The NVDA stock has gained 4.77% year-to-date and 24% in the past one year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

IVVD Stock Drops As PEMGARDA Loses Emergency Authorization In 2027 — Invivyd Eyes Full FDA Approval

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:10:01 +0530

Invivyd said it is already in active talks with the FDA about next steps.
PEMGARDA received its emergency authorization in March 2024.
In 2025, PEMGARDA generated $53.4 million in net product revenue for Invivyd.

Shares of Invivyd (IVVD) fell 6% on Monday after the company announced that it has received notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the impending expiry of the emergency use authorization for its PEMGARDA preventive treatment

PEMGARDA’s emergency status will end on June 29, 2027, unless the company secures full FDA approval in the meantime.

Invivyd said it is already in active talks with the FDA about next steps and plans to pursue every available path to keep the treatment available for vulnerable patients.

PEMGARDA EUA And Demand

PEMGARDA received its emergency authorization in March 2024 for use as a preventive option in adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe immune compromise who are unlikely to respond adequately to COVID vaccines.

In 2025, PEMGARDA generated $53.4 million in net product revenue for Invivyd — more than double the $25.4 million recorded in its first partial year of sales in 2024.

IVVD Responds

Invivyd board Chairman Marc Elia said the end of emergency status for COVID products is long overdue but stressed that PEMGARDA has compiled enough clinical and real-world data to support full approval.

“The EUA designation is not a product approval,” Elia noted. “We believe PEMGARDA has sufficient clinical and post-authorization data to support Biologics License Application submission and approval.”He added that the uncertainty created by the transition has been frustrating for the immunocompromised patients who rely on the treatment as a non-vaccine option.

How Did IVVD Retail Traders React?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around IVVD stock stayed within the ‘bearish’ territory over the past 24 hours, while message volume rose from ‘low’ to ‘normal’ levels.

According to data from Koyfin, all three analysts covering IVVD rate it a ‘Buy.’ The 12-month average price target on the stock is $10, representing a potential upside of over 1000% from the stock’s last closing price.

IVVD stock has lost about 67% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

NCRA, REE Stocks Plunged To 52-Week Lows Today – What's Driving The Investor Skepticism?

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:05:01 +0530

REE Automotive received a delisting notice from Nasdaq, stating that trading in its Class A ordinary shares will be suspended on July 7.
REE’s stock fell below $1 in November 2025 and failed to surpass the required level.
Nocera is set to implement a 1-for-30 reverse stock split of its common stock after market hours on Monday.

Shares of Nocera (NCRA) and REE Automotive (REE) sank to fresh 52-week lows on Monday as investors reacted to the challenges related to Nasdaq’s listing requirements.

At the time of writing, NCRA shares traded 9% lower, while REE shares crashed 64%.

REE’s Class A Shares To Be Delisted

REE Automotive said it has received a notice from Nasdaq on Friday, stating that its Class A ordinary shares will be delisted after the company failed to regain compliance with the exchange’s minimum bid price requirement. Trading in the stock is scheduled to be suspended when the market opens on July 7.

REE had been out of compliance after its shares traded below $1 since November 2025. Nasdaq granted the company two compliance periods, the latest of which expired on June 29, with the stock failing to recover above the required level.

The company said it has the option to request a hearing before the Nasdaq Hearings Panel by July 7, but does not intend to appeal the decision.

REE stock fell to an intraday low of $0.18.

NCRA’s Reverse Stock Split To Be Implemented After Closing Bell

Nocera is set to implement a 1-for-30 reverse stock split of its common stock after market hours on Monday. The stock will begin trading on a split-adjusted basis when the market opens on July 7.

Following the reverse split, the company expects its outstanding shares to be reduced from about 46.5 million to roughly 1.55 million.

The reverse stock split was approved by shareholders at the company’s annual meeting in January 2026, at a ratio of not less than 1-for-5 and not greater than 1-for-100.

Shares of the aquaculture firm fell to an intra-day low of $0.057. The stock had fallen below $1 in January and has failed to breach the threshold since.

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits remained in the ‘bearish’ zone over the past 24 hours.

Also read: NNVC Stock In The Limelight After This Analyst Sees A 350% Upside Potential – Everything To Know About Its Experimental Drug For Ebola

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

New Amrit Bharat Express, Puri-Koraput daytime train launched in Odisha

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:30 +0530

New Train Services Launched in Odisha

A daily service of Amrit Bharat Express between Brahmapur and Surat was launched on Monday, and a daytime rail service between Puri and Koraput has commenced, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said.

Speaking to reporters in Brahmapur, Vaishwanw said there was already a night service from Puri to Koraput, but there had long been a demand for a daytime service--specifically one that would connect the entire southern and western regions of Odisha--and that service has now commenced. "Additionally, the Amrit Bharat Express, a daily service between Brahmapur and Surat, was launched today. Given the long-standing economic and cultural ties between Ganjam district and Surat, there had been a persistent demand for this train, which has now been fulfilled. Station construction is also progressing excellently," he said. "I inspected the Puri station today; it has turned out to be magnificent, featuring architecture inspired by the style associated with Lord Jagannath. Other stations are also being developed beautifully," he added.

Special Arrangements for Rath Yatra Devotees

The Railway Minister also talked about facilities for convenience of devotees coming to attend Rath Yatra. Vaishnaw and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed the preparedness ahead of the annual Rath Yatra in Puri. They flagged off the Puri-Koraput train at Puri railway station earlier today.

"Devotees from across the globe attend the holy Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, and the Railways is making special arrangements for them. This time, holding areas are being set up to comfortably accommodate around 30,000 passengers," he said. "Facilities include high-quality toilets and ticket counters arranged in a zigzag layout to prevent congestion and ensure a smooth flow of people. There will be a control room, coordination between the civil police and railway police, and the operation of over 300 special trains alongside more than 800 regular trains--bringing the total to over 1,100 trains," he added.

Vaishnaw inspected the Brahmapur and Puri stations during his Odisha visit.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA dismisses Belgium's challenge over US forward Folarin Balogun

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:29 +0530

In a statement as per The Athletic, FIFA said its Appeals Committee had declared the Royal Belgian Football Association's (RBFA) request "inadmissible", ruling that the federation was "not a party to the proceedings and, as such, has no standing to appeal the decision."

In response, the RBFA acknowledged FIFA's decision and said it had taken note of the ruling, while adding that it was considering "further actions" that remain available to the federation, as per The Athletic.

Trump's Intervention Sparks Controversy

FIFA announced that the implementation of Balogun's automatic one-match suspension had been suspended under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. In its statement, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee said, "By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year."

Trump Calls Red Card Unfair

Earlier today, US President Donald Trump said he spoke to FIFA president Gianni Infantino to "review" the footballer Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension triggered by a red card. Balogun was shown a red card in the 64th minute of the United States' 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, afterwards, FIFA announced that the implementation of Balogun's automatic one-match suspension had been suspended under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, following an intervention by Trump, who urged the organisation to review the case.

"I spoke to Gianni who's highly respected. That wasn't a foul, that wasn't even an infraction, that was two guys running full speed that happened to crash into each other. You... you can't take your foot and properly place it on somebody else's foot when you're going... No, these were two great athletes that got tangled up and this referee, who is a little bit suspect if you check his past. I don't want to say that because I don't like to create controversy. But very suspect. He (Balogun) didn't do anything wrong, and he's one of our best players, a very vital player, and he gave him a red card. So, yes I asked for a review by FIFA. I spoke to a man who's highly respected. I asked for a review because I didn't think it was a foul," Trump said, as per C-SPAN. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Doctors are guiding light of society, says Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:28 +0530

Doctors are Guiding Light of Society: CM Saini

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday said doctors are the guiding light of society and that healthcare infrastructure and medical services have witnessed significant expansion across the country, including Haryana, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Saini was addressing a programme organised by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in Ambala City, where Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda attended as the chief guest and interacted with doctors. Haryana Energy Minister Anil Vij was also present.

Addressing the gathering, Saini described doctors as the guiding light of society and said the medical profession has been accorded the status of "Vaidyo Narayano Hari" in Indian scriptures for its service to humanity. He said doctors stand by patients during their most difficult moments and that the past 12 years had witnessed unprecedented progress in the country's healthcare sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with a focus on ensuring quality healthcare reaches the last person.

Highlighting the state's achievements, the Chief Minister said nearly 32 lakh people in Haryana had benefited under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme. According to a release, he said 17 medical colleges had been established in the state over the past 12 years, while work on additional institutions was underway, adding that establishing a medical college in every district remained a priority of the state government.

Saini said Haryana, which produced around 700 doctors annually before 2014, was now producing more than 2,500 doctors every year. He also assured the IMA that the state government would positively consider the association's demands.

Union Minister Nadda Details National Health Schemes

Addressing the programme, Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda urged doctors to share their achievements and success stories with the public, saying the medical profession serves society round the clock with dedication and compassion.

Highlighting healthcare initiatives under the Centre, Nadda said nearly 1.85 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs had been established across the country to provide primary healthcare services. He said 11 vaccines were now being administered nationwide from birth to the age of 16 years, with coverage reaching around 98 per cent. The Union Minister said the percentage of women delivering in government hospitals had increased significantly.

Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, he said India developed its own vaccines, supplied them to several countries and ensured vaccination, including booster doses, for lakhs of people. He also said India had remained polio-free while some countries continued to struggle with the disease.

Nadda said nearly 42 crore people had undergone health screening under various government initiatives since 2017, including screening for dental ailments, mental health conditions, diabetes, oral cancer, breast cancer and other diseases. He said these health check-ups were conducted for people above 30 years of age through ASHA workers.

He further said medical facilities had been strengthened through various programmes under the Ayushman Bharat scheme over the past nine months and called for greater focus on telemedicine and Ayurvedic healthcare to improve access to quality treatment.

Praising the Haryana government, Nadda said the state had made significant progress in the healthcare sector under Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini. He said Haryana had established 17 medical colleges and had been allotted two AIIMS institutions under the Centre's initiative to establish 23 new AIIMS across the country.

During the programme, representatives of the Indian Medical Association submitted a memorandum outlining their demands to Union Health Minister and Chief Minister. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Dhami meets diaspora, hails them as partners in Uttarakhand's growth

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:25 +0530

CM Dhami Engages with Uttarakhand Diaspora in Mumbai

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held an interactive meeting with members of the Uttarakhand diaspora in Mumbai, where he shared the state's five-year journey of development and his commitment to public service as the state's Chief Servant. The Chief Minister highlighted that over the past five years, the dignity, recognition, and pride of the Uttarakhand diaspora have received renewed prominence. He said the state government has made the diaspora an important partner in Uttarakhand's development, according to a release.

He also appealed to Uttarakhandis living across India and abroad to continue contributing to the state's progress. Appreciating the role of the diaspora, he said they have been instrumental in promoting Uttarakhand's rich culture, folk traditions, and the identity of Devbhoomi on the global stage. "Wherever Uttarakhandis live, they serve as cultural ambassadors and the greatest brand ambassadors of the state," the Chief Minister said.

Members of the Uttarakhand diaspora accorded the Chief Minister a warm welcome and expressed their confidence in the government's development journey and people-centric initiatives.

Foundation Laid for Flood Protection Projects

As part of development initiatives, Dhami earlier laid the foundation stone for two flood protection projects worth over Rs 65 crore at Boomghat in Champawat district, including a Rs 60.21 crore embankment along the Sharda River from Boom to Tanakpur and a Rs 5.74 crore flood protection wall on the Huddi River to safeguard Chhinigoth village in Purnagiri tehsil.

The Chief Minister received a traditional welcome upon his arrival, with a ceremonial tilak, angavastram, Kumaoni cap, flower petals, and a vibrant Chholiya dance performance.

Before the ceremony, the Chief Minister inspected the ongoing flood protection works along the Sharda River. He directed officials to maintain high construction quality and ensure timely completion of the projects.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Rain Spencer, Ariana Greenblatt to star in Anne Hathaway's 'Little Five'

Asianet News Central — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:24 +0530

Rain Spencer and Ariana Greenblatt are set to star in the feature film 'Little Five', from Anne Hathaway's production company Somewhere Pictures and Pigasus Pictures, reported Deadline. Ian Samuels will direct from a screenplay by Gillian Williams and Paul Shoulberg. Additional casting and production details have not been announced.

About 'Little Five'

According to the outlet, set against the backdrop of Indiana University in the early 1980s and inspired by the iconic Little 500 bicycle race, 'Little Five' follows four unlikely young women who come together to chase one impossible dream. As they fight for a place in one of America's most storied collegiate sporting traditions, they discover that true greatness isn't achieved alone, and that changing history sometimes begins with a single team. Inspired by true events, the film captures the spirit of an era defined by big dreams, bigger risks, unforgettable music, and the women who helped redefine collegiate athletics.

Meet the Cast

Spencer is known for starring in the breakout hit series 'The Summer I Turned Pretty'. She won Best Performance at the Tribeca Festival for Good Girl Jane and is currently seen in 'Big Girls Don't Cry', which premiered at Sundance this year.

Greenblatt is best known for her performances in Barbie and Now You See Me: Now You Don't. She is represented by Untitled Entertainment, CAA and Jackoway Austen Tyerman. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Why Did BMNR Stock Surge 11% Today?

Stocktwits Inc — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:06 +0530

The company stated that as of July 5, 6:30 p.m. ET, its Ethereum holdings stood at more than 5.7 million, while its Bitcoin holdings were at 206.
On the same date, Bitmine said its total staked ETH stands at $8.8 billion at $1,800 per ETH, and estimates ETH staking reward of $277 million on an annualized basis.
Including crypto and other assets, Bitmine calculated the total value of its holdings at $11.1 billion.

Shares of Bitmine Immersion Technologies (BNMR) surged on Monday after the company disclosed the latest data on its asset holdings.

At the time of writing, BMNR stock was up more than 11% and was on track to close in the green for a third consecutive day.

BNMR’s Latest Update

The company stated that as of July 5, 6:30 p.m. ET, its Ethereum holdings stood at more than 5.7 million, while Bitcoin was at 206. It held an $180-million stake in Beast Industries, a holding company owned by popular YouTuber MrBeast, and a $71-million stake in Eightco Holdings (ORBS), which has exposure to Sam Altman-led startup OpenAI. The company also reported $527 million in cash and marketable securities.

Cumulatively, the company calculated the total value of its holdings at $11.1 billion and highlighted that it held 4.8% of the total Ethereum supply of 120.7 million.

As of the same date, Bitmine said its total staked ETH stands at $8.8 billion at $1,800 per ETH, and estimates ETH staking reward of $277 million on an annualized basis.

Recent Russell 1000 Addition Of BMNR

In late June, the company joined the Russell 1000 Large-cap Index, becoming one of the handful of crypto firms added to the coveted list, which it expects will improve its market visibility and attract attention from prominent institutional investors.

"Being added to the Russell 1000 is expected to add hundreds and possibly thousands of additional institutional investors as equity owners of Bitmine," chairman Tom Lee said in a statement.

What Retail Traders Think About BMNR

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment toward the stock remained in ‘bullish’ territory over the last 24 hours.

BMNR shares have lost 43% in value so far this year and declined roughly 86% over the last 12 months, underperforming the benchmark index.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

Ganja Seizure: Fish Seller’s ‘Secret Night Menu’ Sparks Shock in Kerala!

Indrakshi Samanta — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:59:03 +0530

Alappuzha: The Excise department in Chengannur has seized a total of 3.5 kg of ganja and arrested two people in separate raids conducted as part of 'Operation Thunder'.

In the first case, officials nabbed an Assam native who was selling ganja under the cover of a fish stall in Mannar. The team seized two kilos of ganja from him. In a separate incident in Budhanur, a man from Bengal was arrested with 1.5 kg of ganja.

The Assam native, identified as Binoy Daimary, was running a fish stall on the Mavelikkara-Mannar road. He was selling fresh fish during the day, but his real business was selling fresh ganja. Locals found it suspicious that his stall was getting a lot of visitors, especially youngsters, late at night. They tipped off the Excise department.

Vlogger Arrested: Anti Drug Activist Exposed On Live Stream For Substance Use!

Acting on the information, a team led by Excise Circle Inspector T. Rajeev raided the stall. They found two kilos of ganja cleverly hidden along with the fish. According to reports, many young people used to frequent his stall at night to buy drugs.

In the second bust, which took place not far from Mannar, officials arrested a man from West Bengal. The accused, 26-year-old Sanatan Sarkar from Harirampur, was caught with 1.5 kg of ganja on the Puliyoor-Mannar road in Budhanur. An Excise team led by Range Inspector V. Sajeev made the arrest.

Kerala: Massive Drug Crackdown in Pathanamthitta Sparks Attention! Read Details

Ram Mandir donation row: SIT finds staff hiding cash, says report

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:31:03 +0530

The preliminary report of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) into the Ram Mandir donation row states that prima facie, around 70 suspicious incidents were captured on CCTV between April 27 and June 5, 2026 and in CCTV footage, counting staff were seen concealing wads of cash.

The preliminary report points to lapses and said there was no frisking at entry and exit, poor control over personal belongings, and cash from multiple donation boxes counted together were among the reasons made the crime possible. The report mentions recovery of around Rs 78.94 lakh from some employees before the investigation. An additional Rs 2.25 lakh was allegedly recovered from the bathroom attached to the counting room on June 4, 2026. The report also states that no prima facie evidence was found to support social media claims about missing silver bricks or other valuable offerings.

Trust Takes Action Amid Irregularities

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which met on Monday, accepted the resignations of general secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra and announced some administrative measures. According to a press release issued after a meeting of the trustees in Ayodhya, the Trust also decided to remove Gopal Nagarkote from the list of special invitee members.

The meeting reviewed the alleged irregularities, the ongoing investigation, media reports, and interim administrative arrangements. "Upon learning of irregularities, Trust officials gathered initial information and requested an impartial investigation from the Uttar Pradesh government, which subsequently formed a high-level Special Investigation Team (SIT)," the release stated.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

CBI raids 26 locations in 11 states over BRO funds misappropriation

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:31:00 +0530

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has conducted searches at 26 locations across 11 States and Union Territories in connection with 4 criminal cases pertaining to misappropriation of funds of Border Road Organisation (BRO).

Accoding to a release, the 11 States and Union Territories include Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Delhi, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.

Several incriminating documents and digital evidence have been recovered during the searches, and the investigation is continuing, it said.

Details of Irregularities

These cases relate to irregularities in the deployment of casual labourers and payments released in the name of fake casual labourers in the Project Vijayak and Yojak in the UT of Ladakh.

As per the release, four FIRs were registered in this connection based on criminal complaints lodged by the Ministry of Defence, based on an internal enquiry conducted by the Technical Board of Officers of BRO.

In its release, CBI said they are committed to conducting a comprehensive investigation in these cases in the quickest possible time.

Charges and Accused

The offence relates to misappropriation of government funds, cheating, forgery, criminal breach of trust and criminal conspiracy under the IPC and the offence of criminal misconduct and bribery under the PC Act, 1988.

A total of 10 officers of the rank of Lt Col, Major and Engineers, along with certain private persons, have been named in the FIRs, the release added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Moritz de Hadeln, former director of Berlinale, Venice, dies at 85

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:30:59 +0530

Former Director of the Locarno Film Festival, the Berlinale and Venice Film Festival, Moritz de Hadeln has passed away at 85. According to Variety, the festival director died on Saturday at a hospital in Nyon, Switzerland. Zurich Film Festival CEO Christian Jungen confirmed that de Hadeln suffered from complications following a recent medical procedure.

Berlinale's Tribute

In a tribute to the late festival director, the official social media handle of Berlinale extended condolences to his family and remembered his contributions. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Berlinale (@berlinale) "We mourn the passing of Moritz de Hadeln, one of the most influential figures in international film culture. As Director of the Locarno Film Festival, the Berlinale, and later the Venice International Film Festival, he helped shape the landscape of world cinema for more than three decades. During his tenure as Director of the Berlinale from 1980 to 2001, Moritz de Hadeln transformed the festival into one of the leading meeting places for the global film industry," a part of the post read.

An Illustrious Career

Moritz de Hadeln was born in 1940 in Exeter, England. His grandfather, Detlev Freiherr von Hadeln, was a prominent art historian of the Venetian Renaissance. After beginning as a photographer and documentary director, de Hadeln and his wife Erika founded the Nyon International Documentary Film Festival in 1969. Next, from 1972 to 1977, he directed Switzerland's Locarno International Film Festival. Starting from 1980, de Hadeln ran the Berlinale for over 20 years before leaving in 2001. In 2002, he became the Venice Film Festival's first non-Italian artistic director.

International Recognition

Over the years, de Hadeln has served on many international jury panels, including in Karlovy Vary, Venice, Moscow, Montreal, Torino, Tehran, Damascus, Kyiv and Yerevan. He was also a member of the European Film Academy. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jaipur: Roof of under-construction building collapses, 11 injured

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:30:52 +0530

At least eleven labourers were injured after the roof of an under-construction building at the Forestry Training Institute (FTI) complex of the Forest Department in Jaipur's Jhalana area collapsed, officials said on Monday.

The incident occurred while labourers were carrying out construction work on a new Forest Department building. A portion of the under-construction roof suddenly gave way, trapping 11 workers beneath the debris.

Soon after the incident, rescue operations were launched immediately, and all the trapped labourers were pulled out and shifted to Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital Trauma Centre for treatment.

Victims' Condition Stable

According to hospital authorities, two of the injured labourers are from Uttar Pradesh, while the remaining workers are residents of Bihar. The injured include Lalchand, a foreman from Dausa, Nitish Mandal, Rajiv Mandal, Sonu and Udit, among others.

Speaking to ANI, Dr Rajendra Mandia, Nodal Officer at the Trauma Centre, SMS Hospital, said, "A total of 11 injured labourers were brought to the hospital, and we have admitted nine patients in the OPD. Treatment is ongoing, and everyone remains in stable condition. Patients with serious injuries have been placed under special observation."

Hospital officials said there have been no fatalities in the incident, and the condition of all the injured is stable.

Probe Ordered Into Collapse

Police and administrative officials reached the spot soon after receiving information about the incident and began an investigation into the cause of the collapse.

Preliminary findings suggest the accident may have occurred due to the sudden collapse of the under-construction roof slab. Authorities are also examining the quality of construction and whether prescribed safety norms were followed at the site. The administration has ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ali Abbas Zafar celebrates 10 years of Salman Khan starrer 'Sultan'

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:30:34 +0530

Filmmaker Ali Abbas Zafar is celebrating 10 years of his Salman Khan starrer sports drama 'Sultan'. Zafar shared an image carousel with glimpses from film theatres on Instagram. He also shared a picture of Salman Khan as his character Sultan Ali Khan.

"10 year of Sultan @beingsalmankhan @anushkasharma @yrf and my Lovely Team. Thank you - the love just keeps growing," the filmmaker wrote. https://www.instagram.com/p/Dac0y7rAyZY/

Fans quickly rushed to the comment section and shared their reactions as many expressed their fondness for the film. Actor Rajat Bedi commented, "What a beautiful film."

About the 2016 Blockbuster

Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, 'Sultan' is a story of a wrestler played by Salman who in a bid to impress a woman wrestler, played by Anushka Sharma, decides to pursue wrestling and ends up becoming successful only to lose his ladylove when things take a bad turn. The film produced by Aditya Chopra was released in 2016. Not only was the film successful at the box office, but it also gave hit tracks like 'Baby Ko Bass Pasand Hai' and 'Jag Ghoomeya.'

Salman Khan's Upcoming Film

On the work front for Salman Khan, the actor will be next seen in the upcoming war film 'Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace'. Produced by Salma Khan under the banner of Salman Khan Films, 'Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace' is directed by Apoorva Lakhia and also stars Chitrangada Singh in a pivotal role.

The film was earlier titled 'Battle of Galwan' before being renamed 'Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace.' It is based on the 2020 Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops. Originally slated for release in April this year, the film was later postponed. The makers are yet to announce a revised release date. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Paris Couture Week: Isha Ambani, Cardi B stun in Rahul Mishra looks

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:30:34 +0530

Rahul Mishra's Star-Studded Couture Show

Paris Haute Couture Week kicked off on Monday, with Indian designer Rahul Mishra showcasing his exquisite collection. Notably, his show was attended by renowned dignitaries including businesswoman-philanthropist Isha Ambani and rapper Cardi B.

Isha Ambani and Cardi B Bond in Front Row

In a video shared by self-proclaimed fashion watchdog Diet Sabya, Isha and Cardi B are seen seated together in the front row, chatting and bonding over their shared love of fashion. https://www.instagram.com/p/DadUItXqWJb/?hl=en Both were dressed in custom Rahul Mishra ensembles, flaunting his latest collection 'Devi'.

Cardi's ivory ensemble showcases the designer's signature blend of Indian craftsmanship and sculptural couture. Isha opted for an elegant slate grey-blue Rahul Mishra couture look featuring a beautifully draped, body-skimming silhouette.

A Glimpse Behind the Seams

Just hours before the show, Rahul Mishra posted a glimpse of his 'karigars' at work, carefully crafting the final ensembles. https://www.instagram.com/p/Dac5THFJSup/?hl=en

Other Highlights: Maison Schiaparelli

Maison Schiaparelli also unveiled its Fall/Winter 2026-2027 haute couture collection, The Abyss, under the creative direction of Daniel Roseberry. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

HP Congress begins strengthening organisation for 2027 Assembly polls

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:30:30 +0530

Himachal Pradesh Congress chief Vinay Kumar on Monday said that the party has begun strengthening its organisational structure at every level in preparation for the 2027 Assembly elections.

Speaking with ANI after the conclusion of the two-day General House meeting of Congress leaders in Shimla, Kumar said extensive deliberations were held on organisational expansion, the functioning of the state government, and the party's strategy for the next Assembly elections. "We held a General House meeting followed by detailed discussions with leaders of all our frontal organisations. There were extensive deliberations on expanding the organisation, reviewing the performance of the Congress government, and preparing our roadmap for the 2027 Assembly elections," he said.

Strengthening Organisational Network

Kumar noted that the Congress is restructuring its organisational network to improve coordination and monitoring from the grassroots to the national level. "Our organisational elections are underway. After that, committees and office-bearers will be constituted. We have connected district units with the AICC, and district presidents have linked all block committees with their respective District Congress Committees (DCCs). This will ensure that every activity at the block level is reported to the DCC, then to the district, and directly to the AICC. The AICC will be able to monitor organisational activities and assess where work is progressing and where improvements are needed," he said.

Strategy to Counter BJP

He added that the Congress is preparing to counter what he termed the BJP's "false claims" ahead of the next elections. Referring to the controversy surrounding donations collected for the Ram Temple, Kumar accused the BJP of exploiting religion for political purposes. "The BJP came to power seeking votes in the name of Lord Ram. The same donations collected in Lord Ram's name are now under a cloud. This is a very serious matter and has been discussed at every level within the party," he said.

Rejecting allegations that the Congress was politicising the issue, Kumar said, "It is the BJP that is doing politics over this issue. They sought votes in the name of Lord Ram, and now questions are being raised. It is the BJP that is politicising the matter".

Kumar concluded that the organisational exercise and political strategy discussed during the two-day meeting would strengthen the Congress ahead of future electoral challenges in Himachal Pradesh.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Colin Woodell, KJ Apa, Diane Guerrero to lead 'Myron Bolitar' series

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:30:30 +0530

The streaming giant Netflix's 'Myron Bolitar' drama series has cast its three lead roles. Colin Woodell will star in the title role alongside KJ Apa as Win Lockwood and Diane Guerrero as Esperanza Diaz, reported Variety.

About the 'Myron Bolitar' Series

Netflix originally announced the series pickup in May as part of their upfront presentation to advertisers. The show is inspired by Harlan Coben's popular 'Myron Bolitar' books, of which 12 have been published. The logline for the show states, "After an injury ends his NBA dreams, Myron Bolitar (Woodell) reinvents himself as a sports agent -- using charm, smarts, and a ruthless partner to navigate the high-stakes and dirty world of sports, where saving his clients often means risking himself."

According to Variety, Bolitar is further described as "A former college basketball star whose NBA career came to an abrupt end, Myron reinvented himself as a sports agent. He built his agency - MB Sports - on an unwavering belief in overlooked athletes, with the same heart and fierce competitive drive he once brought to the court." Woodell previously starred in the medical drama 'Pulse' and recently appeared in the comedy series 'I Love LA.' He is also known for starring in the 'John Wick' prequel series 'The Continental' and for playing Buzz Aldrin in the Greg Berlanti 'Fly Me to the Moon.'

Meet the Co-Stars

Win Lockwood (KJ Apa)

Lockwood is said to be "Born into extraordinary privilege, Win walked away from the family business to build something of his own alongside his closest friend, Myron. Unflappable, endlessly resourceful, and fiercely loyal, he's the one Myron turns to when clients find themselves in trouble," as quoted by Variety. Apa is best known for his starring role in the hit series "Riverdale," on which he played Archie Andrews for the show's entire seven-season run.

Esperanza Diaz (Diane Guerrero)

Diaz is described as "A former professional wrestler turned Myron's indispensable right hand at MB Sports. Armed with endless grit and razor-sharp wit, Esperanza is the backbone of the agency and the steady force keeping both Myron and clients in check," as per the character description as quoted by Variety. Guerrero gained fame with her role as Maritza Ramos in the seminal Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black," which ran for seven seasons. She is also known for starring in the critically-acclaimed CW show "Jane the Virgin" and the DC series "Doom Patrol" at HBO Max. In film, she provided the voice of Isabela in the smash-hit Disney animated musical "Encanto."

Harlan Coben's Growing Netflix Universe

'Myron Bolitar' is the latest Netflix project based on Coben's work in recent year. The others are: 'Fool Me Once,' 'Run Away,' 'Safe,' 'The Woods,' 'The Innocent,' 'Gone for Good,' 'Stay Close,' 'Hold Tight,' 'The Stranger," "Missing You," "Just One Look," "Caught," and "I Will Find You." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Revanth Reddy's plan to boost tourism in Hyderabad, Future City

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:30:28 +0530

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Monday proposed promoting tourism in and around Hyderabad and Bharat Future City, and directed officials to prepare an action plan for developing eco-tourism in the CURE (Core Urban Region) area. Chairing a review meeting of the Tourism Department, the Chief Minister instructed officials to prepare a plan to develop Taramati Baradari and Durgam Cheruvu into major tourist destinations with modern facilities.

The meeting also discussed proposals for the modernisation of the Manjira and Dilkusha guest houses, a release said.

Vikarabad Tourism Hub and Spiritual Centre

Revanth Reddy emphasized that Vikarabad should be developed under the Tourism Hub Development Scheme and said the Veerabhadra Swamy Temple should be developed as a spiritual tourism centre. He also instructed officials to constitute a committee for the temple on the lines of the Yadagirigutta Devasthanam Trust Board.

Puranapul Heritage Bridge Revival

Reviewing the status of the Puranapul heritage bridge, the Chief Minister directed officials to develop the surrounding area into a tourist destination by creating facilities for visitors. He also suggested diverting traffic, if required, to facilitate tourist access to the bridge.

Focus on Eco-Tourism and Urban Forests

The Chief Minister also reviewed forest lands falling within the CURE limits and directed the Forest and Tourism departments to jointly develop eco-tourism projects. He instructed officials to develop eco-parks within the city on the lines of the Gurramguda Eco Park and develop forest lands in the Future City to international standards.

He also called for the appointment of a special officer to expedite urban forest projects.

Global Investment Summit Preparations

Revanth Reddy also reviewed preparations for the Global Investment Summit scheduled to be held in December and directed officials to constitute committees to ensure coordination among various departments for the event.

Chief Minister's Advisor Ramakrishna Rao, Special Chief Secretary Jayesh Ranjan, CMO Principal Secretary Seshadri, Principal Secretary Sridhar, Tourism Secretary Vani Prasad and Tourism Corporation Managing Director Gautami attended the meeting. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA World Cup 2026: US President Trump Confirms Intervening in Folarin Balogun’s Ban Reversal

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:24:42 +0530

President Donald Trump confirmed Monday he asked FIFA boss Gianni Infantino to review the "horrible" decision to hand a red card to star US striker Folarin Balogun, but said he did not request it be overturned.

"I asked for a review because I didn't think it was a foul," Trump told reporters at the White House. "All I did was ask for a review; I didn't say you have to do this."

"That wasn't even an infraction. That was two guys running full speed that happened to crash into each other," Trump said.

Trump on Balogun: "I saw the play, and I'm a person that loves sports ... that wasn't a foul. That wasn't even an infraction ... this referee, who is a little bit suspect if you check his past. He made a call that nobody could believe ... he's our best player, or one of our best… pic.twitter.com/YfIqb1JA4u

— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 6, 2026

The Republican president -- who said "I understand sports really well" -- acknowledged that he was initially unaware that the red card meant Balogun was barred from the next game, saying the rule is "very unfair."

Also Read: Blatter warns against 'political power' in FIFA's Balogun ruling

Trump Questions Referee After Balogun Red Card

Trump took aim at Raphael Claus, the Brazilian referee who made the call, describing him as "a little bit suspect if you check his past."

Balogun had been set to miss Monday's last-16 knockout clash against Belgium after receiving a straight red card following a video review for stepping on the ankle of a Bosnian defender in a round-of-32 clash that the US won 2-0.

Under FIFA rules, a straight red card automatically triggers a one-game ban, which cannot be appealed by the player's team.

'Rigged Like Election'

US media reported that the red card kicked off multiple days of lobbying by the Trump administration aimed at getting the decision overturned.

The effort involved officials including Andrew Giuliani, the executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, as well as Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also publicly called for the red card to be rescinded.

After the personal call from Trump, world football's governing body said Sunday the ban would now be suspended for a year, with Balogun only serving it if he commits another similar foul within that period.

"We're going to have a full team, and Belgium is going to have a full team, and you know what? If they beat us, then they can be really proud," the US president said Monday.

"The other way, if they beat us... I say it was rigged, just like the election was rigged in 2020," Trump said, referring to his false, repeated claim that he was the real winner of the election won by Democrat Joe Biden.

Also Read: FIFA World Cup: Donald Trump praises 'great player' Harry Kane

Belgium Slams FIFA Over Balogun Ban Reversal

The decision to allow Balogun to play has been slammed by Belgian football officials, who released a statement saying they were "astonished" by a move that is in "direct contradiction" with FIFA's own rules.

Top scorer Balogun has been key to the US team's progress in the tournament, scoring three times, and his absence against Belgium would have been a major blow to the team in the upcoming game in Seattle.

The decision to suspend the ban was taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee.

ASML Stock Gains Over 5% — Why Bernstein Thinks ASML Holding Can Keep Climbing After Nearly 140% Run In The Past Year

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:15:00 +0530

Bernstein lifted its price target and expects AI to accelerate demand for advanced logic chips and memory, particularly DRAM capacity.
Bernstein said ASML’s lithographic manufacturing technology could gain further traction across parts of the artificial intelligence industry,
Koyfin data shows Wall Street remains bullish on ASML, with 38 of 43 analysts maintaining ‘Buy’ or ‘Strong Buy’ ratings.

Shares of ASML Holding NV (ASML) surged nearly 5.5% on Monday after Bernstein significantly raised its price target on the semiconductor equipment maker. The brokerage cited an accelerating AI-driven investment cycle and rising lithography demand fueled by unprecedented expansion in advanced logic and DRAM capacity.

Adding to the positive sentiment, SK Hynix said it plans to use proceeds from its planned U.S. IPO to expand its chip manufacturing facilities in South Korea and purchase chipmaking equipment, including ASML's extreme ultraviolet (EUV) scanners, reported The Wall Street Journal.

ASML Price Target Raised By Bernstein

Bernstein maintained its Outperform rating on ASML and raised its price target on the U.S.-listed shares to $2,623 from $1,971, implying 48% upside from Thursday’s close.

Analyst David Dai said the firm had materially increased its revenue forecasts for ASML following the unprecedented AI-driven expansion in both advanced logic and dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) capacity, according to CNBC.

“We materially increase our ASML topline forecasts following the unprecedented AI-driven expansion in both advanced logic and [dynamic random-access memory] capacity,” Dai wrote in a note to clients. “[High numerical aperture extreme ultraviolet] will likely be adopted first in DRAM than for logic due to lower cost of exposure for DRAM.”

AI Drives Demand For Advanced Lithography

ASML is the major supplier of high numerical aperture extreme ultraviolet lithography, or HNA EUV, a manufacturing technology used to make memory solutions such as DRAM and high-bandwidth memory that power AI models. These HNA EUV systems etch patterns onto silicon wafers, creating the foundation for microchips, a critical component of AI, reported CNBC.

Bernstein said ASML’s lithographic manufacturing technology could gain further traction across parts of the artificial intelligence industry, supporting strong returns for the stock in the near future.

ASML Stock: What Stocktwits Retail Sentiment Says

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for ASML was ‘extremely bearish,’ while message volume was ‘normal’ at the time of writing. Over the past 30 days, message volume for the stock has surged 250%, while the ticker’s watcher base has risen 2.1% in the same period, indicating steady growth of retail interest in the stock.

Bernstein’s positive view is broadly in line with Wall Street sentiment. According to data from Koyfin, 38 of the 43 analysts covering ASML currently have a ‘Buy’ or ‘Strong Buy’ rating on the stock.

The ASML stock has surged nearly 140% over the past year and 75% year-to-date as artificial intelligence adoption has widened, increasing interest in the company’s semiconductor manufacturing solutions.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

LMT Stock Snaps Three-Day Winning Streak: Lockheed Martin Acquires Ultra Maritime For $3.45B

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:10:00 +0530

The multi-billion-dollar acquisition incorporates Ultra Maritime's advanced sonobuoy, sonar and torpedo defense solutions into Lockheed Martin's military portfolio.
Global private equity investor Advent International is offloading the business after executing a four-year turnaround strategy that consolidated the specialized contractor into an integrated global supplier.
Ultra Maritime will operate directly under Lockheed Martin’s Rotary and Mission Systems division.

Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT) announced on Monday it has entered a definitive agreement to purchase naval systems specialist Ultra Maritime for $3.45 billion, marking a significant step to fortify its capabilities in the rapidly evolving undersea defense market.

The acquisition shifts ownership from private equity group Advent International, which had previously consolidated the specialized military business. The transaction integrates Ultra Maritime's extensive lines of underwater acoustic technology, radar assets and autonomous detection mechanisms into the world’s largest defense contractor.

The acquisition occurs amid a broader surge in global military spending with global defense contractors worldwide seeing heightened demand for next-generation defense platforms, ammunition, and surveillance capabilities, fueled by persistent geopolitical friction.

LMT stock eased 2% on Monday, at the time of writing, after gaining for three consecutive sessions.

LMT Strengthens Anti-Submarine Portfolio

Ultra Maritime primarily focuses on anti-submarine warfare (ASW), developing crucial systems such as hull-mounted sonar, towed sonar arrays, and sonobuoys. These technologies assist military vessels in detecting and responding to threats below the ocean surface.

"Undersea superiority belongs to those who move fastest and work together best," said Stephanie C. Hill, president of Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems. Hill added that uniting the companies is aimed at accelerating the deployment of highly sophisticated undersea solutions for the U.S. and international allied partners.

Once the transaction concludes, Ultra Maritime will become a permanent fixture under Lockheed Martin's Rotary and Mission Systems business segment, which reported revenue of $17.3 billion in 2025 and ⁠employs 35,000 people worldwide.

Ultra Maritime brings a wide global operational network to the deal, spanning the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Earlier in the year, the maritime supplier secured a development contract from the U.S. Navy for advanced underwater acoustic decoys engineered to intercept and mislead enemy torpedoes.

Advisors assisting Lockheed Martin through the legal and financial execution of the transaction include Citi as financial counsel, Hogan Lovells Cadwalader as legal counsel, and Fried Frank as tax-related advisory counsel.

LMT Stock: Retail View

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits was ‘bullish’ with ‘high’ message volumes. Retail chatter on the stock surged 580% over the previous session and has jumped 466% over the past week.

One user highlighted the strong demand defense contractors are seeing owing to rising geopolitics.

View this Stocktwits post

LMT stock has gained 11.2% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

DDOG's Late-June Rally Failed To Carry The Stock Beyond Recently Hit Record Highs – Interestingly, Bernstein Now Flags Slowing Demand Signals

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:05:00 +0530

Bernstein believes Datadog’s growth excluding AI will peak in the third quarter.
The firm still thinks the company can be an AI winner, but they continue to see demand signals excluding AI “flatlining.”
Wall Street remains very bullish on DDOG, with 42 of 46 analysts rating the stock a ‘Buy’ or higher.

Shares of Datadog (DDOG) caught significant investor attention on Monday after Bernstein downgraded the stock, flagging growth concerns.

At the time of writing, DDOG stock was down marginally but was among the top trending tickers on Stocktwits.

Bernstein raised its price target to $226 from $180, implying roughly 13% downside as of the stock’s last close on Thursday. However, the firm's revised price target is below the stock's recent highs.

Notably, the shares hit an all-time high of $278.70 on June 1. After a dip, the stock commenced a rally in late June but failed to breach its early-June highs, forming a lower high on the daily charts. Investors will be keeping a close eye on any potential moves toward this level for signs of a further rally.

Bernstein’s Takeaway

Analyst Peter Weed lowered the rating on the company to ‘Market Perform’ from ‘Outperform’ while cautioning about “exuberant investor expectations” for the third-quarter earnings and beyond.

According to a note seen by Seeking Alpha, Weed thinks Datadog can still be an AI winner but highlighted that demand signals are slowing in the company’s enterprise unit and in some AI labs.

Tough Comps For DDOG In Q4

The firm said the company’s fourth quarter could see roughly a 500-basis-point regression in growth, coming in at about 29% for this year, compared to investor expectations of high 30% to more than 40% growth.

“Not only do we start lapping tough comps in Q4, but as we’ve discussed in several other notes, we are seeing demand signals flatlining ex-AI (~85% of revenue) that causes ex-AI growth to peak in Q3,” Weed reportedly said.

However, Wall Street continues to be very bullish on DDOG, with 42 of 46 analysts rating the stock a ‘Buy’ or higher, while two rate it a ‘Hold’ and another two ‘Sell’ or lower.

What Retail Traders Think About DDOG

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment toward the stock remained in ‘bullish’ territory over the last 24 hours.

DDOG shares have gained 90% so far this year and have surged 70% over the last 12 months, outperforming the benchmark index.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

Heavy Mumbai rains cause waterlogging, disrupt life; CM holds meeting

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:00:55 +0530

Heavy rains have left several parts of Mumbai waterlogged, disrupting traffic and daily life across the city. Yet, despite the challenging conditions, actor Karisma Kapoor made it to the sets of India's Best Dancer 5. She even shared a video from the sets, giving fans a glimpse of the rain-soaked surroundings and the waterlogged conditions. "#IndiasBestDancerSeason5 Mumbai Rains," she captioned the post.

State Government Responds to Crisis

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday chaired a high-level meeting at the Disaster Control Room in Mantralaya to review the situation after heavy rains and landslides lashed various parts of the state, leaving at least seven people dead in rain-related incidents across Mumbai. He also confirmed that schools and colleges will remain closed.

Multiple Fatalities and Incidents Reported by BMC

Amidst all this, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported multiple fatal incidents. In Mankhurd, six people lost their lives following a building collapse. In another incident in Kurla (West), a 63-year-old man died after a tree fell on a road near Nehru Nagar.

Across the city, the BMC received 423 complaints of tree or branch falls and 29 complaints of wall or house collapses. In Jogeshwari, seven people were injured when a tree collapsed on a house, while two others were injured in Worli in a similar mishap.

Transport Services Severely Affected

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Amit Shah meets actor Prosenjit Chatterjee in Kolkata, talks govt wins

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:00:53 +0530

Amit Shah Meets Prosenjit Chatterjee

Union Home Minister Amit Shah met actor Prosenjit Chatterjee in Kolkata on Monday in the presence of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. During the interaction, Shah told the actor about the achievements of the Modi-led government in the last 12 years. Prosenjit also presented a book to Amit Shah during their meeting.

The Home Minister, who arrived in Kolkata earlier in the day, was received by the West Bengal Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari.

Commemorating Syama Prasad Mookerjee

The Union Home Minister reached Kolkata to take part in the commemorative events celebrating the birth anniversary of the Founder of Bharatiya Jana Sangh, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Amit Shah on Monday performed bhoomi pujan and laid the foundation stone for a 125-foot statue of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee at the Eco Park in Kolkata. The event coincided with the 125th birth anniversary of the BJP ideologue.

Amit Shah also visited the ancestral home of Syama Prasad Mookerjee in Bhabanipur, Kolkata and garlanded the busts of Syama Prasad Mookerjee and his father, Asutosh Mookerjee.

Prosenjit Chatterjee Honoured with Padma Shri

As for Prosenjit Chatterjee, the actor has been conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri Award by President Droupadi Murmu at the Civil Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Honoured for his immense contribution to Indian cinema, particularly Bengali films, Prosenjit received one of the country's highest civilian awards amid loud applause.

Present at the event were Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and many other dignitaries. For the occasion, Prosenjit Chatterjee chose a traditional ensemble consisting of a golden kurta set.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Modi's visit to boost India's global profile, exports: Piyush Goyal

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:00:50 +0530

Goyal Expresses Confidence in PM's Visit

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Monday expressed confidence that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand will enhance India's global profile and open up new opportunities for Indian industry and exports. He said the world views India as a trusted partner under the leadership of PM Modi.

"We already have Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with all three countries being visited by the Prime Minister, Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand. Their markets are now open to Indian exports. I am confident that this visit will enhance India's global profile and open up new opportunities for Indian industry and exports," he said. "The Prime Minister is globally acclaimed; he has been conferred with 33 of the highest international honours by various nations. I believe that under his leadership, the entire world views India as a trusted partner, and through this visit, we will succeed in further strengthening that bond," he added.

PM Modi's Indonesia Itinerary

PM Modi reached Indonesia on Monday in the first leg of his three-nation visit. India and Indonesia elevated bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during my first visit to Indonesia in 2018. PM Modi said in his departure statement that this will be his first bilateral visit after the elevation of bilateral ties and follows the state visit of President Prabowo, who was the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations on 26 January, 2025. PM Modi said that India and Indonesia share strong civilizational and people-to-people ties and his visit will further deepen all aspects of our multifaceted partnership.

During this visit, PM Modi will also interact with the Indian diaspora in Indonesia and visit the Prambanan Temple complex at Yogyakarta with President Prabowo, which is another remarkable testament to our close cultural ties.

PM Modi will also visit Australia and New Zealand. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Delhi HC grants bail to Lt. Colonel in alleged MCD corruption case

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:00:33 +0530

The Delhi High Court on Monday granted regular bail to Lt. Colonel Abhishek Kumar Mishra, who has been arrested in an alleged corruption case. He was on deputation in the MCD as Deputy Commissioner. His earlier bail application was dismissed by the trial court.

Court's Rationale for Bail

Vacation judge Justice Madhu Jain granted bail to Abhisek Kumar Mishra on furnishing a bail bond of Rs 25000 and a surety bond in the like amount. " Considering the facts and circumstances of the case, particularly the fact that the chargesheet has already been filed, the sanction for prosecution is still awaited, and the petitioner has remained in custody for more than three months, this Court thinks that the petitioner is entitled to be released on regular bail," Justice Jain said in the order.

While granting bail to Mishra, the High Court noted that the petitioner is not an employee of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) but was sent on deputation from the Ministry of Defence to the MCD. The court also noted that at this stage, except for the disclosure statement of the co-accused and the recovery of Rs.4 lakh from the residence of the petitioner, there is no other incriminating material against the petitioner on record.

The counsel further submitted that the complainant himself was facing a vigilance inquiry and the alleged demand of money was made for closing the said vigilance inquiry. It is further submitted that cognisance has not yet been taken. Senior Counsel for the petitioner submitted that the petitioner has been in judicial custody for the last 3 and a half months. He further submitted that though the respondent contends that the present case is a trap case, nothing was recovered from the petitioner herein, and the only evidence against him pertains to the alleged conspiracy.

Background of the Allegations

The Rouse Avenue court in May had dismissed the bail plea of Deputy Commissioner of MCD Abhishek Kumar Mishra (Lt. Colonel on Deputation in MCD). He has been arrested in a bribery case alongwith another official of MCD.

The bribe money was allegedly recovered from Devanshu Gautam after he accepted the same on behalf of Mishra, the CBI said. Then the bribe amount was delivered to Mishra's wife by Gautam. Thereafter, the amount was recovered from the house of Mishra.

The CBI had arrested Mishra and an administration officer for the alleged offence of demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs. 4 Lakh from another employee of MCD, who is facing departmental proceedings in order to extend him a favour. It is alleged that one Mukesh Kumar Sharma and his colleague Gajender Kumar, both working in MCD, were under suspension and their departmental inquiry was being conducted by Colonel Abhishek Kumar Mishra, who is on deputation as Deputy Commissioner, Shahdara (North), MCD, Delhi.

The CBI Trap

Allegedly, Devanshu Kumar Gautam, working as an Administrative Officer in MCD, acted as a mediator and conduit of Mishra and demanded a bribe of Rs. 4 Lakhs from the complainant on behalf of Mishra in order to extend favour in the departmental proceedings.

Mukesh Kumar had lodged a complaint with the CBI on March 27, and acting on the complaint, the CBI caught red-handed Devanshu Kumar Gautam after he accepted a bribe of Rs. 4 Lakh from the complainant in his car at Rajghat Parking. After accepting the bribe, Gautam informed Mishra on the mobile that Mukesh had given Rs 4 Lakh. Mishra asked Gautam to visit his house and deliver the amount, as he was busy with official work. Thereafter, Gautam was made to deliver the amount, and he delivered the bribe amount to Mishra's wife. The CBI team waited for Mishra to arrive. When he arrived, the raising team arrested Colonel Mishra and recovered the bribe amount from his house. The CBI has said that it has the recording of the conversation.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Vaibhav was ready for debut as soon as he joined: Sitanshu Kotak

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:00:28 +0530

Ahead of his side's third T20I against England at Nottingham, Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak spoke on 15-year-old prodigy's Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's international debut in the previous match, saying that the youngster was ready for a debut as soon as he joined the team and he has been encouraged to play the brand of cricket which has taken him to stardom at such a young age. History was made during the 2nd T20I at Manchester as at the age of 15 years and 99 days, Sooryavanshi surpassed legend Sachin Tendulkar (16 years and 238 days) as youngest Indian international cricketer. Despite all the hype, Sooryavanshi was not given a debut during the Ireland series, which India lost 2-0 and also was not included in the first England T20I, which was washed out. His first innings could yield only 14 in 10 balls, with two sixes.

'Play the way you play cricket'

Speaking during the presser, Sitanshu Kotak said about Sooryavanshi's debut and thought process behind it. "When Vaibhav joined the team, he was set to debut anyway. It is not like he became ready just before the last match. I think the only thing regarding his game from our side was just play your game, follow your instincts, play the way you play cricket, the same cricket that got you here. For batting, I do not think there were any other specific instructions like 'do this' or 'do that'," Kotak said.

On middle-over struggles

Speaking of India's struggles to keep their hyper-aggressive tempo in middle overs, Kotak said that in last match, the wind played a significant role in the middle overs. He also said that not every condition can produce a contest with high scores of 225-250 runs. "They (England) also bowled well in between. I think 190 was maybe a little above par or at least a par score. So, I think in both matches, 190 is not... in every condition you can't say it can be 225-250. So 190 to 200 is... but this ground (at Nottingham), yes, there are angles, it's a bit small, so the planning will obviously be according to that," he added.

'A transition is happening'

Sitanshu also took notice of change in noise around the team, shifting from their dominance till the T20 WC win to questions raising serious concerns in various departments during Shreyas Iyer's captaincy era's beginning. Sitanshu rubbished all talks, saying that team is trying to play new talent, has a new captain at helm and there has been injuries to key players, like pace bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

"Our effort is to improve in all three departments: batting, bowling, and fielding. Since we won the last World Cup, the plan has been: how can we reach the next level in the next two years when the next World Cup comes. Because all teams will try to get better from where they are. So, we do not look at just one match. Sometimes a match goes well, and everyone says we did great. In another match, if two catches are dropped, everyone says the fielding was bad," he said. "Until now, in the last two years, we had not lost a single series, we won the World Cup, won the Asia Cup in T20s, so everyone says it's very good. After losing two matches, so many people say 'oh, they are losing matches'. This is a game. There is a transition happening; the captain changed, Hardik is not there, and you are trying to introduce three or four young players in preparation for two years from now. Such things can happen during that time, though they should not," he added.

On pace-bowling all-rounder reserves

On team's pace bowling all-rounder reserves after injuries to Hardik Pandya and his back-up, Nitish Kumar Reddy, batting coach Kotak acknowledged the presence of a young Suryansh Shedge, who scored 157 runs in seven innings with a fifty and an SR of over 175 for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL this season and had a solid outing with 148 runs (including a score of 72) in six innings and two wickets in Sri Lanka tri series for India A. "See, in T20, a pace-bowling all-rounder plays a very important role because if you count him as the sixth bowler, you might need him at any point. In this team as well, there is Suryansh, who did well in the IPL and was picked for the team. That is the reason; all those young players... maybe all 15 cannot play. They might get a chance to play sometime, but at least they are with the team, so they will get used to this environment. We have two years now. In between, there's a lot of domestic cricket and the IPL. Obviously, regarding Hardik's performance, quality, and experience--Nitish is gaining experience to match that. And this boy, Suryansh, has just joined the team. But if you look at the process, India, BCCI, selectors, and team management always try to prepare as best as possible for the upcoming event, even if it's two years away," he added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Trump reshares PM Modi's post on US's 250th independence anniversary

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:00:27 +0530

Trump Reshares Modi's Independence Day Wishes

US President Donald Trump on Monday reshared Prime Minister Narendra Modi's post extending wishes to American citizens as the country marks its 250th independence anniversary. He reshared PM Modi's X post on Truth Social.

PM Modi on Saturday extended wishes to US President Donald Trump and the people of the United States as the country marks its 250th anniversary of Independence.

'A Force for Global Good'

"On behalf of 1.4 billion Indians, I extend my warmest congratulations to President Trump and the people of the United States on the historic 250th anniversary of your Independence. India and the United States share more than a strategic partnership," PM Modi said in a post on X.

"Our shared belief in democracy, rule of law and the limitless potential of our people make our friendship a force for global good. May the next 250 years bring even greater prosperity, peace and progress for America and take the India-US partnership to new heights," he added.

US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, in a post on X, thanked PM Modi for the wishes.

US Marks 250th Anniversary with Year-Long Festivities

America celebrated 250 years of its independence on July 4. The White House on its official website noted that under President Trump, the United States is executing a full year of festivities, which began on Memorial Day, 2025, and will continue through the end of 2026.

The White House is engaging all levels of government, the private sector, non-profit and educational institutions, and citizens across the country to celebrate the historic milestone. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Karnataka minister demands SC-monitored probe into Ayodhya temple theft

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:00:26 +0530

Minister Demands SC-Monitored Probe

Karnataka Minister Ramalinga Reddy on Monday demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe in the alleged theft of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. Reddy questioned the impartiality of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Uttar Pradesh government to probe the alleged donation theft at the Ayodhya temple. "The people of the BJP know what is going on in the Ram Mandir Committee. Now they have formed an SIT. The SIT chairman is an individual commissioner, and he is a member among others in the Temple Committee. How could reality will come out? It is not possible," Reddy said.

The Minister further urged the Centre to appoint a sitting judge to oversee the SIT inquiry. "I urge the central government; at least a present judge of the Supreme Court should monitor this inquiry," he added.

Trust Meeting Addresses Fallout

Earlier today, a crucial meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was held in Ayodhya to deliberate on the fallout of alleged financial irregularities and the embezzlement of temple donations. Resignations of the Trust's General Secretary, Champat Rai, and member Anil Mishra were also discussed in the meeting. President of the Trust, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, attended the meeting at Ram Janmabhoomi complex. Sanjay Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) of Uttar Pradesh, also attended the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust via video conferencing.

Following the high-level meeting on Monday, Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj said that the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has accepted the resignations of Champat Rai and Anil Mishra. The Trust also decided to remove Gopal Nagarkote from the list of special invitee members. The Trust has appointed trustee Krishna Mohan to discharge the responsibilities of General Secretary until a new appointment is made.

Trust Assures Justice Will Prevail

Hitting out at Opposition parties, Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj said, "Justice will prevail, and the guilty will be punished. We have faith in the judicial system; my earnest appeal is do not believe the rumours." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

NNVC Stock In The Limelight After This Analyst Sees A 350% Upside Potential – Everything To Know About Its Experimental Drug For Ebola

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:00:06 +0530

NanoViricides said its proposal for the Phase II trial has already been approved by the relevant committee in the DRC.
The company believes NV-387’s broad-spectrum approach could make it effective against multiple Ebola strains.
Noble Capital initiated coverage of the stock with an Outperform rating and a $6 price target, according to The Fly.

Shares of NanoViricides (NNVC) jumped nearly 10% on Monday after the biotech firm announced progress toward a Phase II clinical trial of its experimental antiviral drug NV-387 for the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

According to the latest available data, the number of confirmed Ebola cases in the country has risen to 1,561, including 506 deaths.

Noble Capital initiated coverage of the stock with an ‘Outperform’ rating and a price target of $6, implying more than 350% upside from current levels.

NNVC’s Lead Candidate Being Developed For Multiple Respiratory Infections

NanoViricides said its proposal for the Phase II trial has already been approved by the relevant committee in the Democratic Republic of Congo. NanoViricides said NV-387 is the only oral Ebola treatment currently under consideration for clinical testing.

Unlike antibody therapies that require intravenous infusions, the gummies dissolve in the mouth without water, making them easier to administer. Currently, there is no approved treatment or vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain of the virus.

The company believes NV-387’s broad-spectrum approach could make it effective against multiple Ebola strains, potentially offering a new treatment option if clinical trials confirm its safety and effectiveness. NV-387 is being developed to treat respiratory viral infections such as COVID-19, Long COVID, and influenza, as well as mpox and smallpox.

Noble Capital said the NV-387 has the potential to treat multiple viral diseases and expects the stock to be driven by progress in the ongoing mpox and Ebola clinical trials, followed by the launch of a measles clinical program, according to The Fly.

What Is Retail’s Take On NNVC?

Retail sentiment surrounding NNVC remained in the ‘bullish’ zone over the past 24 hours.

One user said that if the company continues to advance its broad-spectrum antiviral platform, “the market will start pricing in more than just another headline.”

View this Stocktwits post

The stock has gained around 21% so far this year.

Also read - Wall Street Believes This Solar Stock Could Climb 36% Due To A Potential Tariff Decision Next Month

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

IND vs ZIM: Why Was Sanju Samson Dropped from T20I Squad? BCCI Reveals Strategic Reason

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:39:32 +0530

Team India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson’s exclusion from the T20I squad for the three-match series against Zimbabwe, starting on July 23, became a topic of discussion among fans and cricket enthusiasts.

On Monday, the BCCI selection committee announced the 15-member India squad for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe as part of the team's preparations for the 2028 T20 World Cup and the LA Olympics. Shreyas Iyer will continue as captain, with Tilak Varma serving as vice-captain, while 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi retained his place in the squad.

Prabhsimran Singh, Ashok Sharma, and Yash Thakur earned their maiden national call-ups, while Mayank Yadav returned to the T20I squad. Meanwhile, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, and Sanju Samson were left out of the squad for the Zimbabwe tour.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma hits the nets, looks in good touch for England ODIs

Why Was Samson Dropped from the Squad?

Sanju Samson’s exclusion from the 15-member India squad has triggered a widespread debate on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), with fans and cricket enthusiasts questioning the rationale behind dropping the T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament, despite three poor outings, including a two-match T20I series against Ireland and the first T20I against England.

However, the BCCI reveals a strategic reason. According to a report by the Times of India (TOI), a source close to the BCCI stated that the national selection committee has only decided to ‘rest’ Samson for the time being, with a primary objective of giving international exposure to younger prospects like the batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

“It will look very odd if a senior player like Samson is made to sit out on tour. One has to remember that Samson is already in the Asian Games squad due to travel in the last week of September,” the BCCI sources told the TOI.

“Ishan is the preferred wicketkeeper for the team management. As it is, the fielding is where standards have dropped. The team needs good fielders, not wicketkeepers filling in,” he added.

Breaking: BCCI on dropping Sanju Samson- Sanju Samson is rested & not dropped- He is rested cuz they wanted to give more opportunities to youngsters- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is likely to play all matches - BCCI felt it would be odd to make Sanju sit on the bench during the… pic.twitter.com/ZPQOPPYJwJ

— Infino Sports (@infinosports) July 6, 2026

Recently, Sanju Samson was replaced by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the second T20I against England after his underwhelming performance in the series opener, where he scored just one run off seven balls, prompting the team management to prioritise the development of the 15-year-old sensation as they look toward the future.

In the Ireland T20I series, Samson scored 5 and 0, continuing a lean patch of form that has put pressure on his position in the side despite his heroics during India's successful T20 World Cup title defence earlier this year.

On the strategy for Zimbabwe tours

Further speaking on the broader vision for such tours, the source stated that it has been used to experiment and check the team's bench strength, noting that established players like Harshit Rana, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar were granted breaks to facilitate the young players.

“Over the last decade, tours of Zimbabwe have been used to check the bench strength,” the BCCI source said.

“Washington Sundar, Axar Patel and Harshit Rana have been given breaks. The bowling lineup is a new-look one,” the source added.

The current bowling line-up for the Zimbabwe T20I tour consists of a fresh mix of talent, reflecting the selectors' focus on testing new options and expanding India's depth, with the inclusion of players like the returning Mayank Yadav and newcomers eager to make their mark on the international stage.

Also Read: Shreyas Iyer to lead India in Zimbabwe T20Is; 3 new faces in squad

Indian Maritime University among world's leading varsities: Sonowal

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:31:18 +0530

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday reviewed the progress of the Indian Maritime University (IMU), with the Ministry highlighting the expansion of India's maritime education ecosystem over the past 12 years. The IMU has emerged among the world's leading maritime universities while strengthening industry partnerships, research, innovation and workforce development in line with the country's long-term maritime ambitions.

IMU's Transformation into a Global Leader

Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal said, "Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, IMU has evolved from a predominantly classroom-based institution into a modern maritime university with a strong emphasis on research, innovation and industry collaboration. Closer engagement with the maritime industry has helped align academic programmes with evolving sectoral requirements while making curricula more industry-oriented and future-ready. IMU has significantly strengthened its academic infrastructure through modern libraries, advanced simulators and enhanced recreational facilities. Innovation outcomes have also improved substantially, with the number of patents increasing from one to seven."

The Union Minister said the Indian Maritime University has emerged as one of the world's top 10 maritime universities and the highest-ranked maritime university in India over the past 12 years. He said the university's transformation from a classroom-centric institution into a hub of research, innovation and industry collaboration reflected the government's focus on strengthening maritime education and building a globally competitive maritime workforce.

He added that IMU had aligned its academic programmes with industry requirements while integrating the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020 into its curriculum. The meeting also highlighted the university's expanding engagement with state maritime boards and private industry partners to deliver demand-driven skill development programmes.

Milestones in Growth and Engagement

Sonowal said sustained investments had strengthened IMU's infrastructure through modern libraries, advanced simulators and improved student facilities while fostering a culture of innovation, reflected in the increase in patents from one to seven.

Pointing to the growing appeal of maritime education, Sonowal said registrations for the IMU Common Entrance Test (IMU-CET) had risen from 14,751 in 2014 to 73,395. He also noted an 18-fold increase in girl cadet enrolment, describing it as a significant milestone in making the maritime sector more inclusive and accessible.

The Union Minister said industry engagement had expanded substantially over the past decade. Technical consultancy undertaken by IMU's core faculty increased from three projects worth Rs 63.94 lakh in 2014 to 16 projects valued at Rs 10.78 crore. Since 2021, the university has established 22 domestic and four international industry partnerships, along with 20 domestic and 14 international academic collaborations, strengthening its global academic and industry network.

Building Human Capital for India's Maritime Future

"Human capital is the foundation of India's maritime future. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are building a robust ecosystem where industrial training institutes, shipyards, academia and industry work together to create a world-class workforce that will drive India's shipbuilding ambitions and realise the vision of Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047," Sonowal said.

Stressing that skilled human resources would be the cornerstone of India's emergence as a global shipbuilding powerhouse, the Union Minister said continuous investments in maritime education, practical training and industry-oriented skilling were essential to achieving the country's long-term maritime goals. He also proposed organising a nationwide Maritime Skilling Fair to create greater awareness among young people about career opportunities in the maritime sector and expand the talent pipeline for India's growing blue economy.

Next Phase of Growth

"The next phase of IMU's growth will be defined by world-class infrastructure, cutting-edge research and future-ready skilling. We will modernise our Mumbai Port and Kolkata Port campuses, establish Centres of Excellence in Shipbuilding and Maritime Skills, deepen research partnerships with industry and leading global institutions, and introduce specialised training in emerging technologies. These initiatives, aligned with Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, will strengthen India's position as a global hub for maritime education, innovation and a highly skilled workforce," Sonowal said.

Calling for coordinated efforts across government, academia and industry, Sonowal urged all stakeholders to work with renewed urgency to achieve India's maritime and shipbuilding targets and substantially improve the country's position in global shipbuilding.

The meeting was attended by Vijay Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, IMU Chairperson Malini V Shankar and other senior officials. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir Trust: Champat Rai, Anil Mishra resign amid donation row

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:31:16 +0530

Resignations and Reforms Amid Embezzlement Probe

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has initiated a series of sweeping reforms and accepted high-profile resignations in the wake of the SIT's preliminary report on the donation embezzlement row.

The resignations of General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra were formally accepted on Monday as the Trust seeks to distance itself from the ongoing financial irregularities. Krishna Mohan has been entrusted with the responsibility of interim general secretary of the Ram Mandir Trust.

According to a press release issued after a meeting of the trustees held in Ayodhya, the Trust also decided to remove Gopal Nagarkote from the list of special invitee members.

As this happened, the opposition has launched a blistering attack on the BJP and RSS, levelling allegations of financial irregularities and embezzlement of funds against the temple authorities regarding donations collected for the Ram Temple.

Trust's Response and Ongoing Investigation

Alongside these leadership changes, the Trust has introduced new administrative protocols to tighten oversight, acting on the initial recommendations provided by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).

The Ram Mandir Trust's meeting reviewed the alleged irregularities in donation counting, the subsequent investigation, media reports and interim administrative arrangements.

"Upon learning of irregularities, Trust officials gathered initial information and requested an impartial investigation from the Uttar Pradesh government, which subsequently formed a high-level SIT," the release said.

It said that as of March 31, the temple had received Rs 582 crore in offerings, of which Rs 391 crore had been utilised for operational expenses, while the remaining amount is held in bank accounts.

The Trust further stated that 2,126 physical offerings have been registered and are physically verified annually by an independent chartered accountant firm.

It added that silver offerings have been melted into bricks at the India Government Mint, with proper documentation and purity certificates maintained.

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Ji Maharaj addressed the recent developments concerning the trust, confirming the acceptance of resignations from high-ranking officials and providing an update on the ongoing SIT investigation into alleged thefts.

Speaking on the upcoming course of action and the investigation, Giri said, "We are meeting again on July 22nd. We anticipate that the SIT's final report will be available to us by that time; we are meeting on the 22nd to deliberate on that report and to appoint additional trustees. We wish to state unequivocally that theft is theft, and the SIT is currently investigating the matter; that is the administration's responsibility."

The SIT probing the alleged Ram Mandir donation case has been granted a 15-day extension to complete its investigation.

Opposition Demands Accountability

Amid the ongoing fiasco, Congress leader Pawan Khera said that the responsiblity for any lapse lies with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, who he said have kept the temple project under their control.

"The reality is that the Prime Minister's Office and the Sangh directly monitored and continue to monitor this temple project, keeping it firmly under their control; so, doesn't the responsibility lie with the Prime Minister? Doesn't it lie with Mohan Bhagwat?" Khera asserted.

He questioned the lack of accountability within the Trust's leadership and alleged that the project is being micro-managed by the Sangh to maintain its "grip" on the temple.

Congress Questions Treasurer's Role, Land Deals

Speaking on the role of the Ram Mandir Trust Treasurer Govind Dev Giri, Khera said, "The Trust's Treasurer--the very person announcing the acceptance of these resignations. Does the Treasurer bear no responsibility? What kind of company, trust, or political party has a Treasurer whose signature isn't even obtained for anything? Why does the Sangh want to maintain its grip on the Ayodhya Temple Trust? After all, the person you appointed is Krishna Mohan, the Sangh's regional chief for Eastern Uttar Pradesh."

The Congress leader further raised serious allegations regarding financial mismanagement and land acquisition near the temple site.

"Land is being purchased; a plot worth 286 crore was bought. Fodder is being grown on it, a few kilometres away from the temple. Fodder for grazing cows is being cultivated on land worth 286 crore. We want to know: is there even a gaushala near the temple?" Khera asked.

AAP and SP Echo Demands for Action

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal called for "strict punishment" in the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation embezzlement case, calling the resignation of the Trust's General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra an attempt to save them.

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust accepted the resignation of Champat Rai and Anil Mishra following a high-level meeting on Monday, Ram Temple Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj said.

In an X post, Kejriwal wrote, "Hindus and Sanatanis don't need resignation; they deserve strict punishment. Don't try to save them by asking for their resignation."

Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Ramji Lal Suman also launched a scathing attack on the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust over allegations of donation embezzlement, demanding that criminal proceedings be initiated against its General Secretary, Champat Rai.

Speaking on the alleged irregularities, the SP leader held the Trust's office-bearers "ultimately responsible" for the "theft" and accused them of a conspiracy to protect the guilty.

"The members of the Trust bear ultimate responsibility for the theft that occurred there; I feel they are deliberately diverting attention from the issue and conspiring to shield the culprits," Suman said.

Questioning the accountability of the Trust's leadership, he added, "The office-bearers and officials of the Trust were entirely responsible for its upkeep, its wealth, and the offerings received. Ultimately, Champat Rai falls into the category of the guilty, and criminal proceedings should be initiated against him."

Crucial Trust Meeting Details

Earlier today, a crucial meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was held in Ayodhya to deliberate on the fallout of alleged financial irregularities. and the embezzlement of temple offerings.

President of the Trust, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, attended the meeting at the Ram Janmabhoomi complex. Sanjay Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) of Uttar Pradesh, also attended the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust via video conferencing.

According to sources, the meeting has been specifically convened to discuss the resignation offers made by the Trust's General Secretary, Champat Rai, and member Anil Mishra.

The move follows serious allegations regarding the misappropriation of donations and offerings made by devotees to the Ram Temple.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kunal Kamra slams CBFC over 'Satluj' takedown, questions 127 cuts

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:30:57 +0530

Comedian Kunal Kamra has called out the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) over Diljit Dosanjh's film 'Satluj' being taken down from streaming platform ZEE5. In a strong-worded X post, Kunal Kamra questioned why the CBFC asked for 127 cuts in the film, further asserting that the board has no jurisdiction over OTT platforms or international releases. "The same film, now renamed 'Satluj', has been taken down from an OTT platform in less than two days. The CBFC has no jurisdiction over OTT platforms or international releases. Panjab '95 tells the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra, a man who exposed and documented human rights abuses and paid for it with his life. If a film based on documented facts cannot be seen by Indian audiences, then the public deserves to know why," he wrote. Mr. @prasoonjoshi_ Can you please enlighten us on why 127 cuts were recommended for the film Panjab '95? The same film, now renamed ‘Satluj’, has been taken down from an OTT platform in less than two days. The CBFC has no jurisdiction over OTT platforms or international… — Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) July 6, 2026

Kamra Questions Double Standards

Kamra emphasised that the CBFC must be questioned about their actions, raising concerns about filmmakers not being able to tell the stories of people who stood up for justice. "Journalists should be asking the people running this censor board some hard questions. Why are some politically insensitive films able to pass with ease while others spend years in limbo? A red carpet for Kashmir Files, Bengal Files, and Kerala Story. Roses for Dhurandar 1 & 2, a fictional documentary/explainer for the unthinkable and the unexplainable. If filmmakers cannot tell the stories of people who stood up for justice without years of obstruction, what kind of cinema are we encouraging them to make?" a part of his post further added.

ZEE5 Confirms Takedown

'Satluj', which had faced over three years of delay, was taken down from the OTT platform amid growing controversy. ZEE5 confirmed in an official statement that the film will remain unavailable in India until further notice, adding that it is exploring options to bring it back for audiences. The move triggered widespread reactions from celebrities and politicians alike.

Film Based on Activist Jaswant Singh Khalra

The film is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra from Punjab, who exposed alleged illegal killings and secret cremations during the late 1980s and early 1990s when Punjab witnessed intense militancy and counter-insurgency operations. Khalra himself was 'disappeared' in 1995, and his body was found near the Harike Bridge on the Sutlej River. He was allegedly kidnapped, tortured and killed at the behest of the then-Punjab Police officials. Helmed by Honey Trehan, produced by RSVP and MacGuffin Pictures, 'Satluj' also starred Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan. (ANI) (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir row: Champat Rai, Anil Mishra no longer hold Trust posts

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:30:36 +0530

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Ji Maharaj on Monday said that Champat Rai and Anil Mishra no longer hold any position in the Trust and that their "negligence and lack of caution for so long is a serious matter". The seer made the comments to the reporters after a meeting of the Trust in the wake of the SIT probe into the Ram Mandir donation row. He said anyone involved in the embezzlement of funds should face appropriate action.

Resignations Accepted Amid SIT Probe

"We have read the report submitted by the SIT, and the investigation should proceed accordingly, as this was merely an interim report--not the final one. We are resolved that those who committed such an offence must be investigated; they must be punished and face appropriate action," he said.

He said resignations of Champat Rai as general secretary and Anil Mishra as trustee have been accepted. "They (Champat Rai and Anil Mishra) no longer hold any position. Their negligence and lack of caution persisting for so long is a serious matter; this should not have happened," he said.

Swami Govind Dev Giri Ji Maharaj also said that the trustees themselves did not commit the betrayal. "This betrayal was perpetrated by people whom Champat Rai ji, whom we consider a truly noble and great soul, trusted and kept close for so many years. It was those people who betrayed the Trust."

He said the appointment of Krishna Mohan as interim general secretary was in accordance with Trust norms. "According to the Trust's current decision, it is an interim appointment. It could become permanent later, depending on the Trust's future decision, but as of today, it is interim."

When asked whether the path remains open for Champat Rai and Anil Mishra to return to the Trust after the investigation concludes, he says, "There is no such thing."

"I used to oversee the Trust's funds in their entirety. I did not visit personally; instead, I would send colleagues, Chartered Accountants from our Pune office who also serve as our treasurers, to stay here for five days each month. They would audit all the accounts. It was because of them that I could remain at ease regarding the situation here. So, it is not as if I was paying no attention to it; we operate through delegation--getting work done by sending others. That arrangement was functioning smoothly," he said.

Swami Govind Dev Giri Hits Out at Political Opponents

Stating that "theft is theft" and the SIT is currently investigating the Ram Mandir donation row, Swami Govind Dev Giri hit out over allegations by political parties on the issue, saying "sudden, performative surge of devotion to Ram among those who have historically opposed it is no ordinary phenomenon" and alleged that it is "driven by ulterior motives that the entire Hindu society must recognise".

Interacting with the media after the meeting of the Ram Mandir Trust, Swami Govind Dev Giri urged followers of Sanatan Dharma to "not give credence to such baseless rhetoric".

"Those who once fired upon Kar Sevaks and who submitted written statements to the Supreme Court claiming that Lord Ram never existed and that the Ram Setu was never built, are now attempting to lecture us on devotion to Ram. The sudden, performative surge of devotion to Ram among those who have historically opposed it is no ordinary phenomenon; it is extraordinary, driven by ulterior motives that the entire Hindu society must recognise," he said.

"Their primary objective is to divide us and create a rift within our devotion to Ram. We, however, reaffirm our resolve to uphold and strengthen this devotion and will not allow any division to take root in our society," he added.

He urged devotees to be aware of "falsehoods and fabrications being spread". "I call upon all devotees of Ram and Krishna, all followers of Sanatan Dharma, and all who hold Hindu faith dear: do not give credence to such baseless rhetoric. If you feel something is amiss or missing, come directly to the Trust's office, schedule a visit, inspect the item in question, and judge for yourselves the extent of the falsehoods and fabrications being spread," he said.

"This entire charade is orchestrated solely to defame our organisation, malign Ram devotees, and sow discord within Hindu society. We will not let that happen...Justice will prevail, and the guilty will be punished. We have faith in the judicial system; my earnest appeal is do not believe the rumours," he added.

Congress, Samajwadi Party and several other opposition parties have slammed the BJP and Sangh Parivar organisations over the Ram Mandir donation row.

Trust Refutes Allegations of Missing Items

Swami Govind Dev Giri rejected allegations that high-quality offerings and donated items had vanished."Allegations are made that various other high-quality offerings and donated items also vanished without a trace. We have brought the register containing the records of all these items to show you; we will present the details of all the items in question. We are going to display all of these before you today. Furthermore, we wish to inform you that we possess a register listing 2800 such items, and all of them are safe. We have brought these five specific items--which have been the subject of discussion--merely as samples to show you," he said.

"However, keeping all this in mind, the work we undertake next will be executed in such a manner that no one will be able to find even the slightest fault with it. Our Trust is fully committed to ensuring such impeccable execution, and we have constituted a small committee to appoint specific officials for this purpose; we will continue to advance the work in this way," he added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

BJP starts 2027 poll prep in Himachal, slams Congress govt: Thakur

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:30:33 +0530

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 6 (ANI): Himachal Leader of Opposition (LoP) Jai Ram Thakur on Monday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has begun preparations for the 2027 state Assembly elections and accused the Congress government of failing on governance, disaster management, employment, and development.

Speaking to ANI after returning from the national capital, where he met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Thakur said the meetings were not organised for any special event but provided an opportunity to discuss the situation in Himachal Pradesh, including the monsoon, disaster preparedness, and the state's political scenario. "There was no special programme behind these meetings, but whenever we meet senior Union leaders, it is natural to discuss the situation in Himachal Pradesh. We spoke about the ongoing monsoon, the extent of damage caused by rains, and the overall political situation in the state," Thakur said.

Criticism of State on Disaster Management

He said Union Home Minister Amit Shah specifically enquired about the monsoon situation in Himachal Pradesh. "I informed him that this year's monsoon has been comparatively slow and the damage so far has not been extensive. However, the state government has still not been able to compensate for the losses suffered during the disasters of 2023 and 2025. Roads remain damaged, water supply schemes are disrupted, and public infrastructure has not been fully restored. There is disappointment and resentment among the people because the government has neither the intent nor the resources to address these issues effectively," he said.

Thakur said he invited Amit Shah to visit Himachal Pradesh and expressed hope that the Union Home Minister would soon visit the state. "I requested him to come to Himachal Pradesh. As the state moves towards the next Assembly elections, there are several issues on which discussions will take place. I hope the Home Minister will visit Himachal soon and address a public rally," he added.

BJP's Strategy for 2027 Polls

On the BJP's strategy ahead of assembly polls, Thakur said the party continuously works at the organisational level and discussions are already underway as Himachal is entering what he described as the "election year." "After November, effectively only one year will remain before the Assembly elections. BJP does not wait for elections to begin preparations. We constantly review organisational activities and political developments. The recent mandate in Panchayati Raj institutions, Zila Parishads, Block Development Committees, Municipal Corporations and Urban Local Bodies clearly reflects growing public support for the BJP and dissatisfaction with the Congress government," he said.

He added that the BJP's core group meeting would focus on organisational strengthening and future strategy. Responding to Congress criticism that he frequently visits Delhi without securing financial assistance for Himachal, Thakur said such allegations were baseless. "Should we not meet our party leaders? Should we not discuss issues concerning Himachal Pradesh? It is the responsibility of the Congress government to effectively present the state's case before the Centre. Every issue cannot be resolved by abusing the Central Government or the BJP," he said.

He said the Centre has consistently supported Himachal Pradesh through centrally sponsored schemes and financial assistance. "Recently, the Centre approved nearly Rs 3,920 crore as a 50-year interest-free loan for Himachal Pradesh with flexibility in utilisation. Instead of using such funds for development, the Congress government is spending large portions on salaries, pensions and fulfilling its election guarantees. Despite this, they continue blaming the Centre, which is unfortunate," Thakur alleged.

The former Chief Minister also dismissed Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's claim that the BJP would perform worse in the 2027 elections. "The Chief Minister should stop making political predictions. The Congress itself is rapidly losing public support. The results of the Panchayat and Urban Local Body elections have already shown that the ground beneath Congress has slipped. If anyone should worry about seat numbers, it is the Congress. They may not win more seats than can be counted on the fingers of one hand," he claimed.

Allegations of Misgovernance and Discrimination

Targeting the state government over disaster rehabilitation, Thakur alleged that even ministers are not allowed to inaugurate completed public projects without approval from the Chief Minister's Office. He cited a school building in Mandi district that was reconstructed after being damaged due to natural disasters.

Politicisation of Public Projects

"The building was completed months ago. A formal inauguration programme had been organised and local people had gathered, but at the last moment the inauguration was cancelled because, according to information available to us, it was decided that Priyanka Gandhi should inaugurate the school whenever she visits. Until then, the building has remained locked while children continue to suffer during the monsoon. This is what the Congress calls 'system change'," he alleged.

Inadequate Disaster Relief and Discrimination

Thakur said his Assembly constituency was among the worst affected during the 2023 disaster in which several people lost their lives. "On the night of June 30 alone, 22 people died in my constituency, and 33 lives were lost during the entire monsoon season. Even after a year, debris remains uncleared in many places. Roads, drinking water schemes, electricity and communication facilities have not been permanently restored," he said.

He also alleged discrimination in the allocation of disaster relief funds. "Initially, around Rs 234 crore was earmarked for my constituency under the Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA), but this was later reduced to around Rs 60 crore. While the Centre allowed the state to distribute the funds according to the extent of damage, the Congress government reduced assistance to areas represented by opposition legislators. This discrimination will be remembered by the people," he alleged.

He further claimed that FIRs had been registered even against some disaster-affected families, adding that public anger was reflected in the recent local body elections.

Response to Congress Campaigns

Reacting to the Congress decision to launch a statewide campaign on alleged paper leaks and the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation controversy, Thakur said the party was attempting to divert attention from its own failures. "Congress has been wiped out in many parts of the country and the same will happen in Himachal Pradesh. The party is trying to distract people from its failures by raising these issues," he said.

Referring to paper leak allegations, Thakur claimed that Congress governments in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh witnessed multiple examination paper leaks and alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations in Himachal Pradesh under the present government. "The Congress had promised five lakh jobs but has failed to fulfil that guarantee. These are the issues on which it has to answer the people," he said.

On the Ram Temple donation controversy, Thakur said, "The matter is under investigation. Whoever has committed any wrongdoing will face action. Nobody will be spared. However, Congress will gain nothing politically by raising this issue because the people of Himachal are far more concerned about the failures of the state government." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Portugal legends try American football with Dallas Cowboys in Texas

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:30:29 +0530

Portugal's football icons Jorge Andrade and Bruno Alves tried their hand at American football and were also presented with jerseys of NFL giants Dallas Cowboys, the five-time Super Bowl champions, at Dallas ahead of Portugal's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match against Spain on Monday (local time) at Arlington.

In a post shared by the Portugal national football team on X, Andrade and Alves were seen wearing Dallas Cowboys jerseys and taking part in an American football session. "Our legends are now Cowboys," the Portugal national football team wrote in the caption.

The Spanish men's national football team, on the other hand, held a meet-and-greet session in Dallas with their fans ahead of the Round of 16 fixture. In an X post, La Rojas shared photos from their meet-and-greet sessions with fans, captioning it: "As tradition dictates, another meet and greet with you all."

Portugal will head into the contest after a 1-1 draw against Congo DR, a 5-0 win over Uzbekistan, a goalless draw, and a 2-1 victory over Croatia in their Round of 32 clash.

Ronaldo Confirms Final World Cup Appearance

The Portugal vs Spain clash holds added significance as Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the final World Cup of his illustrious career. According to OneFootball, the 41-year-old said he wants to savour every moment of the tournament.

Speaking to the media ahead of Monday's knockout fixture, Ronaldo put an end to speculation about his World Cup future while expressing hope that Portugal's campaign would extend beyond the Round of 16. "I want to enjoy it as much as possible, because it will be my last World Cup, yes. But I hope that tomorrow won't be my last game in the World Cup," Ronaldo said, as per OneFootball.

Spain's Dominant Form

However, Portugal will face a strong Spain side that has impressed throughout the tournament. Luis de la Fuente's team advanced to the Round of 16 with a dominant 3-0 win over Austria and became the first side since Germany in the 2014 World Cup final to keep their opponents from managing a single shot on target in a knockout match. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

WULF Stock Snaps 7-Session Losing Streak On $19B Deal With Anthropic — What Investors Need To Know

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:05:01 +0530

The lease covers a purpose-built AI infrastructure campus at TeraWulf's Justified Data site in Kentucky with approximately 401 megawatts of critical IT capacity.
The agreement gives Anthropic access to dedicated AI infrastructure as demand for compute capacity continues to surge.
TeraWulf said the long-term lease validates its strategy of developing large-scale AI data center campuses and establishes a durable revenue stream with one of the world's leading AI companies.

Shares of TeraWulf Inc. (WULF) snapped a seven-session losing streak on Monday after the company announced a 20-year lease agreement with Anthropic.

TeraWulf expects to initially generate about $19 billion in contracted revenue from the lease, with the first power delivery expected in the second half of 2026.

TeraWulf shares were up more than 14% in Monday’s opening trade. WULF was the top trending ticker on Stocktwits at the time of writing.

What WULF’s Lease Covers

The lease covers a purpose-built AI infrastructure campus at TeraWulf's Justified Data site in Kentucky with approximately 401 megawatts of critical IT capacity.

The agreement gives Anthropic access to dedicated AI infrastructure as demand for compute capacity continues to surge. TeraWulf said the long-term lease validates its strategy of developing large-scale AI data center campuses and establishes a durable revenue stream with one of the world's leading AI companies.

TeraWulf CEO Paul Prager said the deal fulfills the company's expectation of securing a major customer commitment at the Justified Data campus following its acquisition earlier this year.

“The lease provides approximately $19 billion of contracted lease revenue over its initial term, creates a framework for future expansion, and demonstrates the value of our ability to source power, develop infrastructure, and secure long-term customer commitments,” Prager added.

The $19 billion initial revenue TeraWulf is projecting from the Anthropic deal is worth nearly 113 times the $168.5 million revenue that the company reported in fiscal year 2025.

WULF Sells Stake In Abernathy Joint Venture

TeraWulf also agreed to sell its 50.1% ownership stake in the Abernathy Joint Venture to an investor group led by its joint venture partner, Fluidstack. The company said the transaction monetizes its roughly $450 million investment at a premium, freeing up capital to expand its wholly owned AI infrastructure portfolio.

The Abernathy Joint Venture was established in 2025 to develop a 168-megawatt AI data center campus in Abernathy, Texas.

Following the transaction, Fluidstack will continue to lead the project, while TeraWulf said it plans to redeploy the proceeds into infrastructure assets in which it retains direct ownership, customer relationships, and operational control.

What Retail Thinks Of WULF Stock

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits around TeraWulf trended in ‘bullish’ territory with message volumes at ‘high’ levels at the time of writing.

One user believes that there could be more deals like the one TeraWulf announced on Monday.

View this Stocktwits post

Another user believes that TeraWulf shares are headed up in the long term.

View this Stocktwits post

WULF stock is up 109% year-to-date and 358% over the past 12 months. The Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund ETF (VTI) is up 21% over the past 12 months, while the Vanguard Small-Cap Index Fund ETF (VB) is up 24%.

The Vanguard Information Technology Index Fund ETF (VGT) is up 39% during this period, while the iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF (IWP) is up 3%.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Piyush Goyal meets UAE envoy, discusses strengthening strategic ties

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:01:17 +0530

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Monday met Abdulnasser Alshaali, Ambassador of the UAE to India, with discussions centred on deepening the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. According to a social media post by the Minister's office, Goyal appreciated the Ambassador's efforts in strengthening bilateral ties and also extended best wishes for his future endeavours. "Minister @PiyushGoyal held a meeting with Dr. Abdulnasser Alshaali, Ambassador of the UAE to India. Minister appreciated his efforts towards strengthening the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and also extended best wishes for his future endeavours," the Minister's office said in a post on X.

Economic Partnership and Trade Growth

The meeting comes at a time when trade and investment relations between India and the UAE have seen significant momentum following the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which came into effect in May 2022. The agreement has been a key driver for boosting two-way trade, easing market access, and encouraging investment flows across sectors including energy, infrastructure, logistics, fintech and food processing.

The UAE is one of India's top trading partners and a major source of foreign direct investment. Bilateral trade has grown steadily post-CEPA, with both countries targeting USD 100 billion in non-oil trade by 2030. The partnership also covers collaboration in renewable energy, food security, digital payments, and supply chain resilience.

Key Initiatives and Ambassador's Role

Alshaali has been instrumental in taking forward several India-UAE initiatives during his tenure as Ambassador. These include expanding cooperation under the India-UAE Virtual Trade Corridor, collaboration in education and skill development, and strengthening people-to-people linkages given the large Indian diaspora in the UAE.

Expanding Scope of Strategic Partnership

The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries, elevated in 2017, now spans trade, defence, energy, health, space and climate. Both sides have also been working closely in multilateral forums and on regional connectivity projects.

Future Outlook and Strategic Importance

The meeting with the UAE envoy is part of a broader push by the Commerce Ministry to engage with key partner nations to unlock new export opportunities and attract investment into India. With global supply chains realigning, officials have been focusing on leveraging FTAs and strategic partnerships to enhance India's presence in West Asia and beyond.

The India-UAE relationship is expected to remain a priority area for the government, given the UAE's role as a trade hub and its investments in Indian infrastructure, ports and food parks. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Hannah Waddingham on why a woman shouldn't be the next James Bond

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:01:14 +0530

A Woman Doesn't Need to Play James Bond

Actor Hannah Waddingham has weighed in on the long-running debate over whether the next James Bond should be a woman, saying she believes female actors have "other things to do" rather than take on the iconic 007 role, according to People.

Speaking at a special screening of the upcoming Prime Video action-comedy series 'Ride or Die', the 51-year-old actor also revealed that she has no interest in playing the famous British spy herself.

Asked what draws her to portraying strong female characters, Waddingham said it is their emotional depth rather than their outward strength that fascinates her. "It's their truth, it's who they are in the quiet, that's what gets me first," she said. "My interest is piqued by who they are when they're alone, and the foibles and the fears and the aspirations they have when they're alone."

When asked whether she would like to play James Bond, Waddingham gave an emphatic response. "No! God no! No, this (calling her new role) is my version of 007, a woman doesn't need to play James Bond, we've got other things to do," she said, according to People.

New Action-Comedy 'Ride or Die'

In 'Ride or Die', Waddingham stars as Judith Burton, an assassin leading a double life whose carefully managed world is thrown into chaos when her best friend becomes entangled in her dangerous profession. Speaking earlier about what attracted her to the project, Waddingham said she was instantly captivated by creator Tessa Coates' pitch.

Her co-star Octavia Spencer praised the concept, saying, "It was such an amazing pitch. I've heard hundreds of pitches throughout my career and none like that one. It just had you spellbound, on the edge of your seat." Spencer added that she was particularly drawn to the show's focus on mature female leads. "I loved that it was centered around two women -- two women of a certain age, two brilliant, highly capable women -- doing action and comedy. And the show had a lot of heart," according to People.

An Instant 'Yes' from the Stars

She revealed she committed to the project immediately. "As soon as she finished giving the pitch, I said, 'Well, my agents are going to be upset, but I'm in.'"

Waddingham recalled having a similar reaction after receiving the script, though she initially assumed she was being consulted about casting rather than being considered for the role. "I just went, 'Oh my God, whoever gets to play this character opposite Octavia is getting a dream role,'" she said. "I said, 'What, do you want me to advise on casting? Why am I on this call?' And they said, 'We want you to do it, you dummy.'"

She added that her response amused both Coates and Spencer because Spencer had reacted in much the same way. "It made Tessa and Octavia laugh because that's exactly what Octavia had done," Waddingham said. "Neither of us had gone through the correct channels with our teams. We just knew immediately," according to People.

'Ride or Die', starring Hannah Waddingham and Octavia Spencer, is set to premiere on Prime Video on July 15. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Delhi Police busts two Shahzad Bhatti network modules, 6 arrested

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:01:09 +0530

Two Modules of Shahzad Bhatti Network Busted

The Delhi Police Special Cell on Monday dismantled two separate modules allegedly associated with the Shahzad Bhatti network, arresting six people from the national capital and Punjab in a major operation, officials said.

According to the Delhi Police Special Cell, the arrested accused were part of two different modules. While one module was allegedly involved in terror-related activities, the other was engaged in the illegal trafficking of firearms.

Officials said coordinated raids conducted in Delhi and Punjab led to the arrest of all six accused. The Special Cell recovered multiple pistols and petrol bombs during the operation, police said.

Preliminary findings indicate that the network was functioning in an organised manner and is suspected to have links across several states. Investigators are now working to establish the full scope of the network and identify other individuals connected to it. Further investigation into the case is underway, the Delhi Police Special Cell said.

Inter-State Forged Document Racket Busted

Meanwhile, in a breakthrough against organised cyber-enabled forgery, the Intelligence Fusion & Strategic Operations (IFSO), Special Cell, Delhi Police, on Monday busted an inter-state racket involved in the preparation and online sale of forged identity documents through a website bkprint.in.

The operation resulted in the arrest of two accused persons, namely Bideshi Saw and Santosh Kumar.

Verification revealed that the website was offering services for the preparation of Aadhaar Cards, Voter Identity Cards, PAN-related documents, Residence Certificates, Caste Certificates, Birth/Death Certificates and other document-like records.

Examination of the generated Aadhaar document revealed that the QR Code merely reflected the particulars manually entered by the user and was not linked with any official Aadhaar database, thereby establishing the forged nature of the document. The verification conclusively established that the website was facilitating the preparation and dissemination of forged Government identity documents for unlawful gain.

During the investigation, the mobile number and UPI account used for receiving payments on the website were traced to accused Bideshi Saw, a resident of Daman & Diu. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Opposition conspiring against poor, minorities' voting rights: DK Shivakumar

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:00:59 +0530

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday alleged that opposition parties were conspiring to deprive the poor and minorities of their voting rights, while asserting that the state government was only creating awareness among people about Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and had no interference in the Election Commission's exercise.

'Opposition Conspiracy' on Voting Rights

Speaking to reporters at Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar said, "Even though we oppose the SIR process, our government is creating awareness among the people to protect their voting rights. This is a process of the Election Commission, and there is no government interference in it. But it is a conspiracy by the opposition parties to snatch away the voting rights of the poor and minorities."

Referring to complaints submitted by Union Ministers HD Kumaraswamy and Pralhad Joshi to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) over the SIR process in Karnataka, Shivakumar said the state government had challenged the exercise in court and remained dissatisfied with the timeline prescribed for it. "We have our own disagreement on the SIR matter. We presented our argument in court, and the court has given its verdict on this. We are unhappy about the timeline of this process, and we will approach the court against that as well. Our government has joined hands with the Election Commission because we must protect everyone's right to vote."

'Govt Cooperating with Election Commission'

He said the government had extended full cooperation to the Election Commission to safeguard every citizen's right to vote and claimed that no other state had cooperated with the poll body to the same extent.

Shivakumar said the Election Commission had allowed all political parties to appoint booth-level agents (BLAs) and permitted organisations to assist the exercise, adding that officials were functioning according to the Commission's directions. "The Election Commission itself has given all parties the opportunity to appoint BLAs (booth-level agents). Congress, BJP and Janata Dal have appointed BLAs. Organisations have been given the opportunity to provide assistance. Officials are functioning according to the guidance they have received from the Election Commission. The Opposition parties have started to fear the awareness our government is creating about SIR. This shows that they themselves have no trust in the Election Commission. They are saying it should be cancelled. This is a matter left to the Election Commission," he said.

Govt Facilitating Voter Verification

Claiming that the government had facilitated access to caste certificates, residence confirmation certificates and old electoral records, Shivakumar accused the opposition of branding people as "illegal Bangladeshi migrants" and questioned why they had not acted against such migrants when they were in power. "About 4.50 crore people in the state have obtained caste certificates. We have provided the facility to download these online. Further, powers have been given to the Deputy Tahsildar to issue residence confirmation certificates. No one has the 2002 voter roll record with them; a provision has been provided to download this. The government is calling on the people of Karnataka to protect their voting rights. The Opposition parties are simply calling them illegal Bangladeshi migrants. When power was in your hands, why didn't you drive them out then? Who stopped you at that time?" he asked.

He also said help centres had been established at every polling booth to assist voters and asserted that guiding elected representatives, defeated candidates and the public on protecting electoral rolls was the government's responsibility.

Review of Rain-Deficit Situation

Shivakumar further said he and Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara would visit Bidar and Basavakalyan to review the rain-deficit situation in the Kalaburagi division. He said rainfall had improved in some parts of the state, inflows into the Almatti and Tungabhadra dams had increased, and the government would prioritise drinking water needs. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India-EFTA TEPA: Chintan Shivir eyes seafood export opportunities

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:00:56 +0530

The Department of Commerce organised a Chintan Shivir on 'Opportunities for the Seafood Sector under the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)' last week and stakeholders discussed investment opportunities, export facilitation and market access for seafood exports under TEPA.

Understanding the India-EFTA TEPA

TEPA is India's first trade agreement with the four EFTA countries -- Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Collectively, the EFTA economies have a combined GDP of about USD 1.79 trillion and are major players in merchandise and services trade. It is also India's first operational trade arrangement with a European economic bloc, complementing ongoing engagements with the EU and the UK.

The agreement aims to facilitate USD 100 billion in investments into India and support the creation of one million direct jobs. It also opens avenues for technology transfer, joint ventures and collaboration with niche firms from EFTA countries. For coastal states like Tamil Nadu, it is expected to significantly expand export opportunities for fishermen and seafood stakeholders.

Significant Tariff Benefits

The agreement offers substantial tariff benefits for Indian exporters. Iceland has eliminated its 55 per cent import duty on feed, including fish feed. Switzerland has cut duty on fats and oils of fish, other than liver oil, from 18.05 per cent to zero. Norway has removed its 13.16 per cent duty on feed, including fish and mp feed, bringing it to zero. These concessions are expected to improve market access and competitiveness for Indian seafood products in EFTA markets.

Highlights from the Chintan Shivir

The session was attended by Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Mohit Yadav, along with representatives from Invest India, DGFT Regional Office Chennai, Export Inspection Council (EIC) and FIEO. Leading seafood exporters and businesses targeting EFTA markets also participated, a release said.

Yadav gave an overview of TEPA and highlighted trade and investment opportunities for Indian businesses. Invest India made a presentation on emerging investment opportunities across the seafood value chain. DGFT outlined export promotion and facilitation schemes to improve ease of doing business. EIC and FIEO shared inputs on regulatory requirements, quality standards and strategies to leverage TEPA benefits.

A key highlight was an interactive open-house where exporters engaged directly with officials on market access, compliance with international regulations, and ways to strengthen exports to EFTA.

The Chintan Shivir concluded with a commitment from government and industry to work together to maximise benefits from TEPA, leverage tariff concessions, and expand India's seafood exports in EFTA markets. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

YSRCP slams 'vindictive' AP govt over YouTuber Bachalakura's arrest

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:00:52 +0530

Following YouTuber Bachalakura Joseph's arrest in Andhra Pradesh, YSRCP has affirmed that the coalition government is acting in a vindictive manner against social media activists who are highlighting the failures in governance and said the party will stand by the victims irrespective of their party affiliations.

YSRCP Condemns 'Vindictive' Actions

Speaking to the media here on Monday, former minister Ambati Rambabu said that by haunting the YouTuber influencers like KVR and Ravan, the Andhra Pradesh government is digging its own grave by incessantly pursuing the cases till they are jailed, and YSRCP will stand by those affected persons as the TDP government's vindictive nature has come into the open. According to a YSRCP press release, he said, the case of Bachalakura Joseph alias Prashna Ravan has gone too far with the government haunting him and producing him before magistrates at multiple locations, and when they failed to get a remand, they changed the sections of the case and ensured that he is remanded in Nellore jail. Prashna Ravan was booked under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). Meanwhile, demeaning the legal justice system, YSRCP cadres had mounted pressure on police to surrender the accused to them so that they could take the law into their hands, the press release said. Ambati said that it has become a habit for the coalition government to convert victims into accused, and this has been going on for a long time.

Allegations of Diversionary Tactics

Another social media influencer, KVR, was also picked up from Hyderabad in the same manner. He said to cover up the custodial death of Sai Krishna and the suicide of Kranti Kumar, the Andhra government has been resorting to diversion politics and harassing journalists and social media activists in a very undemocratic and unlawful manner, filing cases at multiple places. "While TDP favoured social media activists were posting objectionable material against our Party and leadership, no action has been taken so far, though we have complained. By month-end, I will go on a padayatra to the DGP office to pursue the complaint I have given," Ambati said as per the press release. (ANI) (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Shimla safe for tourists amid monsoon, says Mayor Surender Chauhan

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:00:49 +0530

Collapsed Wall Near Christ Church to be Restored

The Mayor of Shimla city, Surender Chauhan, on Monday said the collapsed retaining wall near the historic Christ Church on the Ridge would be restored within the next three days, while asserting that the state capital is fully prepared to tackle the ongoing monsoon and remains safe for tourists.

Speaking with ANI, Chauhan said the century-old retaining wall near Christ Church had partially collapsed due to recent heavy rainfall, but the Municipal Corporation had already initiated the process for its restoration. "We have planned the work, and the damaged retaining wall near the historic church will be rebuilt within the next two to three days," the Mayor said.

Monsoon Preparedness Measures

Reviewing the city's monsoon preparedness, Chauhan said the Municipal Corporation has imposed a complete ban on construction and hill-cutting activities during the monsoon to minimise the risk of landslides and ensure that neighbouring properties are not affected. "Construction work and cutting activities have been completely prohibited during the monsoon. Notices have been issued by the Municipal Commissioner, and work will resume only after the monsoon season," he said.

The Mayor said the civic body has coordinated with departments, including the Public Works Department (PWD), Municipal Corporation and Central Public Works Department (CPWD), to ensure that drains, culverts and water channels remain clear for smooth drainage of rainwater. "We have been in constant touch with all departments to get culverts and drainage channels cleaned because overflowing water can cause significant damage during heavy rainfall," Chauhan said.

Highlighting another concern, he said illegal dumping of debris on hillsides poses a serious threat during the rainy season. He added that the Forest Department has been directed to take strict action to curb the practice.

Shimla Remains Safe for Tourists

Calling for public cooperation, Chauhan said the administration is taking all necessary precautions to minimise monsoon-related risks. "Our state has suffered a lot due to natural disasters in the past. We cannot fight nature, but we can certainly remain prepared and aware," he said.

Reassuring visitors, Chauhan said Shimla continues to be a safe destination despite the active monsoon season. "I want to assure everyone through ANI that Shimla is safe and protected. The city's beauty, pleasant weather and fresh air continue to welcome tourists, and there is no reason for panic," the Mayor said. He added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir 'theft': Aaditya Thackeray demands SC probe, slams BJP

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:00:38 +0530

Aaditya Thackeray Demands SC-Monitored Probe

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Monday demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe into donations theft allegations linked to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party "cannot play with the sentiments of Hindus."

In a post on X, Thackeray referred to media reports claiming that the resignations of two trustees of the Ram Temple Trust had been accepted amid allegations of fraud involving temple donations and funds. "The 'resignation' of two trustees in the Ram Temple of Ayodhya has been 'accepted' apparently due to accusations of fraud in the donations and funds, as per the news. But what about the fact that they were appointed by the BJP's Union government? What about the theft from the temple? What about the audacity and crime of looting the temple on which the BJP's entire 2-decade campaign was based?" Thackeray wrote.

The “resignation” of two trustees in the Ram Temple of Ayodhya has been “accepted” apparently due to accusations of the fraud in the donations and funds, as per the news. But what about the fact that they were appointed by the BJP’s Union government? What about the theft from… — Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) July 6, 2026

Calling for an independent investigation into the matter, the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader said the inquiry should be overseen by the judiciary. "We need a free and fair probe that is either Supreme Court monitored or under an ex-Supreme Court judge. The BJP cannot play with the sentiments of Hindus!," Thackeray's post read.

Trustees Resign Amid Fraud Allegations

Thackeray's remarks come amid a political row over allegations related to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, with opposition parties seeking greater transparency and accountability over the management of temple donations.

Earlier in the day, a crucial meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was held in Ayodhya to deliberate on the fallout of alleged financial irregularities and the embezzlement of temple donations.

Ram Mandir Trust Treasurer added, "The resignations of Champat Rai (General Secretary) and Anil Mishra (Trustee) have been accepted. We are all hurt and saddened by this. The magnitude of the theft--whether small or large--is a secondary concern. We are primarily distressed by the very fact that such an atmosphere was allowed to develop here. However, the reality is before us, and it is our duty to reflect upon it." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'Romanachakam' glimpse: Sumanth Prabhas, Ananthika's romance turns ugly

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:00:28 +0530

The makers of Romanachakam have revealed a glimpse of the film, which is presented by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. The movie is written and directed by Venu Gopal Reddy and is produced by Pranay Reddy Vanga under the banner of Bhadrakali Productions Pictures. The movie stars Sumanth Prabhas and Ananthika Sanilkumar in the lead roles. Apart from them, the film also stars Upendra Limaye, Venkatesh Kakumanu, Narendra Ravi, Mani Aegurla and Sai Sohan among others.

Romanchakam Glimpse Details

In the video, Sumanth Prabhas and Ananthika Sanilkumar were seen romancing, which soon turned tragic as both were seen slapping each other while expressing hate for each other. Sandeep Reddy Vanga shared the video on his X handle. While sharing the video, the director wrote, "The tiniest moments carrying the biggest dose of love, smiles and everything in between." The tiniest moments carrying the biggest dose of love, smiles and everything in between ❤️#Romanchakam Glimpse out now ✨ Meet you all in theatres across the World on September 3, 2026. @Sumanth7Prabhas @Ananthika108 @vangapranay @venufilmz @vasukivaibhav @pavan_pappula… — Sandeep Reddy Vanga (@imvangasandeep) July 6, 2026

The film is slated to release in theatres on September 3, 2026.

Sandeep Reddy Vanga on 'Romanachakam'

Earlier, the 'Animal' director shared the first-look poster of the film on his Instagram handle. He penned a heartfelt note expressing his love for the film. He described the movie as his first distribution project in the film industry. Sandeep Veddy Ranga said, "Had a heartfelt laugh throughout the narration. Beneath all the fun, there's a strong emotional tact, and for the first time, I'm presenting the film. Glad to announce that BHADRAKALI PICTURES is coming out with a very unique musical romantic comedy."

Vanga's Next Directorial

Meanwhile, Sandeep Reddy Vanga's directorial Spirit is set to release in theatres on March 5, 2027. It is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Pranay Reddy Vanga, Krishan Kumar, and Prabhakar Reddy Vanga. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pune rains: Five dead in landslides, wall collapse, other incidents

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:00:26 +0530

At least five people died in separate rain-related incidents across Pune district over the past two days, officials said on Monday.

Multiple Fatalities Reported

According to the Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi, three people lost their lives in a landslide incident at Patan. In another incident, one person died after a wall collapsed in the Nigdi area of Pimpri-Chinchwad on Sunday. Another fatality was reported from Khed tehsil, where a motorcycle rider was swept away by strong water currents. The rider's body was later recovered.

IMD Issues Orange Alert

Authorities are monitoring the situation as rainfall persists in parts of the district.

Maharashtra is currently witnessing a strong spell of rain lashing several parts of the state amid the 'Orange Alert' issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) today.

Fresh Landslide in Maval Tehsil

A person died during the landslide incident that occurred on Monday in the Patal village of Maval Tensil of Pune district. Two more persons are feared trapped beneath the debris.

NDRF Deployed for Rescue

The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday and triggered an emergency response as local authorities scrambled to locate the residents.

Following the distress call, the District Information Office confirmed that immediate assistance was requested from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

A specialised 30-member team from the 5th Battalion, stationed in Pune, was rapidly deployed to the site, according to the District Information Office, Pune. (ANI)

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Centre appoints new chiefs for BPR&D, NCRB, and SVPNPA police bodies

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:00:26 +0530

The Central government on Monday appointed new chiefs of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), and the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA). The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the appointments of senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers for these posts.

Key IPS Appointments

Alok Kumar Mittal Appointed BPR&D Chief

As per an order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Alok Kumar Mittal, a 1993-batch IPS officer, has been appointed as Director General, BPR&D. He will hold the post from the date of assuming charge until June 30, 2029, the date of his superannuation, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

Amit Garg to Head NCRB

The ACC has also approved the appointment of Amit Garg, a 1993-batch IPS officer of the Andhra Pradesh cadre, as Director, NCRB. The appointment has been made by temporarily upgrading the Director's post to the rank of Director General on a personal basis. Garg, who is currently serving as Director of SVPNPA, will remain in the post of NCRB Director until October 31, 2027, or until further orders. He succeeds Alok Ranjan, a 1991-batch IPS officer.

Sujeet Pandey Named SVPNPA Director

In another key appointment, Sujeet Pandey, a 1994-batch IPS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been named Director, SVPNPA. He will serve until July 31, 2028, the date of his retirement, or until further orders. Pandey replaces Amit Garg at the police academy.

The appointments were approved by the ACC based on a proposal submitted by the Ministry of Home Affairs and take effect from the dates the officers assume charge of their respective posts. (ANI)

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Wall Street Believes This Solar Stock Could Climb 36% Due To A Potential Tariff Decision Next Month

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:00:07 +0530

The firm said the price target reflects the potential outcome of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Section 232 investigation into imported polysilicon.
Analyst Praneeth Satish said the stock could see significant upside if the U.S. eases restrictions on a key raw material used in solar panels.
Out of 35 analysts covering the stock, 21 have a ‘Buy’ rating, 12 have a ‘Hold’ rating, and two have a ‘Sell’ rating.

Shares of First Solar (FSLR) climbed nearly 6% on Monday after a bullish Wall Street note said the solar manufacturer could receive a significant boost from a pending decision on tariffs on imported polysilicon.

Wells Fargo raised its price target on the stock to $320 from $255 while maintaining an ‘Overweight’ rating, according to The Fly. This represents a near 36% upside potential from current levels.

FSLR stock hit its all-time high of $320.95 last month.

FSLR To Benefit If US Eases Restrictions On Solar Panel Raw Material

Wells Fargo said its revised outlook reflects the potential outcome of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Section 232 investigation into imported polysilicon, a material essential for manufacturing solar cells and semiconductors.

The probe, launched in July 2025, is expected to conclude by early August. If officials determine that imported polysilicon does not pose a national security risk, the U.S. could expand access to the material, benefiting solar manufacturers such as First Solar.

Analyst Praneeth Satish said the stock could see significant upside if the U.S. eases restrictions on a key raw material used in solar panels.

“We see asymmetric upside in FSLR as the market underappreciates Section 232 polysilicon. A favorable ruling could materially raise US solar pricing and support significant earnings upside,” Satish said.

Bernstein Flags Profitability Challenge

However, not all analysts are optimistic. Last month, Bernstein initiated coverage of First Solar with an ‘Underperform’ rating and a $217 price target, arguing that much of the company’s profitability depends on government tax credits that could change under future policy shifts.

Meanwhile, the U.S. government continues to tighten oversight of the solar supply chain. Last week, a Reuters report indicated the Federal Communications Commission is preparing new rules for foreign-made solar inverters as part of broader efforts to strengthen the security of critical energy infrastructure.

Out of 35 analysts covering the stock, 21 have a ‘Buy’ rating, 12 have a ‘Hold’ rating, and two have pegged the stock as a ‘Sell.’ FSLR’s 12-month consensus price target is $247.3, according to Koyfin data.

Retail Sentiment For FLSR Improves

Retail sentiment surrounding FSLR on Stocktwits turned ‘neutral’ from ‘bearish a day earlier, while sentiment for the Invesco Solar ETF (TAN) changed to ‘bearish’ from ‘neutral.’

FSLR shares have declined around 13% so far this year.

Also read: Ondas Eyes 35% Revenue Upside In FY26 After DZYNE Technologies Acquisition – A Look At Why The Deal Matters

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

Jharkhand Woman Smashes Scorpio After Son Dies in Crash, Viral Video Leaves Internet Heartbroken

Divya Danu — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:48:44 +0530

A 25-year-old man died after his motorcycle was hit by a speeding Scorpio on NH-133 in Jharkhand's Godda. A video showing his grieving mother smashing the SUV has gone viral, drawing emotional reactions online. The victim's wife is 4 months pregnant.

Congress to stick to inclusive politics despite challenges: Patil

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:30:59 +0530

The Congress will continue to adhere to its ideology of inclusive politics and will not indulge in religious polarisation despite political challenges, AICC Himachal Pradesh in-charge Rajani Patil said on Monday, while outlining the party's key political and public issues after a meeting of the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC).

Speaking to ANI in Shimla, Patil said the Congress organisation had completed a year of organisational work following the formation of the Pradesh Congress Committee and had undertaken consultations from the block level to the state level to understand grassroots issues. "We have completed one year after the formation of the PCC. We held discussions from the block level to the state level because our block units are our strength, and they provide us with information from the grassroots. We wanted to listen to every worker before deciding our future course of action," she said.

Key Issues Highlighted

Patil said several issues of public importance were discussed during the meetings, including concerns over international trade agreements and their impact on apple growers in Himachal Pradesh. "There are many pressing issues before the country. One of them is the trade deal and the losses being suffered by our apple growers. This is a major issue, and we will raise it strongly," she said.

Concerns Over NEET Examination

The Congress leader also expressed concern over the NEET examination issue, saying students were under tremendous pressure due to repeated controversies surrounding the examination. "There are around 23 lakh children connected with NEET. The uncertainty surrounding the examination has caused immense stress to students. Such a situation is extremely unfortunate and the government must ensure justice for them," she said.

Allegations Over Ram Temple Donations

Patil also referred to the controversy surrounding donations collected for the Ram Temple, alleging that questions had arisen over the utilisation of funds collected in the name of religion. "People of Himachal Pradesh contributed generously to the Ram Temple. They donated money, materials and even bricks. If there has been any wrongdoing, people deserve answers. We will expose those responsible. Similar issues have surfaced elsewhere too, and everything will come before the public," she alleged.

Congress Reiterates Ideological Stand

At the same time, Patil asserted that the Congress respected Hindu faith and had no intention of politicising religion. "We are followers of Sanatan Dharma. Congress workers also visit temples and offer prayers. Religion is a matter of people's faith and should never be exploited for political or financial gain," she said.

Reiterating the party's ideological stand, Patil said the Congress would continue to uphold secular values even if it came at a political cost. "I have discussed this with Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi. We cannot divide people on the basis of religion. Whether it is politically beneficial or not, we will not abandon our ideology. We believe in taking everyone along," she said.

Patil also urged the government to ensure justice in incidents involving students and other public grievances, saying such incidents were becoming increasingly frequent and required immediate attention.

She said the Congress would continue raising issues affecting the people of Himachal Pradesh and the country while remaining committed to its core ideology of inclusive governance. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Rohit Sharma hits the nets, looks in good touch for England ODIs

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:30:54 +0530

India's star opener Rohit Sharma is back in the nets ahead of the three-match ODI series against England, which begins on July 14 at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The veteran batter looked in good touch during the session, playing a range of elegant strokes, including straight drives and cover drives with ease. India is currently playing a five-match T20I series against England.

Rohit Sharma's Career and Recent Form

Rohit enters the ODI series on the back of scores of 16, 48, and 79 in the previous series against Afghanistan last month. The "Hitman" is India's third-highest run-scorer in ODIs, with 11,720 runs from 285 matches at an average of 48.83 and a strike rate of 92.97, including 33 centuries and 62 fifties. His unbeaten 264 against Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens in 2014 remains the highest individual score in ODI cricket.

India's ODI Squad vs England

Alongside Rohit, star batter Virat Kohli has also been named in India's squad for the three-match ODI series, though his participation is subject to fitness clearance. India's ODI squad vs England: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli*, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar. (* - subject to fitness).

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Ram Mandir row: Khera holds PM Modi, Mohan Bhagwat responsible

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:30:51 +0530

Amid growing chaos over the Ram Mandir donation theft row, senior Congress leader Pawan Khera on Monday said that the responsiblity for any lapse lies with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, who he said have kept the temple project under their control.

Khera Alleges Mismanagement and Lack of Accountability

He questioned the lack of accountability within the Trust's leadership and alleged that the project is being micro-managed by the Sangh to maintain its "grip" on the temple.

The Congress leader further raised serious allegations regarding financial mismanagement and land acquisition near the temple site. "Land is being purchased; a plot worth ₹86 crore was bought. Fodder is being grown on it, a few kilometres away from the temple. Fodder for grazing cows is being cultivated on land worth ₹86 crore. We want to know: is there even a gaushala near the temple?" Khera asked.

Questions Raised on Trust Officials

Khera also pointed fingers at Nripendra Misra, the Chairman of the Ram Temple Construction Committee, questioning his administrative past. "Nripendra Misra was the one in charge when that firing took place, wasn't he? And you appointed him as the supreme authority in the Trust. What was Nripendra Misra's role at the time the firing occurred? They won't talk about that," he stated.

Concluding his statement by targeting the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the RSS, Khera remarked on the contrast between the officials' lifestyle and their claims of non-involvement. "Today, I saw footage on TV of Govind Giri travelling in a vehicle worth 1.5 crore rupees--a Vellfire or something similar--yet he claims he had no role in the matter and that his signature was never even required. You self-appointed guardians of Hinduism--stay away. Hindus face the greatest threat from these very elements, be it the Vishwa Hindu Parishad or the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)."

Khera targeted the BJP-led Centre, alleging that the ruling party's support for individuals depends entirely on whether they are in power and control state agencies. "If our government were in power at the Centre today and this incident had occurred, they would have disowned Champat Rai--just as they distanced themselves from Godse, claiming they had nothing to do with him. But since their government is currently in power and the agencies are under their control, they are praising Champat Rai. Had a government controlled by the Jan Sangh, Hindu Mahasabha, or RSS been in power at the time of Gandhiji's assassination, the praise for Godse would have begun as early as 5:45 PM on January 30, 1948," he said.

Trust Accepts Resignations Amid Probe

His remarks come after the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust accepted the resignations of its General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, while announcing a series of administrative measures following the Special Investigation Team's (SIT) preliminary findings.

According to a press release issued after a meeting of the trustees held in Ayodhya, the Trust also decided to remove Gopal Nagarkote from the list of special invitee members. The meeting reviewed the alleged irregularities in donation counting, the subsequent investigation, media reports and interim administrative arrangements.

It said that as of March 31, 2026, the temple had received Rs 582 crore in offerings, of which Rs 391 crore had been utilised for operational expenses, while the remaining amount is held in bank accounts. (ANI)

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PM Modi gets grand welcome in Indonesia, to cement Act East Policy

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:30:39 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Indonesia on Monday as part of his three-nation tour aimed at further cementing India's Act East Policy. Welcomed with fighter jets and cultural performances, the Prime Minister's visit is aimed at deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Grand Welcome in Jakarta

His visit kicked off with a grand welcome as Indonesian Air Force fighter jets escorted the Prime Minister's aircraft upon entering Indonesian airspace, marking a ceremonial welcome. He was received by President Prabowo Subianto along with four other ministers at the airport. "Landed in Jakarta. I'm touched by President Prabowo Subianto's gesture of welcoming me at the airport. In 2018 we elevated our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has benefitted our people," PM Modi said in a post on X.

Prime Minister Modi was accorded a warm welcome by the Indian community in Jakarta. He labelled their affection and deep commitment to India's progress "truly inspiring", underlining how the diaspora continues to strengthen India's bonds with the world through its achievements across diverse fields.

Touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in Jakarta. Their affection and deep commitment to India's progress are truly inspiring. Our diaspora continues to strengthen India's bonds with the world through its achievements across diverse fields. pic.twitter.com/Rw8HorlnqX — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2026

Cultural Performances Highlight Shared Heritage

The Prime Minister also witnessed a series of cultural performances reflective of the strength of the cultural connection between the two countries.

On witnessing the performance of 'Homage to the Triple Gem'- which embodies the teachings of Lord Buddha, by the artistes of the Vihara Dharma Ratna Group, PM Modi called it "exceptional" and said in a post on X, "It reflected the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha and the profound values embodied in the Triple Gem. It is heartening to see the rich Buddhist heritage being preserved and celebrated with such passion by the people of Indonesia."

The performance of ‘Homage to the Triple Gem’, by the artistes of the Vihara Dharma Ratna Group, was exceptional. It reflected the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha and the profound values embodied in the Triple Gem. It is heartening to see the rich Buddhist heritage being… pic.twitter.com/4KAP3rnXGT — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2026

He also saw a Bharatanatyam performance by the Samanvaya Group and lauded how the cherished traditions are being preserved and presented with such dedication and excellence.

In Jakarta, I was delighted to witness a graceful Bharatanatyam performance by the Samanvaya Group. It is gladdening to see these cherished traditions being preserved and presented with such dedication and excellence. pic.twitter.com/2xkHCYRZKD — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2026

The Prime Minister also saw the performance of Wayang Kulit, Indonesia's treasured shadow puppetry tradition, bringing the timeless story of the Ramayan to life. "It was a moving reminder of how our shared civilisational heritage has travelled across seas and generations, taking on beautiful local expressions while preserving its eternal values. My compliments to the team, which is known as Ganesh, for the performance," he said.

Witnessed a captivating performance of Wayang Kulit, Indonesia’s treasured shadow puppetry tradition, bringing the timeless story of the Ramayan to life. It was a moving reminder of how our shared civilisational heritage has travelled across seas and generations, taking on… pic.twitter.com/wmEW3QTcUT — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2026

Boosting 'Act East' Policy and Indo-Pacific Outlook

PM Modi emphasised that his visit to three nations will strengthen India's Act East Policy and MAHASAGAR Vision. "My visit to Indonesia and Australia in the Eastern and Southern Indian Ocean respectively, followed by New Zealand will further strengthen India's Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision as well as our outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific," PM Modi said in his departure statement.

Focus on Bilateral Ties and Economic Cooperation

Prime Minister Modi's high-profile engagement marks his fourth visit to the maritime neighbour and is the first bilateral visit since the relationship was formally elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018. Ahead of his visit to the country, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that the Prime Minister will hold bilateral discussions with President Prabowo and review the progress made in the partnership. "In Jakarta, the Prime Minister will address a large gathering of the Indian Diaspora. India and Indonesia share historical and warm people-to-people ties. In keeping with these special bonds, the Prime Minister will visit the Prambanan Temple complex at Yogyakarta, a prominent UNESCO World Heritage site in Indonesia, " the statement said.

Speaking to ANI on PM Modi's visit, Indian Ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty said, " Prime Minister Modi's visit will further intensify those ties and build cooperation in many areas and open up new areas of cooperation, whether it is in manufacturing, science and technology, space, nuclear, or even educational exchanges."

The ambassador said that several agreements are expected to be signed during the visit, covering sectors including health, agriculture, food security, science, technology, space, pharmaceuticals, education, manufacturing and critical minerals. He said, "There will be agreements in the health sector, in agriculture, in food security, in science and technology, space, pharmaceuticals, education, in manufacturing, in critical minerals. So there are many, and I think Prime Minister Modi's visit will open up new chapters of cooperation. It will give a boost to what is happening already."

Indonesia is India's second-largest trading partner within the ASEAN region, with bilateral trade reaching USD 24.78 billion during the 2025-26 fiscal year. Currently, more than 130 Indian enterprises maintain active investments across diverse sectors of the Indonesian economy.

Prior to the visit, members of the Indian diaspora expressed their expectations for PM Modi's visit, calling for deeper cooperation across mining, energy, infrastructure and emerging technologies. The Prime Minister's three-day visit is slated to structurally strengthen bilateral institutional mechanisms and trade channels in this vital domain. His three-day official visit is aimed at reviewing bilateral ties and deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. (ANI)

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Amit Shah hails Syama Prasad Mookerjee on 125th birth anniversary

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:30:38 +0530

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday paid tributes to Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary, describing the occasion as an "emotional day" and asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had fulfilled Mookerjee's resolve by abrogating Article 370 and making Jammu and Kashmir an integral part of India.

Addressing a public event here, Shah said Mookerjee sacrificed his life for the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir with India and resigned from independent India's first Cabinet over the Nehru-Liaquat Pact. "Today is an emotional day for many people like me. Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee ji sacrificed his life to integrate Kashmir with India. He resigned from the country's first Cabinet due to the Nehru-Liaquat Pact. He emphasised that India's policies should be crafted from the fragrance of India's own soil. Today, on the occasion of his 125th birth anniversary in Bengal, the foundation stone of his grand 125-foot statue has been laid," Shah said.

Mookerjee's Resignation over 'Lopsided' Nehru-Liaquat Pact

The Union Home Minister alleged that Mookerjee had found the "Nehru-Liaquat Pact" to be one-sided as it did not address the concerns of Hindus living in Pakistan while focusing on Muslims in India. "I have seen the resignation letter he submitted after the first Cabinet meeting. At that time, an agreement was reached between Jawaharlal Nehru and Liaquat. Upon studying the Nehru-Liaquat Pact, Dr Mookerjee remarked that it showed absolutely no concern for the Hindus in Pakistan and what was then East Pakistan. It took into consideration the Muslims who stayed in India, but not the Hindus who stayed in Pakistan and Bangladesh. He called it lopsided, and therefore he decided to resign from the Cabinet," Shah said.

'Modi Fulfilled His Resolve by Abolishing Article 370'

Referring to the abrogation of Article 370, Shah said, "On Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary, Modi ji fulfilled his resolve and abolished Article 370. Today, Kashmir is an integral part of Bharat."

CAA, UCC, and Law and Order in West Bengal

Highlighting the Centre's citizenship policy, Shah said the government had enacted the Citizenship (Amendment) Act to grant citizenship to persecuted Hindu refugees. "Today, the government of the same party has brought the CAA to grant citizenship to all Hindu refugees living in India. Today, I want to say from this platform that we will soon fulfil the remaining formalities for granting citizenship as well, because the BJP government is in West Bengal," he said.

Shah also said that the committee for the Uniform Civil Code had already been constituted and asserted that the code would also be implemented in West Bengal. "The committee for UCC has already been formed. The Uniform Civil Code is also set to be implemented in West Bengal," he said.

Praising the state government over law and order, Shah said the West Bengal Maintenance of Public Order Amendment Bill, 2026, had been passed and described it as the first step towards taking action against criminals. "The West Bengal Maintenance of Public Order Amendment Bill 2026 has now been passed. We had promised to teach the goons a lesson, and today this bill has become the first step in that direction," he said.

He also claimed that the process of identifying and removing infiltrators had begun.

'Policies Should Be Crafted from the Fragrance of India's Own Soil'

Recalling Mookerjee's ideological vision, Shah said the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh had believed that merely changing governments would not make India great. "The party started today by Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee ji, the Jana Sangh, is now operating across two-thirds of the country's area and more than two-thirds of its population in accordance with his policies, as the BJP. When he founded the Jana Sangh, he had taken a pledge that merely changing the government would not glorify India. The policies of free India should be crafted from the fragrance of India's own soil, without the shadow of the West upon them. Today, under the leadership of Modi ji, India is advancing in that very direction," Shah said.

He further said that Mookerjee had envisioned building a modern India while preserving its development, heritage and culture, adding that the Modi government was working towards a developed India by 2047 while strengthening the country's civilisational foundations. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

RBI to auction government securities worth Rs 32,000 crore on Friday

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:30:32 +0530

The Reserve Bank of India will auction Government of India dated securities worth Rs 32,000 crore on Friday.

Auction Details

The auction involves the re-issue of two bonds. These are Rs 21,000 crore of the 6.36 per cent GS 2031 maturing on February 16, 2031, and Rs 11,000 crore of the 7.71 per cent GS 2066 maturing on May 18, 2066. The government will also have the option to retain an additional subscription of up to Rs 2,000 crore against each security.

Bidding Process and Schedule

The sale will be conducted by the RBI Mumbai Office using the multiple price method. Bids have to be submitted electronically on the RBI Core Banking Solution, or e-Kuber system.

Non-competitive bids will be accepted between 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., while competitive bids can be submitted between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

The results will be announced on the same day, and payment by successful bidders will be made on Monday, July 13, 2026.

Primary Dealers can submit bids for the Additional Competitive Underwriting portion between 9:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. on July 10.

The minimum bid size is Rs 10,000 and in multiples of Rs 10,000 thereafter. Up to 5 per cent of the notified amount for each security will be reserved for non-competitive bidding for eligible individuals and institutions.

Retail investors can also place bids through the RBI Retail Direct portal.

Key Terms and Conditions

Allotment under the non-competitive segment will be at the weighted average yield or price of successful competitive bids.

The securities will be eligible for "When Issued" trading from July 7 to July 10. They will also be eligible for repurchase transactions or repo as per RBI guidelines.

Interest on the government securities will generally be paid half-yearly, with details mentioned in the specific notification.

The auction is being conducted under the a general notification dated March 26, 2025. Investments by non-residents will be subject to the Fully Accessible Route guidelines.

The RBI has said it reserves full discretion to accept or reject any or all bids wholly or partially without assigning any reason.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ayodhya embezzlement: Kejriwal slams resignations, wants punishment

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:30:26 +0530

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday called for "strict punishment" in the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation embezzlement case, calling the resignation of the Trust's General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra an attempt to save them.

In an X post, Kejriwal wrote, "Hindus and Sanatanis don't need resignation; they deserve strict punishment. Don't try to save them by asking for their resignation."

Trust Overhauls Leadership

In addition to Champat Rai and Anil Mishra, the Trust decided to remove Gopal Nagarkote from the list of special invitee members.

The Trust has appointed trustee Krishna Mohan to discharge the responsibilities of General Secretary until a new appointment is made. It also constituted a three-member committee comprising retired Justice Pramod Kohli, retired Lieutenant General Vishnukant Chaturvedi and Suresh Havde to recommend candidates for the post of Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Financial Details Released

According to a press release issued by the Trust, out of the total Rs 3,264 crore received through the fund dedication campaign and corpus donations, Rs 2,370 crore has been spent on construction and capital expenditure.

As of March 31, the temple had received Rs 582 crore in offerings, of which Rs 391 crore had been utilised for operational expenses, while the remaining amount is held in bank accounts.

The Trust further stated that 2,126 physical offerings have been registered and are physically verified annually by an independent chartered accountant firm. It added that silver offerings have been melted into bricks at the India Government Mint, with proper documentation and purity certificates maintained.

SIT Probe and Political Fallout

As the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case arrested the eight accused, the Trust has maintained that anyone found guilty should face legal action and receive the strictest possible punishment.

The case has brought the BJP government under the brunt of the Opposition's criticism in Uttar Pradesh, ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Major administrative reshuffle in Himachal Pradesh; 34 officers moved

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:30:26 +0530

The Himachal Pradesh government on Monday ordered a major administrative reshuffle, transferring and posting 34 bureaucrats, including 18 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers and 16 Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service (HPAS) officers, with immediate effect. The transfer orders were issued by Chief Secretary Kamlesh Kumar Pant and involve key changes across various government departments, district administrations, municipal corporations and state-run institutions.

The state government said the transfers and postings have been ordered with immediate effect in the public interest. Separate orders for a few officers awaiting adjustment are expected to be issued subsequently.

Key IAS Officer Postings

Among the senior IAS officers, Dr Abhishek Jain (2002 batch), who is serving as Advisor (Regulatory Reforms) in New Delhi and also holds the portfolios of Principal Secretary (Finance, Planning, Jan Shikayat Vibhag and Technical Education), has been assigned the additional charge of Financial Commissioner (Appeals). Sudesh Kumar Mokhta (2010 batch), who was awaiting posting, has been appointed Secretary (Cooperation). Amarjeet Singh (2010 batch) has been relieved of the Cooperation Department and will now function as Secretary (Town and Country Planning and Housing), while continuing to hold the additional charge of Secretary (Home). Torul S Raveesh (2016 batch) has been transferred as Director of Land Records after serving in state industrial corporations. Rahul Jain (2019 batch) has been appointed Managing Director of the Himachal Pradesh Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation and Mahila Vikas Nigam. He will also continue to hold additional charge as Registrar of Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry and Administrator of Manav Bharati University.

District-Level Changes

The reshuffle also includes significant changes at the district level. Rajdeep Singh (2021 batch) has been posted as Commissioner, Municipal Corporation Solan, replacing Ekta Kapta (HPAS), who has been shifted as Additional Director, Medical Education and Research. Priyanshu Khati (2022 batch) has been appointed Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development), Mandi, while Ishant Jaswal (2021 batch) has been posted as Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development), Una. Rupinder Kaur (2021 batch) has been appointed Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development), Bilaspur.

HPAS Officers Transferred

Among HPAS officers, Shilpi Beakta (2012 batch) has been posted as Additional Secretary (Public Works Department) and will also hold the additional charge of Secretary, State Election Commission. Surjeet Singh (2012 batch), who was serving as Secretary, State Election Commission, has been transferred as Additional District Magistrate (Development)-cum-Project Director, District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), Kullu. Chet Singh (2015 batch) has been appointed Secretary, State Transport Authority-cum-Additional Commissioner, Transport, relieving Naresh Thakur of the additional charge. Ashwani Kumar (2009 batch) has been transferred from Kullu and posted as Project Officer, Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP), Keylong. (ANI)

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Rested or Dropped? Sanju Samson's Omission From India Squad for Zimbabwe T20Is Sparks Selection Debate

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:20:50 +0530

Team India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson was excluded from the India squad for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, starting on July 23. On Monday, the BCCI selection committee announced the 15-member T20I squad for the tour of Zimbabwe as part of the 2028 T20 World Cup and LA Olympics cycle.

Shreyas Iyer will continue to lead the side, and Tilak Varma will serve as his deputy. The 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who made his international debut in the first T20I against England, retained his place in the squad, while Prabhsimran Singh, Ashok Sharma, and Yash Thakur received maiden national call-ups.

Mayank Yadav returned to the India T20I squad, while Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, and Sanju Samson were excluded from the India squad for the tour of Zimbabwe.

Also Read: Shreyas Iyer to lead India in Zimbabwe T20Is; 3 new faces in squad

Samson Dropped from India Squad

One of the biggest news from the India squad announcement for the Zimbabwe T20I series was the omission of Sanju Samson. Samson, who was Player of the Tournament at the T20 World Cup 2026, is part of the ongoing T20I series against England, where he scored just 1 run in the opening match before getting dropped for the second game.

In India's ongoing UK tour, Samson registered scores of 5 and 0 in the T20I series against Ireland, before being followed by an underwhelming single-run performance off seven balls in the opening T20I against England. For the second T20I, the Kerala cricketer was replaced by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the playing XI.

Sanju Samson, who played a crucial role in India’s successful T20 World Cup title defence this year, has seen his recent form dip significantly. Though the 31-year-old had a good IPL season with Chennai Super Kings, scoring 477 runs at an average of 43.36 in 14 matches, the inability to translate that domestic consistency into international runs has been a persistent concern.

News #TeamIndia squad announced for the 3️⃣-match T20I series against Zimbabwe.More Details ▶️ https://t.co/sC19D5eW8y#ZIMvIND pic.twitter.com/ctbM5gFMtY

— BCCI (@BCCI) July 6, 2026

Sanju Samson was in and out of the national setup before permanently retaining his place in the T20I side since the Zimbabwe series in 2024, but this latest omission marks a significant turning point in his international journey, raising questions about his future role in the squad as India shifts its focus toward a younger core of players.

The BCCI didn’t explain the move, leaving fans and analysts to debate whether this serves as a well-deserved rest for a seasoned campaigner after a grueling international calendar, or a decisive signal that the selectors are ready to move on in favor of developing new talent.

‘Where is Sanju Samson?’: Fans Raise Questions Over His Exclusion

Sanju Samson’s exclusion from the India squad for the T20I series against Zimbabwe has sparked a massive debate on selection as well as the perceived lack of consistency in how the BCCI handles players who have proven their worth on the global stage.

Taking to their X handles (formerly Twitter), fans and cricket enthusiasts questioned Samson's omission, with many asking how the reigning T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament could be left out after just a few low scores. Others criticised the selectors for inconsistency in giving opportunities to the players who have delivered on the biggest stage.

Many argued that Samson deserved a longer run after his World Cup heroics, while others questioned whether the omission signalled a shift towards a younger core.

So bid adieu for T20 World Cup player of the series followed by a good ipl judged by just 3 low scores ? https://t.co/7xfIUxpS7n

— Prasanna (@prasannalara) July 6, 2026

Samson is already dropped after 3 failures?? He was the major factor because of whom India won the T20WC. https://t.co/K1lGdJOJAX

— Aditya Saha (@Adityakrsaha) July 6, 2026

Almost everyone is there only Sanju Samson is dropped. That makes it clear that Sanju Samson International Career is done and dusted. https://t.co/gwDsqg3x8f pic.twitter.com/YFQYTwZV5r

— The Brevis (@Ben10Brevis) July 6, 2026

What the fvckk??? You guys dropped Sanju Samson??? pic.twitter.com/ATyRRPg0Tj

— Kusha Sharma  (@Kushacritic) July 6, 2026

One thing is becoming increasingly obvious: BCCI's T20 selection lacks consistency. Consistent performances don't seem to guarantee consistent opportunities, while some players continue to enjoy unwavering backing.No disrespect to those who were selected, but Sanju Samson has…

— The OG Homelander (@mukeshaswin7) July 6, 2026

Bro, there is no Samson even in the squad

— Sai Sai (@SaiSai1912163) July 6, 2026

@BCCI India won the T20 World Cup because of him. He was the Player of the Series, yet after just three low-scoring matches, he's dropped from the team.It feels like the only reason behind this is that he's a South Indian player.Shame on the BCCI.Always with Sanju. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/7seBqDaDIc

— syam murali (@syammurali12) July 6, 2026

Dropped Sanju Samson in just 2-3 failure pic.twitter.com/kz5C9WDSb8

— VARSHA (@XVARSHA1) July 6, 2026

How can you drop player of the tournament of the last world cup???That guy literally gave everything he has. Really can't even predict what this mgt is upto.The third star on Indian Jersey is bcz of him. No one can deny that fact & they just dropped him after 3 games.Shameful!

— Himanshu Seth (@dcricketledger) July 6, 2026

Where’s Sanju

— CofCricket (@CofCricket) July 6, 2026

First, Sanju Samson gets dropped from the T20Is against England, and now again from the Zimbabwe tour as well.- Played 3 crucial knocks in the T20 World Cup knockout stage- Contributed to winning the T20 World Cup- Won the Player of the Tournament award- Played only 3… pic.twitter.com/6suCQobVwG

— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) July 6, 2026

I think it is imperative that the BCCI gives fans the reason why Sanju Samson isn't in the team to Zimbabwe. Communication is crucial because otherwise people will arrive at their own conclusion. Because surely he cannot be dropped. Surely not.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) July 6, 2026

In his T20I career, Sanju Samson has amassed 1405 runs, including 3 centuries and 6 fifties, at an average of 27.01 and a strike rate of 155.42 in 65 matches.

It remains to be seen whether the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will clarify the rationale behind this decision in the coming days, or if Samson must now focus entirely on domestic cricket to force his way back into a side that is rapidly evolving under a new leadership vision.

Also Read: 10 Pakistan Captaincy Changes in 20 Months: Babar Azam's Return as Test Skipper Adds Another Twist

Trump Says $800M Will Be Invested In Stock Market This Week For American Children As Trump Accounts Go Live

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:05:02 +0530

Trump said his administration is considering a similar plan for adults in the U.S., mirroring a program implemented by the Australian government.
According to the U.S. Treasury Department, all contributions to the program would be initially invested in the State Street SPDR Portfolio S&P 500 ETF.
Four other ETFs have also been chosen by the Treasury Department that account holders can select from later on.

President Donald Trump on Monday announced the debut of Trump Accounts, saying that more than $800 million will be invested in the U.S. stock markets this week on behalf of American children.

Addressing reporters at the White House, the U.S. President said that these Trump Accounts are being funded using seed money from the United States government and contributions from individuals.

“Today, with the opening bell of the stock market, those accounts will now begin to grow right along with our booming economy, and I really believe we’ll have the biggest boom of all [time]. You haven’t seen anything yet,” he said.

Trump Says Plans Being Considered For Adults

Trump also said that his administration is considering a similar plan for adults in the U.S., mirroring a program implemented by the Australian government.

“We’re going to be talking about that with Congress and see if we can implement it, and that would be more for grown-ups as opposed to children. But it’s going to be something that’s going to be great if we can get it done, and we’re going to try very hard,” he added.

According to the U.S. Treasury Department, all contributions to the program would be initially invested in the State Street SPDR Portfolio S&P 500 ETF.

Four other ETFs have also been chosen by the government that account holders can select from later on. This includes BlackRock Inc.’s iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV) and iShares Core S&P Total US Stock Market ETF (ITOT), Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI), and State Street SPDR Portfolio S&P 1500 Composite Stock Market ETF (SPTM).

Dell Technologies Inc. (DELL) founder Michael Dell and his wife, Susan Dell, who pledged $6.25 billion to the Trump Accounts initiative, were also present beside Trump during the announcement.

“Go out and buy a Dell computer. He's not doing it for that, but I bet his business bread has gotten even bigger,” Trump said.

SPCX President Joins Trump Accounts Program

SpaceX President and Chief Operating Officer Gwynne Shotwell announced on Monday that she and her husband are each contributing one share of SpaceX to more than 2 million Trump Accounts.

“Every American child under 18 can benefit from having a Trump Account, but our gift specifically goes to the Accounts of children (ages 11-17) that live in areas with lower average household incomes with a bit more emphasis for those that live near our central Texas home,” Shotwell said in a post on X.

Gwynne Shotwell's post on X | @Gwynne_Shotwell/X

What Are Trump Accounts?

Trump Accounts are a new type of tax-advantaged investment account for children created under the 2025 tax law signed by Trump. They are designed to help families start investing for a child's future from an early age, with the federal government providing seed money for eligible newborns.

Any eligible U.S. child under age 18 with a valid Social Security number can have a Trump Account opened by a parent or guardian.

Children who are U.S. citizens born between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2028 qualify for a one-time $1,000 federal deposit.

Family members, friends, employers, charities, and certain government entities can contribute up to $5,000 per year.

At the time of writing, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY), which tracks the S&P 500 index, rose 0.55%; the Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (QQQ) gained 1.54%; and the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust (DIA) declined 0.33%. Retail sentiment on Stocktwits regarding the S&P 500 ETF was in the ‘extremely bullish’ territory.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Fitch upgrades JSW Steel's rating to 'BB+' with a Positive Outlook

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:01:17 +0530

Fitch Ratings has upgraded JSW Steel Limited's Long-Term Issuer Default Rating and senior unsecured bonds to 'BB+' from 'BB', and removed the ratings from Rating Watch Positive, the company said in an exchange filing on Monday. The outlook is now Positive on the company, JSW said in a press release citing the rating agency's report.

The upgrade follows JSW Steel receiving Rs 294 billion in March 2026 and Rs 79 billion in June 2026 from the sale of steel assets to JSW JFE Kalinga Steel Limited (JJKSL), its newly formed 50:50 JV with Japan's JFE Steel Corporation.

Rating Rationale and Future Outlook

Fitch said the upgrade reflects its expectation that EBITDA net leverage, including proportionate consolidation of JJKSL, will remain below 2.7x and could improve further to around 2.0x from FY27. A sustained fall below 2.0x could trigger an upgrade to 'BBB-'. Leverage was 4.0x in FY25 and is estimated at 2.5x in FY26.

Fitch expects deleveraging to be aided by rising EBITDA, cost efficiencies and debt reduction using JJKSL proceeds, even as capex stays high and free cash flow remains negative. JSW has also set lower public net debt/EBITDA and net debt/equity targets.

Standalone EBITDA/tonne is forecast at INR10,750 in FY27 and INR11,250 in FY28, up from around INR9,700 in FY26. Support comes from India's 11 per cent-12 per cent safeguard duties on certain steel imports until April 2028, strong domestic demand, and easing iron ore prices.

Sales volume is projected to grow about 8 per cent annually over FY28-FY30, driven by the 5 mtpa brownfield expansion at Dolvi, debottlenecking, and the merger of BMM Ispat. Fitch expects India's steel consumption to expand 8 per cent on infrastructure, construction and manufacturing demand.

Expansion and Investment Strategy

JSW has raised its capex plan to INR230-275 billion annually over FY27-FY29 as it targets 50.3 mtpa capacity by FY30, up from 44.4 mtpa earlier.

Joint Venture and Self-Sufficiency Goals

Equity investment in JJKSL and a new JV with POSCO is pegged at INR21 billion a year over FY28-FY31, with limited impact on metrics. The two JVs are expected to add 11.5 mtpa by FY32.

Iron ore self-sufficiency is seen rising to 50 per cent by FY31 from 33 per cent in FY26. Vijayanagar remains in the first quartile of WoodMac's global cost curve.

Financial Health and Rating Triggers

Fitch noted liquidity remains strong with INR413 billion cash at FYE26, plus undrawn lines. The Positive Outlook reflects potential for further leverage improvement. A sustained rise above 2.7x could lead to negative action.

JSW Steel had 31.9 mtpa primary capacity in India as of 1HFY26, rising to 35.7 mtpa on a consolidated basis, including its share of JJKSL.

Market Response

Monday, the stock ended nearly 1 per cent higher at Rs 1,242.10 on the National Stock Exchange. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bengaluru quarry collapse: NHRC takes cognisance of 7 labourer deaths

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:01:13 +0530

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Monday took suo motu cognisance of a media report that at least seven migrant labourers died and five others were injured when a massive granite rock fell on them at a quarry in Bengaluru on July 2, as per the release. Reportedly, the incident indicated negligence by the quarry owner. About 16 labourers were on the site when the incident occurred, the release said.

The Commission has observed that the contents of the news reports, if true, raise serious issues of violation of human rights. Therefore, it has issued notices to the Karnataka Chief Secretary, calling for a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

Details of the Quarry Collapse

According to media reports, carried on July 3, two stone crushers were operating in the area where the incident happened. The investigations are going on to find the exact cause behind the incident. Seven daily-wage labourers from Bihar lost their lives on Thursday morning when a massive rock fell at a stone quarry site in Bengaluru's Madapattana.

The workers were engaged in routine quarrying operations when a huge rock, reportedly falling from a height of about 40 feet, trapped them beneath the debris. The victims were all daily-wage labourers who were trapped under the fallen boulder and died on the spot at the stone crusher site.

Police said, "The accident took place while the workers were engaged in quarrying operations. Several other workers sustained injuries and were shifted to a private hospital for treatment. The exact number of injured is still being verified."

Rescue personnel and police rushed to the site and launched operations immediately after the collapse. The area was cordoned off as officials cleared debris and searched for anyone else who may have been trapped.

Reflecting on the scale of the disaster, one of the labourers present at the site said, "around 18 workers were present when a huge rock fell from a height of about 40 feet." Police confirmed that the "collapse of a crusher wall in Madapattana of Bengaluru South Taluk has caused the death of 7 workers, bringing immense sorrow, and all seven deceased were natives of Bihar". (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kashmera Shah backs 'mami' Sunita Ahuja for 'Lock Upp Season 2'

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:00:48 +0530

Actress Kashmera Shah has shown full support for her "mami" Sunita Ahuja, who is currently appearing on the much-discussed 'Lock Upp Season 2'. Emphasising that the entire family stands by her, Kashmera encouraged her to stay true to herself and maintain her ground in the show. "Be strong, Mami. You are not alone. We are all with you. Don't let anyone bring you down. Real or reel, be yourself and give whoever is giving you hell back. Show them what hell actually is. Your devil's angel is here to protect you, and I promise I will not let anyone put you down or make you cry," Kashmera wrote on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/p/Dab7aIxDHM4/

While acknowledging that Sunita is capable of giving a fitting response, Kashmera concluded her heartfelt note by urging her to stay resilient. "I know you can give them back, but you are just keeping quiet as you want to go back home. I say stick in there and stick it out and make life hell for whoever is torturing you in the show. Love you now and forever," she wrote.

Heated Confrontations on Lock Upp 2

Hosted by Riteish Deshmukh and Farah Khan, Lock Upp 2 has already witnessed heated confrontations, emotional revelations and its first eviction. In a recent promo, Sunita Ahuja was seen getting into a verbal altercation with fellow inmate Shilpa Shinde. https://www.instagram.com/p/DacQLxqikOZ/

In the promo, Shilpa Shinde could be seen trying to corner Sunita, making remarks about her husband, actor Govinda. In response, Sunita warned Shilpa not to mess with her.

'Lock Upp Season 2' witnessed its first elimination last week. Shrestha Iyer became the first contestant to be evicted from the reality show, while Akanksha Chamola and Madhuri Jain Grover escaped elimination and remain in the competition. Premiered on June 27, Lock Upp Season 2 streams on Netflix from Saturday to Wednesday. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'Performative devotion surge has ulterior motives': Ram Mandir Trust

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:00:35 +0530

Stating that "theft is theft" and the SIT is currently investigating the Ram Mandir donation row, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Ji Maharaj on Monday hit out over allegations by political parties on the issue, saying "sudden, performative surge of devotion to Ram among those who have historically opposed it is no ordinary phenomenon" and alleged that it is "driven by ulterior motives that the entire Hindu society must recognise".

'Performative surge of devotion has ulterior motives'

Interacting with the media after the meeting of the Ram Mandir Trust, Swami Govind Dev Giri urged followers of Sanatan Dharma to "not give credence to such baseless rhetoric".

'Do not give credence to such baseless rhetoric'

He urged devotees to be aware of "falsehoods and fabrications being spread".

"I call upon all devotees of Ram and Krishna, all followers of Sanatan Dharma, and all who hold Hindu faith dear: do not give credence to such baseless rhetoric. If you feel something is amiss or missing, come directly to the Trust's office, schedule a visit, inspect the item in question, and judge for yourselves the extent of the falsehoods and fabrications being spread," he said.

Congress, Samajwadi Party and several other opposition parties have slammed the BJP and Sangh Parivar organisations over the Ram Mandir donation row.

'All donated items are safe'

Swami Govind Dev Giri rejected allegations that high-quality offerings and donated items had vanished.

"Allegations are made that various other high-quality offerings and donated items also vanished without a trace. We have brought the register containing the records of all these items to show you; we will present the details of all the items in question. We are going to display all of these before you today. Furthermore, we wish to inform you that we possess a register listing 2800 such items, and all of them are safe. We have brought these five specific items--which have been the subject of discussion--merely as samples to show you," he said.

SIT investigating, meeting on June 22

Swami Govind Dev Giri said a meeting of the Trust will be held on June 22.

"We are meeting again on the 22nd. We anticipate that the SIT's final report will be available to us by that time; we are meeting on the 22nd to deliberate on that report and to appoint additional trustees. We wish to state unequivocally that theft is theft, and the SIT is currently investigating the matter; that is the administration's responsibility. We, too, strongly urge that the perpetrators be apprehended--including any accomplices who may still be in hiding--and that they receive the punishment they deserve for their crime; we are firm on this point," he said.

Champat Rai, Anil Mishra resign

"... We are all hurt and saddened by this. The magnitude of the theft--whether small or large--is a secondary concern; we are primarily distressed by the very fact that such an atmosphere was allowed to develop here. However, the reality is before us, and it is our duty to reflect upon it. Consequently, even before the scheduled date, we gathered today in a state of deep contemplation and sorrow. Given the prevailing circumstances, a critical situation arose: our General Secretary, Champat Rai, and Trustee Anil Ji Mishra submitted their resignations," he added.

Swami Govind Dev Giri said Champat Rai was deeply pained felt it inappropriate to continue in his role until justice is fully served - the culprits are apprehended and receive appropriate punishment.

"Driven by this sentiment, he tendered his resignation--a matter that was not ours to simply accept or reject. K. Parasaran raised a significant point: under the Trust's constitution, a resignation is deemed accepted the moment it is submitted," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Lionel Richie reassures fans, says he is 'doing well' after scare

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:00:23 +0530

Richie Reassures Fans and Returns to Stage

Legendary singer-songwriter Lionel Richie has reassured fans that he is recovering well after an onstage health scare forced him to postpone the opening dates of his North American 'Sing a Song All Night Long Tour, according to E! News. The 77-year-old music icon shared a health update on Instagram on July 4, a week after experiencing a dizzy spell during his opening-night performance in St. Paul, Minnesota, which led to the postponement of his scheduled concerts in Illinois and Ohio.

"Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love," Richie wrote. "I'm doing well, and I'm grateful for all of you."

Despite the setback, Richie returned to the stage for his June 30 concert in Pittsburgh and July 1 performance in Detroit, expressing his appreciation for fans who attended the shows. "Pittsburgh and Detroit were an absolute joy," he wrote. "The energy, the dancing, the faces in the crowd... we made real memories together." Looking ahead, the singer added, "Let's party all night long!," according to E! News.

Details of the Onstage Incident

Richie experienced the medical scare while performing his hit song 'Dancing on the Ceiling', the ninth song in his setlist during the June 24 concert in St. Paul. Addressing the audience after feeling unwell, he said, "What I have learned from my years of being in the business, when you're feeling dizzy, sit your ass down. When you are feeling strange about yourself, sit your ass down."

Lightening the moment with humour, he added, "I want you to know that's the first time in the history of 'Dancing on the Ceiling' I've done it sitting down." He then joked, "It's a bad sign. That's a bad sign, y'all," according to E! News.

Richie continued performing briefly before leaving the stage about 15 minutes later after singing The Commodores'1978 classic "Three Times a Lady."

Following a pause, saxophonist Dino Soldo informed the audience that the concert would not continue. "Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well," Soldo announced. "He won't be able to continue with the show."

Tour Dates Postponed

The health scare also forced Richie to postpone his June 26 concert in Chicago and his June 27 show in Columbus.

Announcing the postponements on June 25, Live Nation Chicago said, "Under advisement by doctors to rest and return to full health, Lionel Richie has postponed his show on Friday, June 26, in Chicago, IL, and Saturday, June 27, in Columbus, OH," according to E! News. The statement added, "Lionel is heartbroken to postpone these two shows and cannot wait to be back performing for his fans," according to E! News. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

IREN Stock On Track To Break 9-Day Losing Streak – This Analyst Says The IREN Story Is ‘All About Adding Supply On Schedule’

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:00:07 +0530

The firm highlighted the importance of having adequate compute supply in the near future as AI demand continues to rise.
It forecasts Iren's revenue to come in at $717 million this year, $3.1 billion in 2027, and $8.5 billion in 2028.
The street upgrade on IREN comes as an additional catalyst for the stock, which was already rallying on a media report about a possible Anthropic deal.

Shares of IREN (IREN) received an upgrade on Monday as it extended its overnight rally, following a media report that suggested the company is poised to land a significant data center contract in Australia.

At the time of writing, IREN stock was up more than 13%, on track to snap a nine-day losing streak, and among the top ten trending tickers on Stocktwits.

Freedom Capital Upgrades IREN

The firm upgraded the renewable energy-focused data center operator to ‘Buy’ from ‘Hold’ after noting that the company's shares have fallen alongside its peers, and adding that "there's enough upside" to warrant a higher rating, according to TheFly.

The firm highlighted that the company’s growth story is "all about adding supply on schedule over the next two years," and that the same applies to neocloud rivals CoreWeave (CRWV) and Nebius (NBIS) amid rising AI demand.

Freedom Capital forecasts IREN's revenue to "explode" in the coming years, estimating it at $717 million this year, $3.1 billion in 2027, and $8.5 billion in 2028. The firm has an unchanged price target of $58, implying an upside potential of nearly 50% from the stock’s closing price on Thursday.

Possible Anthropic Deal Incoming For IREN

The street upgrade on IREN is another catalyst for the stock, which was already rallying on a media report about a possible Anthropic deal.

According to a report from The Australian Financial Review over the weekend, Anthropic is looking to secure at least 1.4 gigawatts of cloud capacity from Australian data centers and wants a local company to oversee the construction and operation of the campus.

The company announced its first Australian project just a month ago: an 800-megawatt data center campus in Bundey, South Australia, which boasts a submarine fiber connectivity into key Asia-Pacific markets.

What Retail Traders Think About IREN

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment toward the stock remained in ‘bullish’ territory over the last 24 hours.

One user on the platform said the company is continuing to ride the strength of the neocloud/AI infra group.

View this Stocktwits post

IREN shares have gained more than 16% so far this year and have nearly tripled in value over the last 12 months.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

Rear Admiral Chandrasekharan Raghuram Named New CMD of Hindustan Shipyard Limited

Anish Kumar — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:56:12 +0530

Rear Admiral Chandrasekharan Raghuram, VSM (Retd), has taken charge as Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam, stepping into one of the most strategically significant roles in India's defence public sector.

A Long-Awaited Handover

Rear Admiral Raghuram succeeds Captain Ganti Venkateswarlu, HSL's Director (Shipbuilding), who had been holding additional charge of the CMD's post. The transition follows a recommendation of Rear Admiral Raghuram's name by the Public Enterprises Selection Board earlier this year, and subsequent clearance from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. Before taking over at HSL, he served as Assistant Chief of Materiel, where he was responsible for the maintenance of key naval platforms.

A Career Built Across the Navy's Technical Backbone

Commissioned into the Indian Navy on 10 November 1989, Rear Admiral Raghuram brings over three and a half decades of service to his new role. He was conferred the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2017 in recognition of his distinguished service, and is an alumnus of the Naval College of Engineering, Lonavala, Cranfield University in the UK, the Naval War College, and the National Defence College.

Over the course of his career, he built expertise spanning afloat operations, equipment life cycle support, research and development, warship design, combat system integration, and instructional postings. He served onboard the frontline warships INS Gomati and INS Trishul - including as part of the commissioning crew of the latter and gained further specialisation through postings at the Naval Dockyard, the Afloat Support Team for Talwar-class ships, and WESEE.

His command and leadership appointments include Commanding Officer of INS Valsura and Principal Director Electrical Engineering at Integrated Headquarters, Ministry of Defence (Navy). He has also held senior technical and staff roles as Command Electrical Officer at Headquarters Eastern Naval Command, Chief Staff Officer (Technical) at Headquarters Western Naval Command, and postings at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, and Naval Headquarters.

The Shipyard He Now Leads

Hindustan Shipyard Limited is one of India's oldest shipbuilding establishments, founded in 1941 and brought under government ownership in 1952. Today, it is the country's second-largest shipyard after Cochin Shipyard, with a covered building dock capable of handling vessels of up to 80,000 deadweight tonnage.

HSL holds Mini Ratna Category-I status under the Ministry of Defence's Department of Defence Production.

As the higher of the two Mini Ratna tiers, this status gives HSL's board greater financial autonomy, including higher spending limits on capital expenditure, joint ventures, subsidiaries, and technology partnerships without requiring prior government approval for each decision. In practical terms, this allows the yard to move faster on infrastructure upgrades, contracts, and partnerships, which is a meaningful advantage given the scale of projects currently underway.

Submarines: The Shipyard's Strategic Core

Submarine work remains HSL's most strategically significant capability, and one of the few such capacities among Indian shipyards. The yard has carried out extended medium refits of the Navy's Kilo-class submarines, including INS Sindhukirti, INS Vela, and INS Vagli, with the medium refit and modernisation of INS Sindhukirti currently in progress. HSL had earlier carried out the retrofit of INS Sindhuvir ahead of its transfer to Myanmar.

Looking ahead, the shipyard is preparing to expand beyond refit work into submarine construction itself, in partnership with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited - a move aimed at deepening India's domestic submarine industrial base and reducing reliance on foreign yards.

Beyond Submarines: Indigenous Builds and Global Outreach

HSL's portfolio also includes specialised vessels such as Diving Support Vessels built with a high proportion of indigenous content, and it delivered INS Dhruv, India's first indigenously built Ocean Surveillance Ship.

The shipyard has been steadily expanding its international footprint. It has held discussions with the Vietnam People's Navy on potential submarine refit work, opening a possible entry point into the Southeast Asian maintenance market, and has engaged with Myanmar following the earlier retrofit and transfer of INS Sindhuvir.

Talks have also been held with the Philippines on defence cooperation, part of a wider push to position India and HSL in particular as a maritime defence exporter in the Indo-Pacific region. On the domestic front, HSL signed an MoU with Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers in February 2026 to jointly pursue a large-scale national shipbuilding programme.

A Financial Turnaround

The shipyard's operational trajectory has shifted markedly in recent years, moving from a loss-making entity to a profitable one. In FY 2023-24, HSL posted a record profit after tax of ₹118.82 crore alongside its highest-ever production value, underscoring a broader turnaround in its financial and operational performance.

Dancing Girl: Tiny Statue That Ignited India Pakistan Clash!

Indrakshi Samanta — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:45:26 +0530

After Partition, India and Pakistan divided everything, even ancient treasures. One tiny statue, the 'Dancing Girl', caused a huge row. Why did Pakistan want her back so badly? Here's the full story.

Congress gears up for 2027 HP polls; KC Venugopal to review prep

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:31:24 +0530

AICC Himachal Pradesh in-charge Rajani Patil on Monday said the Congress has launched an extensive cadre-building and public outreach campaign ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, while asserting that internal differences would be resolved through coordination and dialogue. Addressing a press conference in Shimla, Patil announced that the Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal will visit Dharamshala on July 16 and 17 to review poll preparedness.

She said, "After reorganising, we held a General House meeting in which 85 per cent of workers participated. AICC Organisation General Secretary KC Venugopal will be in Dharamshala on July 16 and 17, where he will meet the party's Political Advisory Committee and review the preparations. We have suggested that each minister should be given the responsibility of a district like 'Palak Mantri' (Guardian Minister) in Maharashtra."

Congress' 2027 Election Strategy

Signalling the Congress' preparations for the 2027 Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections, AICC in-charge Rajani Patil said the party is focusing on strengthening its grassroots organisation, improving coordination between the government and the party, and expanding its public connect across the state.

Patil said district and block units have been directed to complete the formation of party bodies. A state-level "Connect Centre" has also been established to improve communication within the organisation. The Congress will also hold review meetings every three months to assess organisational work and public outreach.

Patil said the Congress, along with the Youth Congress and NSUI, will launch a statewide yatra to strengthen the party's connect with youth and the public.

Addressing Internal Factionalism

On factional issues within the Himachal Congress, including differences involving ministers and party leaders, Patil acknowledged that Congress leaders often express their views independently but maintained that efforts are underway to improve coordination. Referring to recent differences involving District President Kinnaur Nigam Bhandari and Revenue Minister Jagat Negi, she said the party leadership would address the issues through dialogue.

Targeting the BJP

Targeting the BJP over the Ram Temple donation embezzlement case, Patil said the Congress would raise the issue aggressively. "The alleged loot in the name of Ram has exposed a scam involving crores of rupees," she said.

Party Wings Announce Campaigns

Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh Congress president Vinay Kumar said better coordination between the government and the organisation is essential and that the completion of organisational committees will help strengthen the party. He announced that the Congress would launch a statewide campaign titled "Yuvaon Se Khel", focusing on issues affecting the youth, including the NEET examination, unemployment and recruitment-related concerns.

He also accused the BJP of betraying public faith over the Ram Temple issue, saying the party would expose the alleged donation scam politically.

Earlier, Youth Congress leader Chhatar Singh Thakur said the organisation would participate in the statewide yatra and demanded the postponement of the Himachal Pradesh State Selection Commission examinations. NSUI state president Tony Thakur demanded the restoration of student union elections in colleges and universities, saying student body polls are essential for nurturing new political leadership.

The Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led government will look to dissolve the majority in the assembly polls In the 2022 Assembly elections, Congress won 40 of 68 seats, with BJP securing 25. However, the two parties were separated by less than a per cent of the vote share difference. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Boney Kapoor pens emotional note for daughter Anshula's mehendi

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:31:23 +0530

Basking in the joy of his daughter Anshula Kapoor's wedding celebrations, producer Boney Kapoor shared a heartfelt note as he gave fans a glimpse of her mehendi ceremony. Posting a series of cheerful pictures from the pre-wedding festivities, the proud father penned an emotional message for Anshula and her fiance, Rohan. "New journey begins for my genius pretty daughter Anshula with Rohan, who are made for each other, will surely make this journey happy eternally," he wrote, expressing his love and blessings for the couple as they embark on a new chapter together. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Boney.kapoor (@boney.kapoor)

Family joins in the celebration

Family members, including Arjun Kapoor, Khushi Kapoor and others also offered a glimpse into Anshula's pre-wedding celebrations.

Anshula Kapoor also shared pictures from the mehendi ceremony and poured out her heart on Instagram. "The colours, the chaos, the love, and a heart completely full. @janhvikapoor and @khushikapoor, thank you for giving me a mehendi beyond what I could have dreamed of! Every thoughtful touch, every beautiful corner, every moment reflected the love and care you poured into making it so special. The greatest gift was that I could simply be present, soak it all in, and feel completely celebrated because you had taken care of absolutely everything. Thank you for giving me one of the happiest days of my life. I love you both endlessly," she wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anshula Kapoor (@anshulakapoor)

Chooda Ceremony and Engagement

Following the mehendi ceremony, the family also celebrated Anshula's 'chooda' ceremony. Anshula Kapoor and Rohan Thakkar got engaged in July 2025 after Rohan proposed during a romantic getaway. The couple had announced their engagement with a series of pictures from the special moment. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Shreyas Iyer to lead India in Zimbabwe T20Is; 3 new faces in squad

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:31:11 +0530

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the 15-member squad for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, to be played from July 23. Ashok Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh and Yash Thakur have earned their maiden India call-ups, while Sanju Samson has been omitted from the squad. India will play the 1st T20I on July 23, the 2nd on July 25, and the 3rd on July 26, all scheduled to be played in Harare.

While Iyer will captain the side, Sooryavanshi keeps his spot after playing his first game for India during the ongoing India vs England five-match T20I series. Tilak Varma, on the other hand, will be Iyer's deputy. The squad also features the likes of Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey, Shuvam Dube, and Mayank Yadav, among others. The three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe will be preceded by a three-match ODI series against England, which will follow the ongoing five-match T20I series.

India's Squad for Zimbabwe T20I Series

India's squad for Zimbabwe: Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma (Vice-Captain), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey, Varun Chakaravarathy, Prince Yadav, Yash Thakur, Ashok Sharma, Mayank Yadav, Prabhsimran Singh (WK).

Shivam Dube Replaces Injured Nitish Kumar Reddy for England ODIs

The BCCI also announced that Shivam Dube will replace Nitish Kumar Reddy in India's squad for the ODI series against England after Nitish was ruled out through injury.

India's Updated ODI Squad

India's updated ODI squad: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Shivam Dube.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Donna Kelce calls son Travis' wedding to Taylor Swift 'magical'

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:31:00 +0530

Donna Kelce has shared her first public reaction following the wedding of her son, NFL star Travis Kelce, and Grammy-winning singer Taylor Swift, describing the ceremony as nothing short of "magical," according to E! News.

Breaking her silence after the couple tied the knot at Madison Square Garden in New York City on July 3, Donna reflected on the celebration in an Instagram video. "I really can't say a heck of a lot except it was magical, man, magical," Donna said. The wedding brought both families together in a grand celebration attended by around 1,000 guests. Travis' brother Jason Kelce served as his best man, while Taylor's brother Austin Swift stood by her side as Man of Honor.

Families Share Their Joy

Donna's latest comments echo the admiration she has expressed for her son's relationship with Taylor since the pair began dating in the summer of 2023. "I can tell you this," Donna told The Wall Street Journal in November 2023. "He's happier than I've seen him in a long time.... God bless him. He shot for the stars!," according to E! News.

Taylor's family has also warmly embraced the relationship. In The End of an Era docuseries last year, Taylor's mother Andrea Swift praised Travis, saying, "Travis Kelce, he brings a lot of happiness." Andrea also recalled how she first learned about the Kansas City Chiefs tight end's interest in her daughter. "I'm looking at the headlines and perusing around what's on the internet," Andrea said in the docuseries. "I see that this guy came to your show, and he brought a friendship bracelet and wants to meet you," according to E! News.

Travis' father Ed Kelce also expressed his excitement ahead of the wedding during a June 2026 interview with FOX 29 Philadelphia. "I am super excited," Ed said. "She is a sweetheart." He further described Taylor as "truly the girl next door," highlighting the close bond she has formed with the Kelce family, according to E! News.

Since going public with their relationship in 2023, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have frequently been supported by both families, with their wedding marking the latest chapter in one of entertainment and sports' most closely followed love stories. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

AI Actor Tilly Norwood to Star in First Feature Film 'Misaligned'

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:30:58 +0530

Tilly Norwood, the AI actor who debuted in late 2025, is set to star in her first feature film titled 'Misaligned,' reported Variety.

According to the outlet, 'Misaligned,' announced by Particle 6, the AI-focused studio behind Norwood, is described as a comedy-drama telling a "coming-of-age story infused with existential AI chaos." Set inside the so-called 'Tillyverse,' a digital world located somewhere up in the Cloud, the film will follow Tilly, an AI being with no real body, no childhood and no lived experience of her own only access to everyone else's. Things spiral when a seductive rogue bot from the dark web convinces her to abandon her guardrails and begin developing desires, impulses and ambitions, making her more human.

A Hybrid Production Approach

The film marks the full-length AI feature film from Particle 6, which insists it is being designed as a hybrid production using traditional film and TV professionals, including directors, writers and editors working alongside AI specialists. "Our work this year has proven something we suspected all along," said Eline van der Velden, CEO & Founder of Particle 6. "AI can support premium narrative filmmaking, but only with substantial amounts of human craft, skill, judgement and time. That's not a limitation of the technology. That's the point. The filmmakers who thrive in the next decade will be the ones who bring decades of storytelling instinct to these new tools, and 'Misaligned' is where we put that to work at feature scale," as quoted by Variety.

Past Industry Backlash

According to Variety, the announcement comes less than a year after Norwood became the target of major industry backlash following claims by van der Velden that the AI creation was about to sign up to an agency. The news prompted immediate statements of anger from unions, actors and filmmakers alike over AI's role in the creative world -- with Norwood becoming the recognisable, computer-generated face of the issue (an infamy Norwood's creators subsequently lent into with various provocative social media posts).

Development and Other Projects

'Misaligned' is currently in early development and will be produced alongside Particle 6's slate of AI production, co-production and service work in film and television, and the commercial work of its campaign and brand division.

Tilly Norwood starred in a comedy sketch named 'AI Commissioner' featuring her as an 'actress' along with other AI-generated characters. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir donation row: Top trust officials resign after SIT probe

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:30:39 +0530

Amid the ongoing donation embezzlement row at the Ram Mandir, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Monday accepted the resignations of its General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra, while announcing a series of administrative measures following the Special Investigation Team's (SIT) preliminary findings.

Treasurer Vows Overhaul, Criticises SBI

Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj, Treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, said, "A complete overhaul will certainly be undertaken. I must also point out that State Bank of India (SBI) should not have shirked its responsibility in this matter; since the work was carried out in collaboration with SBI, they also bore responsibility, and we have had to suffer the severe consequences of their lack of oversight. In my view, the FIR should actually have been filed by SBI, not by our Trust, though the well-intentioned members of our Trust went ahead and filed it themselves. The responsibility is truly theirs...We are determined to do so and will adopt a process that leaves absolutely no room for doubt. We will take appropriate measures, seek guidance from all concerned, and fully restore the reputation of the Ram Mandir, which has been tarnished."

According to the Trust, the SIT's preliminary report identified eight individuals, following which the Trust lodged complaints that led to their arrests. "The SIT's preliminary report identified eight individuals against whom the Trust filed cases, leading to arrests. Following the report, General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra resigned on moral grounds, which were accepted by the Trust. Additionally, the Trust decided to remove Gopal Nagarkote from the list of special invitee members," the release stated.

New Appointments and Restructuring

"The Trust intends to seek independent consultations from experts, in addition to SIT recommendations, to establish an ideal, efficient and transparent management system," the release said.

The Trust urged anyone possessing concrete evidence of irregularities involving any individual associated with the temple to submit it directly to the SIT or the concerned investigating agency instead of making public allegations.

Financial Status and Unabated Devotee Influx

Providing details of the temple's finances, the Trust said that out of the total Rs 3,264 crore received through the fund dedication campaign and corpus donations, Rs 2,370 crore has been spent on construction and capital expenditure.

Despite the controversy surrounding the alleged donation embezzlement, the Trust said the flow of devotees to the Ram Mandir remains unaffected. "Despite controversies and propaganda, the influx of devotees to the Ram Mandir continues unabated, which the Trust cites as proof of the unwavering faith of millions of devotees. The Trust maintains that the truth will emerge after the legal investigation process is complete and discourages blaming individuals prematurely," the release said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Outrage after Diljit Dosanjh's 'Satluj' removed from ZEE5 in India

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:30:31 +0530

Diljit Dosanjh's much-anticipated film 'Satluj', based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has triggered widespread reactions from celebrities and politicians after being pulled down from streaming platform ZEE5, just two days after its release. The film, which had faced over three years of delay, was taken down from the OTT platform amid growing controversy.

ZEE5 confirmed in an official statement that the film will remain unavailable in India until further notice, adding that it is exploring options to bring it back for audiences. On Sunday, while announcing the removal, the streamer said, "In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity."

Widespread Outrage Over Removal

Former cricketer and Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh also reacted strongly, drawing a comparison between the film's subject matter and historical events, stating that "Truth cannot remain buried forever". Taking to X, he wrote, "Jallianwala Bagh stands as one of history's greatest massacres. It was carried out by a colonial regime. But the question that haunts me after watching Jaswant Singh Khalra is different: What is more painful than oppression by an outsider? When those entrusted to protect their own people are accused of becoming the source of their greatest fear."

He further reflected on the courage shown by Khalra in exposing alleged human rights violations during the Punjab insurgency era, noting that the wounds of state power abuse can last for generations, and said Punjab's mothers are still awaiting answers. "A police officer's duty is to protect innocent lives--not to abuse power. Khalra's courage exposed evidence of alleged illegal disappearances and secret cremations, reminding us that the abuse of state power can leave wounds that last for generations. Punjab's mothers are still waiting for answers. Many families are still waiting for justice. Truth cannot remain buried forever. Outstanding work by @HoneyTrehan and @diljitdosanjh for bringing the story of Jaswant Singh Khalra to the world. His courage deserves to be remembered," he added. https://x.com/harbhajan_singh/status/2073636463112225098?s=20

Filmmaker Onir, who had praised the film after watching it, expressed his disappointment online, saying, "And once again the Industry at large is SILENT about what should alarm us all and it affects us all. How can we surrender our right to tell stories... especially such powerful sensitive stories." https://x.com/IamOnir/status/2074053083857129645?s=20

Actor Ranvir Shorey called the film's removal deeply disappointing, "Utterly disappointing to hear 'Satluj' had been pulled! Have been waiting to watch it! For a land that has an ancient history and heritage of learning from stories, I don't know why we keep emboldening a culture of burying them," he wrote. https://x.com/RanvirShorey/status/2073830411080523918?s=20

Sukhbir Singh Badal, President, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), wrote on X, "Shocked and saddened by the arbitrary removal of #Satluj from #ZEE5 in India. A powerful film that courageously unveils Punjab's painful history and honours the supreme sacrifice of S. Jaswant Singh Ji Khalra cannot be silenced this way. This is not mere censorship -- it is an assault on our collective memory, truth, and freedom of expression."

"I strongly condemn this move. Punjab deserves to confront its past with honesty, not suppression," he added. https://x.com/officeofssbadal/status/2073801646459830475?s=20

Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan said, "The BJP is again trying to do what the Congress party did by practising politics against the Panth by removing a movie based on the life of Jaswant Singh Khalra from an OTT platform. This is not a fictional film. Punjab will not tolerate such high-handedness."

AAP MP Malwinder Singh Kang said, "This is a very unfortunate and discriminatory act by the Central Government. Permission is being given to films like The Kashmir Files, The Kerala Files, and Dhurandhar, which can benefit the BJP politically. On the other hand, movies that showcase human rights violations and the massacre of Sikhs are being stopped. The film should be released."

Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon said, "We are taking up this matter with the Central government."

Filmmaker and actor Sujoy Ghosh also expressed disappointment, saying, "i saw satluj by honey trehan yesterday. gotey gripping stuff! such a well made film... you could almost touch the film... and superlative performances... each and every one... i am a little biased towards @rampalarjun but I bow to everyone for making such a good film." https://x.com/sujoy_g/status/2073983310167154734?s=20

Diljit Dosanjh Breaks Silence

Hours after the film was taken down, Diljit Dosanjh broke his silence. In his live interaction, Diljit Dosanjh spoke candidly about the sequence of events leading up to the ban. He said, "My love and respect to all of you. What I had already expected is exactly what happened. I thought the film might get banned when offices will open on Monday, but I didn't know it would happen as early as Sunday evening."

Despite the restriction, the actor expressed relief that the film had still managed to reach audiences through OTT. "But now I have the satisfaction that at least our work has reached people the way we wanted it to. People have already downloaded it. One thing that made me especially happy was seeing that they're even screening the movie with a projector at Gurudwara Sahib. It brought me immense joy to see that," the 'Amar Singh Chamkila' actor said.

"Once something is on the internet, I don't think it can ever truly be deleted," he added posing a broader reflection on digital permanence and audience access. Concluding his live video, Diljit expressed his deep faith in God and quoted the Gurbani shabad, "Karan Kaaran sab ek hai," which translates to "God alone is the doer of all deeds."

About the Film and Jaswant Singh Khalra

The Supreme Court in 1996 ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe in the case on a petition filed by Khalra's widow. The CBI found evidence that he was held at a police station in Tarn Taran and recommended the prosecution of nine Punjab police officials for his murder and kidnapping.

A Patiala court in 2005 convicted six policemen, while in 2007, the Punjab and Haryana High Court extended life imprisonment to four of the accused. The verdict was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2011.

Helmed by Honey Trehan, produced by RSVP and MacGuffin Pictures, 'Satluj' also starred Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Disabled Man Seriously Injured in Assault Over Field Boundary in UP's Bulandshahr, Two Taken Into Custody

Divya Danu — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:25:57 +0530

A disabled man was seriously injured after he was allegedly attacked with sticks on a road in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district. The incident, which took place in Vair village under the Kakod police station area, was captured on video and has since gone viral on social media. According to local reports, the victim was returning home from his field when he was allegedly stopped on the way and assaulted by a group of people. He suffered serious injuries and was admitted to hospital for treatment.

#बुलंदशहर - बीच सड़क विकलांग मजदूर पर लाठी-डंडों से जानलेवा हमला किया गया है, युवक की हालत गंभीर है।खेत से घर लौटते समय रास्ते में रोककर मारपीट की गई है, हमले में गंभीर घायल मजदूर को अस्पताल में भर्ती कराया गया है।मारपीट की घटना का वीडियो भी सोशल मीडिया पर वायरल हुआ है,… pic.twitter.com/bJRBRkJmpF

— Prashant Kumar Journalist (@prashan02367402) July 6, 2026

Hyderabad Man Loses Rs 1 Lakh Phone After Stopping to Help Biker, CCTV Captures Clever Theft

#बुलंदशहर:ककोड़ में ज़मीनी विवाद में दिव्यांग युवक पर जानलेवा हमला> बाइक सवार तीन लोगों ने लाठी-डंडों से किया जानलेवा हमला> घटना का लाइव वीडियो भी आया सामने,वीडियो में दिव्यांग को बेरहमी से पीटते दिख रहे दबंग> एक बीघा ज़मीन को लेकर बताया जा रहा विवाद,थाना पुलिस मौके पर… pic.twitter.com/Pa39xw5EN3

— NEWSNOWLIVE (@newsnowlivee) July 6, 2026

Nature's Most Unusual Flood Scene: Snakes, Rats and Birds Share Shelter to Escape Rising Waters in Gujarat

Police link incident to farm boundary dispute

After the video spread online, Bulandshahr Police issued a statement on X, saying the two sides are neighbours and that the clash was linked to a dispute over the boundary of their agricultural fields.

Police said two people accused of taking part in the assault have been taken into custody. They added that a written complaint has been received and legal proceedings are now underway.

Viral video sparks strong reactions

The footage triggered widespread reactions on social media, with many users expressing concern over the level of violence seen in the incident.

Several users called for strict action against those responsible, while others said the full facts should be established before reaching conclusions. Many stressed that violence over local disputes is unacceptable and urged authorities to ensure a fair investigation.

This is the reason villages are worst to live People leaving village due to blood thirsty people

— The Public Professor (@Bajpaibriefing) July 6, 2026

Black Cobra Found in Rat Trap Instead of Mouse at Rajasthan Home, Family Left Shocked

मानवता को शर्मसार करने वाली घटना है। ऐसे दरिंदों को बख्शा नहीं जाना चाहिए। वहाँ पर मौजूद लोग किस प्रकार खड़े होकर तमाशा देख रहे ये आज के समय की सबसे खराब स्थिति को दर्शाती है जहां लोग किसी की मदद को तैयार नहीं हैं और सामाजिक अलगाव का ओर समाज उन्मुख हों रहा।

— UntoldBySuraj (@UntoldBySuraj) July 6, 2026

Investigation continues

Police are continuing to examine the case, including the viral video and statements from both sides.

Officials have not yet shared further details about the victim's condition or whether additional arrests will be made. The investigation remains ongoing.

Slowest Train: Moves At Walking Speed Still Draws Huge Crowds! Read Details

Indrakshi Samanta — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:21:32 +0530

A person can easily walk at 8 to 9 kilometres per hour. But did you know there's a train in India that moves even slower than that? And people actually queue up to ride it! So, what's the special story behind this train?

Marriage Psychology: Who Wins Husband’s Priority Battle, Wife Or Mother? Find Out Now!

Indrakshi Samanta — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:10:59 +0530

In many Indian households, a common question after marriage is who a husband should prioritise first, wife or mother. While some support the mother and others the wife, psychology experts weigh in on this complex emotional dilemma.

AVGO Stock Is Rising Today – What's The Apple Connection?

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:10:01 +0530

The chip supply deal between the two companies will last through 2031.
The supply deal comes about two weeks after Apple raised the prices of its Macs, iPads, HomePods, and Apple TVs globally.
Last week, Micron struck a long-term deal with General Motors to supply chips for its vehicles.

Shares of chipmaker Broadcom (AVGO) drew significant investor attention on Monday after Silicon Valley giant Apple (AAPL) signed a long-term pact with the company to secure its chip supply amid a shortage of semiconductor components due to AI demand.

At the time of writing, AVGO shares were up nearly 5% and among the top ten trending tickers on Stocktwits.

AAPL Secures Chip Supply with AVGO

Broadcom said it will develop and supply Apple with a range of custom ASIC chips through 2031, building on its long-standing technology collaboration.

The move comes about two weeks after Apple raised the prices of its Macs, iPads, HomePods, and Apple TVs globally to offset higher costs of memory and storage components. In the U.S., prices for Apple’s products, excluding the iPhone, have gone up by anywhere from $30 to $1,300.

Apple Early To Secure Chip Supply

Apple is the latest among notable U.S. corporations to secure a steady supply of chips as demand continues to intensify. Last week, Micron struck a long-term deal with General Motors to supply chips for its vehicles, as automakers increasingly integrate tech and AI capabilities into modern vehicles.

The AI demand has sent chip stocks higher in the first half of 2026, outpacing the “Mag 7,” more than half of which are hyperscalers, who have spent hundreds of billions of dollars to stay ahead in the race. Goldman Sachs recently said the markets now see companies generating returns from AI investments as attractive, while expressing doubts about those who spend.

What Retail Traders Think About AVGO And AAPL

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment toward both stocks remained in ‘bearish’ territory over the last 24 hours.

One user on the platform said the extended partnership reinforces Apple’s strategy of locking in long-term supply agreements with key chipmakers.

View this Stocktwits post

AVGO shares have gained 34% so far this year, while AAPL has climbed 45%, outperforming the S&P 500.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

SPCX Stock In Focus Ahead Of Nasdaq 100 Entry This Week — Retail Sees 22% Upside Potential

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:05:01 +0530

The company sold less than 5% of its shares through the initial public offering last month.
SpaceX will formally join the Nasdaq 100 index under Nasdaq’s “Fast Entry” pathway announced in May this year.
Nasdaq stated in its May update that it will adjust the weight of a company’s shares in its indexes based on changes in its float over time.

Shares of Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SPCX) were in focus on Monday, ahead of the company’s inclusion in the Nasdaq 100 index on Tuesday.

SpaceX will formally join the Nasdaq 100 index under Nasdaq’s “Fast Entry” pathway announced in May this year, which will result in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tracking the index buying SpaceX shares at Monday’s closing price to mirror the index's performance.

SpaceX shares were up more than 1% in Monday’s opening trade.

What Retail Traders Think Of SPCX Stock

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits around SpaceX trended in ‘bearish’ territory at the time of writing.

One user believes that SpaceX’s inclusion in the Nasdaq 100 index could push the stock beyond $200, implying a surge of about 22% from current levels.

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Another user expects SPCX stock to rise by 10% to 15% due to the index inclusion.

View this Stocktwits post

JPMorgan Expects $4.3B Inflows Into SpaceX Shares

According to a Reuters report, analysts at JPMorgan expect the inclusion of SpaceX in the Nasdaq 100 index to trigger inflows of up to $4.3 billion.

SpaceX currently has a market capitalization of about $2.1 trillion. The company sold less than 5% of its shares through the initial public offering (IPO) last month.

Nasdaq determines index weights based on a company's free float, capping the weight at three times its float-adjusted market capitalization. It stated in its May update this year that it will adjust the weight of a company’s shares in its indexes based on changes in its float over time.

“This not only preserves investability, but also mitigates the risk of a single-entry point, because the index will effectively add those securities in multiple tranches over time,” Nasdaq stated.

SPCX stock is up 8% year-to-date. The Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ) and the Invesco NASDAQ 100 ETF (QQQM) are up 29% over the past 12 months.

The Procure Space ETF (UFO) is up 74% during this period, while the Tema Space Innovators ETF (NASA) is up 21%.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Finland urges India to diversify energy imports for autonomy: Minister

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:01:07 +0530

Diversification a Must for National Autonomy

Finland's Foreign Affairs Minister Elina Valtonen on Monday called for diversification of imports of energy resources for both Finland and India following trade disruptions during the West Asia conflict, terming the regional crisis a "wake-up call."

Speaking to ANI, Elina Valtonen said India's imports of oil from Russia were "understandable". However, she suggested that India move to diversified sources for the autonomy and sovereignty of the nation. She noted that the European Union had imposed an oil price cap on Russian oil in the wake of the Ukraine war to reduce Moscow's profit margin on energy exports. Valtonen said, "The reason many countries, including the European Union, imposed the oil price cap on Russian oil is that Russia is waging an illegal war of aggression against a neighbouring country, Ukraine. Russia has been challenging the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, which is completely against the principles of the UN Charter and international law. The reason that the oil price cap was introduced was that there wouldn't be a massive disruption to the oil market, but rather the idea was to reduce the margin and the profit that Russia is able to achieve through its oil exports."

"For a large country like India, it is understandable that it needs to import oil from sources which, unfortunately, are not in compliance with international law. At the same time, I do see this as a necessary transition period toward a more diversified energy mix, which also brings more autonomy and sovereignty to India going forward through the clean energy transition, as discussed, and through energy security so that a vast and important country like India is not reliant on one direction alone for its critical energy supplies," she added.

Democratic Nations Must Collaborate on Energy

Further, the Finnish Minister said that democratic nations should work together and not rely on autocratic nations for the supply of critical energy resources. Valtonen said, "The recent crisis in the Middle East is again a wake-up call for all of us to work toward a more diversified, secure, and clean energy future. That is certainly high on the agenda between Finland and India as we look at both existing and future cooperation. We cannot rely on autocratic nations for the supply of oil and other critical energy or raw materials going forward. We need to be more self-reliant and, as democratic nations, work more closely together than ever before."

India-EU FTA a Stepping Stone for Cooperation

When asked whether energy security can become a key pillar of India-Finland cooperation via green hydrogen and critical minerals, Valtonen termed the India-EU Free Trade Agreement the basis for the cooperation between the two nations. She said, "The free trade agreement between the European Union and India is an extremely important stepping stone for further enhancing our cooperation in this front, both especially on the business side, but also through people-to-people exchanges. We have an extremely valuable diaspora of Indian people in Finland who work tirelessly in their respective businesses and bring their knowledge and know-how also to the use of Finnish society."

"India is the world's largest democracy, and we stand strong for freedom and individual liberties around the world, because both of those are challenged in the time we live in," the Finnish minister added.

India's Stance on Energy Security

India has diversified its imports of energy resources. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 4 said that the country is importing fuel from more than 40 countries now.

During his visit to Finland in June, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar took part in a discussion on 'Emerging Powers and the New Geopolitical Competition' at the Kultaranta talks, where he underlined the global impact of ongoing conflicts, the need for resilient supply chains, India's energy priorities, and the growing strategic partnership between India and the European Union (EU). Jaishankar highlighted the growing importance of securing global supply chains amid geopolitical uncertainties. He reiterated that India's energy choices are guided by national interest, with purchases based on considerations of affordability and availability. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

No DoE nod in 15 days, school staff suspension lapses: Delhi HC

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:01:00 +0530

In an important order on the suspension of employees in recognised private schools, a Full Bench of the Delhi High Court has held that an order suspending an employee without prior approval of the Director of Education (DoE) automatically lapses if such approval is not granted within 15 days. The Court clarified that any approval granted after the expiry of the statutory 15-day period cannot revive the lapsed suspension, and if the management still seeks to suspend the employee, it must obtain prior approval and issue a fresh suspension order.

Court Resolves Conflicting Rulings

The Full Bench comprising Justice C Hari Shankar, Justice Om Prakash Shukla and Justice Renu Bhatnagar answered a reference arising from conflicting Division Bench decisions in Sharda Devi Sanskrit Vidyapeeth v. Director of Education and Delhi Public School Dwarka v. Sarika Prasad concerning the interpretation of the second proviso to Section 8(4) of the Delhi School Education Act, 1973.

The Court held that where a school management invokes the first proviso to Section 8(4) and places an employee under immediate suspension without prior approval, such suspension can remain in force only for 15 days. If approval from the Director of Education is not received within that period, the suspension comes to an end by operation of law and cannot subsequently be revived by a belated approval.

Disagreeing with the view taken in Sharda Devi Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, the Full Bench observed that the statute is clear and does not permit "breathing life into a dead body". It held that once the statutory period expires without approval, there is no subsisting suspension that can be validated by a later order. The Bench further observed that treating an employee as continuing under suspension after the lapse of the statutory period would be contrary to the mandate of the Act.

School Management Not Left Remediless

The Court endorsed the legal position laid down by the Full Bench in Delhi Public School v. Director of Education, which had clarified that while a suspension lapses after 15 days in the absence of approval, the school management is not left remediless. It may seek judicial review if the Director delays the decision or, upon obtaining the necessary approval, issues a fresh suspension order.

Ruling Aligns with Supreme Court Precedent

The Bench also relied on the Supreme Court's decision in Y Theclamma v. Union of India, which had declared that a suspension order lapses if the Director fails to respond within 15 days. The High Court noted that the Supreme Court had further clarified that any fresh suspension thereafter would require prior approval under Section 8(4), thereby ruling out the possibility of a belated approval reviving the earlier suspension.

Answering the reference, the Full Bench held that if approval to an order of suspension passed under the first proviso to Section 8(4) is not received within 15 days, the suspension automatically ceases. Any approval granted thereafter is ineffective and cannot revive the lapsed suspension. The Court agreed in principle with the view expressed in Sarika Prasad and expressed respectful disagreement with the contrary view taken in Sharda Devi Sanskrit Vidyapeeth.

The Court directed that the main writ petition be listed before the appropriate Bench as per the roster on July 31, subject to the orders of the Chief Justice. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Donated Ramcharitmanas restored in Ayodhya after ex-bureaucrat complains

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:00:51 +0530

Former Union Home Secretary S. Laxmi Narayan on Monday claimed that the gold-plated Ramcharitmanas he had donated to the Ayodhya Ram Temple has been restored to a place of reverence after he raised concerns over its alleged removal. Speaking to ANI, Narayan said he wrote to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and the SIT probing alleged irregularities, following which the sacred text was reinstated, while urging the temple trust to take strict action against those responsible.

"Through an RSS worker, I have been told that the 'Ramcharitmanas' has been placed where devotees can express their devotion towards it. Earlier, its pooja was being done, but later it was removed and kept in a guard room. When I raised the issue, no attention was paid to it. Even when I visited Ayodhya, Champat Rai told me only what he wanted would happen. When I approached the RSS chief, he promised to help. Ultimately, Hanuman ji, through the UP govt, gave justice and taught a lesson to all those who were against it. But I got no confirmation of this from the Trust, but from an RSS worker," he said.

He further said that his faith had been "restored" and demanded that those responsible be punished in a manner that sets an example and deters similar actions in the future. "After allegations of a scam came to light, I wrote to Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and the three members of the SIT on June 24. I got a response from the CM that he would take action. The 'Ramcharitmanas' was again placed with due respect. My faith has been restored, and I am happy now. I request the Trust to ensure that the accused are punished in a way that deters others from indulging in the same," Narayan said.

Ram Mandir Trust Resignations Accepted

Meanwhile, the resignations of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra have been formally accepted following a high-level meeting on Monday, Ram Mandir Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Ji Maharaj said.

Speaking on the outcomes of the trust meeting, Giri stated, "The resignations of Champat Rai (General Secretary) and Anil Mishra (Trustee) have been accepted. We are all hurt and saddened by this. The magnitude of the theft--whether small or large--is a secondary concern. We are primarily distressed by the very fact that such an atmosphere was allowed to develop here. However, the reality is before us, and it is our duty to reflect upon it. Consequently, even before the scheduled date, we gathered today in a state of deep contemplation and sorrow."

Sanjay Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) of Uttar Pradesh, also attended the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust via video conferencing. According to sources, the meeting has been specifically convened to discuss the resignation offers made by the Trust's General Secretary, Champat Rai, and member Anil Mishra. The move follows serious allegations regarding the misappropriation of donations and offerings made by devotees to the Ram Temple. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Vizhinjam Port: Kummanam Rajasekharan slams CPI(M), Congress U-turn

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:00:45 +0530

BJP Slams Kerala Parties' 'U-Turn' on Vizhinjam Port

Former Mizoram Governor and senior BJP leader Kummanam Rajasekharan on Monday criticised the shifting political stances of Keralam's major parties regarding the Vizhinjam International Seaport, specifically concerning the reported 49% stake transfer to the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC). Speaking to ANI here, he reflected on the project's decade-long history.

"This Vizhinjam port issue started about 10 years back. At that time, the Oommen Chandy ministry took the initiative to sign the agreement, and on that same day, the CPI(M) condemned it as a 'kadal kolla' (sea plunder)," he said.

The BJP leader alleged that the state government's policy underwent a complete reversal once Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan assumed office. "When Pinarayi Vijayan took charge as the Chief Minister of Keralam, they changed their policy and welcomed Adani in a meeting publicly," Rajasekharan claimed.

Regarding the current move to transfer a 49% stake in the project to MSC, Rajasekharan questioned the state's resolve in protecting its interests. "The Congress government came; they wanted to have a very good relationship with Adani. They will enter into the agreement, whatever the provisions put forward by Adani. If Adani is particular or pressuring to give shares to the MSC, then the state government will agree to it," he added.

Port's Success and MSC Partnership Detailed

The remarks from the veteran BJP leader come as the Vizhinjam port project faces renewed scrutiny over ownership transfer clauses, with political parties in the state trading allegations over past agreements and current compliance requirements.

"Vizhinjam port has emerged as a premier trans-shipment hub and ramped up at an unprecedented pace, becoming the first Indian port to earn the unique distinction of crossing 2 million TEUs within 18 months of operations," said Ashwani Gupta, Whole-time Director and CEO, APSEZ.

"I am delighted to expand APSEZ's long-standing partnership with MSC to Vizhinjam, as we prepare for the port's next leg of the journey. I am confident that our association will deliver enhanced supply chain efficiencies at a global scale and improve India's access to key global mature and developing markets," he added.

Strategic Collaboration Benefits

APSEZ said that the strategic collaboration between APSEZ and MSC Group will deliver significant advantages for APSEZ, including: Enhanced volume visibility and accelerated ramp-up ahead of plan, driven by additional cargo volumes; Higher share of Bangladesh cargo, largely dependent on competing Southeast Asian trans-shipment hubs; Strengthening presence on East Africa trade routes; Elevated relay cargo volumes.

Record-Breaking Performance

During FY26, Vizhinjam port handled 1.3 million TEUs. In its first year, Vizhinjam port handled 1.3 million TEUs and 615 vessels, becoming the fastest Indian port to cross the 1 million TEU milestone. Within 18 months, it surpassed 2 million TEUs and 950 vessels, setting another national record. In June 2026, Vizhinjam welcomed its 1,000th vessel. The port has handled over 70 Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs)--the highest among Indian ports--along with 283 vessels exceeding 300m in length and 98 vessels requiring drafts greater than 16m.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir Trust: Krishna Mohan appointed interim general secretary

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:00:26 +0530

Mahant Kamal Nayan Das, successor to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust President Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, on Monday announced that Krishna Mohan has been entrusted with the responsibility of interim general secretary of the Ram Mandir Trust.

Speaking on the sidelines of today's meeting here, Nayan Das stated, "Krishna Mohan has been entrusted with the responsibility of Interim General Secretary."

Nayan Das further clarified the attendance for the proceedings, noting, "Gopal Rao was not called to the meeting. Champat Rao was also not present in the meeting."

Resignations Accepted Amid Embezzlement Probe

The decision follows today's high-level meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, where the resignations of former General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra were formally accepted by the board in the wake of the ongoing investigation into the alleged embezzlement of temple donations.

Earlier, the resignations of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra have been formally accepted following a high-level meeting on Monday, Ram Mandir Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Ji Maharaj said.

'Hurt and Saddened' by Developments

Elaborating on the circumstances leading to the departures, Giri said, "Given the prevailing circumstances, a critical situation arose: our General Secretary, Champat Rai, and Trustee Anil Ji Mishra submitted their resignations. Champat Rai, serving as General Secretary, was deeply pained; he felt it inappropriate to continue in his role until justice is fully served--meaning the culprits are apprehended and receive appropriate punishment. Driven by this sentiment, he tendered his resignation--a matter that was not ours to simply accept or reject. K Parasaran raised a significant point: under the Trust's constitution, a resignation is deemed accepted the moment it is submitted."

The meeting, which was prepone from its original date due to the urgency of the situation, saw the participation of several top spiritual leaders and officials.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Manipur: 2 Assam Rifles jawans killed in ambush in Ukhrul district

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:00:25 +0530

Two Assam Rifles personnel were killed in an ambush in Ukhrul on Monday, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla said.

Governor Condemns Violence

The Manipur Governor condemned the violence and mourned the loss of the two personnel in the ethnic violence torn state.

In a statement on X, the Lok Bhavan said, "The Governor of Manipur is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two brave Assam Rifles personnel in an ambush in Ukhrul today. The Governor strongly condemns this dastardly act of violence. Such attacks have no place in our society and cannot weaken our collective resolve to uphold peace and security."

Governor Bhalla expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for speedy recovery of the injured personnel.

"The Governor extends his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prays that they find strength and courage in this hour of grief. He prays for the strength, resilience, and speedy recovery of all those injured in the incident," the statement read.

Further details of the incident are awaited.

Ongoing Ethnic Conflict

Manipur has been affected by ethnic violence since May 2023, leading to killing of hundreds of civilians in the state. The conflict which began between the Kuki and Meiti groups this year took a fresh turn with cases of violence and kidnapping between Kuki and Naga communities. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ondas Eyes 35% Revenue Upside In FY26 After DZYNE Technologies Acquisition – A Look At Why The Deal Matters

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:00:06 +0530

Following the acquisition, Ondas raised its revenue outlook to $525 million, compared to the previous forecast of $390 million.
DZYNE shareholders will own about 13.8% of Ondas’ outstanding shares after the completion of the transaction.
This marks Ondas’ second major acquisition this year, following the buyout of Mistral in March.

Shares of Ondas (ONDS) were in the spotlight on Monday after the defense firm raised its fiscal 2026 revenue guidance following the acquisition of autonomous aerial systems developer DZYNE Technologies.

ONDS stock was up around 1.4% at the time of writing.

ONDS To Pay Via Cash And Stock

Ondas paid a total consideration of $875.8 million, funding the transaction with a combination of $200 million in cash and approximately 85 million shares valued at $675 million. DZYNE shareholders will own about 13.8% of Ondas’ outstanding shares.

“We structured this transaction to take the majority of our consideration in Ondas equity because we believe in the long-term value of the combined platform,” said Jeff Hull, President and Chief Executive Officer of Highlander Partners, the majority owner of DZYNE.

ONDS Expects FY2026 Revenue Of $525M

Following the acquisition, Ondas raised its 2026 revenue outlook to at least $525 million, up from its previous forecast of at least $390 million. DZYNE is expected to contribute $191 million in revenue in 2026 and more than $300 million in 2027, while maintaining positive earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA). DZYNE expects margins in the mid-teens in 2027, rising to the mid-20% range by 2028.

The target firm expects strong growth driven by demand for its ultra-long-endurance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platform, IonStrike interceptor system, and Dronebuster counter-drone products.

ONDS’ Federal Contracts Push

Earlier this year, Ondas acquired Mistral, a prime contractor for U.S. military and government programs, giving the company direct access to major U.S. Department of Defense contracts, including programs with the U.S. Army and Special Operations forces.

Mistral holds more than $1 billion in defense contracts spanning weapon systems, drones, and unmanned platforms, and also supplies equipment and security solutions to federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

What Is Retail’s Take On ONDS?

Retail sentiment on Stocktwits remained ‘bullish’ over the past 24 hours, amid ‘high’ message volumes. ONDS was also among the top trending tickers at the time of writing.

Following the acquisition, one bullish user highlighted “two windows of business opportunity into the federal government.”

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ONDS shares have declined 33.4% so far this year.

Also read - SK Hynix’s Offering Attracts $7B Interest From Investment Firms – This Investor Believes Demand Will ‘Remain Relatively Robust’

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

"Age Is Just a Number": Ex-Software Engineer Quits 18-Year IT Career, Becomes Doctor in US

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:59:58 +0530

A remarkable story of determination and reinvention is capturing attention on social media, showing that it is never too late to follow one’s dreams. After spending nearly two decades in the information technology sector, Janhavi Ajit Rao made a life-changing decision at the age of 40 to leave her successful engineering career behind and pursue medicine. Today, she is a practising doctor in the United States, inspiring many with her extraordinary journey of courage, resilience and purpose.

Goodbye to an 18-Year Tech Career

Janhavi Ajit Rao completed her Electronics Engineering from a reputed university in California. She went on to build a successful career as a software engineer, working for around 18 years in the United States and India. Over the years, she enjoyed professional stability, a strong income and a well-established career path. However, despite her achievements, life had other plans in store for her.

A Health Challenge That Changed Her Perspective

In 2003, Janhavi was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune condition. During her treatment journey, she experienced the compassion and dedication of medical professionals at close quarters. This deeply emotional experience reshaped her outlook on life and sparked a new aspiration within her to become a doctor and serve patients directly.

Returning To Studies at the Age Of 40

Driven by this newfound purpose, Janhavi made a bold decision in 2013 to restart her academic journey. At the age of 40, she enrolled in the MBBS programme at MS Ramaiah Medical College in Bengaluru. Surrounded by much younger classmates, she stepped back into student life with determination and discipline, focusing entirely on her medical education despite the challenges of restarting later in life.

Meet Janhavi Ajit Rao.After spending 18 years as a software engineer, she made a decision that very few people would dare to make.At the age of 40, she quit her successful engineering career and joined MBBS to become a doctor.She studied Electronics in California, worked at… pic.twitter.com/DioVAAnGDt

— Vikas Alwys (@VikasAlwys) July 3, 2026

From MBBS To Medical Practice in the United States

After years of consistent effort and academic commitment, Janhavi successfully completed her MBBS degree. She later returned to the United States and continued her journey in the medical field. Today, she is working as a primary care physician, building a meaningful second career in healthcare and proving that reinvention is always possible.

Social Media Reactions To Her Inspiring Journey

Her story has gone viral across social media platforms, with users praising her courage and determination.

One user commented: "Indeed...she proves that age is just a number ...not a barrier."

Indeed...she proves that age is just a number ...not a barrier

— Vikas Alwys (@VikasAlwys) July 3, 2026

Second user commented: "You are never too old and it’s never too late ! Great work."

You are never too old and it’s never too late ! Great work

— Hidayath khan (@Urokhan73) July 3, 2026

Message From Her Journey

Janhavi Ajit Rao’s life stands as a powerful reminder that age is not a limitation when it comes to pursuing new dreams. Her transformation from software engineer to medical professional highlights how life experiences, resilience and determination can lead to a completely new path. Her journey continues to inspire countless individuals to take bold steps towards their passions, regardless of age or stage in life.

FIFA World Cup 2026: England Captain Harry Kane's Squeaky Voice After Win over Mexico Goes Viral (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:45:04 +0530

England captain Harry Kane was visibly struggling to speak after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 victory against co-host Mexico at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Sunday, July 5. The Three Lions pulled off a 3-2 win over Mexico to qualify for the quarterfinal, where they will face Norway.

England were reduced to a 10-man team after defender Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card in the 54th minute following a VAR review for a mistimed lunge on Mexico's Jesus Gallardo. However, just six minutes later, the Three Lions took the lead as Harry Kane emphatically converted a penalty after Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel fouled Anthony Gordon inside the box.

The clash between England and Mexico was more of a tactical and emotional rollercoaster, defined by dramatic momentum shifts, a contentious red card, and a resilient defensive stand in the high-altitude environment of the Estadio Azteca.

Also Read: Sir Geoff Hurst hails England's win over Mexico as best since 1966

Harry Kane Lost His Voice After Thrilling Victory

Following a victory over Mexico, England captain Harry Kane and his teammates joined the supporters to celebrate by singing iconic English anthems like ‘Three Lions’ and Oasis' ‘Wonderwall,’ a raucous and passionate performance that left Kane’s vocal cords completely exhausted.

In a BBC video that quickly went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), the 32-year-old was seen struggling to utter even a single word during his post-match interview, often breaking into raspy laughter as he tried to describe England's incredible resilience.

Speaking in little more than a whisper, Kane repeatedly pointed to his throat and coughed while explaining that he had completely lost his voice. His condition reflected the intensity of England's jubilant celebrations following a memorable victory over Mexico. The voice loss captured the pure euphoria of a historic night that left the captain completely drained.

One of the best post-match interviews you will EVER see! Rest up, Harry :) pic.twitter.com/twk8bhP2YK

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 6, 2026

Harry Kane, who has been leading England since the lead-up to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, has become a seasoned leader of the Three Lions, defined by his clinical finishing and unwavering commitment to the team's success on the world stage.

Kane’s voice loss after the round of 16 against Mexico, following jubilant celebrations with England's travelling supporters, reflected the passion and emotion that fuelled the Three Lions' memorable victory.

A Captain’s Exhausted Encore: Fans React to Kane’s ‘Raspy’ Interview

England captain Harry Kane’s struggle to speak due to an exhausted, gravelly voice quickly became a viral sensation, with fans and football enthusiasts on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), flooding the platform with a mix of humorous memes and heartfelt tributes.

Taking to their X handles, fans and football enthusiasts gave humorous reactions to Kane's raspy voice, comparing him to ‘Mickey Mouse’ and joking that the interview deserved its own documentary. Others hailed the England captain for ‘leaving everything on the pitch’, saying his lost voice reflected his passion, commitment and leadership, while many urged him to rest ahead of the quarterfinal clash against Norway.

A few fans admitted they could not stop laughing at Kane's unusually squeaky voice, while others described it as the funniest post-match interview of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Many called him a ‘true captain’ and ‘warrior ’, saying his hoarse voice perfectly reflected the emotion and effort behind England's dramatic victory over Mexico.

Forget the highlights, this interview deserves its own documentary Rest well, Harry—you earned it! ⚽

— Techie_SDE_Meera (@Techie_SDE_Meer) July 6, 2026

Football isn't that hard; why does he sound like a fish out of water?

— Lady Lolo (@lady_lolo69) July 6, 2026

This is why he's the captain. Empty tank, no voice left, still stood there talking football with everything he had. Respect, Harry.

— Arkam (@rkam_) July 6, 2026

The man really lost his voice. Put everything for his team. Appreciate your effort Karry. But next match is with Vikings.

— Mirwais Karzai (میروائس کرزئی) (@Mirwais_karzai) July 6, 2026

Haha sounds like you’re interviewing Mickey Mouse

— A United Right (@Right_United_) July 6, 2026

Kane’s raspy victory squeak is pure legend energy! What a warrior. Rest that golden throat, Captain!

— @SALMAN PARIS (@IbnMukhtar5) July 6, 2026

The match ended, but Harry was still fighting for his life in the interview Absolutely hilarious!

— Techie_SDE_Meera (@Techie_SDE_Meer) July 6, 2026

His voice says everything. Can't even express his emotions. He gave everything for this team to win this game.

— Brekhna Afghan (@Brekhna_Afghan) July 6, 2026

This is gonna be the most funny interview ever in the world cup. No, IN THE WORLD!

— DQ (@dikifahmii) July 6, 2026

Voice gone, tears loading... classic Kane emotion at the World Cup Respect though

— happy friday (@happyfriday0708) July 6, 2026

We can’t hear his voice, but he’s speaking straight from the heart – true captain material, Harry!Kane’s raspy effort perfectly captures the passion after a hard-fought 3-2 win. #ThreeLions @England @worldranking_ @FIFAWorldCup #England #FIFAWorldCup #WorldCup2026…

— Anand Aggala (@aggala) July 6, 2026

Absolute legend Harry! Voice gone but heart full What a night

— Wali Khan (@WaliKhan1595094) July 6, 2026

Hope he gets a chance to rest that voice over the next few days

— James Drake (@Drake_xCx) July 6, 2026

i admit i laughed so hard. harry's voice is so deep and sexy to hear it like this gave me such a needed moment of levity!! love you harry kane!

— Lisboncharles (@Lisbonchar4842) July 6, 2026

Taking on Norway, who defeated five-time world champions Brazil in the Round of 16, in the quarterfinals, Harry Kane-led England will look to carry that same fighting spirit and momentum into the next round, aiming to dismantle the Viking challenge and inch one step closer to lifting the World Cup trophy.

Also Read: David Beckham praises Pickford, Bellingham after England's World Cup win

EV Bus Safety in Bengaluru: 5 Shocking Reasons Behind Rising BMTC Electric Bus Accidents and Growing Public Concern

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:33:39 +0530

A recent collision between two BMTC buses in Bengaluru last Saturday has triggered panic among commuters and left several passengers injured. The incident has once again brought road safety into sharp focus, particularly at a time when the city is rapidly expanding its electric bus fleet under the public transport system. With Bengaluru increasingly relying on modern, high-capacity electric buses to meet growing commuter demand and reduce emissions, concerns around operational safety, driver preparedness and training standards have come under renewed scrutiny. Questions are now being raised about whether safety systems and workforce readiness are keeping pace with this fast transition to electric mobility.

Bengaluru currently operates nearly 1,650 to 1,700 electric buses under the BMTC fleet, with around 3,000 drivers deployed across the city. However, a series of recent accidents involving these modern buses has raised serious concerns about driver preparedness, training quality and operational oversight.

According to emerging allegations, several key gaps in recruitment, training and monitoring may be contributing to the increasing number of incidents.

The main concerns being highlighted are as follows:

Relaxed Hiring Standards Raise Concerns

Traditionally, BMTC and KSRTC follow strict recruitment procedures, including rigorous driving assessments. However, allegations suggest that recruitment norms for EV bus drivers may have been relaxed. It is reported that candidates with a heavy vehicle driving licence and a minimum of three years of experience are being hired, raising concerns about whether adequate screening and evaluation standards are being maintained.

Inadequate Training Duration

Regular BMTC drivers typically undergo extensive training of up to six months to handle Bengaluru’s dense and complex traffic conditions. In contrast, EV bus drivers are reportedly being trained for only around 15 days. Given the advanced acceleration and braking systems of electric buses, such a short training period may not be sufficient for safe and confident operation in heavy urban traffic.

Lack of City Driving Experience

It is being alleged that many EV bus drivers previously operated heavy vehicles on highways rather than in city environments. Driving on open highways is significantly different from navigating congested urban roads like those in Bengaluru. This mismatch in experience is being cited as a possible factor behind sudden braking errors and instances of loss of vehicle control.

Absence of Mandatory Health Screening

For conventional BMTC and KSRTC drivers, annual health fitness certification is mandatory, including vision and overall physical health checks. However, allegations suggest that similar mandatory health screening may not be strictly enforced for EV bus drivers. Concerns have been raised regarding the lack of routine checks for conditions such as blood pressure and diabetes, which could pose risks during long driving shifts.

Monsoon Challenges and Technical Glitches

During the monsoon season, Bengaluru frequently experiences waterlogging and flooded roads. Reports suggest that EV buses may face technical issues while operating in such conditions, including battery-related faults and electronic system disruptions. In extreme cases, a short circuit or battery management system failure could potentially affect vehicle control during emergencies.

While the introduction of electric buses is a positive step towards reducing pollution and modernising public transport, experts warn that safety systems must evolve at the same pace. Without strict adherence to training standards, recruitment norms and driver fitness protocols, concerns remain that these smart buses could pose new risks on Bengaluru’s roads. Authorities have been urged to review and strengthen operational guidelines to ensure commuter safety.

YSRCP alleges AP govt failed to safeguard BC interests, plans stir

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:31:12 +0530

The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) on Sunday announced a statewide campaign alleging that the Andhra Pradesh coalition government had failed to safeguard the interests of the Backward Classes (BCs).

Former minister Chelluboina Venu Gopala Krishna, MLC Ramesh Yadav and former MP Margani Bharat said the party would organise a major BC convention in Vijayawada followed by zonal meetings across the state.

The Backward Classes had been denied political representation, welfare benefits and constitutional opportunities over the past two years.

They said the campaign would seek to highlight these issues and take them directly to the people.

YSRCP Alleges Neglect of Backward Classes

The leaders alleged that Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu had not appointed a BC leader as Deputy Chief Minister and had failed to fully constitute BC Corporations by appointing their chairpersons.

They claimed that the previous YSRCP government led by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy had constituted 56 BC Corporations in a single phase and ensured greater political representation for backward communities.

They further alleged that the coalition government had not fulfilled promises made to BCs in its election manifesto and claimed that BC students were facing hardship due to delays in fee reimbursement.

The leaders also claimed that the previous YSRCP government had initiated steps to provide 34 per cent reservation for BCs in local body elections, but the move was blocked following legal intervention during Chandrababu Naidu's tenure.

Reaffirming the party's commitment to BC welfare, they said the YSRCP would intensify its campaign across Andhra Pradesh and take the issue of alleged injustice to Backward Classes to every household.

Broader Criticisms Against Coalition Govt

Earlier on Saturday, YSRCP criticised the Andhra Pradesh coalition government, alleging that it had failed to fulfil its election promises and adopted a vindictive approach towards the opposition.

Speaking to reporters, Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Andhra Pradesh Legislative Council Botsa Satyanarayana alleged that the coalition government had failed to deliver on its poll assurances and questioned the accountability of the alleged Rs 3 lakh crore borrowing by the state government.

He further alleged that promises made to women remained unfulfilled, education reforms had come to a standstill, school bags and kits had not been distributed, and the functioning of government hospitals had deteriorated. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Syama Prasad Mookerjee was a resolve: Haryana CM Saini on his Jayanti

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:31:06 +0530

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday paid floral tributes to the founder of Bharatiya Jana Sangh, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, on his birth anniversary in Ambala, describing him as a visionary who dedicated his life to the unity and integrity of the nation.

Addressing the gathering at the event, CM Saini said that Dr Mookerjee was not just an individual but a "resolve" that continues to guide the country. "Today, we have gathered here to remember a great soul who was not merely an individual; he embodied an idea and a resolve. He was a visionary of the era who dedicated his entire life to the unity, integrity, and self-respect of the nation," the Chief Minister said.

Emphasising the lasting impact of Dr Mookerjee's legacy, Saini stated that such great personalities serve as a beacon for future generations. "There are figures in history who are not just read about but truly lived; they are great personalities who do not merely lead their own times but also guide future generations. We have assembled here to commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of such a figure, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee and to offer him floral tributes," he added.

The Chief Minister further announced that the celebrations to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Mookerjee would be a grand, extended affair. "We are observing a two-year-long celebration marking Dr Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary, spanning from last year through July 2027," Saini said.

About Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee

He inherited a legacy of erudition and nationalism from his father, Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, an esteemed Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and Judge of the Calcutta High Court.

In 1940, he became the acting President of the Hindu Mahasabha and declared complete independence for India as its political goal. Jan Sangh was the political predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the party marks Mookerjee's death anniversary as 'Balidan Diwas' following his demise in Kashmir on June 23, 1953. He founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh on October 21, 1951.

Mookerjee was a tall political figure in pre-independence India and was the Finance Minister in the Progressive Coalition Ministry headed by Fazlul Haq, from which he resigned in less than a year. He also joined the Hindu Mahasabha, but later quit the year Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated. After independence, former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru inducted him into the Interim Central Government as a Minister for Industry and Supply. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pinaka teaser: Ganesh stars in a mythological fantasy, 'war for dharma'

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:30:59 +0530

Kannada actor Ganesh will be next seen in the film 'Pinaka' which is helmed by choreographer-turned-director Dhananjaya B. The makers have released the teaser of the film. Produced under the banner of People Media Factory, the film is an upcoming mythological fantasy which "unfolds across two eras and centres on a guardian lineage," as per the synopsis of the film.

The teaser introduces a divine kingdom which is at war, leading to the emergence of a warrior played by Ganesh. According to the glimpses, the movie is expected to feature Ganesh in a double role.

People Media Factory wrote, "the war of Dharma begins" while sharing the teaser on their X handle on Monday.

THE WAR FOR DHARMA BEGINS#PeopleMediaFactory x #GoldenMegaStarGanesh's much-awaited magnum opus #PINAKATeaser OUT NOW -- https://t.co/tITDJD3TU3#ಪಿನಾಕ #PINAKA IN CINEMAS OCTOBER 2nd❤️‍ Golden Mega Star @Official_Ganesh@tweets_archana @vishwaprasadtg #KrithiPrasad… pic.twitter.com/GKgd1OO5QC — People Media Factory (@peoplemediafcy) July 6, 2026

Crew and Release Date

The music of the movie is composed by Gowra Hari, while the cinematography is handled by Karm Chawla and Rama Maruti M. The film is slated to release in theatres on October 2.

About Actor Ganesh

As for Ganesh, the actor shot to fame with his film Mungaru Male in 2006, which performed well at the box office. He is also known for his movies like Gaalipata, Maleyali Jotheyali, Cheluvina Chittara, Krishna, Romeo, Shravani Subramanya, Zoom, Chamak, 99, Gaalipata 2, Triple Riding and Krishnam Pranaya Sakhi. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir Trust accepts resignations of Champat Rai, Anil Mishra

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:30:42 +0530

The resignations of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and Trustee Anil Mishra have been formally accepted following a high-level meeting on Monday, Ram Mandir Trust Treasurer Swami Govind Dev Giri Ji Maharaj said. Speaking on the outcomes of the trust meeting, Giri stated, "The resignations of Champat Rai (General Secretary) and Anil Mishra (Trustee) have been accepted. We are all hurt and saddened by this. The magnitude of the theft--whether small or large--is a secondary concern. We are primarily distressed by the very fact that such an atmosphere was allowed to develop here. However, the reality is before us, and it is our duty to reflect upon it. Consequently, even before the scheduled date, we gathered today in a state of deep contemplation and sorrow."

Resignations Amid Financial Irregularity Allegations

Emergency Trust Meeting Convened

The meeting, which was prepone from its original date due to the urgency of the situation, saw the participation of several top spiritual leaders and officials. "It was decided to hold the scheduled Trust meeting--originally set for July 11--as early as possible; consequently, acting on information shared with everyone, we convened it today, July 6. The meeting was attended by the revered Chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das Ji Maharaj; the revered Shankaracharya Ji Maharaj; Yug Purush Parmanand Ji Maharaj; Vishwa Prasanna Tirtha Ji Maharaj of Pejawar; our new trustee Krishna Mohan Ji; and the District Collector of Ayodhya, Shashank Tripathi Ji. Thus, this highly significant meeting, attended by the full quorum, was a lengthy and successful session that brought everyone together," Giri Maharaj added.

Earlier today, a crucial meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was held in Ayodhya to deliberate on the fallout of alleged financial irregularities and the embezzlement of temple offerings. President of the Trust, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, attended the meeting at the Ram Janmabhoomi complex. Sanjay Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) of Uttar Pradesh, also attended the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust via video conferencing.

According to sources, the meeting has been specifically convened to discuss the resignation offers made by the Trust's General Secretary, Champat Rai, and member Anil Mishra. The move follows serious allegations regarding the misappropriation of donations and offerings made by devotees to the Ram Temple. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi: BJP govt celebrating Syama Prasad Mookerjee's 125th anniv

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:30:40 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the BJP government is celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Syama Prasad Mukerjee with a two-year national celebration and the formation of BJP government is adding enthusiasm to the celebrations.

'A Visionary Dedicated to Ek Bharat'

In a video message marking the 125th birth anniversary of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, PM Modi said the late leader devoted his life to 'Ek Bharat' "Today, the nation and West Bengal is remembering a great son, a great patriot who was dedicated to the integrity of India, a visionary...Where there is a deep-rooted ideological power accompanied by strong resolve and clear intent, and when there is complete dedication with a fresh resolve - when all of these get connected to each other, the resolve does indeed get fulfilled. Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee lived such a life," he said.

"Our government is celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mukerjee with a two-year national celebration. This celebration began on July 6th of last year and will continue until July 6th of next year. With the formation of the BJP government in Bengal, the state is adding enthusiasm to this national honour and commemorating this inspirational figure," he added.

PM Modi said when there is a government with the resolve of 'Nation First', national heroes are honoured and all efforts are made to work as per their vision. Our Govt is celebrating Dr Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary as 2 years of national celebration. This started on 6th July last year and will go on till 6th July next year," he added.

PM Modi said the programme marking 125th birth anniversary of Syama Prasad Mookerjee is also a witness to the fact that when there is a government with the resolve of 'Nation First', national heroes are honoured and all efforts are made to work as per their vision. "Our government is celebrating Dr Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary as two years of national celebration. This started on 6th July last year and will go on till 6th July next year," he said.

Who Was Syama Prasad Mookerjee?

Syama Prasad Mookerjee founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh on October 21, 1951, the ideological predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Born on July 6, 1901, in the then Calcutta, he was an educationist, parliamentarian, statesman and humanitarian. He inherited a legacy of scholarship and nationalism from his father, Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, who served as the Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and a judge of the Calcutta High Court.

In 1940, he became the acting president of the Hindu Mahasabha and declared complete independence for India as its political goal. He later served as Minister for Industry and Supply in Jawaharlal Nehru's Interim Government before resigning. He also left the Hindu Mahasabha in the year Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated. The BJP observes Dr Mookerjee's death anniversary on June 23 as 'Balidan Diwas'.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jaishankar meets Bahrain, Qatar FMs; discusses ties, Indian community

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:30:39 +0530

Jaishankar holds talks in Bahrain, Qatar

Meeting with Bahraini counterpart

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Bahrain's Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani and held discussions on further strengthening the relationship between the two countries.

Sharing details in a post on X, Jaishankar expressed deep appreciation for ensuring the well-being of the Indian community and said, "Discussed deepening our bilateral cooperation. Exchanged views on ongoing developments in the region."

Delighted to meet FM Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani of Bahrain in Manama today. Expressed deep appreciation for ensuring the well-being of the Indian community. Discussed deepening our bilateral cooperation. Exchanged views on ongoing developments in the region.… pic.twitter.com/aASYTZQnLP — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 6, 2026

Meeting with Qatari Prime Minister

Earlier, Jaishankar on Sunday met with his Qatari counterpart and Prime Minister of Qatar Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani as part of his multi-nation visit in Doha, during which both sides explored new opportunities for deepening the strategic partnership.

In a post on X, Jaishankar described the meeting as "a pleasure" and thanked the Qatari leadership for ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community in the Gulf nation. He said the discussions covered a wide range of areas of bilateral cooperation, including energy, trade, investments, connectivity, security and people-to-people ties.

"A pleasure to meet Qatar PM & FM Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani in Doha today. Thanked him for ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community. Reviewed various facets of our bilateral cooperation especially energy, trade, investments, connectivity, security and people-to-people ties. Explored new opportunities for deepening our Strategic Partnership," the post stated.

EAM's multi-nation tour details

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is on a multi-nation visit to Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, US and Belgium, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Saturday.

As per the MEA, Jaishankar will be on an official visit to Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman from July 5-10. During the visit to these countries, he will be meeting with his counterparts and the leadership.

The visit will focus on enhancing our bilateral relations with the four countries and also provide an opportunity to exchange views on regional developments and issues of mutual interest, the press release by MEA noted.

For the US-leg, EAM will visit New York on July 13 to launch India's official campaign for the UN Security Council tenure 2028-29. Later, he will attend the 3rd India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting and interact with his EU and Belgian counterparts in Brussels on July 14-15. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

KTR: Revanth carries money bags for Delhi, neglects Telangana farmers

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:30:20 +0530

BRS Working President KT Rama Rao (KTR) on Monday alleged that the Congress government in Telangana was acting against the interests of farmers and Hamali workers, while calling on party workers to work towards bringing K Chandrasekhar Rao back as Chief Minister within the next two years.

Addressing the 18th Hamali Union Foundation Day General Meeting at VNR Gardens in Mallapur, KTR alleged that Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy was neglecting the interests of Telangana. "While Hamali workers carry paddy sacks, Chief Minister Revanth carries bags of money for Delhi leaders," he alleged, claiming that Hamali workers, farmers and rice mill owners had prospered during the BRS government's tenure.

Allegations Over Kaleshwaram Project and Farmer Hardship

KTR alleged that the Chief Minister had deliberately not switched on two pumps at the Kannepalli Pump House of the Kaleshwaram Project solely to defame the BRS, resulting in nearly one lakh cusecs of water flowing into the sea. He further alleged that the government was withholding irrigation water because supplying water would require providing fertilisers, while successful crops would require payment of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and bonus to farmers. Despite the availability of water, he alleged, the government was intentionally allowing crops to dry up, causing hardship to farmers.

He said the BRS had appealed to the government from Kannepalli that if it had any grievance against the party, it could file cases against its leaders but should not target farmers. KTR asserted that the BRS was not afraid of any number of cases but alleged that if farmers continued to face hardship, people would give the government a fitting response.

BRS's Past Achievements and Support for Workers

Claiming that Telangana prospered under the leadership of former Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, KTR said the Kaleshwaram Project expanded irrigation, leading to agricultural growth and increased employment opportunities for Hamali workers. He also claimed that under the BRS government, Hamali workers, farmers and rice mill owners had all prospered.

Highlighting the previous BRS government's initiatives for Hamali workers, KTR claimed that their wages were increased from Rs 8 to Rs 26, describing it as a nearly 250 per cent hike. He further claimed that while wages were earlier revised once every five years, the KCR government revised them once every two years, leading to an improvement in workers' standard of living.

Thanking the Hamali workers for inviting him to the foundation day celebrations, KTR said he was moved by their affection and support. He assured them that he would work towards ensuring their health security and resolving their issues one by one.

Call for Party Unity and Return to Power

Expressing confidence that the BRS would return to power, KTR urged party workers and leaders to remain united and work towards bringing K Chandrasekhar Rao back as Chief Minister within the next two years so that Telangana could continue on the path of development. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Who Is Nurul Hasan? Meet Bangladesh's Wicketkeeper, His Wife Tasnim Islam Lisa, Family and More

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:09:36 +0530

Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter Nurul Hasan, widely known as Nurul Hasan Sohan, has established himself as one of the most dependable glovemen from the country. His aggressive bottom order batting and precise wicketkeeping have garnered him acclaim on the pitch, but fans are as inquisitive about his personal life, including his wife, family and relationships. Here’s all you need to know about the Bangladesh cricketer.

Who Is Nurul Hasan’s Wife?

Nurul Hasan is married to Tasnim Islam Lisa. The pair got engaged on 10 May 2017 and married on 30 June 2017 in Khulna, Bangladesh. The two reportedly initially met while they were students at the Northern University of Bangladesh. Lisa is the daughter of businessman Shafikul Islam and has mostly kept away from the public eye, backing her husband’s cricketing career.

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A post shared by Bangladesh Vogue (@bangladesh_in_vogue)

Family & Relationships

There have been no stories in the public domain tying Nurul Hasan to any connection before his marriage. He likes to keep his personal life out of the limelight and doesn’t want his family in the limelight.” The wicketkeeper is renowned to balance his professional duties with his family life and rarely speaks about his personal life in the public domain.

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A post shared by Bangladesh Vogue (@bangladesh_in_vogue)

Cricketing Career

Nurul Hasan (born 21 November 1993 in Khulna, Bangladesh) is a right-handed wicketkeeper-batter. He made his T20I debut for Bangladesh in January 2016, his ODI debut in December 2016 and Test debut in January 2017 against New Zealand. He has also captained Bangladesh in T20Is and has played for various local and Bangladesh Premier League clubs and has earned plaudits for his cool leadership and safe hands behind the stumps.

Career Stats for Nurul Hasan

Nurul Hasan has played at: 2026

Tests - 11 matches, 440 runs, 3 half-centuries

ODIs: 13 innings 237 runs

T20Is: 55 matches, 570 runs

First-Class: 111 matches, 5,505 runs, 12 hundreds

Apart from his batting, he has taken several catches and stumpings in all forms and is one of the most reliable wicket-keepers in Bangladesh.

An Invaluable Member of Bangladesh Cricket

Nurul Hasan has been a crucial part of Bangladesh cricket over the years and has held his own despite tough competition for the wicketkeeper’s post because to his flexibility, leadership characteristics and finishing ability. Consistent performances in local cricket and his international experience make him a great addition to Bangladesh and franchise teams.

KRS Dam Records Highest Inflow in Six Months as Heavy Rain Boosts Cauvery River

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:07:32 +0530

After months of dry weather and declining reservoir levels, heavy rainfall in the Cauvery catchment area has brought much-needed relief to Karnataka. Continuous showers have significantly increased the inflow into the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS), also known as the Kannambadi Reservoir, in Srirangapatna taluk of Mandya district. The sharp rise in inflow has renewed hopes among farmers and residents who depend on the Cauvery River for irrigation and drinking water, while raising expectations of improved water availability if the monsoon remains active.

Highest Inflow in Six Months

Continuous rainfall over the past few days has led to a substantial increase in water flowing into the KRS reservoir.

The inflow, which stood at just 1,449 cusecs the previous day, has surged to 4,291 cusecs, marking the highest inflow recorded at the reservoir in the past six months.

The increase comes as a major relief for farmers in Mandya and Mysuru districts, who have been grappling with prolonged dry conditions and water scarcity. The improved inflow is expected to ease concerns over drinking water supply and strengthen prospects for agricultural activities during the ongoing monsoon season.

Current Water Level at KRS Reservoir

The latest figures for the Krishnaraja Sagar (KRS) reservoir are as follows:

Maximum water level: 124.80 feet
Current water level: 80.90 feet
Previous day's water level: 81.55 feet
Current inflow: 4,291 cusecs
Current outflow: 764 cusecs
Maximum storage capacity: 49.452 TMC
Current storage: 11.487 TMC

Although the reservoir level is marginally lower than the previous day's reading, officials expect it to rise in the coming days as inflow continues to increase.

More Rain Forecast Across Catchment Areas

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast further rainfall across Kodagu and other parts of the Cauvery catchment region over the coming days.

If the rainfall continues as forecast, inflow into the KRS reservoir is expected to increase further, improving water storage and providing additional relief to farmers and residents across Karnataka who rely on the Cauvery River.

Why Is JG Stock Rising Today?

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:05:02 +0530

The latest partnership is centered on delivering timely notification of the latest information to customers tracking the financial derivatives market in China.
Aurora’s JPush routes app notifications via its proprietary push solution and also uses Google’s Firebase Cloud Messaging and Apple's Push Notification Service for customers outside China.
The financial terms of the partnership were not disclosed.

Shenzhen-based Aurora Mobile (JG) shares drew investor attention on Monday after the company announced a partnership with Pobo Financial Information Co., which selected Aurora Mobile’s JPush to upgrade its existing message delivery architecture in a targeted manner.

Aurora Mobile said it would deploy its push notification solutions across Pobo Financial’s mobile-based platforms.

At the time of writing, JG stock was up nearly 5% in premarket trade.

What Is The Partnership About?

The partnership is centered on delivering timely notification of the latest information to customers tracking the financial derivatives market in China. Pobo Financial, a Chinese IT services firm well-known in the futures, options, and other derivatives software sectors through its flagship product, Boyi Master, will leverage Aurora Mobile’s JPush solution for a range of its applications.

“The financial derivatives market is characterized by high leverage, rapid price movements, and extended trading hours, including night trading sessions. As a result, mobile applications in this sector require highly timely and stable message delivery for alert notifications, status updates, and market data notifications,” Aurora stated.

The financial terms of the partnership were not disclosed.

JPush Can Handle Sudden Traffic Spikes

Aurora’s JPush not only routes app notifications via its proprietary push solution but also uses Google’s Firebase Cloud Messaging and Apple's Push Notification Service for customers outside China, supporting Android, iOS, HarmonyOS, QuickApp, and the web.

The company said JPush can effectively handle sudden traffic spikes when key economic data, such as CPI and non-farm payrolls, are released and can achieve a higher success rate in notifying users, especially during night trading and in volatile markets.

“For financial information service providers, the speed and stability of information transmission are key measures of product quality and professionalism. Pobo Financial’s integration of JPush represents a practical reinforcement of its underlying mobile communication capabilities,” Aurora said.

What Retail Traders Think About JG

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment toward the stock remained in ‘bearish’ territory over the last 24 hours.

JG shares have fallen 30% so far this year and 60% in the last 12 months, underperforming the S&P 500.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

Hyderabad Man Loses Rs 1 Lakh Phone After Stopping to Help Biker, CCTV Captures Clever Theft

Divya Danu — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:03:27 +0530

A shocking theft caught on CCTV in Hyderabad, Telangana has gone viral after two men staged a fake bike accident to steal an expensive smartphone from a passerby. The incident took place in the Saroornagar area, where a man was crossing the road with a smartphone worth around ₹1 lakh in his pocket. Police are investigating the case using CCTV footage.

Police say two men in Saroornagar, Hyderabad, allegedly pretended to fall on the road to distract a passerby before stealing his 1 lakh mobile phone and fleeing on a motorcycle without a number plate... pic.twitter.com/AnRiZwbJVf

— SriSathya (@sathyashrii) July 5, 2026

Black Cobra Found in Rat Trap Instead of Mouse at Rajasthan Home, Family Left Shocked

How the theft happened

According to reports and a viral video, one of the accused arrived on a motorcycle without a number plate, while his accomplice stood nearby. As the victim walked past, the biker deliberately showed falling onto the road, pretending to have skidded off. The passerby immediately stopped and bent down to help him handle his bike and get up.

At that moment, the second suspect covered the victim with a paper/cloth-like object and quietly removed the phone from his pocket. By the time, the victim could process and realise what just happened with him, within seconds, both the men fled the scene on the motorcycle. The viral footage shows him running after them but they had left.

The entire incident was captured by a nearby CCTV camera, helping investigators understand how the theft was carried out.

Nature's Most Unusual Flood Scene: Snakes, Rats and Birds Share Shelter to Escape Rising Waters in Gujarat

Video sparks debate on helping strangers

The viral video has triggered widespread discussion on social media. Many users expressed concern that such crimes could make people afraid to help strangers in genuine emergencies.

Several people urged the police to identify and arrest the suspects quickly. Others advised the public to stay alert and keep their valuables secure while assisting someone on the road.

Hyderabad: In Saroornagar, two men on a bike pretended to fall to distract a passerby, then stole his ₹1 lakh phone in seconds before speeding off on an unmarked motorcycle. CCTV caught it all.Another reason why people hesitate to help strangers! pic.twitter.com/ueEuHjsido

— Megh Updates ™ (@MeghUpdates) July 6, 2026

Some users shared similar experiences of losing phones in distraction thefts and said expensive devices should not be carried loosely in shirt or trouser pockets.

Amarnath Yatra 2026: Ice Shivling Shrinks to Around 1 Foot as Over 56,000 Devotees Offer Prayers

Police have not yet announced any arrests. The investigation is continuing with the help of CCTV footage and other available evidence.

Arjun Rampal shares 'Dhurandhar' BTS glimpses for Ranveer's birthday

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:01:47 +0530

Actor Arjun Rampal has extended a heartwarming birthday post for his 'Dhurandhar' co-star Ranveer Singh, celebrating their bond that extends beyond the big screen. In an Instagram post, Rampal shared a video carousel with rare BTS glimpses from the sets of 'Dhurandhar' along with candid pictures and memorable scenes. "Happy Happy birthday Sher e, to more fabulous memories, performances, successes, love, ice baths, laughs, celebrations. Have a fabulous year ahead @ranveersingh big love and a huge hug. #happybirthdayranveersingh," the actor playfully wrote.

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About The Film 'Dhurandhar'

In Aditya Dhar's 'Dhurandhar' films, Arjun Rampal featured as Major Iqbal, a fictional Pakistani ISI mastermind linked to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, whereas Ranveer Singh essayed lead protagonist Jaskirat Singh Rangi, who infiltrates Pakistan's Lyari using the alias Hamza Ali Mazari.

Ranveer also received a heartfelt birthday wish from director Aditya Dhar, who described his experience of working with Singh as both creatively transformative and personally meaningful.

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"Some films stay with you forever. Dhurandhar will always be one of those films for me. I've always known you're an extraordinary actor. But this journey made me fall in love with the artist you are and even more with the human being behind the artist," a part of his post read.

Franchise Success and Cast Details

Written, directed and produced by Aditya Dhar, and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Lokesh Dhar, 'Dhurandhar' is presented by Jio Studios and produced by B62 Studios. The film was released in India on December 5, 2025, and has since emerged as one of the biggest theatrical successes in Hindi cinema.

The film features a strong cast including Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Rakesh Bedi, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun.

The second instalment, 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge', was released in March 2026 and further amplified the franchise's global success. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Shivaji statue removal: SC refuses to interfere with Bombay HC order

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:01:29 +0530

The Supreme Court has declined to interfere with an order of the Bombay High Court directing the removal of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj from land belonging to the Mormugao Port Authority.

As a bench of Justices MM Sundresh and Justice Sheel Nagu was not inclined to pass a favourable order, the petitioners chose to withdraw the case and the same was dismissed as withdrawn. It, however, gave the petitioners liberty to move an appropriate application before the High Court to seek a variance of its order. "Counsel appearing for the petitioners seeks to withdraw the present Special Leave Petition. Permission is granted. The Special Leave Petition is, accordingly, dismissed as withdrawn with liberty to file an appropriate application before the High Court and seek variance of the impugned order," the order passed on July 2 stated.

High Court's Original Ruling

The petitioners contended before the top court that the High Court had effectively granted final relief while deciding an interim application. The bench was hearing an appeal against the High Court direction which ordered removal of the statue from the Port Authority land holding that it was installed in "gross violation" of local laws and constructed illegally.

Authorities Criticised for Inaction

The High Court also criticised the authorities and the Goa administration for remaining "mere bystanders" while the statue was allegedly installed without legal authorisation. According to the Mormugao Port Authority's plea before the High Court, despite lodging repeated complaints with the local Bogda Police Station and other authorities, no action was taken. The Authority alleged that the land at Vasco-da-Gama had been forcibly encroached upon by certain residents, purportedly with the support of MLA Sankalp Amonkar, his wife, and other local corporators. The High Court observed that despite repeated assertions that removing the structure could give rise to a law and order situation, the authorities had failed to take any action. (ANI)

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BJP's Nitin Nabin: PM Modi realised Mookerjee's dream for J&K

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:01:23 +0530

Bharatiya Janata Party National President Nitin Nabin on Monday said the ruling government had fulfilled Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee's dream of "one Constitution, one leader and one symbol" for the country through the abrogation of Article 370, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had realised the Jana Sangh founder's vision for Jammu and Kashmir.

Eminent nationalist thinker Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh on October 21, 1951, the ideological predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Nabin paid floral tributes to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee along with Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Jammu and Kashmir BJP president Sat Sharma, BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh and other party leaders.

PM Modi Realised Mookerjee's Vision for J&K

Addressing a commemoration function on the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee in Jammu, Nabin said the occasion symbolised the BJP's commitment to Mookerjee's ideals of national unity and integrity.

"Today is a special day for all BJP workers and for Jammu & Kashmir. Today is the birth anniversary of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. We remember his struggles, but it is the BJP that fulfilled the vision he had for Jammu & Kashmir," Nabin said.

"The dream that Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee envisioned was that there would be one constitution, one leader, and one symbol in the country. Today, our leader, PM Narendra Modi, has fulfilled that dream," he added.

Nabin said Dr Mookerjee had dedicated his life to the unity of the country and that his vision for Jammu and Kashmir had been realised after years of struggle by BJP workers.

"Today's day holds special significance for every BJP worker and for Jammu and Kashmir. Today, we are celebrating the birth anniversary of our inspiration, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Ji. He dedicated his all for the unity and integrity of the nation," he said.

"The dream he envisioned for Jammu and Kashmir was realised through the years of struggle by millions of BJP workers. Today, his birth anniversary is not merely a remembrance, but a symbol of our unwavering commitment to his ideals, resolve, and service to the nation," Nabin added.

'Transformation in J&K Post-2014'

Recalling the situation in Jammu and Kashmir before 2014, Nabin alleged that previous governments opposed the hoisting of the national flag in Kashmir.

"When the Congress government was in power in Delhi, the then Jammu & Kashmir administration claimed that if the Indian national flag were hoisted there, peace would come to an end. But today, under PM Modi's leadership, the Indian national flag flies proudly at Lal Chowk in Kashmir," he said.

He further said, "To those who ask what has changed in Jammu and Kashmir, I want to tell them that earlier, people used to be afraid to hoist the tricolor at Lal Chowk in Kashmir; no one had the courage to do so. In 2014, when Shri Modi ji became the country's Prime Minister, that same Lal Chowk in Kashmir now remains adorned with the fluttering tricolour--this is the change that has come."

Highlighting what he described as a transformation in the Union Territory, Nabin said, "Before 2014, the youth of Kashmir were often associated with stone-pelting. Today, I feel proud when they win Ranji matches and bring honour to the whole of Jammu & Kashmir. This is the vision of PM Modi, who has consistently encouraged and promoted sports."

'Article 370 Removal Fulfilled Mookerjee's Dream'

Speaking to reporters after the event, Nabin said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi resolved to ensure a secure life for the people of this country. I believe the people of this country now have a Prime Minister who is deeply committed to their security and development. Consider the youth of Jammu and Kashmir: until recently, they were known as 'stone-pelters,' but today, they are recognised as Ranji Trophy champions."

Nabin also credited the PM Modi government for the abrogation of Article 370. "Modi ji has done the work of giving real freedom to the people here by removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir and has fulfilled the dream of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee ji," he said.

He further claimed that under the Modi government's leadership, "250 million people of the country have risen above the poverty line," adding that Jammu and Kashmir was also progressing on the path of development.

A Call to the Youth

Nabin urged young people to take inspiration from Dr Mookerjee's life and contribute towards the development of Jammu and Kashmir.

"I had come to urge the youth to protect the soil of Jammu & Kashmir and fulfil the vision of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Young people should learn from him and draw inspiration from the struggles he endured throughout his life," he said.

Later, the BJP National President also chaired a party office bearers' meeting in the Jammu office. (ANI)

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Ferrari unveils 12Cilindri Manuale with new manual V12 experience

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:01:17 +0530

Ferrari has introduced Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale, a limited-edition version, as per a statement by the company. The naturally aspirated V12 engine is paired with a new manual control architecture featuring a gear lever and clutch-by-wire pedal to deliver a modern manual driving experience, while also offering the option of fully automatic driving. Limited to 1,499 units, the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale can also be driven in fully automatic mode.

A Tribute to Heritage

"The Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale is offered as a limited series of just 1,499 cars, a number that recalls the displacement of the first Ferrari twelve-cylinder engine produced in 1947, becoming an integral part of the new model's identity," the release added. The car is offered through Ferrari's Tailor Made personalisation programme, featuring exclusive specifications that combine bespoke craftsmanship, distinctive design and meticulous attention to detail.

Powertrain and Performance

Powering the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale is a naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine producing 830 hp and revving up to 9,500 rpm. The car has a top speed of over 340 km/h and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in around 3.0 seconds.

"Within this balance, the naturally aspirated V12 is the ideal engine for enhancing the progression and handling of gear changes, thanks to its rev range extending up to 9,500 rpm and the character of its power at high revs," the release added.

Innovative Manual By-Wire System

The release further said that the new Manuale by-wire system combines Ferrari's eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with a newly developed manual control setup featuring a gear lever, clutch-by-wire pedal, control panel and updated transmission software.

Redesigned Cabin Interior

Inside the cabin of the Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale, the centre tunnel console, gear lever, gear shift gate and pedals reinterpret Ferrari's classic manual transmission design in a modern form. The gear shift gate follows a six-speed layout with reverse positioned at the top left, while the aluminium gear knob features a backlit display indicating all six gears and the active driving mode (automatic or manual), as per the release. (ANI)

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Govt eases rules for weighing instrument verification, cuts compliance

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:01:07 +0530

In a move aimed at reducing compliance costs and improving ease of doing business, the Department of Consumer Affairs has amended the Legal Metrology (General) Rules, 2011 to significantly cut the quantity of standard weights required for verifying high-capacity weighing instruments.

According to a Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution press release, the amendment introduces "a scientific, repeatability-based verification approach" for weighing instruments with a maximum capacity of one tonne and above.

Details of the Amended Rule

The ministry said the earlier rules required "standard weights of at least one tonne or 50 per cent of the maximum capacity of the instrument, whichever was greater," before verification could be completed using constant loads. Under the revised provisions, this requirement has been reduced substantially. "Based on the successful conduct of the repeatability test, the mandatory quantity of standard weights required before substitution with constant loads has been reduced from 50 per cent of the maximum capacity to only one-fifth (20 per cent) of the maximum capacity, while maintaining the prescribed standards of verification accuracy and reliability," the release said.

Benefits for Industries and Operators

The ministry said the earlier requirement often created "significant logistical challenges, transportation costs and operational difficulties for industries and weighbridge operators."

It added that the amendment is expected to deliver multiple benefits, including a "significant reduction in compliance burden for industries, warehouses, logistics operators and weighbridge owners," while also lowering transportation and handling costs associated with moving large quantities of standard weights. The revised rules are also expected to enable "faster verification of high-capacity weighing instruments, reducing operational downtime" and improve the efficiency of Legal Metrology verification activities "without compromising accuracy or consumer protection."

Scientific Basis for the Reform

Explaining the basis of the reform, the ministry said it is "based on internationally accepted metrological principles, wherein the repeatability test establishes the consistency and stability of the weighing instrument, thereby enabling reliable verification with a reduced quantity of standard weights."

Modernising Legal Metrology Framework

According to the ministry, the amendment reflects the Department's "continued commitment to modernising the Legal Metrology framework through evidence-based regulatory reforms that balance facilitation of trade with robust consumer protection." It added that the Department has been carrying out reforms to simplify compliance, reduce regulatory burden, strengthen the verification ecosystem and promote technology adoption in Legal Metrology, with the latest amendment aimed at creating "a more efficient, transparent and industry-friendly regulatory environment while ensuring accuracy, fairness and confidence in commercial transactions." (ANI)

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Amit Shah lays foundation for 125-ft statue of Mookerjee in Kolkata

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:01:06 +0530

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday performed bhoomi pujan and laid the foundation stone for a 125-foot statue of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee at the Eco Park in Kolkata. The event coincided with the 125th birth anniversary of the BJP ideologue.

Shah Visits Mookerjee's Ancestral Home

Amit Shah also visited the ancestral home of Syama Prasad Mookerjee in Bhabanipur, Kolkata and garlanded the busts of Syama Prasad Mookerjee and his father Asutosh Mookerjee. The Home Minister, who arrived in Kolkata earlier in the day, was received by the West Bengal Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari. The Union Home Minister reached KolKata to take part in the commemorative events celebrating the birth anniversary Founder of Bharatiya Jana Sangh Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee.

Suvendu Adhikari on Mookerjee's 'Supreme Sacrifice'

Adhikari said in a post on X that Syama Prasad Mookerjee's "supreme sacrifice and his indelible contribution" to the country remain an inspiration. "Extended a warm and hearty welcome to the Hon'ble Union Home Minister Amit Shah upon his arrival at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata today. The Union Home Minister has arrived in the holy land of West Bengal to take part in the commemorative events celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of the great nationalist, visionary, and founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee.

Dr. Mookerjee's supreme sacrifice for a united India and his indelible contribution to our nation remain an eternal source of inspiration for us all. It is a privilege to have the Home Minister with us to honour this monumental legacy."

Amit Shah Remembers 'Fierce Proponent of Nation's Unity'

Earlier in the day, Shah paid tribute to Dr. Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary."On the 125th birth anniversary of the revered Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh and a fierce proponent of the nation's unity, integrity, and cultural nationalism, I remember him and pay my homage," he said on X.

"His visionary leadership during the partition of Bengal and his lifelong struggle to keep Jammu and Kashmir as an integral part of India will forever be remembered in Indian history. His unwavering commitment to principles and his lifelong fight for the nation's integrity will continue to inspire the youth for generations," he added. (ANI)

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Bhupesh Baghel arrives in Chandigarh for talks ahead of Punjab polls

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:01:00 +0530

All India Congres Committee (AICC)'s General Secretary in charge of Punjab, Bhupesh Baghel, on Monday arrived in Chandigarh to hold key discussions with party leaders in the State, which is heading into Assembly elections next year.

On his arrival in Chandigarh, Baghel received a warm welcome from party workers, including Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, who was also present to welcome the veteran leader and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister.

"I am in Punjab on a five-day visit...There will be meetings of the various committees that have been formed...We are all geared up for the state elections..." Baghel told reporters.

Signs of Factionalism Emerge

Further, he said, "...I will have discussions with the party leaders and chair meetings." Meanwhile, sources told ANI that several leaders allying with former Chief Minister Channi are reportedly leaving for New Delhi to seek a meeting with the Congress high command and will not attend the meeting convened by Bhupesh Baghel.

Leaders Downplay Differences

This comes days after the Congress retained Warring as its State unit chief and Partap Singh Bajwa as Leader of the Opposition (Congress Legislative Party) in the Punjab Legislative Party.

Warring told reporters today, "...The Congress party is united...Every worker of the party is working to ensure that the party forms the government in Punjab in the next elections...Charanjit Singh Channi, along with other senior leaders of the party, will stand united on a common platform in the coming times."

Bajwa also told reporters today, "The entire party stands with the decisions of the party high command. Yes, there are certain problems which will be sorted out...I am in touch with all the groups...We will sort out the differences...We will fight the state elections unitedly..."

'Unity' Post by Channi Camp Fuels Speculation

Earlier today, senior Congress leader and Gurdaspur MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa shared a photograph online featuring former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi alongside other leaders. Those featured in the photograph included MLAs Barindermeet Singh Pahra, Pargat Singh, Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, former minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, and election committee co-chairpersons Razia Sultana and former MLA Kushaldeep Singh Dhillon, among others. Prominent absentees in the picture included PPCC chief Warring, Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Partap Singh Bajwa and MLA Sukhpal Khaira.

Randhawa shared the photograph on social media platform X with the pointed caption: "Unity is strength." The photograph was then shared by Charanjit Channi as well. The same photo was also shared by Warring under the same caption "Unity is Strength."

Channi had said last week in a post on X that the Congress party leadership had urged him "to present the sentiments and aspirations of the people of Punjab before the High Command." He had convened a meeting at his home in Morinda on Friday, which saw attendance by several leaders, including stalwarts like Bharat Bhushan Ashu, who demanded that Channi be appointed the state Congress chief, replacing the incumbent Amarinder Singh Raja Warring. Channi's supporters called on the party high command to reconsider the recently announced organisational appointments in Punjab, asserting that Congress would return to power under Channi's leadership.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir row: Congress alleges 'dacoity', links trust to BJP/RSS

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:00:54 +0530

Amidst the ongoing Ram Mandir donation embezzlement row, Congress leader Alok Sharma on Monday stated that 12 out of 15 members of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust were appointed by the Narendra Modi government, which naturally proves that it is affiliated with the BJP and RSS. He said that the government must reveal the name involved in the "dacoity".

Speaking to ANI, he demanded answers from the BJP regarding the matter, highlighting the "theft" and "dacoity" that has taken place in Lord Ram's "court". "The Trust was entirely established by PM Modi. It was created by the government. Of the 15 members, 12 were nominated by the government, so naturally, they belong to the BJP and RSS. Now that questions are being raised, answer them. Reveal who was involved in the dacoity. Do not try to shield the thieves. This theft occurred in Lord Ram's court; a dacoity took place in Lord Ram's home. Do not display such shamelessness that you are left with no chance to recover," said Alok Sharma.

Meanwhile, former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam said the trust of many people has been shattered due to the Ram Mandir donation embezzlement case. He noted that the issue goes beyond just one or two individuals.

Internal Turmoil and Calls for Resignation

A statement and a letter from the revered Nritya Gopal Das Ji Maharaj were released today; a day or two prior, a letter from the revered Swami Govind Dev Giri Ji was also issued. He observed, "Reading these letters, it appears as though they were completely in the dark and are deeply hurt. Consequently, a question mark now hangs over the credibility of the entire Trust. Revered Govind Giri Ji states that he is unaware of the situation, and having read the letter from revered Nritya Gopal Das Ji today, one can sense the deep mistrust that has taken root within the Trust."

"The trust of millions has been shattered. Given these circumstances, all office-bearers of the Trust ought to step down from their positions until the investigation is concluded. We await the final decision," the Congress leader added.

Trust Convenes High-Level Meeting

A crucial meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust commenced in Ayodhya on Monday to deliberate on the fallout of alleged financial irregularities and the embezzlement of temple offerings. President of the Trust, Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, arrived at the Ram Janmabhoomi complex to preside over the high-level meeting.

Nritya Gopal Das had earlier today in a letter stated that he is deeply pained by the alleged theft of offerings from the Ram Mandir, but said has full faith in Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He added that no one should politicise this matter.

Resignations and Meeting Agenda

Sanjay Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) of Uttar Pradesh, attended the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust via video conferencing.

The trust comprises 14 members including President Nritya Gopal Das, Vasudevanand Saraswati, Vishwaprasannatirth, Parmanand Giri, Treasurer Govind Dev Giri, Krishna Mohan, Dinendra Das, Prashant Lokhande, Sanjay Prasad, Shashank Tripathi, Nripendra Mishra and K. Parasaran. Trustees Champat Rai and Anil Mishra have resigned, citing moral responsibility over allegations of misappropriation of temple donations.

Trustees expected to attend today's meeting include Treasurer Govind Dev Giri, Vishwaprasannatirth, Swami Parmanand Giri, Jagadguru Vasudevanand Saraswati, Krishna Mohan, Anil Mishra and General Secretary Champat Rai, sources said. Ex-officio members District Magistrate Shashank Tripathi, Central Government representative Prashant Lokhande and Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Mishra are also expected to be present. Trust member K Parasaran is expected to attend the meeting through video conferencing, sources said.

Political Standoff and Legal Challenge

The meeting comes as the controversy has triggered a sharp political confrontation, with Opposition parties demanding a probe while the BJP accuses them of targeting the Hindu faith.

Meanwhile, the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court is also scheduled to hear a public interest litigation (PIL) on Monday seeking a CBI probe into alleged irregularities in donations offered at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. A division bench of Justice Rajan Roy and Justice Manjeev Shukla will hear the PIL, which was filed on June 12. The petition seeks a CBI investigation into allegations of theft and irregularities involving donations collected through the temple's donation boxes. It also seeks an audit of the temple's donations by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Sir Geoff Hurst hails England's win over Mexico as best since 1966

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:00:35 +0530

England legend Sir Geoff Hurst hailed the Three Lions' 3-2 World Cup victory over Mexico as one of the nation's finest performances since their 1966 World Cup triumph. Praising the team's display, Hurst singled out Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, Anthony Gordon, Declan Rice and Jordan Pickford for their outstanding performances, while commending the entire squad for rising to the occasion. He expressed optimism about England's prospects, saying the team should now continue its upward momentum in the tournament.

"Wow. Was that the best performance since our 66 final? Must be close. After a long day at Wimbledon yesterday I watched the game early this morning. Everyone was outstanding. Bellingham, Kane, Gordon Rice, and Pickford all brilliant. The whole team stood up. Onwards and upwards now, " Hurst wrote in an X post.

Wow. Was that the best performance since our 66 final. Must be close. After a long day at Wimbledon yesterday I watched the game early this morning. Everyone was outstanding. Bellingham Kane Gordon Rice Pickford all brilliant. The whole team stood up. Onwards and upwards now. — Sir Geoff Hurst (@TheGeoffHurst) July 6, 2026

England Overcomes Mexico in Tense Clash

England defeated hosts Mexico 3-2 to book their place in the quarter-finals. Jude Bellingham starred with two early goals to put the Three Lions in control before Julian Quinones pulled one back just before half-time.

England's task became significantly tougher after Jarell Quansah was sent off in the second half, but Harry Kane calmly converted a penalty to restore their two-goal cushion before Mexico set up a tense finish with a late strike. With a win over Mexico, England booked their quarter-final clash with Norway on July 11. (ANI)

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Australia backs India's integrity, eyes deeper defence ties with Modi

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:00:32 +0530

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Australia, Australian High Commissioner Philip Green on Monday said Canberra supports India's territorial integrity, and is looking to further strengthen cooperation with India in defence, education and other key sectors.

Three Pillars of Partnership

Speaking to ANI, Green identified three pillars of partnership and said, "Our relationship is impelled forward by the three areas of strategic alignment. Firstly, in the area of defence and security, secondly because our economies are so complementary... and third because there are now more than a million people of Indian origin in Australia."

Defence and Indian Ocean Security

He said that the two leaders may explore greater defence cooperation where the strategic interests of both countries converge. "I'll leave it to the leaders to make the announcements... There's lots of areas where we can and will make progress on defence, but perhaps where it matters most is where Australia and India's strategic geography overlap. And that is in the Indian Ocean... I think that the leaders may well engage on how it is that we might work more together in that domain," he said.

Economic Ties and Energy Security

The High Commissioner underlined how in the last five years India's exports to Australia have grown by 200 per cent, and that with the West Asia conflict in the backdrop, the two countries are also attentive to energy security. "In the last five years.... India's exports to Australia have grown by 200%, five times faster than the rest of the world. About uranium, I'd put it in this frame off the back of the Gulf War crisis, all of us are thinking about the security of energy supplies. Between Australia and India, we already have a good flow, whether it's coal, diesel, aviation fuel, LNG. I think there'll be a conversation about how we maximise the benefits to our bilateral and to our people of the flow of energy."

Education and Student Visas

He further noted that the education sector has been identified as one of the four priority areas for expanding bilateral cooperation, alongside agri and food, tourism, and the green energy supply chain. Addressing the concerns over visa delays for Indian students, he urged applicants to submit complete applications to facilitate quicker processing and said Australia remains keen to attract Indian students. "What is important for us is that we continue to get a good flow of high-quality Indian students who make a big contribution to our educational life," he added.

Stance on Khalistani Extremism

On the issue of Khalistani extremism, Green said Australia does not support the separatist movement and remains committed to India's territorial integrity. "Australia has no truck with Khalistani separatist movement. We support an India of territorial integrity. We take seriously India's interests to ensure that India's diplomatic premises are secure and that a visit like this goes off without a hitch," he said.

He added that while peaceful protests are part of Australia's democratic framework, authorities expect Prime Minister Modi's visit to proceed smoothly. "In Australia, protest, if it's peaceful, is part of our democracy. I expect that we'll have a very smooth visit and that Prime Minister Modi will enjoy his engagement in Australia," Green said. (ANI)

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BRS urges EC to extend voter list revision, cites procedural issues

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:00:24 +0530

The Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) on Monday urged the Election Commission to extend the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process by one month, asserting that "no genuine voter should be deleted" from the voters' list due to procedural issues or time constraints.

Concerns Over Voter Deletion

Speaking to ANI after submitting a representation to the Election Commission, BRS State General Secretary and official spokesperson Soma Bharath Kumar said the party had brought to the poll body's notice several problems being faced during the SIR exercise at the ground level and warned that failure to address them could result in eligible voters losing their names from the electoral rolls.

"Today, we submitted a representation on behalf of the Bharat Rashtra Samiti, bringing to the notice of the Election Commission the various problems being encountered at the ground level during the SIR process. If these issues are not addressed and resolved by the Election Commission, it may result in a huge loss to voters, and their names could be deleted from the electoral roll, even though they have every right to remain on the voters' list," Kumar told ANI.

The SIR exercise in Telangana began on June 15, with the publication of draft rolls scheduled for July 31, the claims and objections period will go on from July 31 to August 30, and the final electoral rolls will be published on October 1.

One-Month Extension Demanded

He said the Election Commission acknowledged receiving similar complaints from across the field and assured the party that steps would be taken to address the concerns. "On most of the issues raised, he acknowledged that similar feedback and complaints are also being received from the ground level and assured us that the Election Commission would take appropriate steps to rectify the issues and ensure that no genuine voter is deleted from the voters' list. Apart from this, the main concern is the insufficiency of time to complete the SIR process within the schedule given by the Election Commission, which is going to expire on the 25th of this month," Kumar said.

The BRS leader said the party had requested the poll body to extend the deadline for the exercise by one month to enable the revision to be completed in a fair and meaningful manner. "Therefore, we requested the Commission to extend the deadline by one month to complete the process in a meaningful and justifiable manner. We also requested the Election Commission to take steps to delete duplicate entries, including cases of double voting, deceased voters, and individuals who have relocated but are still listed in the voters' roll," he added.

(ANI)

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SK Hynix’s Offering Attracts $7B Interest From Investment Firms – This Investor Believes Demand Will ‘Remain Relatively Robust’

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:00:07 +0530

The company plans to issue up to 177.9 million new American depositary shares .
The filing mentioned a reference price of KRW242,500 per ADS ($158.14), based on SK Hynix’s closing price on July 3.
SK Hynix had previously mentioned that proceeds from the offering would be used for general corporate purposes, including capital expenditures.

South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix (SKHY) has kicked off a massive U.S. share sale worth about $28.1 billion, taking a major step toward its Nasdaq Global Select Market debut.

According to an SEC filing on Monday, the company plans to issue up to 177.9 million American depositary shares (ADSs).

The filing mentioned a reference price of KRW242,500 per ADS ($158.14), based on SK Hynix’s closing price on July 3. Reuters previously reported that the ADSs are expected to be priced at $166 each.

IPO Receives Strong Interest

The filing noted that several major investors, including funds managed by Baillie Gifford, Coatue Management, and Situational Awareness Partners, have expressed interest in purchasing up to $7 billion of the ADSs offered in the IPO at the same price and on the same terms as other investors.

The offering is also structured to ensure that SK Square, the company’s largest shareholder, retains at least a 20% ownership stake, in line with South Korean regulations.

“While market volatility has been quite high recently, I would expect demand for SK Hynix shares to remain relatively robust,” Albert Yong, managing partner at Petra Capital Management, told Reuters.

Funds to Support Chip Manufacturing Expansion

SK Hynix had previously mentioned that proceeds from the offering will be used for general corporate purposes, including capital expenditures. The company is expected to invest in new semiconductor manufacturing facilities in South Korea and purchase advanced Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography equipment to expand production capacity.

The share sale comes as South Korea pushes to strengthen its semiconductor leadership. Last week, Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and the South Korean government unveiled plans to invest about $590 billion in a new chip manufacturing hub.

Retail’s Take On Key Semi ETFs

Meanwhile, retail sentiment surrounding the Roundhill Memory ETF (DRAM) turned ‘bullish’ from ‘extremely bullish’ a day earlier, while sentiment for iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) remained ‘bullish’ over the past 24 hours.

DRAM is up nearly 8% in pre-market trading and has gained roughly 118% so far in 2026, while SOXX rose 3.7% and has gained around 81% so far this year.

(KRW1 = $0.00065)

Also read: VERA Stock Rallies Ahead Of High-Stakes FDA Decision On Lead Kidney Disease Drug – Retail Sees 35% Potential Upside

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

Nagaland State Lottery Dear Spark Monday Result Today 6 PM: Who Won Rs 1 Crore Jackpot? Full Winners List Here

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:59:00 +0530

The much-awaited Nagaland State Lottery Dear Spark Monday weekly lottery results for July 6, 2026, have officially been announced. Thousands of participants across the country were eagerly waiting for the winning numbers, with the weekly draw offering a bumper first prize of Rs 1 crore.

According to the officially released results, ticket number 87D 36080 has won the coveted first prize worth Rs 1 crore. The draw was conducted under the Dear Government Lotteries banner and attracted massive participation from lottery buyers hoping to secure life-changing prize money.

Apart from the grand jackpot, several other winners secured prizes across multiple categories, including the second, third, fourth and fifth prizes. The results quickly gained attention among lottery enthusiasts searching online for the complete winners list and prize numbers.

Nagaland State Lottery Dear Spark Monday Winning Numbers

1st Prize – Rs 1 Crore: 87D 36080

Consolation Prize – Rs 1,000: 36080 (All remaining series of 1st prize number)

2nd Prize – Rs 10,000: 00286 02273 07627 22894 42779 44415 56939 57283 84716 85211

3rd Prize – Rs 500: 0883 4179 5017 5024 5072 6528 7476 7927 8304 8356

4th Prize – Rs 250: 0693 2029 4567 4664 5264 6094 6117 8433 8911 9699

5th Prize – Rs 120: 0060 0799 1543 2018 3046 4362 5623 7388 8494 9409 0213 0810 1546 2222 3136 4405 5688 7498 8725 9440 0243 0885 1552 2323 3172 4598 5798 7499 8749 9464 0351 0947 1604 2517 3252 4624 6058 7624 8775 9512 0361 0986 1659 2526 3306 4683 6606 7695 8979 9527 0394 1047 1676 2583 3661 5125 6651 7765 9044 9542 0456 1060 1689 2629 3778 5181 6836 8015 9140 9822 0483 1271 1908 2822 3983 5251 6871 8157 9241 9878 0600 1288 1956 2927 4104 5333 6944 8188 9258 9881 0641 1309 1993 2982 4163 5364 6955 8231 9284 9944

Results from the uploaded Dear Spark Monday Weekly Lottery sheet dated July 6, 2026.

Lottery officials have advised winners to carefully verify ticket numbers with official government lottery publications before claiming prizes. Winners must also submit original tickets along with valid identity proof and required documents within the stipulated claim period.

The Dear Lottery draws continue to remain popular among participants because of their frequent prize announcements and attractive jackpot rewards.

Also Read: Nagaland State Lottery Dear Spark Saturday Result Today 6 PM: Who Won Rs 1 Crore Jackpot? Full Winners List Here

Karnataka: Haveri Teacher Marks Son's Birthday by Using ₹2 Lakh From Personal Savings to Transform Government School

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:49:51 +0530

In an inspiring gesture that has earned widespread appreciation, the headmistress of a Government Urdu Senior Primary School in Karnataka's Haveri district chose to celebrate her son's birthday by giving back to the school where she serves. Instead of hosting a lavish party or spending on extravagant celebrations, Umai Salma, headmistress of the Government Urdu Senior Primary School in Hamsabhavi village of Hirekerur taluk, spent ₹2 lakh from her personal savings to renovate the school campus. Her thoughtful initiative has been widely praised as an example of social responsibility, generosity and commitment to education.

School Gets a Fresh New Look

To mark the birthday of her son, Malik Rehan, Umai Salma used her own funds to transform the school campus.

The entire school building was repainted using high-quality paint, giving the campus a fresh and attractive appearance. In addition, she developed a safe and well-designed playground for the students, significantly improving the school's infrastructure and creating a more welcoming learning environment.

Teachers' Association Appreciates the Initiative

The remarkable gesture has been appreciated by members of the local teachers' association, who commended Umai Salma for her selfless service and dedication to government education.

They described her decision as a shining example of generosity, social responsibility and commitment to the welfare of students.

An Inspiration for Society

Residents and educationists have hailed Umai Salma's initiative as an inspiration not only for Hirekerur taluk but also for Haveri district and Karnataka as a whole.

Members of the teachers' association said her commitment to school development, concern for children's education and sense of social responsibility would be remembered for years to come.

Her decision to celebrate her son's birthday by improving a government school, rather than organising an extravagant celebration, has earned widespread appreciation from the local community and serves as an inspiring example of giving back to society.

Budget 5G Phones: Moto G35 to Oppo A3X-Top 5 picks in India for under Rs 10,000!

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:40:25 +0530

Looking for the best 5G phones under ₹10,000 in India? We've rounded up the top 5 models that offer a great display, a solid camera, and a long-lasting battery without breaking the bank.

England retain same playing 11 for 3rd T20I after taking 1-0 lead

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:30:59 +0530

England have retained the same playing 11 for the third T20I for the ongoing five-match series against India at Trent Bridge on Tuesday after taking a 1-0 lead with a four-wicket victory at Old Trafford.

Bethell's Heroics Secure 1-0 Lead

After the first match of the series ended in a no-result due to rain, England took a 1-0 lead at Old Trafford, thanks to a brilliant all-round display led by Jacob Bethell. Chasing 191, England endured a disastrous start as Arshdeep Singh dismissed Phil Salt and Jos Buttler for ducks in the opening over, reducing the hosts to 1/2. Captain Harry Brook counterattacked with a blistering 39 off just 12 balls before being trapped LBW by Axar Patel. Bethell then steadied the innings with a composed yet aggressive knock, sharing a crucial partnership with Tom Banton, who contributed 39. Although India fought back through wickets from Arshdeep and Varun Chakaravarthy, Bethell turned the game decisively by smashing Ravi Bishnoi for 29 runs in a single over. His match-winning 76* off 46 balls, featuring five fours and five sixes, put England firmly in control. After Sam Curran departed, Bethell and Jofra Archer guided the hosts home with six balls to spare.

India's Competitive Total

Earlier, India posted 190/7 after being put in to bat. Teenage debutant Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made an exciting start with 14 off 10 balls, becoming India's youngest-ever international cricketer and the youngest debutant from a Test-playing nation in T20Is. Abhishek Sharma top-scored early with 43, while Ishan Kishan anchored the innings with 49 and skipper Shreyas Iyer added 37 runs. A late flourish from Tilak Varma, who struck 17 runs in the final over, lifted India to a competitive total after England's bowlers, led by Sam Curran, Liam Dawson and Will Jacks, kept the visitors in check through the middle overs.

England's Playing XI for Third T20I

England's playing 11 for the third T20I against India: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, Harry Brook (captain), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid and Josh Tongue. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Delhi HC grants injunction to Ravi Kishan over personality rights misuse

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:30:58 +0530

The Delhi High Court has granted an ex parte ad interim injunction in favour of actor and BJP MP Ravi Kishan, restraining the unauthorised use of his name, image, voice and other personality attributes for commercial or personal gain. The order was passed by Justice Jyoti Singh on July 2 in a commercial suit filed by Ravi Kishan against those misusing his identity across digital platforms.

The court observed that Kishan had established a prima facie case, that the balance of convenience lay in his favour, and that he was likely to suffer irreparable harm if interim protection was not granted. Relying on earlier decisions, the court reiterated that unauthorised use of a celebrity's attributes causes both commercial detriment and harm to the right to privacy and dignity.

Injunction Extends to AI and Deepfake Technology

The court restrained the defendants from misappropriating Ravi Kishan's public persona attributes through any technology, including Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Machine Learning and Deepfakes, across any medium.

Details of Alleged Identity Misuse

Several entities had allegedly exploited Ravi Kishan's identity by uploading pornographic content using his name in web pages and URLs, circulating obscene reels and fabricated statements on social media, creating AI-generated videos mocking his speech and diction, and broadcasting content that distorted his identity.

Specific Prohibitions and Directives

In its interim order, the High Court restrained all defendants from using the names 'Ravindra Shukla' or 'Ravi Kishan', as well as his image, likeness, voice, persona and other identifiable attributes for any commercial or personal benefit. The prohibition expressly extends to misuse through emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Machine Learning and deepfakes across all physical, virtual and social media platforms. The Court also prohibited the publication or circulation of vulgar, obscene or pornographic audiovisual content using any aspect of Ravi Kishan's personality.

Further, the court directed the concerned defendants and domain name registrars to remove the infringing URLs identified in the suit within three days. In the event of non-compliance, major technology platforms, including Meta Platforms Inc., Google LLC and X Corp., have been directed to disable access to the offending content within 72 hours of receiving intimation. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi gets rousing welcome from Indian diaspora on arrival in Jakarta

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:30:52 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a rousing welcome from the members of the Indian diaspora in Indonesia upon his arrival in Jakarta as he began the first leg of a three-nation tour. PM Modi is visiting Indonesia from July 6-8 at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto, who was present at the airport with other leaders to personally recieve the visiting Prime Minister.

PM Modi was welcomed with the chants of "Bharat Mata ki jai" and "Modi, Modi" by the Indian community. He witnessed a cultural performance upon his arrival at the airport. Prior to the Indian Prime Minister's touchdown in Jakarata, members of the Indian diaspora expressed joy at his visit. "This is the first time I will see PM Modi up close. I am super excited" one member of the diaspora said. Another said, "We welcome you with affection and love."

Prime Minister Modi said he was touched by President Prabowo Subianto's gesture of welcoming him at the Jakarta airport and said they will hold discussions aimed at adding even more momentum to this partnership across diverse sectors.

PM Modi on Deepening India-Indonesia Ties

The Prime Minister said he and the Indonesian President Prabowo will also visit the Prambanan Temple complex at Yogyakarta. "Landed in Jakarta. I'm touched by President Prabowo Subianto's gesture of welcoming me at the airport. In 2018 we elevated our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has benefitted our people," he said in a post on X.

"During this visit, President Prabowo Subianto and I will hold discussions aimed at adding even more momentum to this partnership across diverse sectors. President Prabowo and I will visit the Prambanan Temple complex at Yogyakarta. This will ensure closer cultural linkages between our nations. While in Indonesia, I also look forward to interacting with the Indian community," he added.

A High-Profile Diplomatic Engagement

The PM was accorded a grand welcome on his arrival in Jakarta today with Indonesian Air Force fighter jets escorting the PM's aircraft upon entering Indonesian airspace, marking a ceremonial welcome. This high-profile engagement marks the Prime Minister's fourth visit to the maritime neighbour and is the first bilateral visit since the relationship was formally elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018.

Economic and Critical Mineral Cooperation

The Prime Minister's visit is slated to structurally strengthen bilateral institutional mechanisms and trade channels in this vital domain. His three-day official visit is aimed at reviewing bilateral ties and deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Owaisi urges Telangana govt to issue Permanent Residence Certificates

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:30:29 +0530

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday demanded that the Revanth Reddy-led Telangana government issue Permanent Residence Certificates (PRC) to the people of the state to streamline documentation and avoid future administrative hurdles. Emphasising the need for a proactive approach, the Hyderabad MP stated that the state government should act immediately rather than waiting for citizens to face difficulties after the publication of the final voter list.

Owaisi Urges Proactive Measures

In the video posted on X, Owaisi said, "I am asking for time to meet the Chief Minister after January; once before we had met at a Haj camp, after which he has been very busy. But if a ruling party doesn't understand the fact that the poor of Telangana do not have documents, they are completely cut off from reality. There are two BJP MPs here who are Union Ministers; why can't they go and tell the Election Commission of India to accept PAN cards, driving licenses, and your Food Security Cards? The ruling party is not talking about this, so we demand from the Telangana government that you immediately issue Permanent Resident Certificates in Telangana."

"If the Congress Govt doesn't react (now), do not react later when the names of the poor will be deleted (from the voter list). BRS is strange. You are the main Opposition. You were in power for 10 years. Write to the Election Commission regarding the non-availability of three documents among the twelve listed documents in Telangana," he added.

Cites Karnataka Example

Drawing a comparison with the neighbouring state, Owaisi noted that since the Congress government in Karnataka is already issuing Permanent Residence Certificates to its citizens, the Telangana government should be able to adopt a similar approach. "The ruling party is the Congress party. After the final voter list comes out, don't come and give us excuses like, 'Look, a conspiracy has happened.' If a conspiracy is happening, then find its solution! The solution is that you give out Permanent Resident Certificates. They are giving them in Karnataka, where there is also a Congress government. Why don't they want to give them here? The regret is that despite repeatedly telling this Congress party government, they are only holding meetings," he added.

The AIMIM leader urged the state administration to ensure that residents are not deprived of their rights due to a lack of necessary residency documentation, particularly in the context of electoral rolls and other government processes. "But the ground reality is this: every day for the last two months, ask the Majlis MLAs, at least 50 to 60 people every day are saying, 'Sir, we don't have the documents.' On what basis will you deprive someone just because they don't have a document? The Telangana government should give Permanent Resident Certificates; we demand this," Owaisi said.

Disparity in Documentation

Referring to data from five states, he stated that a significant percentage of the economically weaker sections lack essential documents. He said that nearly 52 per cent of poor people do not possess birth certificates, 42 per cent do not have caste certificates, and another 42 per cent do not have domicile certificates. In contrast, around 82.3 per cent of children from affluent families possess birth certificates, highlighting what he described as a disparity in access to documentation. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Diljit Dosanjh's 'Satluj' leaked online after removal from Zee5

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:30:27 +0530

Diljit Dosanjh's much-discussed film 'Satluj' has been leaked online shortly after being removed from Zee5 in India. In view of pirated versions being circulated, the streaming platform has raised concerns and asked the audience not to support piracy. "We are doing our bit to bring Satluj back. Please do yours - don't support piracy. We are hopeful and doing everything we can. Please do not support piracy. We remain committed to exploring every possible avenue to bring Satluj back to you," Zee5 wrote in a social media post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zee 5 (@zee5)

Zee5's Response to Controversy and Removal

The film, which was taken down from ZEE5 India until further notice as of July 5, had already been at the centre of sustained controversy since its release. In an official statement following the film's removal on Sunday, ZEE5 acknowledged the audience response and confirmed its temporary unavailability in India.

"The response to Satluj since its release has been truly overwhelming. We are deeply grateful to every viewer who chose to subscribe, watch and champion the film. Your love and support have meant a great deal to us and to everyone who brought this story to life," the platform said.

Announcing the removal on Sunday, the platform stated, "In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity."

Diljit Dosanjh Addresses Film's Restriction

Lead actor Diljit Dosanjh addressed the issue in a live Instagram video on Monday. View this post on Instagram A post shared by DILJIT DOSANJH (@diljitdosanjh)

Speaking to his viewers, the actor reflected on the sudden restriction of the film and the long journey behind its release, while expressing both disappointment and acceptance over the latest development.

In his live interaction, Diljit Dosanjh spoke candidly about the sequence of events leading up to the ban. He said, "My love and respect to all of you. What I had already expected is exactly what happened. I thought the film might get banned when offices open on Monday, but I didn't know it would happen as early as Sunday evening."

The True Story Behind 'Satluj'

The film is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra from Punjab who exposed alleged illegal killings and secret cremations during the late 1980s and early 1990s when Punjab witnessed intense militancy and counter-insurgency operations. Khalra himself was 'disappeared' in 1995, and his body was found near the Harike Bridge on the Sutlej river. He was allegedly kidnapped, tortured and killed at the behest of the then-Punjab Police officials.

The Supreme Court in 1996 ordered the CBI probe in the case on a petition filed by Khalra's widow. The Central Bureau of Investigation found evidence that he was held at a police station in Tarn Taran and recommended the prosecution of nine Punjab police officials for his murder and kidnapping. A Patiala court in 2005 convicted six policemen while in 2007, the Punjab and Haryana High Court extended life imprisonment to four of the accused.The verdict was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2011. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Sarathkumar calls working with Neetu Kapoor a 'full-circle' moment

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:30:26 +0530

A 'Full-Circle' Moment with Neetu Kapoor

Actor R Sarathkumar, who was recently seen in 'Daadi Ki Shaadi', has opened up about his experience working alongside veteran actress Neetu Kapoor, calling the collaboration a "wonderful experience" and describing it as a full-circle moment given his wife Radhika Sarathkumar's earlier association with Neetu Kapoor's late husband, Rishi Kapoor.

Sarathkumar said working with Neetu Kapoor was really a good experience. "It was really a good experience working with Neetu. My wife Radhika had worked with Rishi ji in 'Naseeb Apna Apna', so now I am acting with Neetu ji. It's a cycle of life. She is so nice, and everybody made me feel comfortable from day one. I had been thinking of doing a Hindi film for a long time, and I was waiting for a good script. This was one such script where I thought I could make an impact. The entire unit was so cordial that we eventually became like a family. Even today, we still have our Daadi Ki Shaadi family WhatsApp group, which shows how much the film has impacted my life," he told ANI.

'A Totally Entertaining and Emotional Film'

'Daadi Ki Shaadi' is a family comedy drama film, which is written and directed by Ashish R Mohan. Sarathkumar has fond memories of working in the film. Calling it a "wonderful experience," he also described Kapil Sharma as an "intelligent and witty guy" with a caring personality, adding that he looks forward to working with him again in the future. The actor, who made a cameo in 'Sarfira' in 2024, added, "It was a wonderful experience. I did 'Sarfira' where I did a cameo with Akshay Kumar."

About 'Daadi Ki Shaadi', he said every family should watch it as it is totally entertaining and emotional film. "It was a great experience working with Neetu ji, Kapil and the entire team. Everybody was very interesting to work with. I think this is one film every family should watch. It carries a beautiful message about families staying together and how parents and grandparents should never miss the presence of their children. It is a totally entertaining and emotional film. Being a part of it was very interesting, and I am happy people appreciated my work."

Praise for Director and Crew

Sarathkumar praised director Ashish Mohan, saying he was impressed by how the filmmaker translated his narration onto the screen. "The way he narrated the script and what finally came on screen were exactly the same. The writer, the entire cast and crew did a great job. Everyone was dedicated and worked really hard," he added.

Future in Bollywood and Indian Cinema

Looking ahead, Sarathkumar said he is currently focused on multiple projects in the South Indian film industry. While he has no immediate Hindi projects lined up, the actor said he would be happy to return to Bollywood if the right script and role come his way. He also noted that he now sees Indian cinema as one united industry, saying talent has become more important than regional boundaries.

Produced by Rtake Studios along with BeingU Studios and Shimla Talkies, 'Daadi Ki Shaadi' has been written and directed by Ashish R. Mohan.The film featured a talented ensemble cast led by Neetu Kapoor and Kapil Sharma, alongside Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Sarath Kumar, and Sadia Khateeb. 'Daadi Ki Shaadi' was released on May 8. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Taiwan Official Warns China's New Law Could Target Critics Globally

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:30:25 +0530

China's newly enforced Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law has intensified concerns over Beijing's ability to extend its reach beyond its borders, with a Taiwanese security official warning that the legislation could legitimise wider transnational repression against critics worldwide, as reported by The Taipei Times.

According to The Taipei Times, the law requires all Chinese citizens to safeguard national unity and states that individuals or organisations anywhere in the world could face legal consequences for actions deemed to undermine ethnic unity or encourage separatism. However, the legislation does not clearly define what constitutes such offences, prompting fears that it could be broadly interpreted to target overseas dissidents.

Beijing's Alleged Pattern of Repression

Speaking anonymously, the Taiwanese official said Beijing has already demonstrated a pattern of pursuing critics abroad, alleging that China has abducted or forcibly returned more than 10,000 dissidents from foreign countries in violation of international norms, refugee protections, and state sovereignty. The official also claimed that China may further expand its overseas enforcement through alleged "overseas police stations," which have drawn scrutiny in several countries.

Methods to Suppress Dissent

The official identified five primary methods used by Beijing to suppress dissent beyond its borders. These include applying Chinese laws to speech and political activities conducted overseas, using alleged overseas police networks to monitor and intimidate critics, and pressuring families of dissidents in China through property seizures, educational restrictions, or the disclosure of personal information, as highlighted by The Taipei Times.

Another tactic involves the alleged misuse of Interpol "red notices" to pursue political opponents under criminal accusations. The official cited the case of Uyghur activist Idris Hasan, who spent more than three years in detention in Morocco following a Chinese extradition request before the notice was rejected. The official also accused Beijing of branding individuals who support, finance, or report on pro-democracy movements as extremists, as reported by The Taipei Times. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

iPhone 16 Deal: Big Price Drop on Flipkart! Now Available for Just Rs 58,900

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:29:25 +0530

Flipkart's GOAT sale is live, and it has brought a fantastic offer on Apple's iPhone 16. This phone was one of the highest-selling smartphones in India last year, and now you have the chance to grab it starting from just ₹58,900.

On Flipkart, the 128GB storage variant is currently listed at ₹62,900. On top of this, you can get an additional discount of ₹4,000 by using specific bank cards. This brings the effective price of the phone down to ₹58,900. To give you some context, the iPhone 16 was launched in India with a starting price of ₹79,900. You can also lower the price further by exchanging your old phone, though the exchange value will depend on your old phone's model and its condition.

A18 chip for superb performance

The iPhone 16 is powered by Apple's A18 processor. This chip delivers excellent performance for everything from daily tasks and multitasking to gaming. A big plus is that the phone doesn't overheat even during long gaming sessions. Even though it's a 2024 model, it is still considered one of the best-performing smartphones in this price range.

The best camera for social media users

The iPhone 16 features a 48-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera. Its main camera offers a great dynamic range and takes pretty good pictures even in low light. The performance of the ultrawide camera is also quite satisfactory. This makes it a great option for those who love sharing photos and videos on social media. However, this model does not have a telephoto lens. Also, you won't get the new selfie camera features that were launched with the iPhone 17 series last year.

A battery that lasts the whole day

This phone is equipped with a 3,561 mAh battery. With normal usage, it can easily last a full day on a single charge. Even with heavy use, the battery will last until the end of the day. However, when it comes to charging speed, the iPhone is still far behind Android flagship phones. This is a weakness, especially when many Android phones support over 100W fast charging.

Is the 60Hz display a compromise?

The phone has a 6.1-inch OLED display with excellent brightness and colour quality. But the refresh rate is only 60Hz. If you are used to high-refresh-rate Android phones, you will easily notice this difference. If you want a smoother display, you could consider the iPhone 17 with its 120Hz ProMotion display or look at other Android flagship models.

Is it the right decision to buy at this price?

At the offer price of ₹58,900, the iPhone 16 is a very attractive deal. Its best features are its performance, reliable camera, and good battery life. But if a high-refresh-rate display is a must-have for you, it would be wiser to go for a newer iPhone model or another Android flagship.

Government Apps: 8 Must-Have Digital Tools On Your Phone To Make Life Easy!

Indrakshi Samanta — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:28:03 +0530

Stuck with a traffic cop asking for your license? Need to show your ID? No problem! Just keep these government apps on your phone. Here's a list of 8 essential central government apps that will make your daily tasks a whole lot simpler.

Bengaluru: Footpath Vendors Demand Action Over Alleged ₹30,000 Monthly Illegal Rent

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:27:34 +0530

Street vendors in Bengaluru have alleged that they are being forced to pay illegal monthly "rent" of up to ₹30,000 to continue operating on footpaths, roadsides and other public spaces across the city. The allegations have raised serious concerns about an alleged extortion racket involving unauthorised collections and the harassment of vendors. The Street Vendors' Association has claimed that the practice is widespread in several parts of Bengaluru and has demanded that the authorities create officially designated vending zones to protect the livelihoods of long-standing vendors while preventing exploitation.

Illegal Rent Allegedly Collected Across the City

According to the allegations, street vendors operating in several busy localities are compelled to pay hefty monthly sums to continue running their businesses.

The association has also alleged that some local officials are involved in the illegal collection system and receive a share of the money.

One example cited is the well-known VV Puram Food Street, where commercial activity continues to flourish even after the road was recently upgraded with white-topping. Vendors operating on the footpaths and roadsides have alleged that many of them are forced to pay monthly "rent" to nearby shopkeepers to continue doing business.

The association further claimed that local strongmen are also part of the alleged racket, with vendors stating that those who fail to make regular payments are prevented from setting up their stalls.

Street Vendors' Association Confirms Allegations

The Street Vendors' Association has confirmed that illegal rent collection is taking place in several parts of the city.

Association president Rangaswamy said, "To stop this exploitation and the constant threat of eviction, we have demanded that the corporation officially earmark spaces for vendors on wide footpaths."

He added that the process of identifying vending zones has already begun in areas such as Malleswaram and KR Market.

"This will generate revenue for the corporation and, more importantly, prevent the harassment of street vendors," he said.

Rangaswamy further stated, "Our association's demand is that the authorities should identify vendors who have been doing business on major roads for many years and permit only them to operate. All unauthorised new vendors should be removed."

Association to Challenge Eviction Drive in Court

The association has also announced its decision to challenge the ongoing eviction drive being carried out by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) before the High Court and the Supreme Court.

Rangaswamy said the High Court and the Supreme Court have repeatedly ruled that street vendors cannot be evicted without being provided with alternative arrangements.

"The High Court and Supreme Court have issued orders on several occasions stating that vendors cannot be evicted suddenly without providing an alternative arrangement," he said.

He further pointed to similar cases in Hyderabad, Delhi and Chandigarh, where the courts intervened to protect the rights of street vendors.

"The courts have clearly instructed the authorities to safeguard the livelihoods of street vendors and not evict them without due process. We will rely on these precedents to challenge the current eviction drive on behalf of the association," he said.

Saudi Arabia Accident: Malayali Family Hit by Tragedy After Umrah Trip

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:22:07 +0530

Riyadh: In a tragic incident, two members of a Malayali family died in a car accident in Saudi Arabia. The family, who live in Qatar, were returning by road after performing Umrah.

The deceased have been identified as Abdullatheef's wife and daughter, also known as Kunjumon. He is from Thekke Peediyekkal in Rangattur, Malappuram. Abdullatheef himself, his two other daughters, and a grandchild survived the crash with injuries. Reports say their injuries are not serious.

The accident took place on Sunday night around 8 PM. It happened near a place called 'Dalam', which is about 200 kilometres from Taif on the expressway to Riyadh. According to Abdullatheef, a plastic sheet suddenly flew and stuck to the car's front windshield. This completely blocked his view. He lost control of the Land Cruiser, and the car overturned several times on the road.

The bodies of the mother and daughter have been kept at the Dalam Central Hospital mortuary. Relatives and friends from Dammam and other nearby areas have been informed and are on their way to Dalam.

Australia Signs Historic Defence Pact with Fiji | China Faces New Pacific Challenge | World News

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:19:56 +0530

Australia and Fiji have signed a landmark defence agreement called the Ocean of Peace Alliance, marking one of the most significant security partnerships in Australia's history. Signed in Suva by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, the treaty introduces a mutual defence obligation while expanding cooperation in cybersecurity, infrastructure, disaster response, education, labour mobility and economic development. But why is this agreement making global headlines? This video explains what the Australia–Fiji defence alliance is, why it matters for the Pacific region, how it fits into the growing geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific, and why China's expanding influence in the South Pacific has made the region a key strategic battleground. Watch to understand: 0:00 What is the Ocean of Peace Alliance? 2:25 Why Australia signed this historic treaty with Fiji 3:15 What mutual defence obligations actually mean 4:20 What Fiji gains from the partnership 5:19 Why the Pacific Islands have become strategically important Featuring visuals and statements from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.

Nature's Most Unusual Flood Scene: Snakes, Rats and Birds Share Shelter to Escape Rising Waters in Gujarat

Divya Danu — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:14:46 +0530

A remarkable video from Gujarat's Gir Somnath district has gone viral after showing snakes, rats, herons and turtles huddled together on a small patch of dry ground as floodwaters surrounded them. The video was reportedly filmed near Raval Dam in the Gir Gadhada area, where continuous heavy rainfall has pushed the water level higher. To manage the rising inflow, authorities opened the dam gates and issued alerts for people living in low-lying areas.

રાવલ ડેમ- ગીર (ગીર ગઢડા, સોમનાથ)"પૂરની વિકટ પરિસ્થિતિએ શિકારી અને શિકાર વચ્ચેનો ભેદ ભૂલાવી દીધો. સાપ, બગલો, ઉંદર અને કાચબો આજે એક જ આશ્રયમાં નિર્ભય બની જીવ બચાવવાનો પ્રયાસ કરી રહ્યા છે. કુદરત સામે દરેક જીવ સમાન છે, અને સંકટ એકતાનો સૌથી મોટો પાઠ શીખવે છે." ️ pic.twitter.com/5vWuc3yVoS

— તેજસ મજીઠીયા (@tejasmajithiya5) July 5, 2026

Black Cobra Found in Rat Trap Instead of Mouse at Rajasthan Home, Family Left Shocked

Predators and prey seen side by side

The footage captures dozens of snakes lying next to rats, birds and turtles, all trying to escape the rising water. Animals that would normally avoid or hunt one another appear to be focused only on survival.

The unusual scene has attracted widespread attention on social media, with many users calling it a powerful reminder that nature can erase the boundaries between predator and prey during times of crisis.

रावल डैम (गिर) में सांप, बगुले, चूहे और कछुए एक ही जगह शरण लेकर अपनी जान बचाते दिखे। प्रकृति सिखाती है कि संकट की घड़ी में हर जीवन समान होता है। ️ pic.twitter.com/qZPciixp3h

— Sanjay Yadav (@sanjayyadavij) July 6, 2026

In the face of Mother Nature’s fury, the food chain pauses.Survival instantly erases the lines between predator and prey. The ultimate equalizer. #Wildlife #Gujarat https://t.co/NuvSbkaQwl

— Chetan | ચેતન | चेतन (@Tarkasuddha) July 5, 2026

UP Cop Caught in Woman Colleague's Room by Wife in Hamirpur, Midnight Drama Goes Viral

Heavy rain keeps dams under pressure

Heavy rainfall has also affected nearby Amreli district, where Khodiyar Dam near Dhari has overflowed. Authorities have opened all nine gates after a sharp rise in water levels, sending large volumes of water into the Shetrunji River.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Northeast Experience (@thenortheastexperience1)

People living near riverbanks and low-lying villages have been asked to stay away from flooded areas, causeways and fast-flowing water as a precaution.

Officials continue to monitor water levels across the region while rescue and safety teams remain on alert.

Amarnath Yatra 2026: Ice Shivling Shrinks to Around 1 Foot as Over 56,000 Devotees Offer Prayers

Secret Affairs in India: 4 Tamil Nadu Cities Rank Among the Top for Extramarital Relationships

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:12:55 +0530

A list of Indian cities where people are looking for relationships outside marriage is going viral. What's really catching everyone's eye is that many cities from Tamil Nadu are on this list.

Parents Sold Gold For Rs 15K College Fee, Son Later Earns Rs 1.9 Crore: Techie's Story Inspires Millions

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:07:27 +0530

A Bengaluru-based Microsoft engineer has struck an emotional chord on LinkedIn after sharing the sacrifice that laid the foundation for his career. In a moving post, Manu Agarwal said that his father had sold his mother's jewels to cover only one semester of his college expenses years before he was making Rs 1.9 crore in Seattle. Agarwal, now a Senior Software Engineer at Microsoft, looked back on a time when his family struggled to arrange even Rs 15,000 for one semester of his Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) course.

"My father sold my mother's jewellery to pay my BCA fees. Rs 15,000 per semester. That's all it cost. But we didn't have it," he wrote. He recalled one moment that has stayed with him ever since. "I remember watching my mother hand over her gold bangles without saying a word. She didn't cry. She just looked at me. I didn't sleep that night."

Years later, life had shifted radically. Agarwal ended up working for Microsoft in Seattle, earning roughly Rs 1.9 crore per year. He made a long-awaited call home.

"I called home and told my mother to buy back whatever she wanted," he said.

But her answer was worth far more than any jewellery. "Beta, tere aane se sab wapas aa gaya (Son, with your success, everything has already been returned)," mother said to him.

Look At LinkedIn Post

According to his LinkedIn page, Agarwal's career at Microsoft began with a summer internship in the company's Hyderabad branch in 2016. Prior to joining Microsoft full-time, he interned at GE Healthcare in Bengaluru, gradually establishing a career that would eventually lead him to the company's Seattle headquarters.

His post has resonated with thousands online, particularly those who saw echoes of their own families' sacrifices in his story.

Chandni Chowk: This 350 Year Old Delhi Market Has Everything You Could Possibly Need!

Indrakshi Samanta — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:06:32 +0530

Ever wanted to visit India's oldest market? It's a place where you can find everything from street food to wedding clothes. Let's take you to this historic bazaar in Old Delhi, which has been running for 350 years.

Delhi Police solve Yamuna Khadar murder case, arrest three accused

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:01:00 +0530

Body Found, Investigation Begins

The Delhi Police has solved the murder of a 34-year-old man whose body was recovered from the Yamuna Khadar area in May, arresting three accused involved in the crime, a senior police officer said here on Monday.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Raja Banthia said the Wazirabad Police Station received a PCR call on May 21, 2026, informing police about the body of an unidentified man lying in the Yamuna Khadar area. "As the body bore injuries caused by a sharp-edged weapon, a murder case was registered, and an investigation was initiated," the DCP said.

Victim Identified as 'Bad Character'

Police initially faced difficulty identifying the deceased. However, investigators used tattoos and other distinguishing marks on the body to establish his identity as Chandan Saini, a 34-year-old resident of Nehru Vihar in Timarpur. According to police, Chandan Saini was a listed 'Bad Character' (BC) of the Timarpur police station and had five criminal cases registered against him, including cases of theft and snatching.

"Although the body was unidentified, it bore tattoos and other specific symbols. The Wazirabad police team worked hard to establish his identity; this process led to his identification as Chandan Saini, a 34-year-old resident of Nehru Vihar, Timarpur. He was a known 'Bad Character' (BC) of the Timarpur area," DCP Banthia said.

Three Accused Arrested

After identifying the victim, investigators reconstructed his movements, scrutinised CCTV footage, analysed call detail records and conducted local inquiries to identify those who may have had a motive to kill him. The investigation, carried out jointly by the Wazirabad Police and the ATS team, culminated in the arrest of three accused, police said.

"Following his identification, we traced his movements from his home, examined CCTV footage, analysed call details, and conducted local inquiries to identify potential suspects who might have had a motive to kill him. Both the ATS team and the Wazirabad police team worked on the case...The arrest of these three individuals has solved this murder case," the DCP said.

Motive Revealed as Longstanding Enmity

According to DCP Raja Banthia, the accused have been identified as Dheeraj (32), a resident of Sangam Vihar in Wazirabad, who has two previous burglary cases registered against him; Tarun alias Tanni (32), a resident of Nehru Vihar in Timarpur and an auto-rickshaw driver, who has a prior preventive arrest in a case involving a physical altercation; and Sunny Mahajan (19), a resident of Katra Dullo in Amritsar, Punjab, who has no previous criminal record.

Police said Tarun allegedly shared a longstanding enmity with the deceased, and the three accused had conspired to murder Chandan Saini. "They had conspired together to kill the victim. The deceased, Chandan Saini, was a listed 'Bad Character' (BC) of the Timarpur police station and faced five criminal cases, including charges related to theft and snatching," the DCP said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Maharashtra on high alert amid heavy rains, CM Fadnavis says

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:00:51 +0530

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday said that the district administrations have been put on high alert amid heavy rains battering the state, and stated that the restoration work for the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is underway after the damage caused by the landslide.

Fadnavis said this after chairing a review meeting at the Disaster Control Room in Mantralaya over heavy rains and landslides in various parts of Maharashtra. Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan and senior officers attended the meeting.

CM Fadnavis reviews situation

Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Fadnavis said that the Mumbai Metro and buses are operating normally, with a few disruptions in the local railway network. The Chief Minister said, "We held a meeting of the Disaster Management today to review the situation. Mumbai has received one month's rain quota in just four days. BMC has continuously worked to ensure there is no waterlogging. Mumbai Metro train service is operating normally, while there are a few disruptions on the railway network. Buses too are operating normally."

IMD alert, work-from-home declared

The state government has declared work from home for all offices, and disaster relief forces have been deployed for rescue operations. The CM also appealed people to be cautious as the IMD has issued cloudburst alert for July 7 between Nashik and Trimbakeshwar. He said, "Yesterday, we experienced unprecedentedly strong and intense winds. This has led to the falling of nearly 300 trees yesterday. Winds of 50-70 kmph are expected to hit the city today. This is the reason we have declared work from home today and appealed to people not to step outside of their homes today. There is an alert for a cloudburst in the area between Nashik and Trimbakeshwar for tomorrow. NDRF and SDRF have been redeployed accordingly. Till July 8, the intensity of rains will remain high. District Administrations have been put on high alert. Efforts are underway to restore the Mumbai-Goa and Mumbai-Pune expressways. Three lanes of the Mumbai-Pune Highway are operational from Mumbai to Pune, and one lane is operational from Pune to Mumbai."

Landslides disrupt rail, road connectivity

Heavy rainfall triggered landslides in the Mumbai-Pune ghat section on Monday, severely disrupting both rail and road connectivity between the two cities. Boulders fell on railway tracks, while traffic on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the old Mumbai-Pune Highway was also suspended following a major landslide.

Red alert in Konkan region

Maharashtra is on high alert after heavy rainfall along with gusty winds, leading to flooding and landslides in various places. According to Maharashtra CMO, Palghar and the Konkan region are also under a red alert for July 7; 500 citizens in Palghar are being moved to safer locations. The CMO has advised pilgrims not to enter Alandi after all four bridges leading into Alandi were submerged due to flooding of the Indrayani River. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Paraguayan President hails national team's 'grit' on World Cup return

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:00:38 +0530

President Pena Hails Team's 'Guarani Grit'

Paraguayan President Santiago Pena received the national football team at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Luque upon their return from the FIFA World Cup 2026, where their journey ended with a 1-0 loss to France in the Round of 16, hailing the team's grit and courage.

In a post on X, he shared photos from the welcome event, where members of the Paraguay national football team were received by him along with several others present at the ceremony. Pena thanked the players for their fighting spirit and prideful representation of the nation at the FIFA World Cup 2026. He praised their courage and determination throughout the tournament, saying the team had united and inspired the country despite their exit. "Welcome home, dear @Albirroja team. Thank you for showing the Guarani grit in every match and defending our flag with your soul. That courage and never giving up against any rival is what we are. Today we come to tell you thank you, with the affection of an entire people who thrilled during the World Cup accompanying you. Today we are back thanks to you, red-and-whites, with the tricolor among the best and the pride of having left it all on the field," the Paraguayan president wrote. https://x.com/SantiPenap/status/2074085408988627177

A Hero's Welcome for La Albirroja

The Paraguayan national football team also shared several posts highlighting the welcome received by La Albirroja. In one of the posts, the team's aircraft is seen being given a water salute on the runway. The caption of the post read, "Thank you for making us dream, guys!" https://x.com/Albirroja/status/2074076802733965457?s=20

Paraguay's Valiant World Cup Exit

Paraguay's World Cup campaign came to an end at the Philadelphia Stadium in Philadelphia after France defeated them 1-0 in their Round of 16 clash. Kylian Mbappe converted a second-half penalty to send France into the quarter-finals, where Les Bleus will face Morocco. Despite the defeat, Paraguay impressed with a disciplined defensive display against one of the tournament favourites.

Disciplined Defence Frustrates France

Having already stunned Germany in the previous round, the South Americans frustrated France for long periods with their compact shape and relentless work rate. France dominated possession from the outset, controlling more than 80 per cent of the ball during the early stages, but Paraguay's organised defence restricted Didier Deschamps' side to limited opportunities. Julio Enciso spearheaded the pressing effort, while goalkeeper Orlando Gill remained largely untroubled in the opening half.

The first 45 minutes produced no shots on target from either side, making it only the third FIFA World Cup knockout match since 1966 to reach half-time without a single effort on target. Tempers also flared midway through the half following a challenge on Mbappe by Andres Cubas, leading to a mass confrontation involving players from both teams.

Mbappe's Penalty Decides the Match

France finally found the breakthrough in the 66th minute after substitute Desire Doue won a penalty by weaving past three defenders before being fouled by Diego Gomez. Mbappe calmly converted from the spot despite Paraguay's attempts to delay the restart.

Paraguay continued to push until the final whistle and nearly forced a late breakthrough, while Gill denied Mbappe a second goal with an excellent double save in stoppage time. Although their memorable World Cup run ended in the Round of 16, Paraguay departed the tournament with widespread admiration. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

George Clooney to receive Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement in Venice

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:00:28 +0530

Actor George Clooney is set to be honoured with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival 2026. The Venice Film Festival shared the announcement on its Instagram handle on Monday.

A 'Complete and Charismatic Artist'

While quoting Artistic Director Alberto Barbera, the film festival wrote, "Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement of the 83rd Venice International Film Festival goes to the great American actor, director and producer George Clooney." They continued, "Artistic Director Alberto Barbera declared: "In his triple capacity as actor, director, and producer, George Clooney is a complete and charismatic artist, impassioned and original, who has transformed a deep vocation into one of the most luminous parabolas of contemporary film. [...] A perfect combination of the star glamour of days gone by, remarkable professionalism, and modern sensitivity, the actor has crossed the genres with rare versatility".

'A Tremendous Honour'

While accepting the award, the actor described the award as a "tremendous honour." George Clooney said, "I've had so many extraordinary moments in Venice. This Festival is without question my favourite and to be given the Golden Lion is a tremendous honour. It also probably means I'm old, but I'll take it". View this post on Instagram A post shared by La Biennale di Venezia (@labiennale)

Clooney's Decorated Career

Clooney has scored Academy Awards for best supporting actor for playing a veteran CIA officer in "Syriana" (2005) and as a producer alongside Ben Affleck and Grant Heslov on "Argo" which scored the Oscar for Best Motion Picture in 2012. Most recently, in 2025, Clooney earned a Tony Award nomination for his Broadway debut in the stage adaptation of "Good Night, and Good Luck" in which he starred as Edward R. Murrow. The show made Broadway history as the first live Broadway performance to be simultaneously televised on CNN to audiences across the world, reported Variety.

83rd Venice Film Festival Details

The 83rd edition of Venice will run September 2-12, with the festival's lineup being announced July 23. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Shimla: Dry tree falls, damages 4 cars; police issue advisory

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:00:28 +0530

A dry tree fell near Chamiana Road in Shimla on Monday, damaging four parked vehicles, while no injuries were reported in the incident, police said.

The Traffic Police said teams from the police and the concerned departments reached the spot immediately and initiated measures to remove the fallen tree and ensure smooth movement of traffic. In a traffic advisory, the police urged motorists to avoid parking vehicles near dry or weak roadside trees during periods of rain and strong winds and appealed to commuters to cooperate with traffic personnel.

IMD Issues Orange Alert for Heavy Rain

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for five districts of Himachal Pradesh for the next two to three days, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall, increased risk of landslides, flash floods, rising water levels in rivers and streams, and travel disruptions.

Monsoon to Remain Active

Speaking to ANI, IMD Himachal Pradesh Centre Head Shobhit Katiyar said on Monday. said the southwest monsoon will remain active across the state for at least the next week, with the most intense rainfall expected over the mid-hill and adjoining lower hill districts. "The monsoon is expected to remain active across Himachal Pradesh for around the next one week. The mid-hill and adjoining lower hill regions are likely to receive widespread rainfall. We have issued an Orange Alert for Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Solan districts for the next two to three days, where isolated places may witness heavy to very heavy rainfall," Katiyar said.

He said rainfall activity would continue beyond July 7, with isolated heavy showers likely between July 8 and July 10, while rainfall intensity is expected to increase again from July 11. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Badrinath Dham row: Congress demands judicial probe into theft claims

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:00:22 +0530

Congress Demands Judicial Probe

Uttarakhand Congress chief Ganesh Godiyal on Monday demanded a judicial probe into fresh allegations of donation theft that surfaced at the Badrinath Dham temple. This comes amid the ongoing Ram Mandir donation embezzlement row. He stated that the "sanctity" of Sanatan Dharma followers was hurt due to the Ram Mandir donation row. Similarly, a matter has come to light in the Badrinath Dham temple.

The Congress leader said that serious allegations of theft in temples, irregularities involving diamonds and jewels, and mismanagement of offerings have emerged against the people appointed by the "power establishment". "Just as the sanctity of the faith of crores of Sanatan Dharma followers was tampered with in the Ram Mandir, a similar issue has now come to light regarding Shri Badrinath Dham. Serious allegations have surfaced against individuals appointed by the power establishment, accusing them of theft in temples, irregularities involving diamonds-jewels, and mismanagement of offerings. I demand that this entire matter be investigated by a joint assembly committee or through a judicial probe," Godiyal posted on X.

Temple Committee Initiates Inquiry

On July 4, Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) chairman Hemant Dwivedi said the committee has constituted an inquiry panel to investigate the matter and that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty amid allegations circulating on social media regarding the alleged misappropriation of donations and offerings at the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Dham.

In a self-made video, Dwivedi said the Temple Committee had taken the allegations circulating on social media seriously and initiated action within 24 hours. "Regarding the news and allegations circulating on social media concerning the alleged misappropriation of donations and offerings at the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Dham, I wish to state that the Temple Committee has taken this matter very seriously. Notices--specifically show-cause notices--have already been issued by our Chief Executive Officer to all employees and officials involved in the counting process," he said.

Dwivedi said an inquiry committee had been constituted with immediate effect and that its findings would be made public. "An inquiry committee has also been constituted with immediate effect. This committee will conduct its investigation and submit a report as soon as possible, which will be made public. Strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty, as this is a highly sensitive issue that we are treating with the utmost seriousness, given the deep faith millions of people place in this holy shrine. All necessary actions were initiated within 24 hours," he added.

Chairman Refutes 'Personal Secretary' Claims

The BKTC Chairman also refuted claims circulating on social media regarding the involvement of his "personal secretary" in the matter. "I also wish to clarify a point regarding claims circulating on social media about the 'Chairman's personal secretary.' I want to make it clear that I do not have a personal secretary; all these individuals are Temple Committee employees. The person being referred to as the 'personal secretary' is actually a regular employee of the Badri-Kedar Temple Committee," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Tom Lee Warns Of Bear Market-Like Moves In Nasdaq, S&P 500 In Second Half Of 2026 — Cites SpaceX Lockup Expiry As A Headwind

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:00:07 +0530

Lee explained that markets would be watching the policy direction the Federal Reserve adopts under Kevin Warsh’s leadership.
He said that SpaceX's lock-in period will gradually unlock during the second half of this year, which Lee thinks is another headwind for the equity markets.
Lee expressed optimism for the equity markets in July, after the S&P 500 declined 1% during last month and the Nasdaq Composite fell around 3%.

Fundstrat Managing Partner Tom Lee on Monday warned that U.S. equity markets could face speed bumps in the second half of 2026.

During an interview with CNBC, Lee said that there are four potential triggers that could test both the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite between August and October.

“I do think between now and year end should be something that might feel like a bear market. Not in July, but maybe between August and October,” he said.

Why Lee Is Cautious

Lee explained that the markets would be watching out for the policy direction that the Federal Reserve adopts under Kevin Warsh’s leadership. He cited Warsh’s new framework and approach to inflation.

Lee also said that the lock-in period for Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SPCX) will begin to gradually begin to unlock during the second half of this year, which he thinks is another headwind for the equity markets.

SpaceX has a staggered unlocking schedule for eligible insiders and employees, with the first 20% shares held by them being eligible for unlock immediately after the company’s second quarter (Q2) results, expected to be reported in late July or early August this year.

“I do think there is going to be a cumulative shortage of petroleum products, so that’s a headwind. And I think margin debt is kind of high. So I think [those] are the four things that could unravel in a way that might feel like a bear market,” Lee added.

July Will Be Better For Stocks, Says Lee

Lee expressed optimism for the equity markets in July, after the S&P 500 declined 1% during last month and the Nasdaq Composite fell around 3%.

He expects Q2 earnings from U.S.-listed companies to surprise to the upside once again, following a better-than-expected performance in the second quarter.

“The markets are going to get cheaper again, and that means there is room for price-to-earnings (PE) to expand. So I think July is going to be a stronger month for stocks,” Lee added.

He said that a lot of fund managers are trailing the benchmark indexes this year, and that they could buy the dip in July after a weak June.

Lee Says 8,000 Is Doable For S&P 500 By End Of 2026

Lee also thinks that the S&P 500 could top 8,000 points by the end of 2026, but added that it is actually a low estimate, with the PE multiple around 20 for fiscal year 2027 earnings.

“I think the PE multiple could be 22 or better, so that would be 8,400… 8,800 would be kind of the upside into year-end,” he said.

Strategists at Morgan Stanley led by Michael Wilson expect the S&P 500 to end 2026 at 8,000 points, implying an upside potential of about 7% from current levels, following a surge of over 9% this year so far.

The S&P 500 ETF (SPY) is up 20% over the past 12 months, while the Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ) is up more than 29%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (DIA) has gained 19% during this period.

SPCX stock is up 8% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

"Waiting for the Full Flow": Jog Falls Roars Back to Life as Monsoon Rains Boost Water Flow (WATCH)

Keerthika MV — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:49:20 +0530

With the southwest monsoon gaining strength across Karnataka, the iconic Jog Falls in Shivamogga district has once again come alive, drawing tourists and nature lovers from across the state. Continuous rainfall in the Western Ghats and surrounding hilly regions has significantly increased the water flow, transforming the famous waterfall into a spectacular sight. Videos of the rejuvenated Jog Falls have gone viral on social media, with many users expressing excitement as the monsoon revives one of Karnataka's most popular tourist attractions.

One of the viral videos was shared with the caption: "Jog Falls as seen today. Jog Falls region currently getting moderate to heavy rainfall throughout the day."

Monsoon Rains Revive Jog Falls

The steady monsoon showers during the first week of July have led to a sharp rise in the water level of the Sharavathi River, resulting in a stronger flow at Jog Falls.

The four distinct cascades, Raja, Rani, Roarer and Rocket, are now flowing at full force, creating a breathtaking spectacle for visitors.

Located near Sagara in Shivamogga district, Jog Falls is formed as the Sharavathi River plunges nearly 830 feet, making it the second-highest plunge waterfall in India.

Jogfalls as seen today Jog falls region currently getting moderate to heavy rainfall throughout the day.Bhagyalakshmi pic.twitter.com/yIdW8OhPXi

— Naveen Reddy (@navin_ankampali) July 4, 2026

Tourists Arrive to Witness the Scenic Beauty

The increase in water flow has attracted a large number of tourists eager to witness the magnificent waterfall during the monsoon season.

Visitors have been sharing photographs and videos of the scenic landscape, with many describing it as one of the best times of the year to experience the natural beauty of Jog Falls.

Highest waterfall in South India – Jog Falls, Karnataka. ..[ jog falls, karnataka, south india, highest waterfall, monsoon, nature, travel, scenic view, waterfall, incredible india ]Location: Jogfalls,Karnataka#travel #karnataka #monsoon #waterfall #nature pic.twitter.com/JEQ0TQwQuv

— World Data Vault (@RoyVarsha31487) July 5, 2026

Video Wins Hearts on Social Media

The viral video has received widespread appreciation from social media users, many of whom are eagerly awaiting the waterfall reaching its full flow.

The breathtaking visuals of the cascading water, surrounded by lush green hills and misty weather, have captivated viewers online.

How Did Social Media React?

One user commented: "Waiting for the full flow."

Waiting for the full flow

— Bowya Madhi (@bowya8) July 5, 2026

Second user commented: "Stunningly beautiful ."

As the monsoon continues to strengthen across Karnataka, water levels at Jog Falls are expected to rise further in the coming days, offering visitors an even more spectacular display of nature.

PM Modi's Australia Visit to Boost Defence, Trade Ties: Philip Green

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:31:05 +0530

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Australia, Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green said the visit is expected to give fresh momentum to bilateral cooperation across defence, trade, energy, education and people-to-people ties, with both countries looking to build on their deepening strategic partnership.

Calling it Prime Minister Modi's third visit to Australia as Prime Minister, Green said the Indian leader will travel to Melbourne, one of Australia's largest cities and home to a vibrant Indian diaspora. "Prime Minister Modi's third visit as Prime Minister of India, he will be coming to Melbourne, which is one of the biggest Australian capitals and a major place for the Indian diaspora," Green said.

Pillars of India-Australia Partnership

Highlighting the pillars of the India-Australia partnership, he said, "Our relationship is impelled forward by three areas of strategic alignment. Firstly, in the area of defence and security. Secondly, because our economies are so complementary and we have much opportunity. Third, because there are now more than a million people of Indian origin in Australia. They make an outsized contribution to our society. They, as well as other Australians, will be warmly welcoming Prime Minister Modi."

Economic and Energy Cooperation

On economic cooperation, Green said Australia has identified four sectors that offer the greatest opportunities for future collaboration: education, agriculture and food, tourism, and the green energy supply chain. "We have identified four sectors that are the real areas of great opportunity between Australia and India, and they are education, agriculture and food, tourism, and the green energy supply chain," he said.

Emphasising the rapid growth in bilateral trade, Green noted, "In the last five years, India's exports to the world have grown by 40%. But in that same period, India's exports to Australia have grown by 200%, five times faster than the rest of the world."

On energy cooperation, he said, "Between Australia and India, we already have a good flow, whether it is coal, diesel, aviation fuel, or LNG. There will be a conversation about how we maximise the benefits to our bilateral relationship and to our people from the flow of energy."

Speaking on negotiations for a comprehensive trade agreement, Green said both sides remain committed to securing an ambitious deal. "Our negotiators are talking, and both of us want to have a deal which is ambitious and benefits both sides. Australia's exports to India have tripled, gone up by 70% in just the last three years. We are on a very strong track when it comes to trade," he said.

Defence and Strategic Cooperation

Speaking on defence ties, Green said the Indian Ocean remains the most significant area for strategic cooperation between the two countries. "There are many areas where we can and will make progress on defence. Where it matters most is where Australia and India's strategic geography overlap, and that is in the Indian Ocean, an ocean we both share and one that is important for both of our futures," he said.

"We live in an unpredictable world, and in that unpredictability, Australia and India have remained firm partners and strengthened their partnership. It is very important that leaders put their own shape on that and also give direction to those of us who are directly involved in the bilateral partnership about what should come next," Green added.

Role of the Indian Diaspora

Highlighting the role of the Indian diaspora, the Australian envoy said, "Multiculturalism is part of Australia's DNA, and the Indian community makes an outsized impact and contribution to our society. From the perspective of people of Indian origin in Australia, it is a moment of great excitement to welcome the leader of India together with the leader of Australia for a shared event."

Educational Cooperation

On educational cooperation, Green said Australia continues to welcome Indian students and encouraged applicants to submit complete visa applications. "The timelines for student visas are set out on our website. Indian families and students can take this into their own hands. They can choose when to apply and ensure that their applications clearly meet all the criteria required for a decision, which can help speed up the process. What is important for us is that we continue to receive a good flow of high-quality Indian students who make a significant contribution to our education system," he said.

PM Modi Outlines Visit's Agenda

Notably, on Monday, PM Modi, in his departure statement ahead of the three-nation tour, said he looks forward to holding wide-ranging discussions with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to advance cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, critical minerals, energy, defence and security, education, and innovation.

The Prime Minister also said he would interact with Australian business leaders at the India-Australia CEOs Forum and engage with the Indian diaspora in Melbourne, underscoring the importance of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi gets grand welcome in Jakarta on first leg of 3-nation tour

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:31:02 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded a grand welcome on his arrival in Jakarta on Monday, with Indonesian Air Force fighter jets escorting the PM's aircraft upon entering Indonesian airspace, marking a ceremonial welcome. PM began the first leg of his three-nation tour, which includes visits to Australia and New Zealand. Upon his arrival in Jakarta, PM Modi was warmly received by President Prabowo Subianto, and witnessed a traditional dance performance.

Strengthening Act East and MAHASAGAR Vision

In his departure statement prior to the July 6-11 visit, PM Modi noted that the high-level engagement would capitalise on the robust momentum in India's relations with the three key partners, expanding cooperation across strategic, economic and people-centric sectors. "My visit to Indonesia and Australia in the Eastern and Southern Indian Ocean, respectively, followed by New Zealand, will further strengthen India's Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision, as well as our outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific," the Prime Minister said.

The "MAHASAGAR" framework--which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions--represents India's institutional blueprint for fostering security, stability and inclusive growth across the maritime domain.

Reinforcing Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

The Prime Minister is in Indonesia from July 6 to 8 at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. This high-profile engagement marks the Prime Minister's fourth visit to the maritime neighbour and is the inaugural bilateral visit since the relationship was formally elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018.

During his schedule, he will interact with the Indian diaspora and accompany President Prabowo on a visit to the Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta, describing the UNESCO-listed site as a symbol of the deep cultural links between the two nations.

Defence and Economic Cooperation on the Agenda

Strategic security ties have achieved robust momentum, characterised by an expanding scope of high-level visits, regular bilateral and multilateral exercises, and deeper defence industry cooperation, which includes the significant sale of BrahMos missiles.

Indonesia has established itself as India's second-largest trading partner within the ASEAN region, with bilateral trade reaching USD 24.78 billion during the 2025-26 fiscal year. Currently, more than 130 Indian enterprises maintain active investments across diverse sectors of the Indonesian economy.

Critical mineral cooperation is also set to take centre stage during the bilateral talks. Indonesia dominates the global critical minerals sector, commanding roughly 21 per cent of the world's nickel reserves and ranking prominently among the top global producers of copper, bauxite and tin. The Prime Minister's visit is slated to structurally strengthen bilateral institutional mechanisms and trade channels in this vital domain.

His three-day official visit is aimed at reviewing bilateral ties and deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.

Ahead of his arrival, members of the Indian diaspora expressed their expectations for PM Modi's visit, calling for deeper cooperation across mining, energy, infrastructure and emerging technologies. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Modi govt policies hurting India's global reputation, says Kharge

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:30:53 +0530

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday criticised the central government for India's declining passport ranking and drop in yearly tourist footfall. He held the policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as "responsible for hurting India's global reputation".

Kharge Slams Modi Govt Over Passport Ranking, Fee Hike

The Congress chief cited the World Economic Forum and Global Citizen Solutions, which show India slipping to 80th and 125th in the global passport index, respectively. He also slammed the government over the recent hike in passport fee, adding that instead of improving services, the Centre have made passports more expensive. "Modi Govt's policies are responsible for hurting India's global reputation. PM Modi claimed in 2018: 'People travelling and living abroad know the respect and strength of the Indian passport today.' Where is that 'strength' reflected? Facts bely his assertions," Kharge posted on X. "In one global passport ranking, India has fallen from 74th in 2013 to 80th in June 2026. [World Economic Forum] Another global passport index places India at a dismal 125th in 2026. [Global Citizen Solutions] Instead of improving services, the Modi Govt has made passports more expensive. Passport fees have been hiked from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500, while Tatkal charges have gone up to ₹5,000," he added.

Questions Over Tourist Data, Visa Portal

Kharge further asked the government whether it is "masking" its failure by merging NRI arrivals with foreign tourist data, alleging that the foreign tourist arrivals in India are still below the pre-Coronavirus period. "Even with respect to the ease of travelling to India, Foreign Tourist Arrivats (sic) are still below pre-COVID levels: They have dropped from 10.93 million (2019) to 9.95 million (2024). Is the Modi Govt masking this failure by clubbing NRI arrivals with foreign tourist data? Why is India's official visa application portal still so outdated and confusing that it resembles a website from the late 1990s? No one in India, the land of 'Atithi Devo Bhava' wants to welcome the tourists like this?" the Congress chief said.

If the passport is weaker, tourism has not recovered, visa services are lacklustre and citizens are paying more for substandard services, then where exactly is this much-advertised global respect? Reality bites. India's reputation suffers. Courtesy: Modi Govt," he added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pradeep Ranganathan launches 'PR Show'; Mamitha Baiju to star in debut film

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:30:36 +0530

Pradeep Ranganathan Launches Production House 'PR Show'

Actor Pradeep Ranganathan launched his production house 'PR Show' on Monday and announced the first project starring Mamitha Baiju in the lead role. After stepping up as a director, writer and singer, Pradeep Ranganathan is set to turn into a producer with his new production banner PRS. The debut movie of the production banner is tentatively titled 'PRS01'.

One of the highlights of the film is that it will be directed by not one but six directors collectively called the 'Alpha Unit' by the makers. The movie stars Mamitha Baiju, Ashwath Marimuthu, Sivaji Sontineni, Swasika, Anamika Mahi and Lizzie Antony.

Ranganathan shared the poster on their Instagram handle. "Here's the Official Project Announcement & Launch Video of PR Show. Every great journey starts with a first step, and this is ours," wrote Pradeep Ranganathan.

View this post on Instagram The music of the film is composed by Sai Abhyankkar. The release date of the movie has not been announced yet.

Details on Pradeep Ranganathan's Last Film

Ranganathan was last seen in the movie 'Love Insurance Kompany ', which was directed by Vignesh Sivan. Apart from Ranganathan, the film also stars S. J. Suryah and Krithi Shetty, while Yogi Babu, Seeman, Gouri G. Kishan, Shah Ra, Malavika and Sunil Reddy appear in supporting roles.

The story was set in a futuristic 2040 where people fall in love through a dating app named LIK. A man who believes in natural love falls for a woman who trusts the app, leading him to challenge the system. The movie was released on April 10, 2026.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi, President Prabowo to boost India-Indonesia partnership

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:30:32 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said he was touched by President Prabowo Subianto's gesture of welcoming him at the Jakarta airport and said they will hold discussions aimed at adding even more momentum to this partnership across diverse sectors.

The Prime Minister, who arrived in Indonesia on the first leg of his three-nation visit, said he and the Indonesian President Prabowo will also visit the Prambanan Temple complex at Yogyakarta. "Landed in Jakarta. I'm touched by President Prabowo Subianto's gesture of welcoming me at the airport. In 2018 we elevated our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has benefitted our people," he said in a post on X.

PM Modi was accorded a grand welcome on his arrival in Jakarta on Monday, with Indonesian Air Force fighter jets escorting the PM's aircraft upon entering Indonesian airspace, marking a ceremonial welcome. Upon his arrival in Jakarta, PM Modi also witnessed a traditional dance performance.

Three-Nation Tour and Strategic Vision

During the three-nation visit, PM Modi will also visit Australia and New Zealand. In his departure statement prior to the July 6-11 visit, PM Modi noted that the high-level engagement would capitalise on the robust momentum in India's relations with the three key partners, expanding cooperation across strategic, economic and people-centric sectors.

"My visit to Indonesia and Australia in the Eastern and Southern Indian Ocean, respectively, followed by New Zealand, will further strengthen India's Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision, as well as our outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific," the Prime Minister said.

Deepening Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

The Prime Minister is in Indonesia from July 6 to 8 at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. This high-profile engagement marks the Prime Minister's fourth visit to the maritime neighbour and is the first bilateral visit since the relationship was formally elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018.

Focus on Critical Minerals

Critical mineral cooperation is also set to take centre stage during the bilateral talks. Indonesia is a prominent player in the critical minerals sector, commanding roughly 21 per cent of the world's nickel reserves and ranking prominently among the top global producers of copper, bauxite and tin. The Prime Minister's visit is slated to structurally strengthen bilateral institutional mechanisms and trade channels in this vital domain.

His three-day official visit is aimed at reviewing bilateral ties and deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.

Indian Diaspora's Expectations

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Chhattisgarh CM lays foundation for projects worth Rs 103 cr in Raipur

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:30:30 +0530

CM Sai launches Rs 103 crore projects to boost healthcare

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday performed the ground-breaking ceremony for various construction and development projects worth over Rs 103 crore at the Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Medical College in Raipur.

Addressing the gathering at the college auditorium, the Chief Minister emphasised that the expansion of the medical college and hospital would significantly bolster the healthcare infrastructure of the entire state. "Today is a very auspicious occasion. We have performed the groundbreaking for development works worth more than Rs 103 crores for the expansion of the medical college and hospital. We congratulate the medical college and hospital," CM Sai said.

The Chief Minister further noted that the state government is committed to fulfilling the requirements of the medical fraternity. He highlighted that a specific demand for a new hostel, raised during his previous visit, has been sanctioned. "A few days ago, when we came here, there was a demand for a hostel; that demand has been fulfilled. This expansion and the new facilities will benefit the entire state," he added.

Cabinet Brainstorms at 'Chintan Shivir 3.0'

On Sunday, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister attended 'Chintan Shivir 3.0' held at IIM Raipur with Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao. Following the morning exercise, the state leadership moved into their concluding round of policy deliberations. The two-day training programme for the Cabinet in collaboration with IIM Raipur is organised under the joint auspices of the Department of Good Governance and Convergence, and IIM Raipur aims to refine governance for the state cabinet and to brainstorm on a roadmap for a 'Developed Chhattisgarh' through enhanced departmental coordination and modern policy frameworks.

Talking to the reporters regarding the final day's proceedings, the Chief Minister remarked, "A two-day event of Chintan Shivir 3.0 is underway at IIM Raipur. Today is its second and final day. All cabinet members had rested here, and this morning everyone has practised yoga... Today marks the conclusion of this Chintan Shivir."

On Saturday, while speaking to ANI on Chintan Shivir 3.0 at IIM Raipur, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister emphasised the need for adaptability in public service. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Security Agencies Flag West Coast as Top Route for Pak Arms Smuggling

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:30:28 +0530

Western Coastline a Major Route for Arms Smuggling

India's western coastline along Gujarat and Maharashtra has emerged as a growing concern for security agencies as a key maritime route for the smuggling of illegal arms from Pakistan into the country, an official assessment report submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) states.

The report, collated based on inputs from security agencies, mentions that the South Asian arms trafficking network reaches India through both land and sea. It explains that while one branch enters via the land border in Punjab and Rajasthan, another increasingly exploits the maritime frontier along the Gujarat and Maharashtra coastlines.

Officials said traffickers rely on fishing vessels and small coastal craft that can evade conventional maritime surveillance systems because they often operate below standard detection thresholds. Security agencies say traffickers frequently adapt their routes and methods to avoid enforcement, using legitimate fishing activity and coastal movement to conceal illicit consignments. The maritime route has therefore become an area of heightened vigilance amid efforts to strengthen coastal security and disrupt transnational arms smuggling networks.

India's Role in Global Trafficking Networks

"The South Asian arm flows through Pakistan into India via both the land frontier in Punjab and Rajasthan, and the maritime frontier along the Gujarat and Maharashtra coastlines, the latter a route of increasing concern given its use of fishing vessels and coastal craft that operate below the detection threshold of standard maritime surveillance," mentions the Narcotics Control Bureau's (NCB's) Annual Report 2025.

The report further pointed out that India has emerged as a critical transit and destination point for global arms and drug trafficking networks, with smugglers constantly adapting routes in response to law enforcement action and geopolitical developments. It also noted that drug trafficking routes are neither static nor predictable, and they respond to enforcement pressure with geographic displacement, adapt to geopolitical events through rerouting, and exploit legitimate trade infrastructure.

Positioned between the world's major narcotics-producing regions, the report further states that "India sits at the intersection of every major trafficking pathway." It also says that the Afghanistan-Pakistan-Iran corridor remains the world's primary opiate trafficking complex. Pre- ban stockpiles of about 13,200 tonnes are currently sustaining these trafficking pipelines.

The Golden Crescent and Balkan Route

The report later mentioned that the Golden Crescent corridor is a major illicit opium-producing region spanning the mountainous peripheries of Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran, bifurcating beyond Pakistan. The Balkan Route (primary overland corridor used by migrants and refugees travelling from the Middle East and Asia into the European Union), the Central agency's report signals its role in carrying out heroin through Iran, Turkey, and into Western Europe. The historically dominant European heroin supply pathway is now increasingly carrying methamphetamine alongside heroin (route convergence).

The Golden Triangle Threat to Northeast India

For India, the Golden Triangle threat manifests most acutely through the North-Eastern land frontier, alerted the report, mentioning "the Manipur corridor, through which the indian National Highway 102 passes, is the primary land entry point for both heroin and methamphetamine tablets." It later flagged Myanmar's Golden Triangle as both an opiate supplier and a dominant methamphetamine hub. It also highlighted that the convergence of opium cultivation with large-scale methamphetamine manufacturing, primarily in areas controlled by ethnic armed groups in Shan State, has created a poly-drug production complex that is simultaneously the largest source of Golden Triangle opiates and the dominant supply hub for South-East Asian methamphetamine markets. Notably, it says, the Bay of Bengal maritime route represents an emerging transportation channel.

Geopolitical Shifts Impacting Trafficking Routes

The agency report later informed about the Cocaine's traditional trafficking architecture, Andean production, North American primary market, European secondary market via West African transit as undergoing significant geographic expansion.

Syria's political transition in 2024, which has disrupted the Captagon manufacturing network centred on the Syrian Arab Republic, the report mentioned, has created a trafficking uncertainty zone in the Near and Middle East that other suppliers, including emerging methamphetamine trafficking networks operating through the Gulf, are now exploiting. "The potential geographic relocation of Captagor production to Libya or Egypt would extend synthetic drug supply into North Africa in a manner that could create new maritime trafficking routes through the Mediterranean and potentially the Red Sea," it says.

The rise of the Taliban in Afghanistan, the report added, is another example of geopolitics leading to the rise and fall of drug production hubs and trafficking networks. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir scam: Kejriwal questions PM Modi's protection of accused

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:30:26 +0530

Kejriwal Questions PM Modi on Ram Mandir Scam

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over alleged irregularities in the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, questioning why those purportedly involved in "theft and land scams" are being protected. His remarks came in response to a social media post by the Prime Minister, in which the latter praised BJP leader Nitin Nabin's "simplicity." Taking to social media platform X, the AAP supremo quoted the Prime Minister's post and wrote, "Thank you for providing information about Nitin ji. Prime Minister ji, the entire country wants to know why those involved in the theft at Shri Ram Mandir, the land scam, and siphoning off commissions in the construction are being protected. When will they receive strict punishment?"

PM's Praise for BJP Leader Sparks Row

The political exchange began earlier in the day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised BJP leader Nitin Nabin's "simplicity and straightforwardness". PM Modi Nabin after an associate shared anecdotes of the leader's frugal student life.

Quoting a post by Nabin's childhood friend Piyush Padmakar, the PM said such values are a "matter of pride for every BJP worker". "This simplicity and straightforwardness is a matter of pride for every BJP worker. @NitinNabin," PM wrote on X.

Kejriwal's Earlier Jibe at Nabin

This came after Kejriwal on Sunday took a jibe at Nitin Nabin after the latter accused the opposition leaders of remaining silent over "insults" to Hindu deities. Hitting out at Nabin, Kejriwal posted on X, "Aap kaun hain (Who are you)?"

This came in reply to Nitin Nabin's address at BJP's Shakti Kendra Sanyojak Sammelan in Lucknow, where he said, "Today, I want to tell Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Kejriwal not to consider the Hindu religion so weak that people will fall for your rhetoric."

Ram Mandir Donation Controversy

The Ram Mandir donation theft controversy has intensified after allegations surfaced that donations made were misused. The Opposition has demanded an independent investigation, while BJP leaders have accused them of politicising an issue linked to the faith of millions of Hindus.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

"Joy Was of the Whole Family": Bengaluru Techie's Emotional Home-Buying Video Goes Viral (WATCH)

Keerthika MV — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:27:44 +0530

For many people, buying a home is more than just a financial milestone. It represents years of hard work, family support and the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. A Bengaluru techie has captured that emotion in a heartfelt Instagram video that has struck a chord with social media users. Sharing the story of the day he registered his new home, he reflected on how purchasing a house brought his entire family together in a way that renting never could.

The video was shared on Instagram by Vishal Sharma with the caption, "The Day We Bought Our Family Home: More Than Just a Signature."

The caption further read: "We share our emotional journey of registering our new home, highlighting how buying a house brought our whole family together and created a happiness that renting never could."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vishal Sharma (@techieonreels)

Buying a House Brought the Whole Family Together

In the video, Vishal Sharma spoke about the emotions he experienced on the day his home was officially registered.

He said, "That day, I finally understood what buying made me feel that renting never did. On the day of registration, only my signature was on the paper, but the joy was of the whole family. My Parents especially came to Bangalore, my brother, my sister, everyone was with me. The parents' blessings, children's excitement, and everyone's faces had a different smile. Then I realised that I was not buying a house alone; the whole family had become a part of this journey. And that day, I finally understood what buying made me feel that renting never did."

His message highlighted that while the property was legally registered in his name, the achievement belonged to the entire family, who had supported him throughout the journey.

Video Strikes a Chord on Social Media

The emotional video quickly gained attention on social media, with many users relating to the sentiment behind buying a family home.

Several users praised Sharma for capturing the emotional significance of home ownership and congratulated him on achieving a major life milestone.

How Did Social Media React?

One user commented: "The happiness on their faces means everything. "

Second user commented: "Keep all of them happy and yourselves. God bless!"

Third user commented: "Proud of you."

The heartfelt reactions reflected how Sharma's story resonated with people who viewed home ownership not merely as an investment, but as a moment of shared happiness and family togetherness.

WATCH Viral Video: Rain-Drenched Diary Filled With Memories Found, Stranger's Appeal Wins Hearts

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:26:11 +0530

Thousands of people have been moved by a man's accidental discovery of a water-damaged journal packed with poignant recollections rather than typical notes on a rainy roadside. Sharing the incident on social media, Aditya said he found the journal laying on the ground after heavy rain and decided to pick it up. As he flipped through its damp pages, he realised it wasn't a journal of daily routines but a collection of deeply personal moments, handwritten reflections, and quotes that painted a vivid picture of someone's life.

In the clip shared on Instagram, Aditya shows the diary and flips through its pages, which are filled with handwritten love messages, romantic song lyrics, colorful sketches, and cutouts of chocolate wrappers carefully pasted as keepsakes. Each page of the diary seems to represent a deep emotional connection, suggesting that it may have been kept by a romantic partner. The tone and substance definitely imply that it belonged to someone recording a love chapter of their life, even though the complete narrative behind it is still unknown.

Aditya remarked in a light-hearted tone that the diary likely belonged to a woman, suggesting that such intricate detailing and effort is something men would rarely put into maintaining a personal scrapbook. He urged Instagram users to help share the video in the hope that it would eventually reach the rightful owner.

"This is true love, brother. Share this video so it reaches the person who worked so hard on it," the video was captioned.

Watch Viral Video

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by lucky (Aditya) (@hustleradiii7001)

Social media users responded well to the post, with many referring to the notebook as a "treasure chest of memories." Since then, there has been an incidence that has been a hand-warming incidents that have created an issue. There are a lot of reasons why it went into it went into this way.

VIRAL VIDEO: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung Wins Hearts With Thoughtful Gesture At Traditional Market | WATCH

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:22:57 +0530

A brief yet heartwarming moment featuring South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and First Lady Kim Hye-kyung has captured the internet's attention, with social media users praising the couple's natural chemistry during a visit to a traditional market. Many viewers have characterised the conversation in the viral video, which was captured during an unexpected visit to Suwon's Paldalmun Market on June 25, as both relatable and surprisingly real.

In the footage, First Lady Kim Hye-kyung is seen asking a vendor at a roadside stand how much something costs. President Lee Jae-myung instantly went into his pocket and took out his wallet, appearing prepared to make a payment, before the conversation could even be over.

Even though the conversation was brief, it soon emerged as the visit's high point. Online commenters noted that the President's impromptu response felt more like a typical husband-and-wife exchange than a well-planned public performance, pointing to it as a window into the couple's daily relationship.

The presidential couple's decision to actively assist local entrepreneurs by making purchases during their visit rather than just saying hello and posing for pictures was also much welcomed by many.

According to reports, they acquired a variety of local favourites, including as buckwheat chips, puffed rice, dried baby octopus, dried squid, twisted bread sticks, doughnuts, peanut nibbles, and chestnut bread.

They were also spotted sharing some of the refreshments with neighbours they met while wandering through the packed marketplace, which added to the welcoming vibe of the visit.

Watch Viral Video

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 鳳凰資訊 PhoenixTVNews（凤凰资讯） (@phoenixtv_news)

Paldalmun Market, located near the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, is one of Suwon's oldest and most well-known traditional markets. It remains a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking regional delicacies, fresh produce, and handmade goods.

Kolkata Weather Update: Depression Brings Heavy Rain Alert For Kolkata, South Bengal

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:14:54 +0530

Kolkata Weather Update: A low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal has gotten stronger and is now moving towards the coast. Because of this, Kolkata and many other districts in South Bengal are expecting heavy rains until Thursday

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Extends Financial Aid to Needy Families at Jan Seva Sadan

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:14:37 +0530

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta here on Monday gave financial help to the impoverished families of the Rohtas Nagar and Bawana Assembly constituencies at the Chief Minister Jan Seva Sadan. Reiterating his government’s commitment to public welfare, Gupta said every needy family in Delhi will be given a helping hand in difficult times.

Financial Assistance to Beneficiary Families

During the programme, CM Rekha Gupta distributed cash help among eligible families and pledged that the Delhi government will continue to work for the welfare of the people and no citizen will be left without support in times of need. "The administration is working with 'full sensitivity and dedication' to improve the lives of vulnerable sections of society," she added.

The government's promise of welfare

One of the major responsibilities of the administration is to support residents who are in tough circumstances, Gupta told the gathering. The administration would continue to work on the welfare measures to serve economically poorer families around the capital, she said again.

Did Anshula Kapoor's Kaleera Predict Arjun Kapoor's Wedding? Viral Video Explained

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:11:51 +0530

Anshula Kapoor's pre-wedding celebrations have been filled with emotional and heartwarming moments. One special ritual stole the spotlight when her kaleera unexpectedly landed on brother Arjun Kapoor, leaving everyone smiling

VERA Stock Rallies Ahead Of High-Stakes FDA Decision On Lead Kidney Disease Drug – Retail Sees 35% Potential Upside

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:10:01 +0530

If approved, Atacicept would allow patients to self-administer a once-weekly injection at home.
In prior trials, Atacicept met its primary and key secondary goals.
Last month, Vera Therapeutics said the FDA agreed to an earlier analysis plan for its Phase 3 Origin 3 trial.

Shares of Vera Therapeutics (VERA) jumped 9% in pre-market trading on Monday as investors turned bullish ahead of a key regulatory decision on the biotech firm’s lead investigational drug for an autoimmune kidney disease.

VERA shares are on track to post their first gain in four sessions.

What’s The FDA Deciding?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to announce its decision on Atacicept, which is being developed to treat IgA nephropathy (IgAN). The therapy works by blocking two types of proteins that promote B-cell activity and the production of harmful autoantibodies associated with IgAN.

A Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) target action date (PDUFA) has been set for July 7. It is the FDA’s target date for making a decision on a drug application, which allows the drug to be marketed in the U.S.

If approved, Atacicept would allow patients to self-administer a once-weekly injection at home using an autoinjector.

Atacicept In The Spotlight

In prior trials, Atacicept met its primary and key secondary goals, significantly reducing proteinuria and helping stabilize kidney function compared with placebo. Long-term data through 96 weeks also showed continued improvements in disease markers and a favorable safety profile.

The Phase 3 Origin trial likewise achieved its primary endpoint, with a meaningful reduction in proteinuria at 36 weeks, while the study continues to evaluate long-term kidney function through 2026.

The U.S. FDA has granted atacicept Breakthrough Therapy Designation for IgAN. The therapy is also being studied in several other autoimmune kidney diseases.

FDA Alignment On VERA’s Origin 3 Trial

Last month, Vera Therapeutics said the FDA agreed to an earlier analysis plan for its Phase 3 Origin 3 trial. The company now expects key kidney function data from the study in the third quarter of 2026.

If the results are positive, Vera plans to file a supplemental Biologics License Application (sBLA) in the fourth quarter of 2026 to convert accelerated approval into full FDA approval. The company had already submitted its original Biologics License Application (BLA) for accelerated approval in November 2025.

VERA Could Climb To $60, Retail Says

Retail sentiment surrounding VERA on Stocktwits remained ‘bullish’ over the past 24 hours, amid ‘extremely high’ message volumes.

One user said that if the company gets FDA approval, the stock could rise to $60, representing a 35% upside from current levels.

View this Stocktwits post

The stock has declined more than 15% so far this year.

Also read: Nasdaq, S&P 500, Dow Futures Kick Off Fresh Week On Strong Note: Why META, NVDA, MU, IREN, PEP, HOOD Are In Focus

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Sheamus Leaving WWE? Major Contract Update Shocks Wrestling Fans

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:07:57 +0530

WWE veteran Sheamus is reportedly heading toward free agency after contract talks failed to reach an agreement. The former WWE Champion could soon part ways with the company, sparking huge speculation about his wrestling future. While WWE has not officially confirmed the reports, fans are eagerly awaiting the next big update. In this video: 0:00 Major Update on Sheamus' WWE Future 1:30 Contract Talks Reportedly Break Down 2:00 What's Next for The Celtic Warrior?

IQMX Stock Surges On Second Day Of Trading – Retail Hopeful About Growth Prospects For This Quantum Computing Play

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:05:01 +0530

As of the first quarter, IQM carried $179.51 million in total assets, $7 million in total liabilities, and zero debt on its balance sheet.
IQM has served enterprises, and most notably research institutions, universities, supercomputing centers, and national laboratories.
Governments and institutions worldwide are investing in the procurement of quantum computers to advance discoveries in various high-growth industries.

Shares of IQM Quantum Computers (IQMX) attracted significant investor attention on Monday, rallying on its second day as a publicly traded company.

At the time of writing, IQMX stock was up nearly 17% premarket.

IQM Quantum Computers: A Finnish Company Headquartered In Nokia’s Town

IQM debuted on the Nasdaq in the U.S. on Thursday last week, ahead of the July 4 holiday, through a SPAC merger with Real Asset Acquisition Corp in a $1.9 billion equity-value transaction. On the same day, it also went public on the Nasdaq Helsinki.

The company is focused on developing full-stack superconducting quantum computing machines, having sold 23 units worldwide, and is the first publicly listed quantum player from the European Union. IQM is based in Espoo, Finland, where telecom networking giant Nokia is headquartered.

As of the first quarter, IQM carried $179.51 million in total assets, $7 million in total liabilities, and zero debt on its balance sheet.

Whom Does IQM Serve?

IQM has served enterprises, and most notably research institutions, universities, supercomputing centers, and national laboratories, including CINECA in Italy and the Leibniz Supercomputing Center in Germany.

In the U.S., the company opened its first Quantum Technology Center in Maryland in April this year and is planning further expansion at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory. It also recently sold its first quantum computer in Asia to Japan’s Toyo Corporation.

What Does Having Quantum Computing Capabilities Mean?

Governments and institutions are investing in procuring quantum computers to advance discoveries in fields such as artificial intelligence, materials science, cybersecurity, and drug discovery.

“Around the world, organizations are moving from exploration to implementation, investing in quantum infrastructure and building the capabilities that will define the next generation of computing,” said CEO Jan Goetz.

According to SpinQ, a leading Chinese quantum computing firm, there were roughly 200 full-sized commercial quantum computers active worldwide in 2025, and about 1,000 desktop-sized educational units.

The firm also noted that, since the locations of many quantum computers are kept under wraps for national security reasons, there is no exact estimate of how many are currently online.

What Do Retail Traders Think About IQMX?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment about IQMX stock shifted to ‘bullish’ from ‘extremely bullish’ over the last 24 hours.

One user expects the company’s growth to be supported by peer Finnish infrastructure firms.

View this Stocktwits post

Another user sees great potential, saying the EU will ensure they do not lose another key industry.

View this Stocktwits post

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Dravid Legacy Continues: Anvay's 87 Rescues India U-19 from Early Collapse vs Sri Lanka in 2nd ODI

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:02:52 +0530

Team India's former captain and legendary batter, Rahul Dravid, is famously known as 'The Wall' in the cricket world. For decades, Rahul Dravid stood like a wall on the pitch, saving Team India from difficult situations countless times. Now, it seems his younger son, Anvay Dravid, is following the same path and is emerging as the new 'Wall' for the India Under-19 cricket team.

In the second ODI against Sri Lanka Under-19, Anvay Dravid came to the crease when the team was in trouble and caught everyone's attention with a brilliant half-century. Playing the best innings of his Under-19 career so far, Anvay rescued the Indian team from a tough situation.

Also Read: Women's T20 World Cup Final: Australia Clinches Record-Extending 7th Triumph With a Win over England

Anvay Dravid Smashes a Superb Half-Century

In the second Under-19 ODI between India and Sri Lanka happening in Hambantota, India won the toss and decided to bat first. The team was in deep trouble, losing 4 key wickets for just 81 runs in 18.1 overs. At this critical moment, Anvay Dravid, batting at number five, came in and scored a classy half-century.

ICYMI - Batting at number 5, struck 87 off 67 balls to help India U19 post 285 in the 2nd Youth ODI against Sri Lanka U19: SLC pic.twitter.com/ZFADxhFvXG

— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) July 6, 2026

Anvay reached his fifty in just 47 balls, hitting 4 boundaries and a six. This was his first-ever half-century in Under-19 cricket. However, Anvay couldn't convert his fifty into a century. He eventually got out after playing a fantastic innings of 87 runs from just 67 balls, which included 9 boundaries and a towering six. This is now his highest individual score in U-19 cricket.

Anvay's Century Partnership with Arjun

When the team was struggling after losing key wickets, Anvay Dravid and Arjun Rajput put together a brilliant century partnership for the fifth wicket, becoming the team's saviours. The pair added a valuable 144 runs. They took the team's score from 81/4 to 226/5, successfully saving them from an early collapse. Arjun Rajput was run out after scoring 76 runs. In the end, the India Under-19 team was all out for 285 runs.

A Comeback after a Disappointing Debut

Anvay Dravid had made his debut for the India Under-19 team in the first ODI against Sri Lanka. However, he couldn't create any magic in his first match, getting out for just 14 runs. But with this half-century in the second match, Anvay has truly shown his potential and announced his arrival on the scene.

Also Read: Hilarious! A Young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Fan Goes Viral For His Raw Appreciation (WATCH)

UPT20 champions Kashi Rudras launch Rudras Cup scouting tournament

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:57 +0530

Defending UPT20 champions Kashi Rudras launch the Rudras Cup, the first regional scouting tournament introduced by a UPT20 franchise, which will be held at the JK Loco Railway Stadium here in Kanpur on July 7 and 8. The announcement comes on the back of the franchise's successful first phase of player trials at Sigra Stadium in Varanasi, where more than 1,100 aspiring cricketers from across Uttar Pradesh registered to showcase their talent, according to a press release.

The promising response reaffirmed the growing reach of the Kashi Rudras' grassroots talent identification programme.

Rudras Cup Tournament Details

Rudras Cup will bring together four regional teams representing Varanasi, Prayagraj, Jhansi and Fatehpur. The tournament has been designed to provide shortlisted players with another competitive platform to impress the franchise's coaching and scouting staff ahead of the upcoming UPT20 season.

A Platform to Compete and Express

Kashi Rudras Representative, Sukhvinder Singh, said: "The response to our trials has been extremely encouraging and shows the passion young cricketers across Uttar Pradesh have for the game. This newly introduced Rudras Cup is the next step in that journey, giving these players another opportunity to compete and express themselves in a competitive environment.

"We are looking forward to discovering more talented youngsters who can become part of the Kashi Rudras family," Singh said.

Strengthening the Future of Kashi Rudras

The performances in the Rudras Cup will play an important role in strengthening the franchise's squad ahead of UPT20's upcoming season.

Kashi Rudras are UPT20's most successful franchise, having lifted the title in Seasons 1 and 3. Beyond their on-field success, the franchise remains committed to strengthening the state's cricketing ecosystem by creating meaningful opportunities for aspiring young cricketers through structured scouting and player development initiatives. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ayodhya Ram Mandir trust meets to discuss financial irregularities

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:51 +0530

Trust Convenes Over Resignations and Misappropriation Allegations

Sanjay Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) of Uttar Pradesh, attended the meeting of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust via video conferencing. According to sources, the meeting has been specifically convened to discuss the resignation offers made by the Trust's General Secretary, Champat Rai, and member Anil Mishra. The move follows serious allegations regarding the misappropriation of donations and offerings made by devotees to the Ram Temple.

Political Controversy and Legal Action

The meeting comes as the controversy has triggered a sharp political confrontation, with Opposition parties demanding a probe while the BJP accuses them of targeting the Hindu faith.

The petition seeks a CBI investigation into allegations of theft and irregularities involving donations collected through the temple's donation boxes. It also seeks an audit of the temple's donations by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Congress's Natarajan alleges Centre's policies harming youth, farmers

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:34 +0530

Senior Congress leader Meenakshi Natarajan on Monday targeted the central government over its policies on the examination system, agricultural sector and trade agreements, alleging that they are adversely affecting the future of youth and farmers. Addressing a press conference at the state Congress office here, she stated that the Congress will approach the High Court within the 45-day legal window to challenge the rejection of her nomination for the Rajya Sabha elections.

Criticism of Examination System

Natarajan said that the incidents of alleged paper leaks in various competitive examinations, including NEET, have put the future of the youth in jeopardy. She alleged that such problems have increased due to the centralised examination system in the country, and states should be given the right to conduct examinations according to their own circumstances.

She said that the Madhya Pradesh Congress will organise programs across the state under the party's nationwide 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' (Voice of Students) campaign regarding issues related to students. As part of this, a cycle rally will be taken out from Indore to Bhopal on July 14 and 15, while a national-level program will be organised on August 9.

Concerns Over Agricultural and Trade Policies

Natarajan also criticised the central government regarding the India-US trade agreement and the reduction in import duties. She alleged that this would harm the interests of farmers and that the government must present a clear policy regarding pulses and other agricultural produce. She demanded an increase in the moong (green gram) procurement quota and adequate protection for farmers.

Other Allegations

Referring to the land-related assets of the Chief Minister's family, she alleged a lack of transparency regarding the increase in land ownership. Additionally, citing the ongoing Ram Mandir donation theft row, she stated that it has hurt people's religious sentiments.

Challenge to Rajya Sabha Nomination

On the issue of the rejection of her nomination for the Rajya Sabha elections, Natarajan said that the election process was completed on June 11, and as per the law, an election petition can be filed within 45 days. She stated that the Congress will file a petition in the High Court within the stipulated time limit. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi gets warm welcome in Indonesia, received by President Prabowo

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:29 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday arrived in Indonesia in the first leg of his three-nation tour. He was accorded a warm welcome. In a special gesture, PM Modi was received at the airport by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. Fighter jets from the Indonesian Air Force accompanied the PM's plane from the time he entered their airspace. PM Modi is on a three-day visit to Indonesia. He watched a cultural display after he arrived in Jakarta.

India and Indonesia elevated bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during PM Modi's first visit to Indonesia in 2018. This is his first bilateral visit to Indonesia after the elevation of our bilateral ties and follows the state visit of President Prabowo, who was the chief guest at our Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2025.

Deepening Bilateral Ties

In his departure statement, PM Modi said that India and Indonesia share strong civilizational and people-to-people ties and his visit will further deepen all aspects of the multifaceted partnership. "During this visit, I will also interact with the Indian diaspora in Indonesia and visit the Prambanan Temple complex at Yogyakarta with President Prabowo, which is another remarkable testament to our close cultural ties," he said.

From Indonesia, PM Modi will travel to Australia. He will also visit New Zealand.

India and Indonesia have shared two millennia of close cultural and commercial contacts. Since the adoption of India's 'Look East Policy' in 1991, there has been a rapid development of bilateral relations in political, security, defence, commercial and cultural fields. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Malviya Nagar hotel fire: Custody of 3 accused extended by 14 days

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:24 +0530

Court Extends Judicial Custody

The Saket Court on Monday extended the judicial custody of Lovkesh Bajaj, Kesar Negi and Jay Mishra. They have remained in judicial custody in a case linked to the Hotel Fire tragedy case of Malviya Nagar.

Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Bhanu Pratap Singh extended the judicial custody of all three accused persons for 14 days. During the hearing, Bajaj's counsel moved an application seeking court attestation to access financial documents, including GST and income tax records. The matter will be heard on Tuesday.

Delhi police moved an application seeking extension of Judicial custody, saying that the investigation is going on and further Judicial custody of the accused persons is required.

Background of the Case

Earlier, on June 8, the court had rejected the bail plea of accused Keshav Negi, the cook of the Malviya Nagar hotel Flourish Stay, where a fire broke out. Negi was arrested by the Delhi police on June 7.

Accused Jay Mishra, who has been dubbed the accountant of Flourish Hotel, surrendered before the court on June 8. Mishra had allegedly been absconding since June 3, the day of the tragic incident that killed atleast 22 persons.

Three persons have been made accused in the case, including the owner of the Hotel, Lavkesh Bajaj and a cook, Keshav Negi.

In this tragic incident, 22 people, including foreigners, died after a fire broke out in the hotel. The deceased were mainly the people who attended and relatives of the patients under treatment in a nearby hospital.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Morgan Stanley Warns Chip Stocks Momentum Is Fading, Favors Three Hyperscalers — JPMorgan Says AI ‘Unlikely’ To Be Only Trade In Town

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:07 +0530

Morgan Stanley also cautioned that weakness in chip stocks could lead to a bumpy ride for the broader stock market.
The firm added that while the weakness in chip stocks is due to investors rotating out of the sector, the fact that it is happening to major tech companies could result in a “weaker equity market overall.”
Morgan Stanley expects the consumer discretionary, biotech, and transport sectors to benefit from the rotation out of chip stocks.

Morgan Stanley strategists warned in their latest note that momentum in chip stocks is fading, as investors shift focus to hyperscalers that have been laggards.

According to a Bloomberg report citing a Morgan Stanley note, the firm picked Microsoft Corp. (MSFT), Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN), and Meta Platforms Inc. (META) as its favorites among AI hyperscalers.

Morgan Stanley strategists, led by Chief Investment Officer Michael Wilson, said these companies are their favorites in the AI ecosystem because of their strong core businesses.

Microsoft shares have fallen more than 17% year-to-date, while Meta shares are down over 10%. Amazon shares have gained more than 7% during this period.

JPMorgan strategist Mislav Matejka echoed the views of Wilson’s team, saying, “AI is unlikely to be the only story in town.”

Broader Markets To Be Bumpy Amid Chip Stocks Weakness, Says Morgan Stanley

Morgan Stanley also cautioned that weakness in chip stocks could lead to a bumpy ride for the broader stock market.

The PHLX Semiconductor Index (SOX) is down nearly 14% over the past two weeks, while the broader Nasdaq Composite index is down slightly over 1% during the same period.

The firm added that while the weakness in chip stocks is due to investors rotating out of the sector, the fact that it is happening to major technology companies could result in a “weaker equity market overall,” according to a report by MarketWatch.

These Sectors Stand To Benefit, According To Morgan Stanley

Wilson and his team expect the consumer discretionary, biotech, and transport sectors to benefit from the rotation out of chip stocks, driven by falling oil prices and elevated interest rates.

“Given our view that policy rate expectations remain overly hawkish this year in the context of our house call for core CPI to stay contained below 3%, we think biotech offers an attractive risk/reward opportunity,” the firm stated.

According to data from the CME FedWatch tool, there are higher odds that the Federal Reserve will hike interest rates by 25 basis points rather than keep them unchanged at the September, October, and December meetings of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC).

Wilson and his team expect the S&P 500 to top 8,000 points by the end of this year, implying an upside potential of about 7% from current levels. The S&P 500 index has gained more than 9% so far this year.

The firm also expects hyperscalers to soften their capital expenditure projections amid concerns of overspending. Between them, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon plan to spend about $525 billion in capital expenditure in 2026 to fund their AI infrastructure buildout ambitions.

The Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ) is up 29% over the past 12 months, while the Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF (AIQ) is up 42%.

The iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) is up 134% during this period.

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Did Your Chappals Go Missing at a Temple? Here's What Tradition Says

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:58:51 +0530

Most of us think losing our chappals at a temple is a bad sign. We get upset and feel it's bad luck. But according to astrological beliefs, there's a completely different, surprising explanation for it.

Too Smelly For Gym? Chinese Fitness Centre Refunds Money Over Body Odour Complaints, Asks Him To Join Elsewhere

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:58:40 +0530

A Chinese guy obtained a refund from a gym that requested him to stop using the facility and even offered him a three-month membership card at another gym because the management had received too many complaints about his strong body smell. The man, named only as Shi, resides in Hangzhou in eastern China’s Zhejiang province. According to local media Zhejiang TV, he paid 6,388 yuan (US$940) for a three-year gym membership in May 2025, which allowed him to utilise the facilities until the end of April 2028.

Shi said he had lost a lot of weight a decade ago, dropping from 125kg to 80kg. Since then, he became a workout enthusiast and took part in various sports regularly. Shi worked out five times a week after joining the gym. However, on June 20, he got a message from the gym telling him that his membership was being cancelled due to several complaints about the overpowering stench he was causing within the building. Before making this choice, we gave it a lot of serious thinking. The gym informed Shi, "We will reimburse your money for the remainder of your membership period."

The message continued: “We are already under pressure to do business amid the economic downturn and we are trying to treat each customer well. But many customers repeatedly complained to us that the strong odour in the gym had affected them. So we have to end your membership.” Shi said he received 3,888 yuan (US$570) from the gym as well as a three-month membership card to another gym.

The media was informed by the gym where Shi used to work out that he had a tendency to sweat a lot and smell strongly.

Numerous patrons reported that the machine Shi had just used or was passing by had an overtly unpleasant odour. The machine, the treadmills, the treadmills, the treadmills. The gym said it had once allocated exercise equipment in the corner for his use and asked him to come during non-rush hours. But that did not quash the complaints.

Shi acknowledged that he perspires a lot, but in an effort to lessen the effect on others, he typically carried many towels to cover the equipment and wipe away his sweat.

Lioness Pins Gujarat Man To Ground For 30 Minutes; He Lays Still To Survive, Internet Stunned (WATCH)

Shweta Kumari — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:57:03 +0530

A spine-chilling lion attack in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district has gone viral after a video captured the moment a Maldhari man remained trapped beneath a lioness for nearly 30 minutes while fighting to stay alive. The terrifying incident unfolded on Monday in Garajiya village of Palitana taluka, where Maldhari Kalu Parmar was attacked by a subadult lioness outside his home. According to villagers, the big cat had wandered through the village earlier and had reportedly confronted another resident before turning its attention to Parmar.

The lioness suddenly pounced on Parmar, knocking him to the ground and pinning him beneath her. Rather than repeated bites, the animal sat over him, pressing one of her forelegs across his body while occasionally gripping his arm, preventing any attempt to escape.

LION ATTACKS ON ANIMAL CARE TAKER A lioness attacked a Maldhari family near Palitana in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district.- Lion trapped the guy for 30 minutes- Look at the guy how he consoles Lion by Touching his head - After being rescued and rushed to a hospital for… pic.twitter.com/gWYDg9AYkX

— Jeet (@JeetN25) July 6, 2026

The now-viral footage captures the tense ordeal as Parmar remained remarkably still, making no sudden movements. In a desperate bid to avoid provoking the predator, he is seen gently patting the lioness, seemingly trying to keep it calm. Around him, terrified villagers shouted, screamed and hurled stones in repeated attempts to drive the animal away, but the lioness refused to budge for several long minutes.

The video also shows a second lion roaming near Parmar's house while the lioness continued to hold him captive.

“I was going to feed my cattle when the lioness suddenly attacked me from behind and pulled me down. She caught hold of my hand and did not let me go for a long time,” Parmar said in a local media interview.

Following the attack, Parmar was rushed to Palitana Government Hospital before being shifted to Sir T Hospital in Bhavnagar for specialised treatment.

Villagers claimed the lioness had entered the residential area earlier in the morning after leaving a buffalo and charged towards another resident. “A buffalo came in between another resident and the lion and that is how the villager and his mother survived,” a villager claimed.

Residents alleged that they have repeatedly warned the forest department about frequent lion movement in the village over the past several years and demanded urgent intervention to prevent such dangerous encounters.

Pradip Ghodakiya, Range Forest Officer, Talaja, Bhavnagar, said the lion entered the village and the crowd that gathered on the streets disturbed the animal, triggering the incident.

"The lion entered the village, and people came out on the streets. This disturbed the big cat. As a result, Parmar, who was close to the lion, was caught. He has only suffered injuries of the nail of the lion. The lion has not attacked him with the teeth," Ghodakiya said.

Deputy Conservator of Forest Chirag Amin confirmed that the area falls within a regular lion habitat and that officials are working to capture the animal.

“The village is a regular habitat of the lion in village as it in Palitana Habitat. The lion has been identified and team with tranquilising guns are in the area to capture the lion,” Amin said.

Black Cobra Found in Rat Trap Instead of Mouse at Rajasthan Home, Family Left Shocked

Divya Danu — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:53:29 +0530

A family in Rajasthan's Baran district had an unexpected and frightening experience after finding a large black cobra inside a rat trap placed in their home. The incident took place in Semla village under the Chhabra area and quickly drew the attention of villagers. The family had set up the trap near a cupboard to deal with rats. However, when they checked it late at night, they discovered that a venomous cobra had entered the cage instead.

Amarnath Yatra 2026: Ice Shivling Shrinks to Around 1 Foot as Over 56,000 Devotees Offer Prayers

Cobra spotted around 1 am

According to homeowner Bharat Singh Lodha, the trap had been placed near a cupboard where rats were often seen. At around 1 am on Sunday night, he noticed movement inside the cage.

When he looked closely, he was shocked to see a black cobra sitting inside with its hood raised. The family immediately stepped back and raised an alarm.

Within minutes, neighbours gathered outside the house. Nobody dared to go near the trapped snake because of the risk of a bite.

Mobile Torch Becomes Bus Headlight? Viral Karnataka Video Sparks Safety Outrage (WATCH)

Forest department informed for safe rescue

The family informed the Forest Department, requesting officials to safely rescue the snake. The cobra was expected to be removed carefully and released back into its natural habitat instead of being harmed.

The incident caused panic in the village, with many residents coming to see the unusual sight.

Snakes entering homes during monsoon

Local residents said snakes are often seen near houses during the rainy season because their underground burrows get filled with water. As a result, they move into dry places, including homes and other buildings.

Forest officials have advised people to remain alert during the monsoon. They have urged residents to check dark corners, cupboards and storage areas with a torch before reaching inside. Officials also said people should avoid handling snakes themselves and immediately inform the Forest Department if one is spotted.

Out of Control Car Runs Over Two Women in Gujarat's Lunawada, Driver Flees After Crash (WATCH)

Karnataka Shocker: 17-Year-Old Pre-University College Student Stabbed While Waiting At Bus Stop

Shweta Kumari — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:36:03 +0530

A 17-year-old pre-university (PU) college student was allegedly stabbed by a 28-year-old man while waiting at a bus stop in Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada district on Monday, triggering a massive police hunt for the absconding accused. The incident took place at the Montimaru Padpu bus stop in Bantwal taluk, according to police.

The accused has been identified as Javvar (28), a resident of Montimaru Padpu who reportedly runs a grocery shop near the bus stop.

According to police, the teenager was waiting to board a bus to her college when Javvar allegedly launched a sudden knife attack on her. Panicked, the passengers immediately raising an alarm. The accused fled the scene before he could be apprehended.

The injured student was rushed to a private hospital in Mangaluru, where she is currently undergoing treatment.

After receiving information about the attack, police reached the spot, conducted a preliminary investigation, and later recorded the victim's statement at the hospital.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear and is being probed.

A case has been registered, and a special police team has been constituted to trace and arrest the absconding accused.

Yuvraj Singh hails Neymar as a 'true champion' after his retirement

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:31:02 +0530

Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh penned a heartfelt tribute for Brazil's star footballer Neymar Jr. after the latter announced his retirement from international football after the five-time world champions suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 on Sunday. Yuvraj congratulated Neymar on "a legendary international career", calling him "an absolute entertainer and a true champion".

The five-time world champions were knocked out after Norway forward Erling Haaland scored twice late at New York New Jersey MetLife Stadium in the match to send his team into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in the nation's history. Notably, Neymar also got on the scoresheet, converting a stoppage-time penalty.

Yuvraj's 'True Champion' Tribute

In an Instagram story, Yuvraj praised Neymar, saying he always displayed rare, unteachable talent that captivated fans from his debut to his final World Cup goal. He congratulated him on his career, calling him an absolute entertainer and true champion. He said, "As an athlete, you just know when someone has that rare, unteachable magic. From your debut to your final World Cup goal, you kept us all glued to the screen. Congratulations on a legendary international career, Neymar an absolute entertainer and a true champion!"

Neymar's Legendary International Career

Brazil's all-time top scorer ends his international career with 80 goals in 130 matches, having been a key figure for the national team over the years. Notably, the final goal came at the same stadium where he made his debut in 2010.

FIFA World Cup 2026: How Norway Stunned Brazil

Coming to the match, Norway produced a disciplined and clinical performance to stun one of the tournament favourites. Brazil dominated much of the contest and were handed an ideal chance to take the lead after Kristoffer Ajer was penalised for a foul on Matheus Cunha inside the area. However, goalkeeper Orjan Nyland brilliantly denied Bruno Guimaraes from the penalty spot to keep the scores level.

Carlo Ancelotti's side continued to press after the break, but Nyland repeatedly frustrated the Brazilian attack before Norway seized control late in the contest.

Haaland's Late Brace Sinks Brazil

Substitute Andreas Schjelderup changed the momentum after coming on and delivered a pinpoint cross in the 79th minute for Haaland to head Norway in front.

Moments later, the prolific striker struck again, calmly firing a left-footed finish beyond Alisson Becker to double the advantage.

Neymar converted a stoppage-time penalty after Leo Ostigard was penalised for a foul on Casemiro, but it proved only a consolation as Brazil crashed out.

The victory extended Norway's unbeaten record against Brazil to five matches and secured a historic place in the quarter-finals, where Stale Solbakken's side will face either Mexico or England.

Haaland's two goals also took him to seven for the tournament, drawing level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Indian markets surge: Sensex up 521 pts, Nifty crosses 24,430 mark

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:30:58 +0530

Indian equity markets ended higher on Monday, with the benchmark indices gaining more than 0.6 per cent, supported by stable crude oil prices and buying in financial, auto and realty stocks. The NSE Nifty 50 closed at 24,430.35, up 159.50 points or 0.66 per cent, while the BSE Sensex settled at 78,285.07, gaining 521.16 points or 0.67 per cent.

Expert Analysis

Market experts said stable crude oil prices supported investor sentiment and strengthened the broader macroeconomic outlook. Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Investments Limited, said Indian equities traded with a positive bias despite mixed global cues, supported by stable crude prices. He said, "Indian equities traded with a positive bias despite mixed global cues, supported by stable crude prices. Continued softness in crude would support inflation, the current account balance, OMC profitability, and overall macro stability. Globally, profit-booking in crowded AI-led trades impacted the global market while India could perform well led by large caps due to improvement in FIIs inflows trend. On the domestic front, financials, autos, realty, and oil & gas led the gains". He further added, "Financials were supported by expectations of healthy private bank earnings, while autos benefited from strong volume trends and improving demand outlook. Realty remained buoyed by resilient housing demand."

Sectoral Performance

Among the sectoral indices on the NSE, Nifty Realty emerged as the top performer, rising 1.75 per cent, followed by Nifty Auto, which gained 1.38 per cent. Nifty Metal advanced 0.88 per cent, Nifty Pharma rose 0.54 per cent, and Nifty FMCG added 0.27 per cent. On the other hand, Nifty PSU Bank declined 0.83 per cent, Nifty Media slipped 0.87 per cent, while Nifty IT fell 0.52 per cent.

Top Gainers and Losers

Among the Nifty 50 stocks, the top gainers included HDFC Bank, Hindalco, ONGC, Bajaj Auto and Mahindra & Mahindra. The top losers included Kotak Bank, Max Healthcare, TCS, Coal India, Bajaj Finserv and Wipro.

Commodity and Currency Markets

In the commodities market, Brent crude oil prices continued to soften, trading 0.61 per cent lower at USD 71.66 per barrel at the time of filing this report. Gold prices also declined 0.48 per cent to Rs 1,46,672 per 10 grams for 24-karat gold, while silver prices fell 0.26 per cent to Rs 2,36,800 per kg.

Asian Markets Overview

Asian markets witnessed a mixed trend. Japan's Nikkei 225 slipped 0.15 per cent to 69,637, Taiwan's weighted index declined 0.48 per cent to 46,556, and South Korea's KOSPI fell 0.46 per cent to 8,051. Meanwhile, Singapore's Straits Times gained 0.30 per cent to 5,259, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng advanced 0.78 per cent to 23,533. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mahadev case: ED seeks confirmation for attachment of ₹940 cr assets

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:30:33 +0530

The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has filed a complaint before the Adjudicating Authority under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), seeking confirmation of the provisional attachment of assets worth ₹940.77 crore in connection with the alleged Mahadev Online Book money laundering case. The complaint names Delhi-based businessman Vikas Garg, along with his family members and companies, as defendants in the proceedings. The ED has alleged that assets linked to Vikas Garg are proceeds of crime or were acquired from such proceeds. The complaint has been filed under Section 5(5) of the PMLA following the Provisional Attachment Order dated June 5, 2026.

Details of Attached Assets

According to the ED, assets worth ₹940.77 crore have been attached as they are alleged proceeds of crime or properties allegedly acquired from such proceeds. The attachment includes movable assets worth ₹893.03 crore and immovable properties worth ₹47.73 crore.

Among the largest attachments are 12.84 lakh shares representing a 64.20% stake in Ebix Inc., held through Eraaya Lifespaces Ltd., valued at ₹765.77 crore. The ED has also referred to another 10.66% shareholding in Ebix Inc., valued at ₹127.26 crore, alleging that the value of those proceeds of crime has already been consumed and is therefore not available for attachment under the PMLA.

Immovable Properties Seized

The ED has also attached several properties allegedly linked to the accused. These include luxury apartments in The Amaryllis in Delhi, commercial properties in Safdarjung Development Scheme, a residential property on Babar Road, an apartment on Shivaji Marg, a flat owned by Vikas Garg HUF, besides properties in Goa, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan and Dehradun held by the companies named in the complaint.

Basis of the Investigation

According to the ED complaint, the ED has reason to believe that these assets were acquired from the alleged proceeds of crime and are therefore liable to attachment under the PMLA. The agency has informed the Adjudicating Authority that the provisional attachment order has been served on all the defendants.

The complaint states that the money laundering investigation is based on several predicate offences registered by the Chhattisgarh Police, Andhra Pradesh Police, Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Raipur, and Kolkata Police. These cases relate to allegations of criminal conspiracy, cheating, forgery, use of forged documents, corruption and illegal betting activities.

Predicate Case Details

Referring to one of the predicate cases, the ED states that the Chhattisgarh Police had alleged that an illegal online betting network was being operated through the Mahadev Online Book platform and related websites. According to the complaint, the accused allegedly created betting IDs, collected money from bettors and facilitated betting on cricket and other sporting events.

The complaint further alleges that during the investigation, some accused claimed they had been trained by persons identified as Sourabh Chandrakar, alleged to be a co-founder of Mahadev Online Book, and another individual to operate the betting platform. It also alleges that bank accounts used in the betting operations were obtained by cheating and impersonating unsuspecting persons. The ED has requested the Adjudicating Authority to confirm the provisional attachment of the properties under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta distributes financial aid to underprivileged families

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:30:28 +0530

CM Distributes Financial Aid

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta distributed financial assistance to underprivileged families from the Rohtas Nagar and Bawana Assembly constituencies during a program held at the Chief Minister Jan Seva Sadan on Monday.

Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Gupta reiterated the Delhi Government's commitment to the welfare of its citizens. "The Delhi Government stands firmly with every needy family with complete sensitivity and dedication. Providing all possible support to every citizen during difficult times is our government's top priority," she stated. The event witnessed the presence of Rohtas Nagar MLA Jitender Mahajan, who joined the Chief Minister in extending support to the beneficiary families.

Delhi EV Subsidy Portal Launched to Curb Pollution

Earlier on July 3, in a significant move to curb rising pollution levels in the national capital, Gupta launched the Delhi Electric Vehicle (EV) subsidy portal. Under the city's new EV Policy, the government has announced substantial financial incentives across various vehicle categories to encourage a faster transition to clean energy.

According to the policy, buyers of electric two-wheelers will receive a subsidy of ₹30,000, while electric three-wheelers are eligible for ₹50,000. For the N1 category (light commercial vehicles), the government has earmarked a subsidy of ₹1 lakh. Furthermore, all electric cars priced below ₹30 lakh will be fully exempt from Road Tax and Registration Fees. To further incentivise the shift, the government is also offering scrappage benefits for those replacing old internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles with new EVs.

Speaking at the launch, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasised that the policy was a long-overdue necessity for the city. "This EV policy was essential for this city. For years, there were discussions about how to solve the pollution problem, yet no clear solution emerged. Had that solution been found--or had this EV policy been introduced in this form earlier--neither the government nor the public would be facing the immense pressure we face today," the CM said.

She further noted that given the "constantly rising pollution levels," it was imperative to implement aggressive measures. (ANI)

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BJP, JD(S) accuse DK Shivakumar of manipulating Karnataka voter list

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:30:27 +0530

BJP and JD(S) in Karnataka on Monday accused the Chief Minister DK Shivakumar of calling people together to fill enumeration forms for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, in mosques and madrassas, and filed a complaint with the State Chief Electoral Officer. The NDA leaders said that they would file a complaint with the Election Commission in Delhi if no action is taken against the state government in 24 hours.

'CM manipulating voter list': Union Ministers

Union Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje accused DK Shivakumar of "manipulating the voter list." Karandlaje said, "I submitted a video, wrote to the Election Commission... Calling everyone together to fill out the enumeration form in a madrassa or elsewhere is illegal. The law says everyone should be provided a form at their door, and the form should be brought back. But Karnataka is the only state where this is happening otherwise. The Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar is manipulating the voter list to include only minority groups, particularly Muslims, to secure his position."

Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy also accused Shivakumar of "illegal activities" during the SIR exercise. The JD(S) leader said, "This is our fourth complaint. We have provided documentary evidence showing how this government is misusing its office, instructing our officials on how to conduct themselves, and illegally adding names for its own benefit. We requested the CEO to direct the state government to take action on this. The CEO has already sent a message to the Election Commission of India, and I believe two officials have been deployed here from there. We will wait another day or two for action, and if this process continues, we will meet the Election Commissioner in Delhi."

"The Election Commission took strict measures, under the guidance of the Supreme Court, to ensure that no illegal immigrants or illicit activities are permitted in West Bengal. Illegal activities are taking place here under the instructions of this 'great' Chief Minister; that is why we are opposing," Kumaraswamy added.

'Submitted photos, videos': Pralhad Joshi

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said that the BJP-JD(S) delegation has submitted photographs and video evidence of the alleged irregularities to the Karnataka CEO. Joshi told reporters, "We are not making allegations. Enumeration forms (SIR) are being distributed in certain Muslim localities--at madrasas, mosques, and the homes of local Congress leaders, as well as to Imams and Mutawallis. We have submitted photographs and videos regarding this. BLA-2 agents are not being informed because this activity is being carried out at a single place. Usually, when someone moves to a different location, the BLA-2 is aware of it, but that is not happening here."

"Many people have complained about this over the past seven days, yet the state government has taken no action. The enumeration conducted last week is illegal and violates Election Commission guidelines; therefore, we have demanded that action be taken and the enumeration be conducted afresh. We will wait for action to be taken over the next 24 hours, after which the future course of action will be decided in a meeting between the two parties," he added.

Formal Complaint and SIR Timeline

In a complaint addressed to the Karnataka CEO, the delegation noted that the Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are not following the SIR guidelines. The complaint noted that the evidence backing the allegations has been shared on social media. The complaint raised serious concerns over the SIR process, saying that the officials who were supposed to conduct the exercise have been undermining the true spirit of democracy.

The enumeration phase of the SIR exercise began on June 30 in Karnataka and will go on till July 29. The draft rolls will be published on August 5, with final rolls to be out on October 7. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi in Indonesia: Diaspora seeks deeper ties in mining, energy

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:30:25 +0530

Diaspora Calls for Deeper Economic Cooperation

Members of the Indian diaspora expressed their expectations for PM Modi's visit, calling for deeper cooperation across mining, energy, infrastructure and emerging technologies. Bharat Kumar Jain, CEO and promoter of Urja Group, said companies engaged in coal, nickel and gold mining are highly optimistic about expanding bilateral trade between the two countries.

He noted that while trade has been steadily increasing in recent years, there remains significant untapped potential, particularly in sectors where collaboration is still limited. He highlighted, "The economy of Indonesia is mainly based on resources and commodities. They have a lot of natural resources; you will see that nickel is the largest in the world, gold is the fourth biggest, and there is a lot in coal as well." However, he pointed out that Indian participation in these sectors remains lower compared to other major global players, particularly China.

Strengthening Ties and Mutual Trust

Anand Chandak, who works with PT Universal Support in the coal mining sector, highlighted the strengthening ties between the two nations. He said repeated high-level engagements since 2018 have deepened mutual trust and cooperation, making the Indian diaspora feel more connected and comfortable in Indonesia. "It has been a great strength, mutual bond, respect and strengthening our relationship between both the nations," he added.

Synergies in Defence, Infrastructure and AI

Siddharth Taparia, a long-time employee of a major business group involved in natural resources, ports, defence and the power sector, highlighted, "Indonesia is getting a large market in India." Noting strong enthusiasm on both sides, he said, "Synergies are possible in many places like defense, infrastructure, AI and manufacturing." "There are a lot of opportunities for MOUs. Ease of business will be given priority," he concluded. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Taj Mahal dispute: Allahabad HC asks Centre, ASI for counter-affidavits

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:30:23 +0530

The Allahabad High Court has intervened in the long-standing legal dispute concerning the claim of a 'Tejo Mahalaya' temple within the Taj Mahal complex, directing the Union Government and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to submit their counter-affidavits. Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal issued the directive while hearing a petition challenging the lower courts' refusal to appoint an Advocate Commissioner for a survey and scientific documentation of the site. In addition to the government and the ASI, the court has also issued a formal notice to respondent Pankaj Kumar Verma.

Legal Background of the Dispute

The issue stems from a declaratory suit filed in 2015 at the Agra Civil Court, in which the petitioners--representing the 'Lord Shri Agreshwar Mahadev Nagnatheshwar Virajman Tejo Mahalaya Temple'--seek legal recognition of the complex as a temple site.

During the ongoing proceedings in the Agra court, the petitioners moved an application seeking the appointment of an Advocate Commissioner to conduct a survey and photography of the premises to ascertain the historical nature of the structure. This request was initially rejected by the trial court, and a subsequent revision plea was dismissed by the Additional District Judge on the grounds of maintainability.

Arguments for Scientific Survey

Senior Advocate Hari Shankar Jain, representing the petitioners via video conference, argued that the lower courts erred in dismissing their plea. He maintained that a scientific survey and photographic record are critical for reaching a fair and definitive resolution of the dispute.

A New Turn in the Case

The High Court's latest order marks a new turn in the case, as the judicial process now shifts to obtaining official responses from the central authorities regarding the proposed survey. (ANI)

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FIFA World Cup 2026: Portugal Star Cristiano Ronaldo's Tense Exchange with Journalist Goes Viral (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:03:45 +0530

Portugal captain and football legend Cristiano Ronaldo had a tense exchange of words with a journalist during the press conference ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 clash against Spain at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington on Monday, July 6.

Ronaldo-led Portugal will take on Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, with a place in the quarterfinals at stake. Portugal booked their spot after a dramatic 2-1 win over Croatia in the Round of 32. Though the match was marred by controversial refereeing decisions and late drama, the Portuguese held their nerve to progress.

Portugal will face Spain for the 42nd time in international football, with Spain currently holding a superior record of 17 victories to Portugal's 6, while 18 encounters have ended in draws.

Also Read: FIFA WC: 'Biggest by far,' says Haaland on historic Norway win vs Brazil

Ronaldo’s Heated Exchange with Journalist Goes Viral

As Portugal prepares for the round of 16 clash against Spain, captain Cristiano Ronaldo encountered a moment of unexpected tension during a media session. While speaking to the reporters, the 41-year-old noticed Brazilian journalist Marcelo Bechler in the crowd and challenged him to ‘ask a good question’.

“Give it (mic) to the guy in front of him. The guy who doesn't like me. I want to see if he can ask a good question.” Ronaldo said.

“It's him. I know he doesn't like me,” he asserted.

When Marcelo Bechler asked Ronaldo the ‘most difficult thing’ about playing in a World Cup at the age of 41, the Portugal captain did not hold back.

“What's the hardest thing? Talking to you. To some of you. Especially those who don't like me. You're one of them, I know.” Ronaldo replied.

Rapaz!Cristiano Ronaldo, na coletiva de imprensa, para o Marcelo Bechler: "Desafio aquele ali, aquele ali, a fazer uma pergunta boa, já que não gosta de mim."Marcelo Bechler: "Qual a coisa mais difícil numa Copa do Mundo com 41 anos?" Cristiano Ronaldo: "Falar com vocês,… pic.twitter.com/vn7FuSbuPa

— LIBERTA DEPRE (@liberta___depre) July 5, 2026

The tense exchange between Cristiano Ronaldo and Brazilian journalist Marcelo Bechler caught the attention of other reporters and journalists in the media room as well as the netizens, as the video of the same went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), making it one of the most talked-about in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who is often known for his intense competitive nature, unwavering self-belief, and unfiltered candor, has rarely shied away from challenging the media throughout his illustrious career.

Who Is Marcelo Bechler?

Cristiano Ronaldo’s brief confrontation with Brazilian journalist Marcelo Bechler has sparked widespread curiosity regarding the reporter, who is well-known in football circles, particularly for his deep coverage of European leagues and high-profile player movements.

Marcelo Bechler is a prominent Brazilian football journalist who is working with TNT Sports and is part of their dedicated team covering major international football events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has established himself as one of the most respected football journalists in the world, particularly known for his extensive network and in-depth reporting on European football.

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A graduate in journalism from Pontificia Universidade Catolica de Minas Gerais in 2008, Bechler shot to fame when he reported a famous and record-breaking transfer saga: Neymar Jr.’s €222 million move from FC Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. At that time, the transfer was not confirmed until both clubs officially announced it on August 3, 2017, leading to Bechler's reputation as a top-tier investigative journalist.

In his career as a football journalist, Marcelo Bechler covered the La Liga, UEFA Champions League, and FIFA World Cup among other major global football competitions. Based in Barcelona for over a decade, he established himself as a key correspondent for European football before returning to Brazil in 2025 to become a commentator for TNT Sports.

Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026: France Star Mbappe’s Cold Shoulder Draws Paraguayan Goalkeeper’s Fury (WATCH)

MP Waqf Board: Arif Masood opposes non-Muslim members, cites SC case

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:00:36 +0530

Congress MLA Arif Masood on Monday opposed the Madhya Pradesh government's decision to reconstitute the state Waqf Board with non-Muslim members, alleging that the move was premature as the matter is currently under trial before the Supreme Court.

The state government recently reconstituted the Madhya Pradesh Waqf Board under the provisions of the new Waqf law, making it the first state in the country to do so. The newly constituted 10-member board includes, for the first time, two non-Muslim experts and four women members.

Masood Alleges Violation, Plans to Move SC

Reacting to the development, Masood, who is also an All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) member, claimed that the issue of including members from outside the Muslim community was one of the key points being examined by the Supreme Court. "Including members from another community in the Waqf Board is unfair as the matter is still being argued in the Supreme Court. The apex court itself took note of two issues, one of which was that a person from another community should not be included. The court made the observation based on the arguments presented by us, the Personal Law Board, and the other petitioners," Masood told ANI

It is true that the Supreme Court did not grant a stay, because the Attorney General told the court that if required, the government would make improvements and sought time, the Congress leader said. "When the entire process is still underway, why has the Madhya Pradesh government acted in such haste. The other state governments across the country are not taking such decisions, yet the Mohan Yadav government is doing so. Furthermore, there is another violation that the provision was for two members from another community, but you appointed three (referring to two members as well as the Commissioner of Backward Classes and Minority Welfare). I object to this decision and will move to the Supreme Court for the purpose," he said.

New Board Composition

In a first-of-its-kind move, the state government has included two Hindu members in the newly formed 10-member board. A notification regarding the reconstitution has been issued in the Madhya Pradesh Gazette. Along with this, Sanwar Patel has been appointed as the Chairman of the MP Waqf Board.

The two Hindu members included in the board are Manoj Malpani from Indore and Animesh Bhargava from Raghogarh, Guna. The newly appointed members of the board include Najma Heptulla (New Delhi), Atif Aqueel (MLA Bhopal North), Faizan Khan (Ujjain), Sister Fatema Choudhary (Indore), Shaista Sultan (Councillor Berasia Bhopal), and Shabana Khan (Councillor Ratlam).

Additionally, the Commissioner of Backward Classes and Minority Welfare has also been appointed as a member.

Waqf Amendment Act Under Legal Challenge

Notably on April 5, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which was passed by Parliament after heated debates in both Houses. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board had already moved the Supreme Court against the constitutional validity of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Himachal Pradesh: IMD issues Orange Alert for five districts

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:00:32 +0530

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for five districts of Himachal Pradesh for the next two to three days, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall, increased risk of landslides, flash floods, rising water levels in rivers and streams, and travel disruptions, IMD Himachal Pradesh Centre Head Shobhit Katiyar said on Monday.

Widespread Rainfall Expected

Speaking to ANI here, Katiyar said the southwest monsoon will remain active across the state for at least the next week, with the most intense rainfall expected over the mid-hill and adjoining lower hill districts. "The monsoon is expected to remain active across Himachal Pradesh for around the next one week. The mid-hill and adjoining lower hill regions are likely to receive widespread rainfall. We have issued an Orange Alert for Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Solan districts for the next two to three days, where isolated places may witness heavy to very heavy rainfall," Katiyar said.

Rainfall Timeline

He said rainfall activity would continue beyond July 7, with isolated heavy showers likely between July 8 and July 10, while rainfall intensity is expected to increase again from July 11. "Heavy rainfall activity is likely to continue till around July 12. Thereafter, between July 12 and July 16-17, the monsoon is expected to become even more active across the state. During this period, districts such as Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Solan and Sirmaur are likely to receive the highest rainfall," he added.

Below-Normal Rainfall So Far

Katiyar said Himachal Pradesh has so far recorded below-normal rainfall during the current monsoon season. "From June 1 to July 5, the state has received about 16 per cent below-normal rainfall. Against the normal rainfall of around 180.36 mm during this period, the state has recorded nearly 151.5 mm," he said.

Risks and Safety Advisories

The IMD official cautioned that continuous rainfall could significantly increase the risk of landslides and mudslides, particularly in vulnerable areas, while rivers, streams and other water bodies are expected to witness a rise in water levels and flow. "People should avoid venturing close to rivers, streams and other water bodies. Heavy rainfall may reduce visibility, make roads slippery and increase the chances of traffic accidents. We also expect partial damage to horticulture and agricultural crops in some areas," Katiyar said.

Appealing to residents and tourists to remain vigilant, he urged the public to follow all advisories issued by the IMD, the state government and district administrations. "We request everyone to strictly follow weather advisories and instructions issued by local authorities so that loss of life and property can be minimised," he said.

Active Monsoon Phase to Persist

According to the IMD, the active monsoon phase is likely to persist over much of Himachal Pradesh until around July 22, with the strongest impact expected in the mid-hill districts before rainfall activity gradually weakens after July 23. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

OPEC+ unlikely to defend price floor, eyes oil availability: Expert

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:00:29 +0530

OPEC+ is unlikely to focus on defending a price floor in the near term and will instead be more concerned with oil availability, as the Strait of Hormuz remains only half-normalized according to Anindya Banerjee, Senior Vice President and Head of Commodity Research, Currency, Commodities and Interest Rates, Kotak Securities.

OPEC+ is an alliance of oil-producing nations that coordinates global crude oil production to manage and stabilize prices. It combines the 12 core members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) with 11 non-member nations, most notably Russia.

Brent Crude Outlook and 'Perfect Storm' Risk

Banerjee sees Brent crude staying below $85/bbl as beneficial for India, but flagged that a full normalization of Hormuz over the next six to nine months could push the market into a "perfect storm" of surplus if OPEC+ continues rolling back cuts amid weak demand.

OPEC+ Internal Challenges

On the OPEC+ handling Iraq and Kazakhstan's persistent overproduction while allowing an August output increase, Banerjee said the group is facing a fragmented and challenging environment. "Since Covid they had to cut back... first 2 million barrels, again And then they had to ensure every member adheres to that. That was a huge challenge. And now we have seen how the OPEC is fragmented. UAE has stepped out. Iraq is saying that we want a higher quota."

He noted that despite official cuts of around 6 million bpd, the market still had an estimated 2-3 million bpd surplus pre-war. Currently, 5-6 million bpd remains offline, which is acting as a floor for prices. The recent rollback announcements are "more of a sentimental thing" to cap prices, he said.

Strait of Hormuz and Price Crash Scenario

Banerjee said that on a good month about 2,000 tankers used to transit. "Now it is still, I would say on a very good day, you are able to do half of that." Empty tankers need to return and shipping companies need comfort, so full normalization will take 6-9 months.

"If things were to come back online completely over the next six to nine months in Hormuz, this oil prices would crash," Banerjee said, adding that a resolution in Ukraine and Russia's return could add more supply just as demand lags.

Impact on India

For India, lower oil prices are a net positive. "India is very well-placed because... with the current dynamics which is playing out the lower oil prices which is going to be quite beneficial to us." He said inflation pressures start to build only if Brent goes above $85.

Gas Market Outlook

Gas markets remain tighter and won't crash like oil due to logistics constraints, though Qatar supply should improve over 6 months.

Indian Rupee Outlook

On currency, Banerjee sees the rupee with a "great taping till September." His base case is USD-INR at 92-93, with a pessimistic dollar scenario at 90-91, supported by RBI opening the debt market to FPIs and potential $50 billion+ inflows from FCNRB and ECB deposits offering 7 per cent+ rates to NRIs. However, the RBI may intervene to rebuild reserves, limiting appreciation.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

NVDA Stock Swings In Premarket: Report Says Nvidia's Next-Gen AI Rack Delayed By A Year

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:00:07 +0530

Nvidia’s NVL72x2 back-to-back rack architecture, an alternative to Kyber, was also canceled.
Nvidia’s current-generation Rubin chip systems are in full production and begin shipping this fall.
Stocktwits sentiment for NVDA has been ‘bearish’ for a week, with traders frustrated over the stock’s underperformance.

Nvidia Corp. shares rose 0.2% in premarket after a volatile start on Monday, despite a report saying that one of its key next-generation products is delayed.

Nvidia’s upcoming Kyber rack, designed to house its 2027 Rubin Ultra chips, has been pushed back by a year to 2028, according to a semiconductor news and analysis outlet, SemiAnalysis, in an X thread on Sunday.

Kyber is a server cabinet that packs 144 of Nvidia’s most powerful chips into a single unit so they can work together as one giant computer. The setback stems from difficulties manufacturing a key circuit board at the heart of the system, according to the report.

“Kyber NVL144 rack architecture has been delayed to 2028 as the PCB midplane remains challenging from a manufacturability standpoint,” the outlet reported, referring to a specialized circuit board that connects electronic modules within a system.

Nvidia’s NVL72x2 back-to-back rack architecture, an alternative to Kyber, was also canceled, leaving Rubin Ultra with a limited scope for scale-up.

Nvidia’s current-generation Rubin chip systems are in full production and begin shipping this fall. Early customers include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud.

Other Nvidia Catalysts

Last Wednesday, Nvidia announced a revenue-sharing program on Wednesday designed to give AI startups, model builders, and enterprises access to its computing infrastructure without requiring them to finance hardware buildouts themselves. In return, Nvidia will take a share of their future revenue.

The company said two firms, Australia’s Sharon AI and Indonesia’s Firmus Technologies, were the first to sign up for the program.

Retail View On NVDA

On Stocktwits, the retail sentiment for NVDA was ‘bearish,’ unchanged over the past week. The message volume for the ticker rose 9% in this period. Traders remain increasingly frustrated by the stock's underwhelming performance, which is up a mere 4.6% year to date.

NVDA stock gained 7.4% in the first half of the year, recording their worst six-month performance since that latter part of 2022. “$NVDA my word for this week is patience,” wrote a trader.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Karnataka: Only Four Lecturers for 332 Students at Sindhanur Government PU College, Parents Raise Alarm

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:55:47 +0530

Hundreds of students at the Government Boys' Pre-University College at PWD Camp in Sindhanur town of Raichur district are facing academic difficulties due to a severe shortage of lecturers. Despite enrolling more than 550 students across the Science, Arts and Commerce streams, the college continues to function with an inadequate number of teaching staff. The situation is particularly critical in the Science stream, where just four lecturers are responsible for teaching 332 students, raising concerns among parents and students about the quality of education and the timely completion of the syllabus.

Admissions Rise But Lecturer Strength Remains Unchanged

The college witnessed a significant increase in admissions for the 2026-27 academic year following the outstanding performance of its second-year PU students in the 2025-26 examinations.

However, the Department of Pre-University Education has not appointed additional lecturers to match the increase in student enrolment. As a result, the existing faculty members are struggling to manage regular classes, laboratory sessions and other academic activities, leaving students at a disadvantage.

Government College a Lifeline for Economically Weaker Students

The Government Boys' Pre-University College serves as an important educational institution for students from economically weaker and middle-class families who cannot afford the fees charged by private colleges.

The college currently has 332 students in the Science stream, including 208 first-year and 124 second-year students. The Arts stream has 120 students, while the Commerce stream has 85 students. Both the Science and Arts streams are facing a severe shortage of lecturers.

Science Stream Faces Acute Lecturer Shortage

Parents have expressed concern over the inadequate number of lecturers in the Science stream.

One parent said, "This year, 208 students have enrolled in the first-year Science stream, and more than 170 attend classes every day. It is impossible to teach such a large number of students in a single classroom. If the students are divided into two sections, the quality of teaching will improve. At present, there are only two permanent lecturers and two guest lecturers. More lecturers should be appointed immediately."

Arts Students Also Affected

The Arts stream is facing similar challenges. The college has only one Sociology lecturer, who has been deputed to Ambamath College for three days a week. As a result, regular classes and the completion of the syllabus have been affected.

With 120 students enrolled in the first and second-year Arts courses, the lecturer has to divide his time between two institutions, making it difficult to conduct classes effectively. Parents have demanded that the deputation be cancelled and that the lecturer be retained at the Government Boys' Pre-University College. They have also urged the authorities to appoint a guest lecturer for Ambamath College instead.

Parents Seek Immediate Government Intervention

As classes for the new academic session are already underway, parents, including Somanath, Basavaraj and Nagaraj, have appealed to the local MLA and MLC to intervene in the matter.

They have urged the elected representatives to take up the issue with the Department of Pre-University Education and ensure the appointment of at least four additional lecturers for the Science stream. They have also sought the cancellation of the Sociology lecturer's deputation and demanded that the college be provided with adequate teaching staff and other essential facilities to ensure uninterrupted learning for students.

UP Cop Caught in Woman Colleague's Room by Wife in Hamirpur, Midnight Drama Goes Viral

Divya Danu — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:28:03 +0530

A late-night confrontation involving two Uttar Pradesh Police personnel has come to light from Hamirpur district, where a woman allegedly caught her husband, a police constable, inside the rented room of a woman constable. The incident has triggered demands for departmental action, although no FIR has been registered so far.

हमीरपुर में सिपाही को पत्नी ने महिला सिपाही के साथ पकड़ लिया...प्रतापगढ़ से पत्नी, परिजनों के साथ कमरे में पहुंची, पति को रंगे हाथ पकड़कर जमकर थप्पड़ बरसाए हंगामा किया.हमीरपुर के सदर कोतवाली क्षेत्र का मामला है pic.twitter.com/5d9BudX0S3

— Shantanu Tripathi (@Shantanu_media) July 6, 2026

Ketan Agarwal Murder: Siya Goyal Studied Raja Raghuvanshi Case, Searched If Women Are Beaten in Police Custody

हमीरपुर: एक पत्नी ने सिपाही पति को महिला कांस्टेबल के साथ रंगरेलियां मनाते हुए रंगे हाथ पकड़ा लिया, जमकर थप्पड़ों से पीटाई की‌ गई।आरोप है कि सिपाही महिला मित्र से छुप-छुप रंगरेलिया मनाता था पत्नी को पता चल गया, पुलिस को साथ लेकर दोनों को रंगे हाथ पकड़। pic.twitter.com/4ts8LZUD07

— JIMMY (@Jimmyy__02) July 6, 2026

According to the family, the incident took place in the early hours of July 3 after the constable's wife received information about his whereabouts, reported by Aaj Tak.

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Relationship allegedly began in Pratapgarh

The woman constable and the male constable were earlier posted in Pratapgarh district, where they allegedly developed a relationship.

The male constable is married and has a three-month-old daughter. According to the family, the woman constable had previously been married twice. One husband reportedly died, while divorce proceedings with the second are ongoing. The family has also alleged that another criminal case involving her is pending. These claims have not been independently verified.

The constable's relatives also alleged that senior police officers in Pratapgarh had earlier become aware of the relationship. They claim the male constable was suspended, while the woman constable received a warning.

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Transfer to Hamirpur

According to the family, the woman constable was later transferred to Hamirpur and joined duty there on June 23. She is currently posted at the Police Lines and lives in a rented house in the town.

The family further alleged that she introduced the male constable as her husband to the landlord and neighbours.

Wife reaches rented house with police

The constable's wife, along with her elder sister, other relatives and local police personnel, reached the rented accommodation at around 3 am after receiving information that her husband was there.

According to the family, both police personnel were found together inside the room. An argument followed, during which the wife allegedly assaulted her husband in anger. Police officers present at the scene intervened and brought the situation under control before taking everyone to the local police station.

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No FIR filed so far

Police have not registered an FIR in connection with the incident as of now.

थाना कोतवाली नगर, हमीरपुर पर इस संबंध में किसी भी पक्ष द्वारा कोई तहरीर प्राप्त नहीं हुई है। प्रकरण में अन्य आवश्यक कार्यवाही प्रचलित है।

— HAMIRPUR POLICE (@hamirpurpolice) July 6, 2026

The constable's wife has demanded strict action against the woman constable. Police have not yet issued a detailed public statement on the allegations, and the matter is expected to be examined departmentally.

Kerala Bhagyathara BT-61 Lottery Result Today: Rs 1 Crore Winner, Full Winners List Here

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:57:55 +0530

The Kerala Lottery Bhagyathara BT-61 results have been officially announced today, July 6, 2026, by the Kerala State Lotteries Department. Thousands of participants across the state eagerly awaited the weekly draw, which offers winners the opportunity to claim prizes across multiple categories, ranging from the coveted first prize to several lower-tier rewards.

Participants can now check the complete list of winning numbers released for the Bhagyathara BT-61 draw.

Also Read: Kerala Bhagyathara BT-61 Lottery Result Today: Rs 1 Crore Jackpot Up for Grabs; Check Draw Time and Details

Kerala Lottery Bhagyathara BT-61 Winning Numbers

1st Prize – Rs 1 Crore: BG906028

Consolation Prize – Rs 5,000: All other series ending with 906028

2nd Prize – Rs 30 Lakh: BG617789

3rd Prize – Rs 5 Lakh: BG614468

4th Prize – Rs 5000: 0186, 1531, 2273, 2339, 2678, 2970, 3504, 4525, 4734, 4993, 6744, 7249, 7512, 7707, 7916, 8462, 8688, 9050, 9864

5th Prize – Rs 2000: 1831, 3802, 4025, 4462, 5471, 8450

6th Prize – Rs 1000: 0467, 0803, 1759, 2213, 2393, 2492, 2558, 5305, 5781, 5783, 5978, 6775, 7201, 7278, 7497, 7609, 7720, 7879, 7915, 8207, 8928, 9433, 9547, 9916, 9981

7th Prize – Rs 500: 0073, 0118, 0250, 0354, 0574, 0594, 0826, 0891, 0917, 0978, 1102, 1186, 1515, 1550, 1579, 1610, 1685, 1721, 1786, 1827, 1839, 1910, 2090, 2239, 2387, 2790, 3040, 3126, 3542, 4000, 4121, 4369, 4381, 4491, 4550, 4635, 4683, 4872, 5014, 5029, 5236, 5377, 5535, 5573, 5800, 6064, 6300, 6519, 6579, 6810, 6893, 6916, 7654, 7740, 7743, 7819, 7832, 8197, 8224, 8436, 8484, 8865, 8866, 9011, 9229, 9258, 9262, 9298, 9378, 9490, 9638, 9687, 9765, 9819, 9882, 9883

8th Prize - Rs 200: 5252, 9400, 1276, 5965, 6746, 4349, 1333, 1125, 1958, 9539, 4896, 2695, 7494, 5539, 6200, 2708, 8044, 2012, 3223, 5131, 4607, 2098, 1440, 3724, 0695, 2549, 5422, 3459, 7893, 1121, 3572, 5003, 5218, 6401, 6942, 6155

9th Prize – Rs 100: 9841, 4909, 2059, 6291, 0824, 2960, 0146, 9558, 2944, 0564, 2868, 3478, 1072, 9082, 0769, 2604, 1408, 9861, 8690, 1310, 7872, 2263, 8029, 1107, 9852, 5834, 4610, 9549, 7322, 8793, 4555, 4535, 2825, 9342, 8156, 7063, 5487, 8114, 4065, 8619, 6884, 0781, 0421, 6139, 0816, 7171, 2730, 5206, 4716, 7366, 5052, 8428

Winners are advised to verify their ticket numbers carefully against the officially published results before initiating the prize claim process. The official gazette published by the department remains the final authority in case of any discrepancy.

Prize winners should ensure that their lottery tickets are kept in good condition and are signed on the reverse side before submitting them for verification. Depending on the prize amount, winners may need to approach designated lottery offices or authorised banks along with valid identity proof and other required documents. Applicable taxes and statutory deductions will be made as per government regulations before prize money is disbursed.

The Bhagyathara weekly lottery is among the most popular lottery draws conducted by the Kerala government and is known for its transparent draw process and attractive prize structure. Every week, ticket holders purchase their entries hoping to match the winning numbers announced during the official draw conducted under the supervision of the Kerala State Lotteries Department.

Lottery enthusiasts are encouraged to rely only on the official results published by the Kerala State Lotteries Department and avoid misinformation circulating on unofficial platforms. Ticket holders should cross-check their numbers with the official result sheet to confirm whether they have won a prize.

Also Read: Kerala Lottery Samrudhi SM-62 Result Today (July 5): Rs 1 Crore Winner is MO 454496, Full Winners List Here, Claim Process

Why Is the Chicken Leg Piece So Popular? The Secret Finally Revealed

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:51:29 +0530

Ever wondered why everyone, from kids to adults, makes a beeline for the chicken leg piece? We all agree it's the tastiest part, but what's the real reason? Let's find out.

Monsoon Gardening Tips: 4 Easy Ways to Keep Your Home Garden Lush, Healthy and Pest-Free

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:47:26 +0530

Keep your home garden flourishing this monsoon with organic compost, proper drainage, timely pruning, smart watering and natural pest control to promote healthy growth and protect plants from excess moisture.

Special trains for Jagannath Rath Yatra, Onam announced by Railways

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:31:46 +0530

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday announced that the Indian Railways will operate more than 300 special trains for the annual Chariot Festival of Lord Jagannath in Odisha and over 100 special trains during the Onam festival in Keralam. Earlier in the day, the Union Railway Minister flagged off the Nanded-Mumbai and Tanakpur-Nanded Express trains and inaugurated the extension of the Tanakpur-Pilibhit train service up to Shahjahanpur through video conferencing from Rail Sadan in Bhubaneswar.

Special Trains for Major Festivals

Addressing the event through video conference, Vaishnaw announced the special trains to Puri and Keralam. "In the summer season, which concluded on June 30, a record 15,000 special trains were run this year. For Jagannath Rath Yatra, over 300 special trains will be run. Over 100 special trains will be operated for Onam in Keralam. This is a big effort from the Railways, the Central govt and PM Modi that our citizens get affordable and safe services," he said.

New Services to Boost Connectivity

Vaishnaw also said the newly launched train services would improve rail connectivity and benefit passengers, particularly the Sikh community in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. "There was a long-standing demand for a train from Tanakpur to Nanded Sahib, Hazur Sahib. It will benefit the large Sikh community in the Terai regions of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Everyone wishes to stay connected to the 'Panj Takht', and this railway connectivity will fulfil that sentiment," the Union Minister said.

He also said the Railways would examine the demand for providing stoppages at Khatima and Banbasa."The demand that has come for Khatima and Banbasa will be examined fully in the next few days. If it becomes possible, we will definitely provide a stoppage for this train at Khatima and Banbasa," Vaishnaw said.

Improved Links for Maharashtra and UP

Speaking about the Nanded-Mumbai Express, the Railway Minister said the train would improve connectivity for the Washim, Hingoli and Basmat regions, benefiting passengers from Vidarbha and Marathwada. He further announced that the Tanakpur-Pilibhit train service has been extended to Shahjahanpur and said the Tanakpur-Agra service, which was earlier operated as a special train, has now been regularised.

Decade of Railway Transformation

Highlighting the achievements of the Railways over the past 12 years, Vaishnaw said around 37,000 kilometres of new railway tracks have been laid, while railway electrification has reached 99.6 per cent. "In past 12 years, an effort for transformation of the railways is going on. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given special attention to the railways, due to which today about 37,000 km of new railway tracks have been built. Never before in India's history has such development of railways taken place. This is a very big achievement for the country and was a very big need for the country. Along with this, electrification of the railways has reached 99.6%," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

LIC's FY26 net profit hits $6.07 billion amid stronger profitability

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:31:38 +0530

State-owned Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has showcased stronger profitability, sustained market leadership and an improving business mix in its investor presentation, released ahead of meetings with institutional investors and analysts.

Key Financial Highlights

The presentation, filed with stock exchanges on Monday, highlighted that LIC's net profit rose to USD 6.07 billion in FY26, while total premium income increased to USD 56.63 billion.

The insurer also reported an improvement in its Value of New Business (VNB) margin to 21.2 per cent from 17.6 per cent a year earlier, reflecting its focus on higher-margin products.

LIC further said its assets under management (AUM) expanded to about USD 605.3 billion in FY26, while its solvency ratio improved to 2.35 from 2.11 in the previous financial year, indicating a stronger capital position.

Market Leadership and Strategic Shifts

Emphasising its dominant position, the presentation said, "LIC continues to lead, after 25+ years of liberalisation," while describing the corporation as India's largest life insurer with a market share of 56.7 per cent in new business premium during FY26.

The insurer said its strategic shift towards non-participating products has continued to improve margins. The share of non-participating products in individual new business premium increased to 60.8 per cent in FY26 from 53.3 per cent in FY25 and 29.6 per cent before the company's IPO.

Operational Strength and Digital Transformation

Highlighting its nationwide reach, LIC said it has around 1.5 million agents, over 3,600 branches and satellite offices, and operations across 36 states and Union Territories, covering 92 per cent of India's districts.

The presentation also underlined the company's digital transformation efforts. "LIC is embarking on a digital transformation journey to become the most valued life insurer globally," it said, adding that investments in technology, data analytics and digital platforms are aimed at enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.

Future Priorities and Outlook

Outlining its future priorities, the corporation said its strategy would focus on increasing the share of non-participating products, strengthening profitability, expanding bancassurance and alternate distribution channels, accelerating digital transformation, and maximising investment yields while maintaining prudent risk management.

The presentation also reaffirmed LIC's long-term leadership in the Indian insurance industry, stating that the corporation remains "India's largest life insurance company" with a robust product suite with a focus on margins and a technology-enabled customer experience driving operational performance. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pahalgam terror attack: NIA files fresh chargesheet against Hafiz Saeed

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:31:04 +0530

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday filed a fresh chargesheet in the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack case naming the Pakistan-based terrorist Hafiz Saeed, chief of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror outfit and its active proxy organisation The Resistance Front (TRF).

The chargesheet, filed in continuation of the original 1,597-page chargesheet, provides details of "Pakistan's conspiracy, Hafeez Saeed's role, and supporting evidence collected by NIA in the case through meticulous scientific investigation and on-ground examination."

Charges Against Hafiz Saeed

In the chargesheet filed before the NIA Special Court, Jammu, the anti-terror agency has charged Hafiz Saeed in his "individual capacity" and also as the chief of the LeT and TRF under various sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The NIA has also invoked the penal section against Hafiz Saeed for waging war against India and hatching a conspiracy from across the border in the chargesheet.

Details of Previous Chargesheet

In its earlier chargesheet filed on December 15, 2025, the NIA had chargesheeted Pakistani handler terrorist Sajid Jatt as an accused, along with three terrorists killed by security forces during Operation Mahadev in July 2025, as well as two arrested accused. It had also charged the proscribed LeT/TRF terrorist organisation as a legal entity for its role in planning, facilitating, and executing the Pahalgam terror attack.

Background of the Pahalgam Attack

The deadly attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025, involved religion-based targeted killings by the Pak-sponsored terrorists. Twenty-five innocent tourists and one local civilian were killed in the attack. An FIR was initially registered by Police Station Pahalgam, district Anantnag.

After an initial investigation by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the case was transferred to the NIA by the Ministry of Home Affairs. NIA said it continues to probe the case to unravel the complete conspiracy by Pakistan, which has been actively sponsoring terrorism on Indian soil from across the border. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi's Indonesia visit sparks excitement, boosts strategic ties

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:30:57 +0530

Excitement Builds for PM's Strategic Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Indonesia has generated significant excitement among the Indian diaspora and business leaders, highlighting the deeply rooted cultural ties and growing economic cooperation between the two nations.

The PM will arrive in Indonesia today for a three-day official visit. The visit, scheduled from July 6 to 8, marks the Prime Minister's first bilateral trip to the country since relations were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018. The visit to Indonesia forms part of a wider three-nation tour by the PM that also includes Australia and New Zealand.

Business Community Eager for Collaboration

Members of the Indian diaspora in Indonesia, speaking to ANI, expressed immense enthusiasm about welcoming the Indian Prime Minister. Vinod Srinivasan, CEO of Jayata Consulting and Honorary Secretary of the India-Indonesia Chamber of Commerce, noted that the business community is actively exploring fresh collaborations focused on upskilling, talent, and technology.

"In terms of our business relationship there's a lot of collaboration opportunities that we are looking at specifically in the healthcare, agriculture and IT sector," Srinivasan stated. "So we see a lot of opportunities in the way India has evolved over a period of time both in terms of technology and the way people are very conscious about sustainability. So Indonesia is also embarking on that journey."

Srinivasan also described a palpable energy within the local community ahead of the Prime Minister's arrival. "There's a lot of energy around, because the moment this was announced, a lot of my fellow friends from Indonesia started asking me how they can be part of this," Srinivasan said. "They would like to register, see him, because, you know, Modi has been a global face, and everybody has heard him and everybody knows the kind of change that he has brought in our country."

Strengthened Ground-Level Connections

Industrial leaders operating in the region for decades also noted that the ground-level connection between the two nations has strengthened significantly over the years. Shailendra Halbe, APAC Head of Kirloskar Oil Engines, noted that the cultural amalgamation has been excellent. He stated that Indonesian businesses are very eager to engage with Indian firms across multiple sectors, including power generation, agriculture, and data centers.

"We are also excited to receive Modi ji here. The energy around is amazing now," Halbe said. "We are preparing ourselves for the event tomorrow, which is a community event for Modi ji where we expect President Prabowo also to join and everybody is really very excited."

Addressing the broader economic environment, Halbe noted that despite global pressures, the Southeast Asian nation remains fundamentally strong. "Of course, the turmoil in the Middle Eastern area currently has had its impact on the business relationship, business scenario in Indonesia," Halbe said. "But Indonesia itself is a self-propagating economy with a large population, in fact the largest population in Southeast Asia. So they have their own strengths and they are able to handle that turmoil or ups and downs very easily."

Shared Culture and National Pride

Long-term residents and investors also reflected on the seamless cultural integration they experience daily, citing shared epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Shiv Dave, an investor who has spent 33 years in the country, stated that he has never felt like a foreigner due to the mutual respect and absence of discrimination. He expressed great pride in India's rising global stature under the current leadership.

"We are very excited to welcome Modi ji. Since Modi ji became the Prime Minister, I think the pride of the country is on a different level. Many countries are inspired by him. Indonesia is one of them," Dave said.

"So, I pray that the relationship between the two countries develops further," Dave added. "The culture here is very similar to that of India."

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Consumer durables sales to rise, but raw material costs a concern

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:30:37 +0530

Consumer durables companies are likely to report better sales in the June quarter, supported by healthy demand in key product categories. However, higher raw material costs are expected to put pressure on profit margins, according to a Kotak Institutional Equities 1QFY27 consumer durables earnings preview report.

Wires and Cables to Lead Growth

The brokerage expects the wires and cables segment to lead the sector's performance during the quarter, driven by higher metal prices and improving volumes. "Volume growth is likely to improve sequentially. Pricing growth is expected to remain healthy as copper and aluminium prices were up around 51 per cent and 57 per cent year-on-year, respectively, on an M-1 basis in the first quarter," the report said.

Performance of Home Appliances

Kotak expects room air conditioners (RACs) to remain the best-performing appliance category in the June quarter, helped by a weak base and price hikes. The report also expects washing machines and televisions to post healthy growth, while refrigerator sales may remain weak.

Electrical Consumer Durables Outlook

In the electrical consumer durables segment, the brokerage expects growth to be supported by price hikes in fans and strong demand for small domestic appliances, kitchen appliances and water purifiers. "We expect pricing-led growth of 10-12 per cent in fans, even as volumes could remain weak. TPW fans and air coolers are likely to disappoint despite a weak base, while small domestic and kitchen appliances, along with water purifiers, are expected to perform well," the report said.

Impact on Profitability

Despite stronger sales, Kotak said higher raw material costs are likely to affect profitability across the sector. "Most companies have only partially passed on raw material inflation through price hikes and lower channel incentives, which is likely to weigh on gross margins," the report said.

It added that lower advertising and promotion spending could help reduce some of the pressure on margins.

Overall, the brokerage expects price hikes, favourable base effects and healthy demand across select product categories to support consumer durables sales in the June quarter, while rising raw material costs remain the biggest challenge for margins. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Gadkari pushes for expeditious completion of multimodal infra projects

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:30:31 +0530

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari reviewed the progress of National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) projects today, calling for the expeditious completion of multimodal infrastructure initiatives to streamline India's transport network.

The review meeting, held in New Delhi, focused on project-level advancements for Multi Modal Logistics Parks (MMLPs), ropeways, intermodal stations, and wayside amenities across the country. According to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, the evaluation targeted specific implementation challenges to prevent prolonged delays in the infrastructure rollout.

Shaping Future-Ready Transport

"These transformative projects are shaping the next generation of India's infrastructure by fostering seamless multimodal integration and creating a future-ready transport network," Gadkari stated in a post on X. The development of these interconnected hubs aims to address long-standing inefficiencies in domestic supply chains.

The ministry's current strategy focuses heavily on linking different modes of transport to allow smoother freight and passenger movement. "They will unlock new economic opportunities, strengthen regional development, and enhance the nation's overall competitiveness," Gadkari said.

Addressing Execution Bottlenecks

During the session, the minister analyzed the specific systemic bottlenecks that slow down field execution. Department officials received direct instructions to coordinate with local authorities and concessionaires to clear pending land, regulatory, or financial hurdles delaying the construction schedule.

"Addressed the key challenges affecting project execution and directed all concerned stakeholders to resolve bottlenecks on priority and expedite project completion," Gadkari noted.

Boosting Economic Competitiveness

The government expects these projects to play a central role in restructuring the national economic landscape. High logistics costs remain a significant hurdle for Indian exports, and the current infrastructure push seeks to bring these expenses down to competitive global benchmarks.

"Their timely execution will improve logistics efficiency, reduce transportation costs, and provide world-class facilities for commuters, further advancing the vision of a Viksit Bharat and an Aatmanirbhar Bharat," Gadkari added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

14 killed in Kyiv; Zelenskyy pleads for more air defence systems

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:30:29 +0530

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday (local time) urged the United States and its European allies to take "strong decisions" to strengthen Ukraine's air defences after a massive overnight Russian missile and drone strike killed atleast 14 people in Kyiv and the surrounding region.

Zelenskyy Details Attack and Rescue Efforts

In a post on X, Zelenskyy said Russia launched 68 missiles and 351 attack drones overnight, damaging more than 10 locations across Kyiv, including residential buildings. https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2074026731581624489 He said, "Last night, Kyiv came under a massive Russian attack. Russia launched 68 missiles and 351 attack drones. Response efforts are still underway. Damage has been recorded at more than 10 locations across the city, including residential buildings."

Zelenskyy said rescue operations were continuing, and 64 people, including two children, were rescued from the affected areas. He said, "All necessary services are on the ground, doing everything possible to rescue people and provide assistance to everyone who needs it. So far, 64 people have been rescued, including two children. As of now, it has been confirmed that, tragically, eleven people were killed in this attack. My condolences to their families and loved ones. Around 60 more people were injured."

He added that three people were killed and 16 injured in the Kyiv region, where emergency crews were continuing firefighting and evacuation operations. He said, "In the Kyiv region, sixteen people were injured, and three people were killed. My condolences to their families and loved ones. A fire is still burning at the site of the missile strike in Vyshneve. People are being evacuated from a residential area. More than 400 first responders and police officers have been deployed to deal with the aftermath of the attack."

Urgent Plea for Air Defence Support

Calling for additional air defence support, Zelenskyy said Ukraine's forces had successfully intercepted drones and cruise missiles but lacked enough interceptor missiles to stop Russian ballistic missiles. He said, "Our warriors performed well today in intercepting drones and cruise missiles, but unfortunately not Russian ballistic missiles. And the reason lies in the insufficient supply of interceptor missiles."

He added that it was critically important for the United States and Israel to come up with "strong decisions" in support of Ukraine's air defence and the protection of the lives of ordinary people after the NATO Summit in Ankara, Turkey. "It is critically important that the world - first and foremost the United States and our European partners - come out of the NATO Summit in Ankara with strong decisions in support of our air defense, and thus the protection of ordinary people's lives. As long as Patriot missiles remain in our allies' stockpiles, Russia is only encouraged to keep "vanquishing" residential buildings. The United States and Europe have enough strength to stop this terror," he added.

Attack Precedes NATO Summit

Russia launched a ballistic missile attack on Ukraine's capital Kyiv early Monday morning, with the assault coming a day before a key NATO summit in Turkey that US President Donald Trump is expected to attend, CNN reported.

According to CNN, Ukraine's air force said the attack involved ballistic missiles, drones and cruise missiles. Explosions were heard across central Kyiv in the early hours as the assault unfolded. Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said at least two districts of the city reported fires or damage caused by falling debris. Air raid sirens had been activated across the capital shortly before the explosions.

The latest attack came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Sunday that intelligence suggested Russia was "preparing a new massive strike." "Intelligence once again indicates that the Russians are preparing a new massive strike. This is typical of Putin: right after America's Independence Day and before the NATO Summit in Ankara. Russia wants to bring more evil and kill people," Zelenskyy said in a post on X. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Cross-border deals push India M&A value to $27.9 bn in Q2 2026

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:30:26 +0530

Strategic cross-border acquisitions helped India's mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market register its highest quarterly value in four years during the April-June quarter of 2026, even as the overall number of deals declined, according to Grant Thornton Bharat's Q2 2026 Dealtracker report.

The report said Indian M&A activity reached 240 deals worth USD 27.9 billion in the second quarter, marking the highest quarterly M&A value since Q2 2022. Overall deal activity, including private equity transactions, stood at 565 deals worth USD 36.3 billion, with aggregate deal value rising 127 per cent over the previous quarter despite a decline in transaction volumes.

Cross-Border Deals Drive Record Values

According to the report, "Strategic cross-border acquisitions drive values to a four-year high amid declining volumes." Grant Thornton Bharat noted that outbound acquisitions emerged as the primary driver of the surge in deal values.

Outbound Acquisitions Dominate

It stated, "A key highlight of the quarter was the dominance of outbound activity. All five billion-dollar deals were cross-border, with outbound transactions accounting for 84% of total M&A value and a sixfold increase over the previous quarter." The largest transaction during the quarter was Sun Pharmaceutical Industries' USD 11.8 billion acquisition of Organon & Co., making it the biggest overseas acquisition by an Indian pharmaceutical company.

Domestic and Mid-Market Trends

The report added that while overall deal volumes moderated, larger transactions significantly lifted aggregate values. Domestic transactions continued to account for the majority of deal volumes at 64 per cent, although outbound transactions overwhelmingly contributed to deal value. Even after excluding the five billion-dollar deals, overall M&A values rose 23 per cent sequentially, indicating sustained momentum in mid-market transactions.

Private Equity Activity Softens

Private equity activity, however, softened during the quarter, with 325 deals worth USD 8.4 billion, reflecting a 22 per cent decline in deal volume and an 8 per cent decline in value compared with the January-March quarter. Despite the moderation, average deal sizes increased, signalling higher capital deployment in fewer transactions.

Sector-wise Performance

Sector-wise, pharma, healthcare and biotechnology led deal values, followed by manufacturing, telecom and infrastructure, while retail remained the most active sector by transaction volume.

The report concludes that India's deal landscape in the second quarter was characterised by fewer but significantly larger transactions, with outbound strategic acquisitions driving overall market value to its strongest quarterly performance in four years.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bengaluru Ghost Story: Is a Spirit Haunting This MG Road Call Centre? READ On

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:27:20 +0530

Is a ghost really roaming around a call centre on Bengaluru's MG Road? This horror story has been going viral for years. We break down the truth behind this spooky tale.

Nasdaq, S&P 500, Dow Futures Kick Off Fresh Week On Strong Note: Why META, NVDA, MU, IREN, PEP, HOOD Are In Focus

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:15:01 +0530

All eyes will be on Wednesday’s release of the Federal Reserve’s June meeting minutes, offering investors fresh clues on the central bank’s rate trajectory.
On the earnings front, Levi Strauss reports Wednesday, followed by PepsiCo on Thursday and Delta Air Lines on Friday, before major U.S. banks unofficially kick off earnings season next week.
Investors will also monitor oil prices and geopolitical developments after reports suggested shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz tightened again over the weekend.

U.S. stock futures rose early Monday as markets reopened after the Fourth of July weekend, building on last week’s rally. Investors are gearing up for the start of Q2 earnings season and await the release of the Federal Reserve’s June meeting minutes on Wednesday, the first under new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh.

As of 4:30 a.m. ET, Nasdaq futures rose 1%, S&P 500 futures gained 0.5%, and Dow and Russell 2000 futures were up 0.2%.

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY), an exchange-traded fund that tracks the S&P 500 Index, and the Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ), which tracks the Nasdaq-100 Index, has remained ‘bullish’.

Trending Stocks To Watch

Meta Platforms (META): The company is dealing with multiple legal developments, including a U.S. federal judge’s refusal to dismiss a child-addiction design lawsuit and a strict order from India to purge child-abuse content. Amid this, it reportedly plans to launch a new revenue-generating AI cloud business.

Nvidia (NVDA): In focus after manufacturing giant Foxconn reported blockbuster Q2 revenue that beat Wall Street estimates, though Foxconn's vague warnings about "volatile global political situations" have kept chip traders slightly cautious. Reports over the weekend highlighted China's latest claims about neuromorphic chips, while investor Michael Burry renewed his warning that the AI trade may be nearing exhaustion.

Micron (MU): The memory-chip maker is facing a proposed class-action lawsuit alleging DRAM manufacturers coordinated production to keep prices elevated Apple Inc. (AAPL): Supply-chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo warned that Apple's highly anticipated foldable iPhone could face severe supply and potentially miss its initial September launch window.

PepsiCo (PEP): Facing fresh Wall Street pressure ahead of its Thursday earnings report, after Barclays cut its price target to $144 and warned that the company's North American turnaround is losing steam.

Iren Limited (IREN): The neocloud firm rose 6% in early premarket trade after reports revealed AI giant Anthropic floated a private tender to buy a massive 1.4 gigawatts of data center capacity in Australia, where IREN has a premier infrastructure footprint.

SoFi Technologies Inc. (SOFI): Cathie Wood's ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK) bought an additional $1 million worth of shares on Thursday, marking its fourth consecutive day of accumulation.

Robinhood Markets Inc. (HOOD): Garnered heavy retail attention following the official July 4th launch of the "Trump Accounts" app, a new government-backed child savings program developed in partnership with Robinhood.

Other tickers trending on Stocktwits at the time of writing included Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Rivian (RIVN), SoundHound AI (SOUN), Reddit (RDDT) and Marathon Digital (MARA).

Other Catalysts To Watch

On the economic front, investors will be tracking the release of June S&P Global Services PMI Data later today.

On the earnings front, Levi Strauss reports Wednesday, followed by PepsiCo on Thursday and Delta Air Lines on Friday, before major U.S. banks unofficially kick off earnings season next week.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com<

NORWAY SHOCK BRAZIL! Haaland Sends Neymar Out of Final World Cup | Brazil 1-2 Norway | Football

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:10:38 +0530

Brazil's FIFA World Cup 2026 dream is over. In one of the biggest shocks of the tournament, Norway defeated Brazil 2-1, knocking the five-time world champions out of the World Cup and ending Neymar's final World Cup campaign. Erling Haaland delivered when it mattered most, scoring a stunning brace to send Norway into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in history. This video captures every emotion from three continents: 0:00 Heartbroken Brazil fans watching in Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana 0:45 Emotional reactions outside MetLife Stadium in New Jersey 4:00 Massive celebrations in Oslo, where over 90,000 fans gathered near the Royal Watch exclusive fan reactions, emotional interviews, unforgettable celebrations, and the moment football history was made.

Groupon’s Comeback Has Three Engines: AI Restructuring, Russell Value Index Inclusion And Short Squeeze Bets

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:10:01 +0530

Groupon's move into Russell value indexes attracted buying from passive funds.
High short interest and a limited share float increased the potential for sharp price swings.
Through Project Foundry, Groupon is restructuring its business and expanding its use of AI automation.

Groupon Inc. (GRPN) stock gained premarket and has emerged as one of the market's closely watched turnaround stories after a combination of index rebalancing, a leaner corporate structure, and elevated short interest fueled sharp swings in its share price.

Russell Index Changes Shift Demand

A recent reshuffle of the Russell indexes moved Groupon from growth indexes to value indexes, including the Russell 2000 Value and Russell Microcap Value. This change brought in more investors from funds that automatically track those value indexes.

Investors have also pointed to Groupon's unusually high short interest as another driver behind recent price movements. According to Koyfin data, over one-third of the company's public float has been sold short. Combined with a relatively limited supply of tradable shares and an estimated days-to-cover ratio of eight days, the setup has increased the likelihood of rapid moves when buying pressure intensifies.

Groupon stock traded more than 1% higher in Monday’s premarket after surging more than 50% over the past two weeks.

Groupon’s AI Strategy Drives Turnaround

Groupon has been working to reshape its business through Project Foundry, an initiative aimed at reducing operating costs while expanding the company's use of artificial intelligence.

The restructuring includes workforce reductions, automation of merchant acquisition and greater investment in AI-powered customer engagement tools as the company seeks to improve long-term profitability. Groupon plans to eliminate up to 400 jobs globally, representing roughly one-fifth to one-quarter of its workforce, with expected annual savings of $20 million to $25 million.

The company expects AI-driven merchant acquisition to further reduce labor costs while making the platform more scalable over time.

The company also named Aditya Rajkumar as chief operating officer, effective Aug. 3, to help boost merchant growth initiatives. Groupon has been testing AI-powered voice agents designed to automate outreach to small and medium-sized businesses, a move management believes can improve efficiency while reducing reliance on traditional sales operations.

What GRPN Retail Traders Are Saying

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around the stock turned to ‘bullish’ from ‘extremely bullish’ territory the previous day with a 400% rise in message volume over the last 24 hours.

A user said, “Let this week be the start of the squeeze, if it can somehow break the $30 and $44 - that would be nice.”

Another user said, “I love how this has gone up 50% in 2 weeks and Reddit doesn't even know about it yet. Makes me think we have hundreds of percents to go once WSB picks it up.”

GRPN stock has gained over 45% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Diljit Dosanjh Beats Ranveer Singh: Satluj Earns Massive IMDb Rating, Leaves Dhurandhar Behind

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:07:47 +0530

Satluj by Diljit Dosanjh scored an enormous 9.4/10 on IMDb in just 48 hours, greater than the blockbuster Dhurandhar, demonstrating this is an unadulterated masterpiece of real-world storytelling.

Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh's biographical drama Punjab 95 was renamed Satluj and premiered on ZEE5 after a long three-year censorship struggle with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The board first requested 127 cuts and a title change.

Moreover, the film, which was meant to release internationally in February last year, skipped India and was released elsewhere. However, much to everyone's astonishment, Punjab 95 was renamed Satluj, and its unedited form was published on Zee5 in India on 3 July 2026. Sadly just for two days.

Satluj Dhurandhar (2008) - IMDb

After years in limbo, Punjab 95 was discreetly released on ZEE5 under the alternative title Satluj. Director and star Diljit verified the film was streamed with zero editing. But within days of its digital debut, it was controversially removed from the platform in India. But the film has defeated Dhurandhar in just 48 hours.

Satluj has received a huge 9.4/10 on IMDb, with more than 4,600 votes, after its unexpected online release. The phenomenal public interest pushed its IMDb rating up to 9.7-9.8/10 within a day or two of its launch, before settling at a fantastic 9.4/10 as more people submitted their reviews.

The movie has a far better raw rating of 9.4/10 on IMDb compared to the enormous blockbuster spy-thriller Dhurandhar, which garnered merely 8.3/10 on IMDb. But their ratings reveal quite different things, because they correspond to entirely different film sizes, vote volumes, and viewer demographics.

Dhurandhar may have had his success at the worldwide movie office, but Satluj has earned deep critical and artistic respectability for crafting a brave, uncompromising masterwork of real-world storytelling.

More deets on the film

This important historical docu-drama features Diljit Dosanjh as Sardar Jaswant Singh Khalra and Arjun Rampas as Samudra Singh. It confronts the audience with hard facts without glossing over history.

Directed by Honey Trehan, the film is produced by Ronnie Screwvala and is based on the story of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Kalra who investigated enforced disappearances and extrajudicial executions in Punjab in the 1990s. The film was banned for three years due to its very sensitive political topics and revelations of alleged illicit cremations, which led to 127 edits.

CRML Stock Looks To Snap Three-Day Losing Streak As Critical Metals Simplifies Deal For Greenland Rare Earth Assets

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:05:01 +0530

The changes add a cash sale option for smaller European Lithium investors and replace the CDI structure with direct share issuance.
The modified terms leave European Lithium shareholders with an expected 41% stake in the combined company.
Investor interest has also grown amid renewed U.S. focus on Greenland's strategic resources.

Critical Metals Corp. (CRML) stock is looking to reverse three consecutive days of loss as the company draws investor attention after revising the structure of its planned acquisition of European Lithium.

Although the amendment does not change the deal's financial terms, investors believe the simpler structure could make the planned September closing more certain.

Why Investors Are Watching CRML’s Update On EUR Acquisition

Under the revised structure, European Lithium shareholders and listed optionholders holding 50,000 shares or fewer, or an equivalent number of listed options, on the applicable record date will have access to a sale facility.

Instead of receiving Critical Metals stock directly, their allotted shares will be sold in the market by an appointed agent, with the investors receiving the net cash proceeds from those sales.

The companies also agreed to replace the previously planned CHESS Depositary Interest structure. Eligible European Lithium investors will now receive Critical Metals common shares directly once the transaction closes.

Following completion, existing European Lithium shareholders are expected to own about 41% of the outstanding common shares of the merged business.

Critical Metals stock traded over 1% higher in Monday’s premarket.

CRML’s Focus On Tanbreez

If the acquisition is completed, Critical Metals is expected to consolidate ownership of the Tanbreez rare earth project in southern Greenland through its acquisition of European Lithium.

The project has attracted market interest due to its reported high rare earth resource potential.

Investors have also pointed to renewed political discussion about Greenland's strategic importance following recent comments by U.S. officials reiterating interest in the Arctic region and its mineral resources.

U.S. President Donald Trump's special envoy to Greenland, Jeff Landry, reportedly said Trump remains committed to acquiring the Danish territory and discussed it as recently as last weekend.

Landry cited Greenland's strategic value, including its oil, gas, rare earth minerals and fishing resources, and suggested stronger military and trade ties could help advance U.S. interests.

Last week, Critical Metals said it has bought the Ocean Endeavor, an 180-passenger ice-strengthened ship, for €7.5 million to support development of its Tanbreez rare earth project in Greenland. The vessel will provide housing and transportation for workers, helping reduce pressure on local hotels and improve logistics and safety in the remote Arctic region.

CRML Retail Traders View

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around the stock remained in ‘bearish’ territory with a 26% rise in message volume in 24 hours.

A user said, “This confirms that there will be 170m shares fully diluted outstanding not 216m. EUR shareholders are getting 70m shares. This is very important clarification.”

CRML stock has gained over 37% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Ali Fazal, Richa Chadha to star as lead pair for first time in comedy

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:01:46 +0530

Ali Fazal, Richa Chadha Team Up as Leads for First Time

Actors Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha are set to be paired opposite each other on screen for the first time in an untitled situational comedy directed by Shashie Vermaa. Backed by Scenework Productions and Giriraj Productions, the Delhi-set film also stars acclaimed actor Kumud Mishra and is scheduled to begin filming in the second half of 2026 ahead of its planned theatrical release in April 2027.

Although Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha have shared screen space in the popular 'Fukrey' franchise over the years, this marks the first time they will headline a story as an on-screen pair.

A Character-Driven Story with Social Commentary

The makers describe the film as a character-driven situational comedy set against the colourful and chaotic backdrop of Delhi. Shashie Vermaa, known for his work as an actor in 'Bala', 'Gunjan Saxena' and 'Kathal', as well as his writing and directing credits including 'AK47' and 'Murga Trophy', will direct the project. The film is expected to blend humour, emotion and slice-of-life storytelling with elements of social commentary.

Cast and Crew Share Their Excitement

Speaking about the project, Ali Fazal said, "I've always believed that the best comedies come from honest characters and believable situations. The moment I read this script, I knew there was something special about it. It's also exciting to finally explore a completely new dynamic with Richa on screen, and I'm really looking forward to what we'll create together. Shashie sirs work is truly something i have followed and have wanted to work with him and that is also a huge reason for me to be part of this project," in a press note.

Richa Chadha said, "What drew me in was the simplicity and authenticity of the writing. It's funny, emotional and deeply rooted in everyday life with a great social commentary angle to the story. Ali and I have shared the screen before, but never quite like this, and I'm genuinely excited for audiences to see us together in an entirely new space. The story reminded me of my first school days which was in Jamuna Paar in Delhi and I am very excited to share screen with Ali, hes a gifted actor. We have never had the opportunity to work together in this capacity, previously we worked on Fukrey which was more of an adversarial role".

Director Shashie Vermaa said, "This is a story that celebrates people, relationships, the lens of the society and the chaos that a small moment can bring in someone's life that can turn it all topsy turvy. Delhi itself is almost a character in the film. Having performers like Ali, Richa and Kumud brings incredible depth, spontaneity and heart to the world we've created, and I can't wait to begin filming."

Mukesh Giri of Giriraj Productions said, "From the very beginning, this story stood out because of its honesty, humour and universal appeal. Bringing together Ali and Richa in a pairing audiences haven't seen before, alongside an actor of Kumud Mishra's calibre and under the direction of Shashie Vermaa, makes this an incredibly exciting project for all of us. We look forward to taking this film to audiences in 2027," in a press note.

The untitled comedy is slated to go on floors in the latter half of 2026 before arriving in cinemas in April 2027.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

BRICS nations unite in Guwahati to combat international drug menace

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:01:38 +0530

On the sidelines of the BRICS Heads of Anti-Drug Agencies Meeting 2026, which began on Monday in Guwahati, participating leaders affirmed that they are bound by a common aim of combating the drug consumption situation. Delegates from BRICS member countries are participating in the two-day meeting organised by the Narcotics Control Bureau under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Ethiopian Envoy on Collaborative Efforts

Nebiyu Tedla, Charge d' Affaires, Ethiopia to New Delhi, told reporters that the BRICS session will focus on anti-drug works conducted under the platform of the BRICS. "First of all, we would like to thank our Indian colleagues for their chairmanship and host since our arrival in the beautiful city of Guwahati. Today's BRICS session will focus, as you have said, on anti-drug works that we conducted in the platform of the BRICS collection. The drug problem is a problem not only at the national level, but also at an international level. So platforms like BRICS will create the opportunity to collaborate, exchange information, and make a better collective effort towards addressing the problem. So we believe that today's exchange will help us towards reaching that collective goal," he said.

Tedla further said that Ethiopia will showcase their experience and will learn from other members here to combat the issue. "Ethiopia, like any other country, has a challenge in this aspect. Definitely, we will bring and showcase our experience in dealing with the fighting against drug dissemination and its effect on the socio-economic situation of the country. And we are also here to learn from other colleagues and we believe that the session will bring out best practices from each delegation where we can learn from each other," he said.

He also lauded India's chairship of BRICS. "India's chairmanship so far has been wonderful. We are appreciative of the way the Indian chairship has been deliberating our deliberations so far. India has been making all the sessions successful and creating a consensus environment all over and we are very much appreciative of that," he said.

Russian Perspective on Cooperation

Ivan Gorbunov, Russia's Chief of Anti-Drug Enforcement, said that the event will prove to be useful for them. "First all, we would like to thank the organizers of this event. We are sure that the sharing of experience is an important part of our activities. We would also want to share our experience and discuss the drug situation in our country. I think it will very positive work. So we have the common aim and also we have significant experience in the anti-drugs sphere. So we are sure that this event will be useful for us and our partners," he said.

NCB Chief Outlines India's Strategy

Director General (DG) of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Anurag Garg, said that drugs have become an international scourge, and all countries have to fight it. "Drugs has become an international scourge. Our youth is, you know, is being, getting involved in drugs. And it's a problem that we have to fight together. Different nations, they have to come together to fight this scourge," he said.

Garg said that the use of dark net markets and the use of cryptocurrencies will also be deliberated upon. "And this is an effort, this is an initiative that India has taken to host this meeting for the first time of the heads of anti-drug agencies of the BRICS nations in Guwahati. And in these deliberations over two days, we'll be discussing many important topics that concern the world today. One is the use of dark net markets and the use of cryptocurrencies. Then the movement of drugs through maritime routes and so on and so forth. It's an important step that we have taken under the visionary leadership of our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi," he said.

He also noted that Home Minister Amit Shah has unveiled a roadmap to control drugs. "And you are also aware that recently our Home Minister unveiled a roadmap to control drugs, a national roadmap to control drugs in the next three years by 2029. So this is a useful opportunity for us India to showcase before the world as to how we want to control drugs in India so that they can also share best practices from us. So that is all I have to say on this occasion to you," he said.

Tackling Drug Inflow from Myanmar

Garg said that Myanmar is a source of both meth and heroin that is coming into India, and they are trying to urge upon the states to create an effective ANTF in the states. "Myanmar is a source of both meth and heroin that is coming into India. And that has been reflected in our annual report that we published a few days back. And we are aware of this problem. And we are addressing it in a multifaceted manner. We are actually supporting the states to raise their ANTF, that is Anti-Narcotics Task Forces, because they are the front line warriors who will fight this menace at the state level. We are trying to upon the states to create an effective ANTF in the states. That is one," he said.

"Secondly, we are building our own capacity. You would know that NCB has opened zonal offices here in the last two years. We have also opened a regional office here in Guwahati, which is headed by an IG level officer. And that will give a lot of impetus to the fight against drugs. The establishment of these offices in the last one year, operational of these offices, the catch as you would have noted in the local media has also gone high," he added.

He added that now they are identifying kingpins rather than concentrating on the petty couriers. "And we have also identified certain key kingpins who are involved in this transnational trafficking. And one of them in Myanmar is national who was recently arrested in Delhi. That is how, I mean, rather than catching the petty couriers who take it across the borders, we are now concentrating on the kingpins. So we have identified certain people on both sides and process to bring them to face the justice is on," he said.

Brazil Highlights History of Cooperation

Lucas Barbosa, Focal Point, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, said that the anti-drug working grouping in BRICS has a long and traditional history of cooperation. "We are very pleased to be here in Assam, Guwahati. Very thankful to the Indian Church with the hospitality here. The anti-drug working group in BRICS has a long and traditional history of cooperation and we intend to keep that and to enhance cooperation in law enforcement and also in intelligence because it is a transnational threat that needs to be dealt through cooperation by all members. And that's why we are here and we want to advance that. And we have very positive expectations regarding this meeting," he said.

India will host the BRICS Heads of Anti-Drug Agencies Meeting on July 6-7 in Guwahati, Assam. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Dalai Lama's 91st Birthday: Tibetans in Dharamshala Hold Grand Fete

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:01:26 +0530

Grand Celebrations in Dharamshala

Tibetans living in exile gathered in large numbers in Dharamshala on Monday to celebrate the 91st birth anniversary of the 14th Dalai Lama with prayers, cultural performances and official ceremonies. The celebrations began with the Indian and Tibetan national anthems, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony. Tibetan artists presented traditional cultural performances, while leaders of the Tibetan government-in-exile delivered speeches marking the occassion.

Around 3,000 to 4,000 Tibetans in exile, along with local Indian residents and foreign supporters, attended the celebrations at the Main Tibetan Temple, Tsuglagkhang. Kangra Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa attended the event as the chief guest. Although the Dalai Lama attended his birthday celebrations in Ladakh, devotees in Dharamshala said they were delighted to mark the occasion together and prayed for his long life and good health. Tenzin Kunsel, a Tibetan woman, told ANI, "We all have gathered here to celebrate the 91st birthday of his holiness the Dalai Lama, and all of us are very happy. We wish him a healthy and long life." Foreigner devotees Simon and Lucas told ANI that they were feeling privileged to be here, and since the Dalai Lama himself was in Ladakh, they missed his presence here in Dharamshala.

PM Modi Extends Birthday Greetings

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended warm greetings to the 14th Dalai Lama on the occasion of his 91st birthday, praising his enduring dedication to global peace and harmony. The Prime Minister conveyed his wishes in a post on X, highlighting the universal resonance of the Tibetan spiritual leader's teachings and his profound moral influence on the international stage. "Warm birthday greetings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His message of peace and harmony has been a guiding force for people across the world. His moral and spiritual strength and his commitment to global good are commendable. Wishing him a long and healthy life," PM Modi stated.

A Life of Spiritual Leadership and Exile

Concurrently, Tibetan Buddhist monks-in-exile and residents gathered early in the morning at the Dorje Drak Monastery in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, to offer special prayers and participate in religious rituals, dedicating the day to the longevity and global message of their spiritual leader. This worldwide reverence traces back to his early life in Tibet. Born to a small farming family in Takster on July 6, 1935, he was originally named Lhamo Thondup, which literally means "Wish-Fulfilling Goddess", according to the Dalai Lama's website.

However, his leadership took a dramatic turn in March 1959 when, following the suppression of the Tibetan National Uprising, the spiritual leader was forced to escape into exile in India along with more than 80,000 refugees. More than six decades after he first entered exile, the anniversary serves as an enduring symbol of the broader struggle over faith, identity, and legitimacy. This remains a complex geopolitical and cultural challenge that Beijing has still failed to solve.

This event, organised systematically every year by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), remains a major draw for followers worldwide. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Gujarat CM pays tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee on 125th birthday

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:01:14 +0530

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Monday paid tributes to eminent nationalist thinker and founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, on the occasion of his 125th birth anniversary.

According to Gujarat CMO, CM Bhupendra Patel offered floral tributes before the oil painting of Late Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee at the Gujarat Legislative Assembly podium.

In a post on X, CM expressed his gratitude to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, stating that he fought till his last breath for the complete integration of Kashmir and equal rights for every citizen. CM further said that Dr Mookerjee's vision of ending the system of "one nation with two constitutions, two Prime Ministers, and two flags" has been realised under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He added that Dr Mookerjee's ideals and his spirit of putting the nation first will continue to inspire patriotism and devotion to the motherland.

On the occasion, Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Purnesh Modi, Whip Balkrishna Shukla, MLAs Rita Patel and Alpesh Thakor, and Gandhinagar Mayor Mira Patel, City BJP President Ashish Dave, Deputy Mayor, office-bearers of the Municipal Corporation, Legislative Assembly Secretary Pandya, and other senior officials were present.

Legacy of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee

Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh on October 21, 1951, the ideological predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Born on July 6, 1901, in Calcutta, he was an educationist, parliamentarian, statesman and humanitarian. He inherited a legacy of scholarship and nationalism from his father, Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, who served as the Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and as a judge of the Calcutta High Court.

In 1940, Dr Mookerjee became the acting president of the Hindu Mahasabha and declared complete independence for India as its political goal. He later served as Minister for Industry and Supply in Jawaharlal Nehru's Interim Government before resigning. He also left the Hindu Mahasabha in the year Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated.

The BJP observes Dr Mookerjee's death anniversary on June 23 as 'Balidan Diwas' to commemorate his death in Kashmir in 1953.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mumbai Rains: 7 Dead as City on Red Alert; High Tide Warning Issued

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:01:10 +0530

Mumbai on Red Alert Amid Heavy Rains

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday chaired a high-level meeting at the Disaster Control Room in Mantralaya to review the situation after heavy rains and landslides lashed various parts of the state, leaving at least seven people dead in rain-related incidents across Mumbai. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a "Red Warning" for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Pune, and the Ghats of Nashik, predicting intense spells of rain and gusty winds reaching speeds of 60-70 kmph.

Addressing the media after the meeting, Chief Minister Fadnavis issued a warning regarding a high tide expected at 3:00 PM today. "Mumbai will have high tide from 3 pm onwards today. If it rains heavily during the time of high tide, we will experience waterlogging. Fierce winds are expected post noon, which is likely to cross 60 to 70 km per hour. People from landslide-prone areas have been evacuated. Nashik is identified as the high alert zone for tomorrow," the CM said. He also confirmed that schools and colleges will remain closed.

Fatalities and Damage Reported Across City

Amidst all this, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported multiple fatal incidents. In Mankhurd, six people lost their lives following a building collapse. In a separate incident in Kurla (West), a 63-year-old man died after a tree fell on a road near Nehru Nagar. Across the city, the BMC received 423 complaints of tree or branch falls and 29 complaints of wall or house collapses. In Jogeshwari, seven people were injured when a tree collapsed on a house, while two others were injured in Worli in a similar mishap.

Transport Services Severely Disrupted

Transport services in the region have been severely impacted. On the Central Railway, services between Karjat and Khopoli remain suspended, while Western Railway services between Vasai and Virar are also halted. The CM noted that Palghar and Vasai-Virar are among the worst-affected areas. "Railways from Gujarat toward Mumbai are badly affected, and passengers are being diverted through the Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway. Raigad also has very heavy rainfall. The coastal belt, as well as Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar, will experience heavy downpour. Savitri River is overflowing," Fadnavis added. Meanwhile, the Mumbai-Pune Highway is partially operational with three lanes, though traffic is moving slowly.

Restoration Work Underway

https://x.com/CMOMaharashtra/status/2074044681642770644?s=20 The CMO Maharashtra stated that despite adverse weather and challenging terrain, restoration work at landslide-affected railway sections is progressing on a war footing, with railway teams using heavy machinery to clear debris and restore services.

BMC Issues Advisory for Citizens

The BMC has urged citizens to stay indoors unless travel is essential, particularly during the high tide period, and to stay away from waterlogged areas and unstable structures as the city braces for further intense downpours. (ANI)

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Odisha petrol dealers urge govt to reconsider E-20 fuel rollout

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:01:02 +0530

Petrol dealers in Odisha have asked the government to reconsider the E-20 fuel rollout, flagging customer complaints, vehicle compatibility issues and a pending commitment on dealer margins, Odisha Petroleum Dealers Association President, Sasanka Sekhar Sahu said in an exclusive conversation with ANI.

The government began rolling out ethanol blended petrol, in 2023 as part of its Ethanol Blended Petrol programme under the National Biofuel Policy. The aim was to cut oil import dependence, reduce emissions and support farmers.

Vehicle Compatibility and Customer Complaints

Sahu said dealers are facing problems at the pump since E-20 was introduced in 2026. "Earlier, there were no complaints. Now that the E-20 has been introduced, we have problems," he said.

According to him, many vehicles on Indian roads, especially BS-6 models, are not fully compatible. "A car's carburettor gets jammed. There are many problems. They come and make a mess in the petrol pump. The owner of the petrol pump has nothing to do with it. The government has introduced it. It has sent us. We have sold it."

He argued that globally most markets use only 10 per cent ethanol blend in fuel, while India has moved to 20 per cent blend. The vehicles that are made in India are largely not compatible to the new fuel" Sahu said, adding that dealers are being questioned by customers even though the fuel switch was a policy decision.

Call for Dealer Margin Revision

The association also sought action on dealer margins. Sahu said, in 2024 the three OMCs had committed to revise dealer margins every six months. "The dealer margin has not increased by one or ten percent since 2024," he said.

He noted that in India the dealer margin is around 10 per cent, and urged the government to address this along with the fuel blend issue.

Dealers Propose Return to E-10 Blend

Sahu said the association will formally request the government to reconsider the E-20 mandate. "We will request the government to reconsider the E-20. We will introduce the ethanol at ten percent. There will be no problem," he said, suggesting a return to E-10 until vehicle compatibility improves.

Sahu signaled that dealers support the broader ethanol programme but want a phased approach and start with a 10 per cent ethanol blend rather than a 20 per cent that aligns with vehicle readiness and ensures margins keep pace with costs. (ANI)

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HP CM Sukhu praises Dalai Lama on 91st birthday as symbol of peace

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:01:00 +0530

CM Sukhu Hails Dalai Lama as Symbol of Peace

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday extended his warm greetings and best wishes to the Dalai Lama on his 91st birthday.

In his message, the Chief Minister said that the Dalai Lama is a global symbol of compassion, non-violence, peace and universal human values.

He said that the Dalai Lama's life continues to inspire humanity to embrace the path of love, harmony and selfless service, while his teachings serve as a beacon of hope and moral guidance for millions across the world.

The Chief Minister said that the presence of his holiness in Himachal has brought the state global recognition as a prominent centre of spirituality and peace. He said that the Dalai Lama's enduring message of compassion and coexistence has enriched the cultural and spiritual heritage of the state and inspired people from across the globe. The CM Sukhu prayed for good health, long life and continued well-being of His Holiness Dalai Lama so that his profound teachings and ideals continue to guide future generations and promote peace, harmony and the welfare of humanity worldwide.

PM Modi Extends Warm Greetings

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended warm greetings to the 14th Dalai Lama, praising his enduring dedication to global peace and harmony.

The Prime Minister conveyed his wishes in a post on X, highlighting the universal resonance of the Tibetan spiritual leader's teachings and his profound moral influence on the international stage. "Warm birthday greetings to His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His message of peace and harmony has been a guiding force for people across the world. His moral and spiritual strength and his commitment to global good are commendable. Wishing him a long and healthy life," PM Modi stated.

Monks Hold Special Prayers in Shimla

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Indian Navy to commission stealth frigate Mahendragiri on July 11

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:00:59 +0530

The Indian Navy is set to commission its sixth Project 17A indigenous stealth frigate, Mahendragiri (F38), at Visakhapatnam on July 11. Named after the Mahendragiri mountain range in the Eastern Ghats, the frigate symbolises resilience, strength and unwavering resolve.

As the first Indian Naval warship to bear this name, Mahendragiri is truly sui generis. The warship is expected to build a distinguished legacy and add another chapter to India's maritime history.

Indigenous Design and Advanced Capabilities

Designed in-house by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai, Mahendragiri is the sixth ship of the Project 17A class of stealth frigates. The vessel reflects India's growing expertise in indigenous warship design and construction.

Advanced Features and Propulsion

The frigate incorporates advanced stealth features, enhanced survivability, a reduced radar signature and a high degree of automation. It is powered by a modern Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, enabling high-speed operations with exceptional endurance across the full spectrum of maritime missions.

A Boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat

With more than 75 per cent indigenous content, Mahendragiri reflects the Government of India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Its construction has brought together a wide network of Indian industries, including numerous Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), generating employment while strengthening the country's defence industrial base.

State-of-the-Art Weaponry

The frigate is equipped with an advanced suite of indigenous and state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile systems, sophisticated electronic warfare capabilities, comprehensive anti-submarine warfare systems and an integrated Combat Management System.

A Versatile and Formidable Force Multiplier

Capable of undertaking anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine operations, Mahendragiri is also suited for maritime security, power projection, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), search and rescue, and sustained presence missions, the statement added.

The commissioning of Mahendragiri marks another significant milestone in the successful execution of the Project 17A programme. As successive frigates of the class join the fleet, they will continue to strengthen the Indian Navy's combat capability while reinforcing India's position as a leading indigenous warship-building nation.

As India continues to strengthen its role as the preferred security partner in the Indian Ocean Region, Mahendragiri will serve as a formidable force multiplier, safeguarding the nation's maritime interests and contributing to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

As the Indian Navy continues to strengthen its maritime capabilities through indigenous warships, Mahendragiri, as a mission-primed unit, stands ready to serve the nation with distinction, living up to its motto, "Mighty, Majestic, Matchless". (ANI)

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'Rs 6,000 a Month in Bengaluru': Kindergarten Teacher's Salary Offer Sparks Outrage Online

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:00:58 +0530

A social media post highlighting the salary offered to a kindergarten teacher in Bengaluru has triggered widespread debate about teacher pay, rising living costs and the financial realities of working in India's tech capital.

The discussion began after X user Mohamed Nowsath claimed that his sister-in-law had secured a job as a playschool or kindergarten teacher but was offered a monthly salary of just Rs 6,000. Sharing his disbelief, he wrote, "My sister-in-law just got a job as a playschool or kindergarten teacher, and she will be paid a whopping Rs 6,000 per month in Bengaluru. While school fees are skyrocketing, teacher salaries are plummeting. How on earth can anyone live on under Rs 6,000 a month in a metro city?"

Check the viral post here:

My sister-in-law just got a job as a playschool/kindergarten teacher and she'll be paid a whopping ₹6,000 per month in Bangalore!While school fees are skyrocketing, teacher salaries are plummeting. How on earth can anyone live on under ₹6,000 a month in a metro city?

— Mohamed Nowsath (@Md_Nowsath_) July 5, 2026

Also Read: Bengaluru Viral Video: Bikers Perform Stunts, Block Ambulance Carrying Patient; Clip Sparks Outrage (WATCH)

The post quickly went viral, drawing sharp reactions from social media users. One person commented, "Snabbit pays its employees Rs 18,000 to Rs 20,000. Probably your sister-in-law is getting paid less than the ayah and helper working in that kindergarten. She should simply not join at that salary." Another user sarcastically remarked, "According to the government... She just needs to adjust and never complain, or else she will lose the job."

Others pointed to broader issues in the education sector. One user wrote, "It is the classic demand and supply mismatch. Nurses also earn barely Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 a month in India, while they thrive in European countries and the Gulf." Another added, "Kindergarten teachers have a massive responsibility for children. They deserve better pay." A different commenter observed, "My house help, who works half a day, earns more than that."

While the authenticity of the salary offer has not been independently verified, the viral post has reignited conversations about low wages in private schools, the rising cost of living in Bengaluru and whether educators are being fairly compensated despite increasing school fees.

Also Read: Crowd Loots Mangoes From Overturned Truck, Viral Video Sparks Outrage Online (WATCH)

Faridabad: Doctors remove betel nut from 4-year-old's collapsed lung

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:00:45 +0530

In a harrowing medical case that underscores the dangers of common household choking hazards, a team of specialists at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, has successfully removed a piece of betel nut (supari) from the lung of a four-year-old boy. The foreign object had been lodged in the child's airway for over a month, causing his left lung to collapse and bringing him to the brink of respiratory failure.

A Month of Misdiagnosis

The child's ordeal began weeks earlier following an accidental inhalation of the betel nut. Despite the incident, the family and initially, the medical professionals he consulted, did not suspect a foreign body. For over a month, the boy suffered from a persistent cough and recurring fevers. He underwent repeated courses of antibiotics and was even placed on anti-tubercular medication when his condition failed to improve.

Doctors believed the betel nut initially caused pneumonia in the right airway before migrating to the left, where it became tightly impacted. The obstruction completely cut off air to the left lung, leading to total collapse and forcing the child onto mechanical ventilation.

Critical Intervention at Amrita Hospital

When the boy arrived at Amrita Hospital in critical condition, he was struggling to maintain oxygen levels despite 100% support. Recognising the extreme complexity of the case, a multidisciplinary team, comprising experts in pediatric intensive care, anaesthesia, and interventional pulmonology, immediately intervened.

"This was a very critical case," said Dr Sourabh Pahuja, Senior Consultant of Interventional Pulmonology. "The foreign body had completely obstructed the airway... Every minute mattered."

Using advanced airway equipment and a cryoprobe, a specialised tool that uses extreme cold to adhere to and extract objects, the team successfully dislodged the nut, which was surrounded by dense inflammatory tissue and pus.

Following the procedure, the child's lung slowly re-inflated, and he was eventually weaned off the ventilator, recovering fully enough to return home.

Doctors Urge Parental Vigilance

Dr Pahuja and his team are now urging parents to be hyper-vigilant regarding young children, who explore the world by putting objects in their mouths. Parents should avoid giving whole nuts, betel nuts, or seeds to children under five years of age. A persistent cough or recurring pneumonia following a suspected choking episode should never be ignored, even if the child initially appears fine. Delayed treatment of an inhaled foreign body can lead to severe, life-threatening complications. Always consult centres equipped for complex airway interventions if such an emergency is suspected.

The child is now breathing normally, an outcome that medical staff attribute to the swift, coordinated intervention of their specialist team.

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Dhurandhar director Aditya Dhar lauds Ranveer Singh's 'brilliance'

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:00:36 +0530

Director Aditya Dhar marked actor Ranveer Singh's birthday with an emotional social media post, reflecting on their collaboration in the upcoming film 'Dhurandhar'.

In an extended post shared today, the filmmaker described his experience of working with Singh as both creatively transformative and personally meaningful. Dhar opened his message by writing, "Some films stay with you forever. Dhurandhar will always be one of those films for me." He further added, "I've always known you're an extraordinary actor. But this journey made me fall in love with the artist you are and even more with the human being behind the artist."

'Witnessing Something Incredibly Rare'

Recalling several intense sequences from the film, the director highlighted Singh's commitment to his craft. "There were days on Dhurandhar that I knew I was witnessing something incredibly rare. The 26/11 sequence. The final tea shop scene. The Pathankot massacre. The pump house scene. The court exterior. Just to name a few. Take after take, scene after scene, you never once looked for the easy choice. Every emotion landed exactly where it needed to. Every silence had meaning. Every glance had intent. Every beat was pitch perfect. The consistency was almost impossible to comprehend. It genuinely felt like watching someone touched by divine grace. As though Maa Saraswati herself had placed her hand on your head and blessed you with every ounce of artistic brilliance she could," Aditya Dhar wrote.

'A Force of Nature'

Dhar went on to praise Singh's presence as a director's actor, writing, "As a director, there are moments you spend your entire career hoping to experience. You gave me those moments again and again." Elevating his admiration further, he described the performance in strong terms, writing, "I truly believe what you've done in Dhurandhar is one of the finest performances Indian cinema has ever seen. It isn't just a performance, it is a force of nature. Fearless, towering and so complete that it disappears into the soul of the character." He added, "I have no doubt people will talk about this performance for years, perhaps generations to come."

From Actor to Brother

Beyond professional admiration, Dhar also reflected on the bond they built during the film. "But what I'll cherish even more is everything that happened between "Action" and "Cut." The conversations. The shared conviction. The relentless pursuit of getting every single moment right," he wrote.

He concluded with a personal note, "Somewhere along the way, you stopped being just my actor. You became my brother." Expressing gratitude, he wrote, "Thank you for trusting me with your heart, your craft and your madness. Thank you for giving Dhurandhar every piece of yourself. I couldn't be prouder of what we've created together. Love you always. Happy Birthday, brother."

Happy Birthday, Ranveer Singh. ❤️ Some films stay with you forever. Dhurandhar will always be one of those films for me. Not just because of the story we told but because I got to witness something very few directors ever get to witness. I’ve always known you’re an extraordinary… pic.twitter.com/Nuj5RTielg — Aditya Dhar (@AdityaDharFilms) July 6, 2026

About 'Dhurandhar'

The film features a strong cast including Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, Rakesh Bedi, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun.

The second installment, 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge', was released in March 2026 and further amplified the franchise's global success. With its massive box office performance, the series went on to cross the Rs 3,000 crore mark worldwide, becoming the first Indian film franchise to achieve this milestone. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Rift in Punjab Congress? Channi camp in Delhi to meet party high command

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:00:33 +0530

Even as the Punjab Congress posted a picture of several Congress leaders with former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, sources told ANI that the representatives of the faction had departed for Delhi to seek a meeting with the high command.

Sources say the faction has headed to Delhi even as AICC in-charge of the state Bhupesh Baghel is scheduled to be in the state.

Show of Unity Amid Rift

Earlier on July 3, Channi had said that the Congress party leadership had urged him to present the sentiments and aspirations of the people of Punjab before the High Command.

However, former Congress MLA from Ludhiana, Simranjit Singh Bains, asserted that very soon, Punjab Congress state president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Sardar Charanjit Singh Channi, and Congress MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, along with the Congress High Command, will be seen together, demonstrating their unity. Speaking to the reporters, he emphasised unity within the Congress party, saying that the media is looking at the party with a "lens of division" "I will go to Channi Sahab's house, Randhawa's house, and also to our state president's house. I am standing in front of you. To blow this out of proportion, that "so and so is sitting at so and so's house," this is not about any division in the party, which you are looking at with a lens of division; you are putting a "scanner" of division on it. All your discussions will come to a halt when Raja Waring, Sardar Charanjit Singh Channi, Sukhjinder Randhawa, and our entire high command are seen travelling in a single vehicle, arms in arms. We have cleared it. I have made it clear that all of us people, from Congress workers to leaders to the high command, are united," he said.

'Unity is Strength' Posts Go Viral

Earlier today, Veteran Congress leader and Gurdaspur MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa posted a picture of what appears to be the Charanjit Channi-led faction of the state unit. This picture had several leading lights of the Punjab Congress, like Manifesto Committee Co-Chairman and MLA Pargat Singh, Election Committee Co-Chairpersons Razia Sultana and Bharat Bhushan Ashu, among others.

Randhawa shared the photograph on the social media platform X with the pointed caption: "Unity is strength." The same picture was then shared by Charanjit Channi as well. Prominent absentees in the picture included PCC President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Leader of Opposition in the assembly Partap Singh Bajwa and MLA Sukhpal Khaira. However, shortly after Randhawa and Channi, the official handle of the Punjab Congress posted the same picture, which was then posted by Warring as well, with the same caption of "Unity is Strength." Unity is strength! #Mission2027 https://t.co/5Y9zJ3d5jS — Amarinder Singh Raja Warring (@RajaBrar_INC) July 6, 2026

Rebellion Against Warring

On July 4, Channi had called for a critical meeting at his home in Morinda. Several leaders, including stalwarts like Bharat Bhushan Ashu, were in attendance and sounded the rebellion against Warring.

They demanded Warring's removal as Punjab Congress president, pitching Channi as the man to lead the party into the elections. The leaders called on the party high command to reconsider the recently announced organisational appointments in Punjab, asserting that the party would return to power under Channi's leadership. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

RFDL: Top 3 U-21 teams to tour Japan for international exposure

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:00:33 +0530

Reinforcing its commitment to increasing the talent pool for the Indian national football team, Reliance Foundation has announced an international exposure tour to Japan for the top three teams from the Reliance Foundation Development League (RFDL), India's premier U-21 youth football competition. Following outstanding performances in the 2025-26 season, the U-21 teams from Bengaluru FC, FC Goa and Punjab FC have earned the opportunity to compete against top Japanese opposition as part of the Foundation's continued investment in youth development, as per a press release. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Reliance Foundation Sports (@rfyouthsports)

International Exposure in Japan

The tour, taking place from July 11-23 in Fukuoka, will see the three Indian clubs compete against leading Japanese youth sides Avispa Fukuoka U18, Sagan Tosu U18, Giravanz Kitakyushu U18 and FC Baleine Shimonoseki U21. The matches are designed to expose India's most promising young footballers to high-intensity competition, different playing styles and one of Asia's most successful football development ecosystems.

Coaches' Perspective on the Tour

Former Indian national team captain and the current Bengaluru FC Reserves Head Coach Renedy Singh urged the importance of the Japan exposure trip, saying, "Through Reliance Foundation, we were able to play 23 matches over the course of the season, and now we have a chance to test ourselves against some of the best opposition in the world. It is a great platform for the teams, the coaches, as well as the players."

Adding to Renedy's thoughts, FC Goa's Development Team Head Coach Israil Gurung stated, "Japan has developed into a powerhouse for football not just in Asia but globally as well, because of their strong grassroots programme. It will be a very good experience for our players when they travel to Japan and see the quality of football there. At FC Goa, we believe that this is a development phase and opportunities like these will only help the players grow."

Punjab FC, who were part of the previous exposure trip organised by Reliance Foundation in the UK in 2024, where they beat the likes of Everton FC & Aston Villa, will also be part of the travelling teams to Japan. Ahead of the trip, their youth team head coach Praveen Kumar said, "The Japanese youth football system is properly structured. We went to the UK last time and had players like Pramveer and Md. Suhail, who was part of the squad at that time, had a great learning opportunity. Reliance Foundation is bridging the gap between youth football and senior level through competitions and exposure tours like this, and I think we are going to have a good challenge and learning opportunity against tactically and technically sound teams in Japan."

Holistic Development and Future Vision

Over the past few years, the Indian teams from RFDL have competed against some of England's leading youth teams. The Japan tour presents the next step in expanding those global learning opportunities, allowing India's best young talent to benchmark themselves against one of Asia's leading football nations.

Focus on Coach Development

Recognising that player development goes hand in hand with coach development, the programme also includes a dedicated three-day coach education module for six coaches from the participating clubs at Avispa Fukuoka. The curriculum will include sessions on Individual Development Plans, player progression and high-performance environments, alongside interactions with the Football Director of FC Machida Zelvia, whose club has risen from the J2 League to the AFC Champions League Elite Final in just three years.

Beyond football, the delegation will participate in cultural visits to the Nagasaki Peace Stadium, Atomic Bomb Museum and Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, reflecting Reliance Foundation's holistic approach to player and coach development.

The Japan exposure tour further strengthens the Reliance Foundation Development League's role in shaping the future of Indian football. As part of a holistic development pathway, the league combines high-quality domestic competition with international exposure and coach education, equipping young players and coaches with global best practices. Japan's sustained success in youth football makes it an ideal benchmark, helping prepare the next generation to compete at the highest levels. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Prashant Kishor to contest from BJP bastion Bankipur, shuns 'safe seat'

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:00:28 +0530

Kishor shuns 'safe seat' for Bankipur bypoll

Jan Suraaj founder and Bankipur Assembly by-election candidate Prashant Kishor on Monday said he was not looking for a "safe seat" and had deliberately chosen to contest from Bankipur, a long-standing BJP bastion, to send a message that Bihar's voters should move beyond caste and religion while exercising their franchise. He also urged people to stop voting out of fear for either Lalu Prasad Yadav or the BJP.

Speaking to ANI, Kishor said he had consciously avoided contesting from a politically safe constituency. Bankipur, which falls under the Patna Sahib Lok Sabha constituency, has long been considered a BJP stronghold. The seat has been represented by the BJP's incumbent National President Nitin Nabin, since 2010 and, before him, by his father, Nabin Kishore Prasad Sinha, making it one of the party's most established urban bastions in Bihar.

"... When people start their electoral politics, they look for safe seats for themselves... I am doing the opposite because I am telling the people of Bihar that if Bihar is to change, they must vote beyond caste and religion. They must stop voting out of fear of Lalu for BJP, or fear of BJP for Lalu. To prove the point I am explaining to the people of Bihar, I am contesting from a place where votes should not be sought in the name of caste or religion..." Kishor said.

By-election schedule announced

Earlier in the day, the Election Commission of India (ECI) issued the formal notification for by-elections to three Assembly constituencies in Bihar, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Polling for the seats will be held on July 30. In Bihar, the by-election will be held for the 182-Bankipur Assembly constituency. The scrutiny of nomination papers will take place on July 14, while candidates can withdraw their nominations until July 16. Polling will be held on July 30 from 7 am to 6 pm, and the entire election process will be completed by August 4, 2026.

Bankipur: A BJP stronghold

The Bankipur seat fell vacant after sitting MLA Nitin Nabin resigned from the Assembly following his election to the Rajya Sabha. He stepped down as MLA on March 30 and took oath as a Rajya Sabha member from Bihar on April 16. The constituency has consistently backed the BJP in recent elections. In the 2020 Assembly election, Nitin Nabin secured 83,068 votes, or 59.05 per cent of the vote share, defeating Congress candidate Luv Sinha, who polled 44,032 votes. In the 2015 Assembly election, Nabin had won with 86,759 votes, securing a 60.19 per cent vote share. In the 2025 Assembly election, he retained the seat by defeating RJD candidate Rekha Kumari by a margin of 51,936 votes, further consolidating Bankipur's status as one of the BJP's safest constituencies in Bihar.

'An election for a new political order'

On Sunday, Kishor described the Bankipur by-election as an opportunity to establish a "new political order" in Bihar. "This election is not merely about electing an MLA from Bankipur; it is not about forming or toppling a government. It is an election to establish a new political order in Bihar--to usher in a new kind of politics in the state. It is both significant and challenging. However, I am confident that the most enlightened voters of Bihar will make the right decision and cast their votes in a way that initiates a new political order in the state," he said.

Political Reactions

Reacting to Kishor's candidature, Union Minister Giriraj Singh said the "true face" of Jan Suraaj had been exposed. "They have started hurling abuse at the BJP workers. Their business of falsehoods has come to an end. Their true face has been exposed; that is why their shop has shut down ahead of the general election," he told reporters.

Meanwhile, BJP Bihar president Sanjay Saraogi expressed confidence that the NDA candidate would retain the seat. "The announcement for the Bankipur by-election has been made. The election there is on July 30. Other parties will also contest the election with their candidates. The people of Bankipur are going to express their gratitude to the top leadership of the BJP in this election. They will ensure victory for the NDA candidate with a massive majority," he said.

The Commission said Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines will be used at all polling stations. It added that adequate arrangements have been made to ensure the smooth conduct of the by-elections. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

AMD Stock Rises Premarket: Retail Traders Eye $600 Level Despite Limited Analyst Upside

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:00:07 +0530

AMD stock rose 2.6% in premarket; it's up 142% year to date.
Analysts on average forecast a 2% downside in the stock.
Stocktwits sentiment for AMD dipped to ‘neutral’ from ‘bullish.’

Advanced Micro Devices shares rose 2.6% in premarket trading on Monday, rebounding from last week’s decline as retail traders speculated that the renewed momentum could propel the stock to the $600 mark for the first time.

The stock was trending at the top on Stocktwits as premarket trading kicked off, although the retail sentiment dipped to ‘neutral’ from ‘bullish.’

“$AMD buyers seem to be supporting the price very strongly tonight, not allowing any dip to go too far. This could make a massive move tomorrow and force shorts to cover in deep red positions. Let's see what the morning brings but not looking good for shortie,” a trader wrote.

Another said the stock “may hit 600 before open tomorrow!”

“Foxconn’s strong June revenue growth highlights continued strength in global electronics and AI-related supply chains, reflecting ongoing demand for servers, GPUs, and data center infrastructure,” a trader said, referring to Foxconn’s June results issued on Sunday.

AMD’s Dip Piques Interest

Buying interest in AMD picked up following the recent pullback. The stock fell over Wednesday and Thursday, with U.S. markets closed on Friday for the Independence Day holiday, leaving the shares about 11% below their record high reached last Tuesday.

AMD stock is up 142% year-to-date, on track for its best annual performance since 2016. In comparison, peer stocks Nvidia and Intel have gained 4.6% and 226% respectively in this period, while the chips benchmark, iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) is up 88%.

AMD Analyst View

Last week, Wells Fargo and Cantor Fitzgerald raised their price targets on the stock, citing strong CPU demand for AI data centers.

The AI infrastructure buildout is viewed as a generational semiconductor cycle that is both durable and extended by supply chain constraints, with expectations for faster-than-previously-forecast industry revenue expansion reaching roughly $3 trillion by 2029 and potentially exceeding $3.5 trillion by 2030, Cantor Fitzgerald said in its investor note.

Still, analysts’ price targets suggest they expect limited medium-term upside in the stock. Although 42 of 51 brokerages recommend ‘Buy’ or higher, their average price target of $517.81 is 2% below AMD’s closing price on Thursday.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

WATCH: Noida Woman Confronts Man Over Alleged Inappropriate Gesture, Video Goes Viral

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:53:03 +0530

At a time when the safety of women in public places has become one of the biggest concerns, a woman decided to take matters into her own hands when a man winked at her. The woman was riding a motorbike with someone when the incident happened in Noida at night. She said that after a car driver winked at her, she confronted him in the middle of the road. The clip, posted on X, captured the man and the woman chasing the four-wheeler driver on a busy city road at night. The post claimed that the man travelling in the car winked at the woman as their vehicle passed each other.

She walked towards the car and used explicit language while talking to the man. She asked him to come out, and once he was out, she charged at him, saying, “Aankh kaise maari (How dare you wink at me)?" The woman did not back down and gave him a firm response as the male remained there attempting to explain himself by claiming he had done nothing.

At one point, the man was seen folding his hands in front of the woman and pleading for forgiveness, but he insisted that he had not done anything as she said. It was unable to independently confirm the incident's precise location.

Watch Viral Video

Noida: A man winked at a girl from a moving car, the girl stopped the vehicle right in the middle of the road and gave that guy a solid Replypic.twitter.com/U2YNbqzSbm

— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) July 5, 2026

How Did Social Media React?

The video has since gone viral, drawing over a lakh views on the platform. While many praised the woman for standing up against what they believed was inappropriate behaviour, others argued that stopping in the middle of a busy road and confronting someone was not appropriate.

“Bahut acha sabak sikhaya. All girls need to respond in this way," remarked one user.

Another highlighted, “Always make a video in any confrontation; you can see in the man’s eyes that he was guilty."

“She should file a sexual harrasment case against the man. Men are disgusting," said a user.

What Is the Age Gap Between Aamir Khan and Gauri Spratt? Know Their Ages

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:48:55 +0530

Aamir Khan has married longtime partner Gauri Spratt in a private registered wedding held at his Bandra residence in Mumbai. The intimate ceremony was attended by family and close friends, marking a new chapter in the actor's personal life

Amarnath Yatra 2026: Ice Shivling Shrinks to Around 1 Foot as Over 56,000 Devotees Offer Prayers

Divya Danu — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:39:26 +0530

The sacred ice Shivling inside Amarnath cave has shrunk to around one foot after standing nearly 7 feet tall in May. Despite rapid melting, the annual pilgrimage is continuing without disruption. Over 56,000 devotees have visited in first three days.

FIFA WC: 'Biggest by far,' says Haaland on historic Norway win vs Brazil

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:31:02 +0530

Norway forward Erling Haaland described his side's 2-1 victory over five-time champions Brazil in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 as "the biggest by far" after scoring both goals to send Norway into the quarter-finals. Notably, Norway reached the quarter-finals for the first time in the nation's history.

'Completely insane': Haaland on historic victory

In a video posted by the Norwegian national football team on X, Haaland described the victory as the biggest by far, saying he was overwhelmed by the achievement and struggled to put the historic win into words. "This is clearly the biggest by far, without a doubt; it's completely insane, I can't even comprehend it myself. Insane, I'm out of words. Not much to say, it's completely insane. You just have to pinch your arm; it's completely insane. It's hard to put words to it," Haaland said.

Norway will now face England in the quarter-final clash in Miami on July 11. Haaland said Norway approached the match with no pressure, viewing everything beyond that stage as a bonus. He added that the team simply enjoyed the occasion, capitalised on Brazil's pressure, and would cherish the memorable victory and their World Cup journey forever. "I said before this match, everything from here on is a bonus, shoulders down and enjoy it, just like we did today. You could feel it today; the pressure was on them. We just played. It would be a party either way, win or lose, and we managed to win, so we'll just enjoy and savour the moment. I mean, this is a journey we'll remember forever," Haaland said.

Coach Solbakken hails 'fantastic and surreal' result

Norway coach Stale Solbakken expressed delight for the players, staff, and fans across the country after the big win, saying the intense buildup had been rewarded with a memorable result. He added that the nation could now celebrate and look forward to the next match, describing the experience as both fantastic and surreal. "I'm very happy on behalf of the players, the support staff, all of Norway, everyone who followed this game. It's been a massive, massive buildup to this match, and it's very rare that it delivers to such an extent, so everyone can experience this together across Norway. Now they can take a week to look forward to the next game, so that will be... no, it's fantastic, and it's a bit of an absurd feeling, actually," Solbakken said in another video posted by the Norwegian national football team on X.

Match Recap

Coming to the match at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, Haaland scored a late brace to lead Norway to a historic 2-1 victory over Brazil. Despite Brazil dominating possession and missing a first-half penalty, Norway held firm with key saves from goalkeeper Orjan Nyland. Brazil star Neymar scored a stoppage-time penalty, but it was not enough to prevent Brazil's exit as Norway will now face England in the quarter-finals after the Three Lions defeated Mexico 3-2 in their Round of 16 clash.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Blatter warns against 'political power' in FIFA's Balogun ruling

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:30:59 +0530

Former FIFA president Joseph Sepp Blatter has questioned the circumstances surrounding United States striker Folarin Balogun's eligibility for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against Belgium, saying football must never become a playground for political power.

Earlier, FIFA announced that the implementation of Balogun's automatic one-match suspension had been suspended under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

In its statement, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee said, "By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year."

Blatter: 'Football Must Never Become a Playground for Political Power'

Reacting to the development in a post on X, Blatter stressed that disciplinary decisions should remain independent of political influence. "Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls. They are overturned by rules, evidence and independent bodies," Blatter wrote.

The former FIFA chief added that any suggestion of political involvement in football's disciplinary process would raise serious concerns. "If a U.S. President intervenes with the FIFA President -- and a player is suddenly cleared before a World Cup knockout match -- the question is unavoidable. Football must never become a playground for political power," he wrote.

Balogun had been shown a red card in the 64th minute of the United States' 2-0 Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite playing with 10 men, the co-hosts secured progression to the last 16, with Balogun having already scored three goals during the tournament.

Belgian FA 'Astonished' by Ruling

The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) also expressed strong opposition to FIFA's decision to make United States striker Folarin Balogun eligible for Monday's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash, describing the ruling as surprising and saying it is exploring all possible avenues to protect its interests.

In an official statement issued on Sunday, the RBFA said it was "astonished by FIFA's decision to declare suspended United States player Folarin Balogun eligible to play in the USA-Belgium match" and questioned the legal basis for the ruling.

While acknowledging that FIFA had relied on Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the Belgian federation argued that other regulations clearly mandate an automatic suspension following a red card. The statement said, "Article 66.4 of the same FIFA Disciplinary Code clearly provides that a red card (sending-off) automatically results in a suspension for the team's next match, as has been the case for all previous red cards issued during this FIFA World Cup."

Balogun is now expected to be available when the United States face Belgium in Seattle, with a place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals at stake. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India's power discoms see financial turnaround amid policy reforms

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:30:59 +0530

India's power distribution companies (discoms) are witnessing an improvement in their financial health, supported by policy reforms proposed under the Draft National Electricity Policy 2026, the Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2026 and the Digital India Energy Stack, according to a report by Macquarie.

The report said India's power sector is undergoing a dual-track transition, with coal continuing to provide baseload power at plant load factors (PLFs) of over 65 per cent, while new reforms are aimed at making the sector more market-driven and financially stronger. Peak power demand reached a record high of around 271 GW in May 2026, highlighting pressure on the grid despite adequate base generation capacity.

Financial Turnaround and Key Initiatives

The report also noted that India's power sector recorded a profit of about Rs 25 billion in FY25 after remaining loss-making for decades. According to the report, the financial performance of discoms has improved with support from investments under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and the rollout of smart meters.

The RDSS aims to reduce aggregate technical and commercial (AT&C) losses to 12-15 per cent and bridge the gap between average cost of supply (ACS) and average revenue realised (ARR) to zero. Under the scheme, projects worth Rs 1.53 trillion have been sanctioned to strengthen distribution infrastructure, while projects worth Rs 1.3 trillion have been approved for smart metering.

"Power distribution companies (discoms) financial health has improved while AT&C losses have narrowed over the years, with FY25 profits at about Rs 25 bn after decades of loss-making previously," the report noted.

The report said that as of March 2026, 59.7 million smart meters had been installed across the country. It added that AT&C losses declined to 16 per cent in FY25 from 21.9 per cent in FY21, moving closer to the national target of 12-15 per cent.

Ongoing Regulatory Reforms

The report also highlighted ongoing regulatory reforms across the power sector.

Draft National Electricity Policy 2026

It said the Draft National Electricity Policy 2026 proposes a shift towards market-based power systems instead of relying on long-term coal power purchase agreements (PPAs). "The Draft National Electricity Policy 2026 signals a clear pivot toward market-based power systems, moving away from rigid, long-term coal PPAs," the report said.

Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2026

The report added that the Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2026 seeks to improve the efficiency of state discoms by mandating cost-reflective tariffs. This is expected to reduce cross-subsidies and strengthen the sector's credit profile.

Digital Infrastructure: India Energy Stack

It further said the India Energy Stack will provide a digital backbone for the power sector by standardising data exchange and identity systems.

Overall, "Improved billing, reduced leakages, and LPS-driven decline in overdue payables indicate materially stronger financial health versus historical levels," the report said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Indonesia launches ONDC-based network, boosts India's digital diplomacy

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:30:56 +0530

In a major boost to India's digital diplomacy, Indonesia has launched its own open digital commerce network built entirely on the architectural blueprint of India's Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). This monumental cross-border technology transfer sets a robust backdrop for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's six-day, three-nation visit to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand from July 6 to 11.

The high-profile digital initiative is poised to transform the democratic scale of commerce in the Southeast Asian nation, mirroring India's successful open-network model that empowers grassroots enterprises.

Bilateral Tech Ties Strengthened

Hailing the project as a milestone in bilateral tech ties, Indonesia Open Network President Director Bayu Prawira Hie told ANI, "We built Indonesia Open Network based on the hub from ONDC India. We implemented the idea here as a digital cooperation between Indonesia and India."

Expressing immense optimism over PM Modi's visit, Bayu emphasised the historic ties and the massive potential for upcoming bilateral pacts. "We are very excited because we know there are a lot of similarities between India and Indonesia and we have a lot of friends. We have been working together for many years and I think this is the time to further strengthen our collaboration. A lot of agreements will be signed, especially on the digital infrastructure that we built," Bayu added.

ONDC: The Architectural Blueprint

Detailing the technical foundation of the project, Advisor to Indonesia Open Network, T Koshy, told ANI, "India launched the 'Open Network for Digital Commerce' (ONDC) a few years ago. It is considered a vital piece of digital public infrastructure that will make commerce accessible to everyone and greatly benefit small and micro-businesses."

"Indonesia has been monitoring this initiative for years and is highly impressed by its functioning; they believe it could be adopted in their own country as well. Notably, they are building their network using the same protocol that India employed for ONDC," T Koshy added.

This shared foundation holds long-term economic potential for the region. According to T Koshy, "This could pave the way for future cross-border connections and transactions between India and Indonesia, given that both nations are utilising this architecture." He further highlighted that the commercial launch of the network serves as the ideal setup for upcoming bilateral announcements. "We are the curtain raiser of an announcement of Indonesia Open Network, which is an outcome of the joint collaboration, which would be highlighted, and I think there will be many more, which will be revealed tomorrow," the Adviser said.

PM Modi's Strategic Indo-Pacific Outreach

In his departure statement ahead of the multi-nation visit, Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the outreach is structured to capitalise on the robust traction built with all three partners, expanding collaborations across strategic, economic, and people-centric sectors while reinforcing commitments toward regional stability.

The "MAHASAGAR"--Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions--framework represents New Delhi's institutional blueprint for promoting security, stability, and inclusive growth across the maritime domain. This strategic maritime paradigm directly informs the operational phase of the visit, beginning with his arrival in the Indonesian capital.

First Stop: Indonesia

The Prime Minister will commence his visit to Indonesia from July 6 to 8, arriving at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. Recalling that the two democracies elevated their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during his 2018 visit, the Prime Minister noted that this stands as his inaugural bilateral visit since that institutional upgrade.

This high-profile interaction follows the prominent visit of President Prabowo to India, where he served as the Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations in January 2025. Beyond high-level policy and digital commerce frameworks, the visit incorporates critical cultural dimensions aimed at solidifying grassroots links between the two countries.

During his stay in the Southeast Asian nation, PM Modi will interact with the Indian diaspora and accompany President Prabowo on a visit to the Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta, describing the UNESCO-listed site as a symbol of the deep cultural links between the two nations.

Second Leg: Australia

Following the conclusion of his engagements in Jakarta, the Prime Minister will shift focus to the next crucial phase of his Indo-Pacific outreach. From Indonesia, the Prime Minister will proceed to Melbourne for the second leg of the visit, holding talks with his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, aimed at expanding the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The Prime Minister observed that the high-level dialogue in Australia will focus heavily on strengthening cooperation in defence and security, trade and investment, education, mobility, and people-to-people exchanges. PM Modi added that he looked forward to interacting with the Indian community in Melbourne, calling the diaspora an "important pillar" of the bilateral relationship.

Final Stop: New Zealand

The multi-nation diplomatic visit will eventually transition from the Australian continent to address key economic partnerships further east. The final stop of the multi-nation visit will take the Prime Minister to Auckland for a high-level meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, structured to sustain the bilateral momentum generated by Luxon's visit to India in March this year.

The Prime Minister indicated that the two leaders will brainstorm pathways to further expand economic, trade, and commercial engagement following the signing of the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.

Tying together all three destinations of this major diplomatic outreach, the Prime Minister placed heavy emphasis on the strategic value of the global Indian community. "Our bilateral ties have seen significant contributions from the Indian diaspora, and during this visit, I look forward to addressing a large gathering of the Indian community who have excelled in all spheres of life," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Delhi HC grants interim protection to BJP MP Ravi Kishan from misuse

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:30:55 +0530

The Delhi High Court on Monday granted interim protection to actor and BJP MP Ravi Kishan, restraining several individuals, websites and online platforms from using or exploiting his name, image, likeness and other personality attributes without authorisation. The Court also directed the removal of URLs allegedly carrying obscene, pornographic and AI-generated content misusing the actor's identity.

Details of the Interim Order

Justice Jyoti Singh passed the interim order while hearing a suit filed by Ravi Kishan (Ravindra Shukla), who sought protection of his personality and publicity rights against alleged misuse of his identity across social media platforms, websites and other online mediums. The Court restrained several Defendants, including unidentified "John Doe" defendants, from directly or indirectly using or exploiting Ravi Kishan's name, image, likeness or any other distinctive attributes of his persona for commercial or personal gain through any technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Generative AI, Machine Learning and deepfakes, across physical, virtual or social media platforms.

The Court further restrained the defendants from posting any audio-visual, vulgar, obscene or pornographic content using the actor's personality attributes through any technology or medium. Justice Singh also directed Defendants, along with the concerned domain name registrars, to take down the URLs listed in Annexure-A of the order within three days of receiving the order. The Court said that if they fail to comply, Ravi Kishan may notify Meta Platforms, Google LLC and X Corp., which shall initiate steps to remove the concerned URLs within 72 hours of receiving such intimation.

Court's Observations

The Court observed that Ravi Kishan had established a prima facie case for interim relief, adding that the balance of convenience lay in his favour and that he would suffer irreparable harm if the injunction was not granted. Recognising the actor's long career in cinema and public life, the Court noted that Ravi Kishan has built significant goodwill and reputation over more than three decades and has exclusive rights over the commercial exploitation of his name, image, voice, likeness and other identifiable personality attributes.

It held that unauthorised use of these attributes affects not only commercial interests but also an individual's personality rights, privacy and dignity. Referring to earlier decisions on personality rights, the Court observed that famous personalities are entitled to seek protection against unauthorised use of their identity, particularly where such use involves vulgar, obscene, sexually explicit or pornographic content that tarnishes their image and reputation.

Allegations in the Lawsuit

According to the plaint, Ravi Kishan alleged that several social media accounts and websites had uploaded objectionable reels, fabricated statements, AI-generated videos and sexually explicit content using his name, image and likeness without permission. He also alleged that certain websites were using his name as a keyword and within URLs to host pornographic content, while another defendant had allegedly distorted his name for a radio programme.

The Court issued summons in the suit and notices on the interim injunction application. Written statements have been directed to be filed within 30 days of service of summons, while the matter has been listed before the Joint Registrar on August 13, 2026. The interim injunction application is scheduled for hearing before the Court on October 16, 2026. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi's Indonesia visit to focus on trade amid bilateral decline

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:30:27 +0530

Focus on Economic Ties Amid Trade Decline

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Indonesia is expected to focus on strengthening economic ties, even as bilateral merchandise trade has declined over the past three financial years.

According to a Rubix Data Sciences trade outlook report, bilateral goods trade fell from USD 38.8 billion in FY2023 to USD 24.8 billion in FY2026. Trade and investment are expected to be key areas of discussion during Prime Minister Modi's July 6-11 visit to Indonesia. The visit follows the 8th India-Indonesia Joint Commission Meeting held in New Delhi last month.

Declining Exports and Imports

The report said overall bilateral goods trade registered a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of minus 14 per cent during the period, mainly due to falling exports and moderating imports. India's exports to Indonesia declined from USD 10 billion in FY2023 to USD 4.5 billion in FY2026, recording a CAGR of minus 23 per cent.

"India's goods exports to Indonesia fell from USD 10.0 billion (FY2023) to USD 4.5 billion (FY2026), more than halving over the period, with a steep CAGR of -23%, reflecting sustained export weakness," the report said. Imports from Indonesia also declined, falling from USD 28.8 billion in FY2023 to USD 20.3 billion in FY2026, at a CAGR of minus 11 per cent.

"Imports from Indonesia declined from USD 28.8 billion to USD 20.3 billion, with a CAGR of -11%, indicating that import demand has also fallen but at a relatively slower pace than export demand," the report added. The report said India's trade deficit with Indonesia narrowed from USD 18.8 billion in FY2023 to USD 15.8 billion in FY2026, although the imbalance remains significant.

Shifting Trade Dynamics and Cooperation

Despite the decline in trade, Indonesia remains one of India's key economic partners in Southeast Asia. ASEAN accounted for around 11 per cent of India's total merchandise trade in FY2026, with Indonesia remaining India's second-largest merchandise trading partner within the bloc. The report said the Joint Commission Meeting held in June 2026 focused on expanding cooperation in trade, maritime security, defence, digital connectivity, health and critical minerals.

It also noted changes in the composition of bilateral trade.

Diversification of Indian Exports

India's exports to Indonesia have become more diversified, with the share of refined petroleum products declining, while exports of frozen bovine meat, auto components, groundnuts and unmanufactured tobacco have increased. The report said India's export basket is gradually shifting from energy products towards agricultural and industrial goods.

Key Imports from Indonesia

On the import side, coal and palm oil continued to dominate India's imports from Indonesia. Indonesia remained India's largest supplier of palm oil, accounting for around 40 per cent of India's palm oil imports in FY2026, while imports remained largely commodity-driven despite gradual diversification, the report said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

JD(S), BJP allege massive irregularities in Karnataka electoral rolls

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:30:27 +0530

The Janata Dal (Secular) and Bharatiya Janata Party delegation on Monday submitted a complaint to the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) V Anbukkumar over "massive irregularities" in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise of the electoral rolls in the State.

"We write to express serious concern over the massive irregularities in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise of the electoral rolls in the State of Karnataka. The officials who are supposed to conduct the SIR are showing zero regard for the approved process, thereby undermining the very spirit of democracy," it read.

The complaint added that the BLOs are required to conduct a door-to-door verification of voters, as per the SIR guidelines and the directives of the District Election Officer (DEO), which is not being followed. "Under the SIR guidelines, Booth Level Officers (BLOs), under the directions of the District Election Officer (DEO/DC), are required to conduct mandatory door-to-door verification and personally verify the identity of the members of each household. However, this is not being followed on the ground, evidence of which has been shared on my social media, while mainstream media has also carried several such instances, all of which are clearly in the public domain. (The relevant evidence is enclosed herewith as Annexure-L.) Multiple similar complaints are also being received from several other parts of the State," it read.

Allegations of Irregular Practices

The delegation highlighted in the complaint that enumeration forms are being distributed while sitting at community halls, mosques, and the residences of BLOS, while WhatsApp groups have also been created for the same purpose. The complaint added that people are being encouraged to visit these community halls and mosques for the SIR process.

"Such a practice is a breach of the established SIR guidelines and raises serious concerns regarding the neutrality and secular character of the electoral process," the complaint emphasised.

"This is going to create an unsustainable and unreliable electoral roll. No deviation is allowed from the procedures prescribed by the Election Commission of India," it added.

Delegation Demands Immediate Inquiry

The JD(S) and BJP delegation demanded immediate inquiry and directed the re-verification of all enumeration forms through mandatory door-to-door verification as well as strict legal action against all the officials who are responsible for these "irregularities."

"In view of the seriousness of these irregularities, we, the NDA Alliance Partners, urge you to order an immediate inquiry and direct the re-verification of all enumeration forms through mandatory door-to-door verification. Strict legal action must be initiated against all officials and political functionaries found responsible for these irregularities," the complaint read.

Earlier today, Kumaraswamy, along with BJP leaders Pralhad Joshi, R Ashoka, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, and others, arrived at the Office of the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer over the alleged lapses in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision exercise in the State. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Tom Holland thought Nolan was unhappy, but it was IMAX camera's fault

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:30:27 +0530

Tom Holland has revealed that he mistakenly believed director Christopher Nolan was unhappy with his performance on the first day of filming 'The Odyssey', before learning that the frequent interruptions were simply due to the technical limitations of IMAX cameras. As per Variety, Holland in a recent interview, recalled his first experience working with IMAX cameras and admitted he misunderstood why Nolan kept calling for cuts during a scene with co-star Jon Bernthal. "Working with the Imax cameras for the first time is an experience," Holland explained, adding, "It is unlike anything I have ever seen before, and I didn't know that it only ran for three minutes. So, I remember you would continue cutting, and I was with Jon [Bernthal], like, 'Why does he keep cutting? Why does he keep doing that?'" The actor said the repeated interruptions left him worried that Nolan was dissatisfied with the performances. "And in my head, I was like, 'Does he not like what we're doing? What is happening?' And then, I remember it was actually [stunt coordinator] George Cottle that was like, 'No, no, no, there's only three minutes in the mag.' I was like, 'Oh, thank god.' I thought I was totally shit-ing the bed in this scene," he said, as quoted by Variety.

About 'The Odyssey'

Holland plays Telemachus, the son of Matt Damon's Odysseus, in 'The Odyssey,' which is scheduled to release in theatres on July 17. The film also features Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Jon Bernthal, Elliot Page, Benny Safdie, Mia Goth and John Leguizamo.

Holland calls working with Nolan 'best experience'

Despite his anxious start on set, Holland recently praised the experience of working with Nolan in an interview, calling it the highlight of his career so far. "Working with Chris, getting to know him and Emma [Thomas] was absolutely fantastic. I've never seen someone that can work the way that they do, and there is a reason why they're the best in the business for sure," Holland said, as quoted by Variety. He added, "To get a front row seat to that and to be a part of the process and to collaborate with a true master of his craft and learn from him was the best experience I've ever had." (ANI) (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Delhi Police busts inter-state racket selling forged documents online

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:30:25 +0530

In a major breakthrough against organized cyber-enabled forgery, the Intelligence Fusion & Strategic Operations (IFSO), Special Cell, Delhi Police on Monday busted an inter-state racket involved in the preparation and online sale of forged identity documents through a website bkprint.in. The operation resulted in the arrest of two accused persons, namely Bideshi Saw and Santosh Kumar.

Website Verification and Forgery Confirmation

During social media monitoring and cyber patrolling, information was received that forged government documents were being prepared and supplied online through the website bkprint.in on payment of money. Verification revealed that the website was offering services for the preparation of Aadhaar Cards, Voter Identity Cards, PAN-related documents, Residence Certificates, Caste Certificates, Birth/Death Certificates and other document-like records.

To verify the information, a dummy user account was created using a mobile number. The website required a wallet recharge before availing its services. Accordingly, an amount of Rs.100/- was transferred through the UPI ID displayed on the website. After confirmation of the wallet recharge, forged Aadhaar Card and Voter Identity Card were successfully generated by entering fictitious personal details and uploading a photograph. Examination of the generated Aadhaar document revealed that the QR Code merely reflected the particulars manually entered by the user and was not linked with any official Aadhaar database, thereby establishing the forged nature of the documents. The verification conclusively established that the website was facilitating the preparation and dissemination of forged Government identity documents for unlawful gain.

Arrest and Interrogation of Accused

During the investigation, the mobile number and UPI account used for receiving payments on the website were traced to accused Bideshi Saw, a resident of Daman & Diu. During investigation, accused Bideshi Saw was arrested from Daman & Diu. During the course of sustained interrogation, he disclosed that he was facilitating preparation of forged documents through a website bkprint.in in lieu of online payments and further revealed that the backend operations of the website were being managed by one Santosh Kumar, a resident of Patna, Bihar.

On the basis of technical evidence and further investigation, accused Santosh Kumar was traced to Patna, Bihar and arrested. Preliminary examination of the recovered digital devices revealed incriminating evidence including website source code, hosting configuration, customer records, technical files, payment-related information and chats exchanged with co-accused Bideshi Saw, establishing his active involvement in the development, maintenance and backend management of the websites used for preparation of forged documents.

Incriminating Evidence Recovered

Upon investigating further, one Realme Narzo 70 Pro 5G mobile phone, one Redmi mobile phone, one Lenovo IdeaPad laptop, and one QR Code Sound Box were recovered from accused Bideshi Saw. Whereas, an ASUS VivoBook laptop containing website source code and technical records and one mobile phone containing chats with co-accused Bideshi Saw, were recovered from accused Santosh Kumar.

Digital records relating to bkprint.in and bkprint.xyz, including source code, hosting details, customer database, technical files and payment-related information and electronic documents bearing the names "BKS" and "BKS Online Services" Was also recovered.

Ongoing Investigation

The offence has been found to be grave, organized and technology-driven, involving preparation and dissemination of forged government identity documents through online platforms for unlawful financial gain.

Further investigation is underway to identify additional associates, ascertain the complete customer database, trace the proceeds of crime, examine the role of other facilitators and identify persons who procured or misused forged documents generated through the website. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India's market decline temporary, growth recovery to boost equities

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:30:23 +0530

India's recent decline in market valuations is temporary rather than structural, and a recovery in economic growth could help reverse the trend and provide a boost to equities, according to a report by Morgan Stanley.

The report said that the combination of subdued recent market performance and lower foreign investor ownership could create a favourable environment for Indian equities going forward. It stated, "India's relative de-rating is cyclical and with growth acceleration in the pipeline, it has potential to reverse"

Addressing Structural Concerns

Morgan Stanley argued that concerns suggesting India's valuation decline is structural are overstated. According to the report, one argument for a structural de-rating is that India's long-term growth could slow because of a declining fertility rate. Another concern is that artificial intelligence (AI) could hurt India's services exports and trade.

However, the report said both concerns are exaggerated. It noted that while fertility rates are slowing, the change has not been abrupt and is likely to support economic growth over the next two decades, even though it may gradually reduce India's long-term demographic advantage. On artificial intelligence, the report said AI could pose a near-term challenge to the country's services export momentum. However, over the medium term, it also presents a significant opportunity to improve labour productivity from India's relatively low productivity base.

Long-Term Growth Outlook

Morgan Stanley further said India's long-term growth outlook remains supported by several structural factors, including a multi-polar global economy that could increase India's share in global goods trade, a growing consumer base and a significant pickup in investments.

Market Triggers and Outlook

The report therefore concluded that the decline in India's market valuation is mainly cyclical and reflects the gap in relative economic growth compared with the rest of the world. However, the report also shared that although India's economic growth appears to have bottomed out and is now moving higher, it still trails growth in some other economies, particularly those benefiting from the global artificial intelligence capital expenditure cycle.

Looking ahead, Morgan Stanley said the key trigger for Indian markets will be how investors assess the growth gap between India and the global economy. The report said market sentiment could improve if optimism around global AI-related capital expenditure moderates or if India's economic growth accelerates further. Morgan Stanley also expects the upcoming quarterly earnings season to provide important signals for investors and believes companies could deliver positive earnings surprises, supported by strong high-frequency economic indicators. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

UP Shocker: Pregnant Woman's Body Exhumed After Father Alleges Dowry Murder, Husband, In-laws Booked

Shweta Kumari — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:25:56 +0530

The body of a 28-year-old pregnant woman was exhumed from her grave on Sunday and sent for a postmortem after her father alleged that she was murdered over persistent dowry demands in Uttar Pradesh. Police have registered a case against the woman's husband, father-in-law and mother-in-law under provisions related to dowry death, officials confirmed.

According to the complaint filed by the victim's father, his daughter was allegedly killed by her husband and in-laws over repeated demands for dowry. He further claimed that her body was buried in the village graveyard on June 29 without informing the police.

Circle Officer Gajendra Pal Singh said the body of the woman, a resident of Riyawali village under the Ratanpuri police station limits, was exhumed on the orders of the district magistrate in the presence of the sub-divisional magistrate and under tight police security.

According to news agency PTI, police said the body has been sent for a post-mortem examination and further investigation is underway.

The woman had married on March 11, 2023. Her father alleged that she had been subjected to repeated harassment by her husband and her in-laws over dowry demands, allegations are now at the centre of the ongoing investigation.

Karnataka Weather Alert: IMD Issues Orange Alert for 11 Districts, Yellow Alert for 8 as Heavy Rain Lashes State

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:20:46 +0530

The southwest monsoon has intensified across Karnataka, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting widespread rainfall across the state on Monday. The weather has been influenced by a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal and a trough extending across the Arabian Sea, creating favourable conditions for heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 24 hours. In view of the prevailing weather conditions, authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly in districts expected to receive intense rainfall.

The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) has issued an Orange Alert for 11 districts and a Yellow Alert for eight others, warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms and lightning.

11 Districts Under Orange Alert

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected across the coastal region, the Malnad region and parts of North Karnataka.

An Orange Alert has been issued for the following districts:

Coastal districts: Uttara Kannada, Udupi and Dakshina Kannada.

Malnad and interior districts: Belagavi, Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan, Kodagu, Dharwad, Vijayapura and Raichur.

Residents in these districts have been advised to remain alert, as continuous heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is likely. District administrations have also been directed to take the necessary precautionary measures.

Yellow Alert Issued for Eight Districts

Moderate to heavy rainfall is also expected in several parts of South and North Karnataka.

A Yellow Alert has been issued for Mysuru, Mandya, Tumakuru, Haveri, Davanagere, Gadag, Ballari and Chikkaballapura districts.

Residents in these districts have been advised to monitor weather updates and exercise caution during periods of heavy rainfall.

Fishermen Advised Not to Venture Into the Sea

The deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to generate strong winds along the Karnataka coast, with wind speeds likely to range between 30 and 40 kmph. Sea conditions are expected to remain rough.

The weather department has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea until further notice. People living in coastal areas have also been urged to remain cautious.

Cloudy Skies and Rain Likely in Bengaluru

Bengaluru and its surrounding areas are expected to witness cloudy skies throughout the day, with moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms likely during the evening or at night.

Motorists have been advised to drive cautiously, as waterlogging may occur in low-lying areas, leading to traffic disruptions.

Authorities Urge Public to Take Precautions

With rainfall and wind intensity expected to increase, the Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority has urged people not to take shelter under old buildings, electric poles or trees during adverse weather conditions.

People living near rivers, streams and hilly areas, particularly in the Malnad and coastal regions, have also been advised to remain alert and relocate to safer places if necessary.

Heartbreaking: Sri Lankan Cricketer Collapses and Passes Away During Match in Beruwala (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:12:23 +0530

A heartbreaking incident took place in Beruwala town of Kalutara District in Sri Lanka, where a local cricketer passed away after collapsing on the ground during a match at a school old boys’ association cricket carnival on Sunday, July 5.

In a video that went viral on social media, a Sri Lankan cricketer, identified in reports as Zulfikar, was seen abruptly collapsing on the ground, which immediately caught the attention of the players from both sides of the field and the umpires, causing panic and deep concern among everyone present.

Since the match was live-streamed on social media platforms, especially YouTube, the distressing footage of the collapse spread rapidly, leaving viewers and the local cricketing community in profound shock.

Also Read: Viral: Rahmanullah Gurbaz's Cap Stolen Mid-Match by Pitch Invader in Hilarious Security Breach (WATCH)

How did the Sri Lankan Cricketer collapse?

The match was between two teams participating in the school old boys’ association cricket carnival. The tragic incident took place when both teams were apparently arguing over an umpiring decision during the match, shortly before the player collapsed.

The 46-year-old Zulfikar, who was batting on 6 off 3 balls, raised his hand from the striker’s end, seemingly gesturing toward his team’s dugout, and as he began to walk, he suddenly collapsed onto the pitch. The sight of the batsman falling abruptly brought a halt to the ongoing tensions, as players from both sides and the umpires rushed toward him in a state of alarm.

The Sri Lankan cricketer was immediately taken to the nearby hospital, where he was declared dead upon arrival. In the wake of the tragedy, the match was immediately abandoned, and the tournament was suspended indefinitely as a mark of respect and mourning.

Heartbreaking tragedy in Beruwala. Sri Lanka A young cricketer collapsed and passed away while batting during a school old boys’ association cricket carnival today. He was on 6* off 3 balls when he suffered a suspected heart attack. The tournament has been suspended. pic.twitter.com/tUvjzbWuwH

— Nibraz Ramzan (@nibraz88cricket) July 5, 2026

It was reported that the Sri Lankan cricketer suffered a suspected heart attack during the match, though official medical confirmation regarding the exact cause of death is still pending. The tragic incident was seen live on social media, as the match was being broadcast online, capturing the distressing moment when the 46-year-old collapsed on the pitch.

Therefore, the tournament was forced to be suspended indefinitely to honour the memory of the player and allow the local cricketing community to process this sudden and devastating loss.

A Recurring Pattern of Sudden Cardiac Emergencies on the Cricket Field

The tragic passing of Sri Lankan cricketer Zulfikur, suspected to be due to a heart attack, has reignited widespread concern and debate regarding the health and safety of amateur and recreational cricketers. His death follows a series of similar, alarming incidents where players, often middle-aged and seemingly healthy, have collapsed unexpectedly during matches.

There have been recurring cases in India where local cricketers have tragically lost their lives due to sudden cardiac events while on the field. In May this year, former Karnataka Ranji Trophy cricketer SL Akshay, 39, tragically passed away after suffering a fatal heart attack while playing a third-division league match in Bengaluru, serving as a poignant reminder of the ongoing issue.

Just five months before SL Akshay’s death, a former Mizoram cricketer, K. Lalremruata, also tragically passed away after suffering a heart attack while playing in a local tournament. Many local cricketers died while playing, often due to sudden cardiac events that strike even those who appear fit and active.

The recurring pattern of sudden cardiac events, not just in India, but also prompted international concern regarding the safety of cricketers at all levels of the game. The recent incident in Berumal has brought this issue to the forefront once again and has prompted international concern regarding the safety of cricketers at all levels of the game.

Also Read: Women's T20 World Cup Final: Australia Clinches Record-Extending 7th Triumph With a Win over England

SPOT Stock Is Down 16% In 2026: BofA Names Spotify Among Top Picks For Q3

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:10:00 +0530

BofA placed a ‘Buy’ rating and $685 price target on SPOT, which implied a 41% upside.
Spotify recently unveiled AI-powered music and podcasting features and set upbeat long-term business targets.
Stocktwits sentiment for SPOT climbed in July and was ‘bullish’ on Monday.

Spotify stock faces a protracted slump, but Bank of America’s analysts believe that could change in the near term.

A range of catalysts, including its new products and pricing tiers for its subscription service, could push the streaming company’s shares out of their weak run, they said. SPOT stock is down 38% from its peak in June last year and 16.3% year to date.

Spotify has “laid out an impressive compelling product roadmap and attractive financial targets, and now the focus will turn to execution,” analysts led by Jessica Reif Ehrlich said in an investor note, according to CNBC.

“We now see even greater clarity for continued profit and [free cash flow] growth including … price increases, new tiers … [and] further penetration of incremental services including podcasting, audiobooks and fitness.”

BofA named Spotify as one of its top picks for the third quarter. The list also includes IBM, Snowflake, Visa and Walmart. BofA placed a ‘Buy’ rating and a $685 price target, which implied a 41% upside from the stock’s closing price on Thursday.

Spotify’s Moves

The Swedish streaming giant has posted stellar results for its first quarter – revenue rose 8% and monthly active users rose 12% – in April, but a soft guidance overshadowed an earnings beat and pushed shares lower at the time.

Since then, the company has focused on doubling down on AI and higher-value subscribers. At its May investor day, Spotify unveiled AI-powered music and podcast features, expanded creator tools and new offerings for “superfans,” while projecting mid-teens annual revenue growth and higher profit margins through 2030.

It also announced a deal with Universal Music, which allows users to create covers and remixes using the voices of artists and songwriters who opt in. The tool will launch as a paid add-on for premium users and offer a new revenue stream for artists, Spotify said at the time.

Spotify Price Hikes

Meanwhile, the streamer has continued raising subscription prices in 2026. The latest increase was announced in January for users in the U.S., Estonia and Latvia. The move followed a broader round of price hikes rolled out across South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Latin America and parts of the Asia-Pacific region in the second half of 2025.

Retail, Analyst View On SPOT

July is off to a good start, with SPOT already up nearly 6% so far. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment has climbed higher this month as well and was ‘bullish’ on Monday.

Currently, 34 out of 40 analysts rate the stock ‘Buy’ or higher, and six rate it ‘Hold,’ per Koyfin. Their average price target of $597.60 implies an upside of 23% from the stock’s last close.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

HOOD Stock Rises Premarket: Trump Accounts App Launch On July 4 Draws Retail Attention

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:05:00 +0530

CEO Vlad Tenev also shared the announcement on X, adding that he was “Proud to play a part in this initiative.”
Meanwhile, earlier on Thursday, Mizuho raised the price target on HOOD to $130 from $115 and maintained an ‘Outperform’ rating on the shares, according to TheFly.
The analyst also said that Robinhood has a chance to become the first true global "hyperscaler" of online brokerages for multiple reasons.

Shares of Robinhood Markets Inc. (HOOD) gained nearly 2% in the premarket session on Monday as multiple positive catalysts, including the launch of the Trump Accounts app on July 4, boosted the company’s stock higher.

On the 250th Independence Day of the United States, the White House announced the official launch of the full Trump Accounts app, with Robinhood serving as the technology developer and initial trustee for the Trump Accounts program, alongside Bank of New York Mellon Corp. (BNY).

The financial brokerage firm announced the launch in a post on X, saying, “Today, on the 250th anniversary of our country, Trump Accounts have arrived. (U.S. flag symbol) American families can start making contributions to their children’s Trump Accounts and build towards their long-term financial security from an early age.”

CEO Vlad Tenev also shared the announcement on X, adding that he was “Proud to play a part in this initiative.”

Mizuho Calls Robinhood ‘Hyperscaler’ Of Online Brokers

Meanwhile, earlier on Thursday, Mizuho raised the price target on HOOD to $130 from $115 and maintained an ‘Outperform’ rating on the shares, according to TheFly.

The firm noted that the broker’s 27 million funded accounts, a "best-in-class" user interface, Gen-z appeal and an ambition to grow the business multifold has given Robinhood a chance to become the first true global "hyperscaler" of online brokerages. Robinhood's playbook is similar to what Amazon Web Services (AMZN) and Microsoft Azure (MSFT) did to enterprise IT, the firm said. Mizuho also said it expects Robinhood to increasingly focus on expanding into Europe and, later, into Asia.

HOOD Stock: Retail Stance

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around HOOD stock was in the ‘neutral’ territory at the time of writing, while message volumes had surged 100% in the past 24 hours.

One user responded to another user’s comments saying, “Sorry you'll miss the Move back to $153.86 this week on Int'l Expansion and Trump accounts… and likely the one higher towards 200, as well, with all that Growth.”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user shared the Trump Accounts app’s page, noting, “WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU LOGON TO THE TRUMP ACCOUNTS? $HOOD ROBINHOOD IS WHAT YOU SEE. 60 MILLION ELIGIBLE AND EVERY BABY BORN IS A POTENTIAL CLIENT. YOU DO THE MATH.”

View this Stocktwits post

A third user called Mizuho’s $130 target a “very conservative PT.”

View this Stocktwits post

HOOD stock has gained more than 20% in the last year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

JD(S) alleges irregularities in Karnataka's SIR, demands inquiry

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:35 +0530

Janata Dal (Secular) MLC SL Bhojegowda on Monday alleged BLOs were conducting "group enumeration" at community halls instead of mandated door-to-door verification.

Opposition Demands Inquiry Over Alleged Lapses

Speaking with ANI, He cited videos released by HD Kumaraswamy from Tippu Nagar as evidence and demanded an inquiry into the alleged "irregularities" in the SIR process in Karnataka. "Our party leader, Kumaraswamy, has shared videos about what is happening in the name of SIR in Ramanagara. BLOs have to go to the doorstep of every voter and gather details, not gather voters in groups. There should be an inquiry into this. This is the reason JD(S) and BJP are meeting the Chief Electoral Officer today," he said. Kumaraswamy, along with BJP leaders Pralhad Joshi, R Ashoka, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, and others, arrived at the Office of the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer over the alleged lapses in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision exercise in the State. Earlier on Saturday, Kumaraswamy alleged that the SIR exercise in various constituencies, including Yeshwanthpur and Ramanagara, was being conducted under direct political influence rather than following Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines.

CM Shivakumar Denies Interference

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has asserted that the government will not interfere in the procedure and claimed that the Opposition is "worried" by the large-scale awareness being created by the administration. "The government will not interfere in the SIR process. The Opposition is worried because the government is creating awareness about the process on such a large scale. Around 45 million (4.5 crore) people have obtained caste and income certificates. They have been given the facility to download these certificates online. The Opposition only wants poor people and minorities to face difficulties," Shivakumar said. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Punjab Congress divide widens as Channi faction posts 'unity' photo

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:35 +0530

Channi Faction's 'Unity' Photo Deepens Rift

The deep divide within the Punjab Unit of the Congress appears to have widened. On Monday Veteran Congress leader and Gurdaspur MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa posted a picture of what appears to be the Charanjit Channi led faction of the state unit. However, this picture had several leading lights of the Punjab Congress like Manifesto Committee Co-Chairman and MLA Pargat Singh, Election Committee Co-Chairpersons Razia Sultana and Bharat Bhushan Ashu among others. Randhawa shared the photograph on social media platform X with the pointed caption: "Unity is strength." The same picture was then shared by Charanjit Channi as well. Prominent absentees in the picture included PCC President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Leader of Opposition in the assembly Partap Singh Bajwa and MLA Sukhpal Khaira.

However, shortly after Randhawa and Channi the official handle of the Punjab Congress posted the same picture which was then posted by Warring as well with the same caption of Unity is Strength. According to the Punjab Congress the picture followed a key meeting between Channi and Randhawa, "In view of the preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections, Punjab Congress Campaign Committee Chairman S. Charanjit Singh Channi and Core Committee Chairman S. Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa held an important meeting with their team and senior party leaders. During this meeting, detailed discussions were held regarding election strategy, further strengthening the organization, and upcoming programs." The picture also comes ahead of the visit of Congress state-in-charge Bhupesh Baghel to the state.

Seeds of Rebellion

Earlier on July 4, Charanjit Channi had called for a critical meeting at his home in Morinda. Several leaders including stalwarts like Bharat Bhushan Ashu were in attendance and sounded the rebellion against Warring. They demanded Warring's removal as Punjab Congress president pitching Channi as the man to lead the party into the elections. The leaders called on the party high command to reconsider the recently announced organisational appointments in Punjab.it chief, asserting that the party would return to power under Channi's leadership.

The All India Congress Committee (AICC) had appointed Channi as Chairperson of the Campaign Committee. The party also confirmed that Raja Warring will continue as Punjab PCC President. This show of strength by the Channi faction now sends a clear signal to the high command that the keys to Punjab's Congress leadership lie firmly with Charanjit Channi and the road to electoral victory will only come via him. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

TMC tells ECI its national committee is valid till 2027 amid rift

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:30 +0530

TMC Responds to ECI, Asserts Committee's Validity

Senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Kalyan Banerjee on Monday said the party has submitted a detailed response to the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the ongoing leadership dispute within the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), asserting that the party's National Working Committee remains valid till 2027.

The development comes after the ECI had officially intervened in the ongoing leadership tussle within the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) and sought responses from both Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata Banerjee regarding conflicting claims over the party's organisational structure and authorised signatories.

Committee Tenure Valid Till 2027, Says TMC

Speaking to reporters after meeting Election Commission officials, Banerjee said the representation alleged that the tenure of the AITC committee and the National Working Committee was limited to three years and had expired in 2025. "Today we have filed our response, which was sought by the Election Commission of India on the basis of a representation made by Ritabrata Banerjee. We have given a very detailed reply on that," he said.

Banerjee said the Trinamool Congress constitution was amended after the party was recognised as the All India Trinamool Congress in 2000, extending the tenure of the National Working Committee from three years to four years, which was later increased to five years in 2006.

"The last election was held in 2022. Therefore, automatically, the life of the AITC and the National Working Committee remains for a period of five years. It will expire in 2027. Therefore, the allegation that its tenure has expired is incorrect and not supported by the constitutional provisions of the All India Trinamool Congress," he said.

Rival Faction's Legitimacy Questioned

The TMC leader further questioned the stand taken by the complainants, alleging that they had contested elections on the party's symbol and under the leadership of party chief Mamata Banerjee despite claiming that the committee had ceased to exist. "If you say the life of the Trinamool Congress was not there after 2025, then why have you contested the election? You should resign. One cannot approbate and reprobate. If you say this is not existing, then in that case their result is a fraud, a great fraud. They should resign immediately." Banerjee said.

Allegations of 'Fraudulent Practice'

He also alleged that the process adopted to constitute a separate committee was contrary to the party's constitution and termed it "fraudulent."

"A fraudulent practice has been adopted. The resolution that has been given is a product of fraudulent practice. Therefore, this is bad. Completely dishonest. They are working completely contrary to the interests of the AITC. They are capturing the party office illegally with the support of Suvendu Adhikari, the Chief Minister, and their police officers. This is bad," Banerjee alleged.

ECI's Intervention

Earlier on July 2, the ECI had directed both factions to submit their responses by 5:30 PM on Monday, July 6. The move comes amid a deepening rift within the TMC party, with the faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee claiming legitimacy over the party's symbols and administration. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

David Beckham praises Pickford, Bellingham after England's World Cup win

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:26 +0530

Beckham Hails 'Brilliant' Performance

England football legend David Beckham celebrated the Three Lions' dramatic 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico by sharing a series of Instagram Stories praising the players and coaching staff after they booked a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals. Beckham highlighted the performances of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and midfielder Jude Bellingham, while also applauding the collective effort of Thomas Tuchel's side.

"What can we say about this man's performance today?? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING other than perfect," Beckham wrote alongside a picture of England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. He also praised Bellingham, posting, "They dude. What Altitude??" after the midfielder's Player of the Match display.

The former England footballer hailed the entire squad, writing, "A night to be proud of each and every one of the squad," before praising the partnership between captain Harry Kane and Bellingham with the message, "Passion & leadership."

Beckham also lauded England head coach Thomas Tuchel, sharing a picture of the German manager with the caption, "Brilliant from the Boss." Reacting to the team's overall display, Beckham concluded, "Now that's a performance WOW. There was no other way of winning this game other than that... Absolutely Brilliant."

Key Moments and Records from England's Victory

Kane played a key role in England's thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico, converting a second-half penalty after Anthony Gordon was fouled inside the box. The goal was Kane's sixth of the tournament and helped England secure a place in the World Cup quarterfinals.

Jude Bellingham's Historic Appearance

Bellingham became the youngest player to make 10 FIFA World Cup appearances, surpassing the previous record held by Argentina's Mario Kempes, who was 23 years and 334 days old against Poland in 1978. Bellingham was also named the Player of the Match.

England have secured a place in the World Cup quarterfinals for the 11th time, with only Brazil (15) and Germany (14) having reached the last eight more often in the tournament's history, according to The Athletic.

Harry Kane's Record-Breaking Campaign

Captain Harry Kane has once again been central to England's campaign. His six-goal haul marks only the third instance of an England player scoring six goals at a major international tournament, matching his achievement at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and following Gary Lineker's six-goal campaign in 1986. Kane has also become the outright record-holder for the most World Cup penalty goals in regulation time, with six, two more than any other player, according to The Athletic.

Saka Matches Beckham's Record

Bukayo Saka also reached a notable milestone, becoming only the third England player since 1966 to register three assists in a single FIFA World Cup, joining David Beckham (2002) and Harry Kane (2022).

Kane continued his remarkable form against Mexico, registering a goal and an assist to take his tally to 81 goal involvements in 63 appearances for club and country across all competitions during the 2025-26 season (73 goals and eight assists). According to OptaJoe's X handle, Kane also became the first player on record since 1966 to both score a penalty and concede a penalty in the same FIFA World Cup match. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

AAPL Stock Dips Premarket: Analyst Warns Foldable iPhone Supply Issues Could Blow September Launch Window

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:00:05 +0530

Foldable iPhone shipments would be 7 million to 8 million in the second half of this year, according to Kuo.
The device might get sold out immediately due to its limited supply.
Stocktwits sentiment for AAPL dipped to ‘bearish’ on Monday.

Apple Inc.’s foldable iPhone will be announced in September but may not go on sale until the fourth quarter as manufacturing challenges limit early production, a key analyst said Monday.

Taiwanese analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said his latest supply chain survey showed assembly shipments of the foldable iPhone would total about 7 million to 8 million units in the second half of 2026, with only 500,000 to 1 million units expected in the third quarter.

By comparison, assembly shipments of the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are estimated at 20-22 million units in the third quarter, sufficient to support a regular launch.

Kuo said the foldable iPhone’s rollout is likely to mirror that of the iPhone X in 2017, which was unveiled alongside the iPhone 8 lineup but reached consumers weeks later because of production bottlenecks.

Foldable iPhone Would Be Sold Out Immediately, Kuo Says

Apple could similarly announce the foldable model with its other new iPhones, while delaying pre-orders and commercial availability until the fourth quarter as inventories build.

Kuo believes the foldable iPhone would cost between $2,300 and $2,500 and the demand “should remain strong at least through the end of 2026.”

“This means the foldable iPhone could sell out immediately after pre-orders open, with delivery lead times quickly stretching to 4–6 weeks or longer and remaining there through December,” Kuo wrote.

Retail View On AAPL

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for AAPL dipped to ‘bearish’ as of early Monday, from ‘neutral’ the previous day. The message volume for the ticker, however, rose 40% over the past week.

AAPL shares rose nearly 5% on Thursday, the final trading session of the shortened week due to the Independence Day holiday, boosting investor optimism and taking the stock’s year-to-date gains to 13.7%. In comparison, the benchmark S&P 500 has gained 9.3% in this period.

The long-rumored foldable iPhone is being closely watched by fans and investors, even though it is set to arrive years after the first foldable smartphones entered the market. While foldables have generated considerable interest, sales have so far remained limited, with the devices largely appealing to enthusiasts rather than the mainstream market.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

66 Hot Dogs, 10 Minutes, Rs 9.5 Lakh Richer: US Eating Champion Stuns Internet (WATCH VIRAL VIDEO)

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:56:11 +0530

Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo won the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, making Coney Island the focus of attention once more on July Fourth. Both winners maintained their outstanding supremacy in competitive eating at the yearly US Independence Day match. While Chestnut scarfed down 66 wieners to win the men's category title for the 18th time, Sudo ate 38.75 hot dogs for her record 12th victory.

“Eating here on the Fourth of July is a dream; it's electric. There's no place better on Earth,” Chestnut told the New York Post. The win earned him the coveted Mustard Yellow Belt and $10,000. It was his second consecutive title.

In his 21 appearances at the globally broadcast tournament, the competitive eater has won 18 of them. Even though Patrick Bertoletti, the runner-up in second place, consumed 51 hot dogs, he was still unable to surpass his own 2021 record of 76 hot dogs and buns.

Chestnut admitted that the 90-degree temperature tired him down and affected his customary high-speed eating. “I usually don't have this much spare room left over, but we'll see, something cold. It's definitely hard. I didn't want to go into it saying it's going to affect me, I wanna go into it and convince myself that I can work through it,” he said.

“I didn't want to let it bother me. I didn't want to push it because if I push it, then things will get stuck in my throat and then I just needed to stay calm and keep going," he added.

Watch Winning Video

Joey Chestnut ate 66 glizzies in 10 minutes and claimed his 18th Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest win pic.twitter.com/CcJputgFEq

— zubic (@zubic_eth) July 4, 2026

The iconic competition dates back to 1972 and is held annually in front of the original Nathan's Famous restaurant on Coney Island in New York.

South Korean President's Instant Payment at Market Goes Viral After First Lady Asks Price of Item (WATCH)

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:54:09 +0530

A seemingly ordinary shopping trip by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and First Lady Kim Hye Kyung has become an internet sensation after a video of the President instantly paying for an item at a traditional market went viral.

The clip, widely shared on social media, captures the presidential couple interacting with vendors during a visit to a local market. In the video, the First Lady pauses at a stall and asks the vendor about the price of an item. Before the conversation can continue, President Lee promptly reaches for his wallet and pays for it, drawing smiles from those around him.

Check the viral video here:

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The spontaneous gesture quickly caught the attention of social media users, who praised the President's simplicity and the couple's down-to-earth interaction with local traders. Many viewers described the moment as refreshing, saying it reflected humility and respect for small business owners.

Also Read: Venezuela Earthquake: Terrifying Video Shows Waves Crashing Out of Backyard Pool During 6.7-Magnitude Tremor (WATCH)

The market visit was part of the President's public engagement programme, during which he greeted vendors, interacted with shoppers and encouraged traditional markets that continue to play an important role in South Korea's local economy. Videos and photographs from the visit have since circulated widely online, with the payment clip emerging as one of the most talked-about moments.

The incident sparked a wave of reactions across social media, with users applauding the President for making the purchase himself instead of relying on aides or official staff. Others said the interaction appeared natural and relatable, helping humanise the country's top political office.

The viral moment has also fuelled broader conversations about leadership, public accessibility and the importance of supporting neighbourhood businesses. Many commenters noted that while the purchase itself was modest, the symbolism of the gesture resonated with people both within and outside South Korea.

The market visit continues to attract attention online, with the video garnering widespread engagement across social media platforms. While the gesture lasted only a few moments, it has become a widely shared example of a public leader's informal interaction with citizens and local vendors.

Also Read: Pilot's Heartwarming Surprise: First-Time Captain Flies Mother, Emotional Video Wins Hearts Online (WATCH)

Karnataka: Haveri Biker and Team Complete 47-Day Motorcycle Expedition Across North India

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:41:58 +0530

A motorcycle enthusiast from Haveri district has returned after completing an extraordinary 47-day expedition across North India, covering some of the country's most challenging terrain and highest mountain passes. Shyamasundara Daivagya, a resident of Ranibennur, along with five fellow riders, travelled thousands of kilometres on motorcycles through Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh and several other states. The expedition combined adventure, spirituality and patriotism, taking the group from the revered Panch Kedar temples to Umling La, the world's highest motorable pass. The journey also included a demanding 188-km trek through the Garhwal Himalayas.

Team of Six Riders Undertook the Expedition

The expedition was undertaken by Shyamasundara Daivagya from Ranibennur, Bahubali Hukkeri and Shubham Badave from Chikkodi, and Somanath Sutar, Vivek Patil and Adarsh Patil from Kurundwad in Maharashtra.

The riders embarked on the journey to experience nature, navigate some of India's most challenging mountain roads and witness the dedication and sacrifices of the Indian Army personnel stationed along the country's border regions.

A Journey of Spirituality, Nature and Patriotism

Sharing his experience with the media, Shyamasundara said the expedition was far more than a motorcycle ride across different states.

"Our journey, which began on 11 May, was much more than a road trip. It was a spiritual quest to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, an opportunity to connect deeply with nature, and a patriotic experience that allowed us to witness the sacrifices made by our soldiers at the borders. The journey taught us invaluable lessons in courage, resilience and self-confidence. Expeditions like these help build character and strengthen one's self-belief," he said.

188-Km Trek and 400 Km of Mountain Riding

The Panch Kedar pilgrimage in the Garhwal Himalayas comprises the five sacred temples of Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madhyamaheshwar and Kalpeshwar. This phase of the expedition involved approximately 188 km of trekking and around 400 km of motorcycle riding.

"We crossed steep mountain trails, remote valleys, rocky terrain, dense forests and snow-covered peaks. Every kilometre, whether on foot or on a motorcycle, tested our endurance. We completed the first phase of our journey in Shimla," Shyamasundara said.

Journey Through India's Highest Roads

From Shimla, the team travelled through the breathtaking landscapes of the Spiti Valley along the Indo-Tibetan frontier. They then rode to Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border, renowned for its scenic beauty, Buddhist monasteries and rugged mountain landscape.

The expedition continued through Kinnaur, Manali, Leh, Ladakh, the Siachen region, Rezang La, Kargil, Srinagar and Amritsar before reaching the Wagah border. The team then travelled through Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra before finally returning to Ranibennur, successfully completing the 47-day expedition.

Nagaland State Lottery Dear Spark Monday Result Today 1 PM: Who Won Rs 1 Crore Jackpot? Full Winners List Here

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:59:00 +0530

According to the officially released results, ticket number 65K 87736 has won the coveted first prize worth Rs 1 crore. The draw was conducted under the Dear Government Lotteries banner and attracted massive participation from lottery buyers hoping to secure life-changing prize money.

Also Read: Nagaland State Lottery Dear Spark Saturday Result Today 6 PM: Who Won Rs 1 Crore Jackpot? Full Winners List Here

Nagaland State Lottery Dear Spark Monday Winning Numbers

1st Prize – Rs 1 Crore: 65K 87736

Consolation Prize – Rs 1,000: 87736 (All remaining series of 1st prize number)

2nd Prize – Rs 10,000: 11587, 21875, 33210, 49292, 63151, 78236, 79005, 79325, 86744, 89139

3rd Prize – Rs 500: 0238, 0260, 0843, 1073, 1841, 2213, 7942, 8004, 8836, 9354

4th Prize – Rs 250: 0063, 0892, 1582, 3316, 3546, 4778, 5700, 7616, 7820, 8921

5th Prize – Rs 120: 0055, 0090, 0168, 0209, 0245, 0246, 0267, 0309, 0347, 0375, 0431, 0540, 0603, 0883, 0970, 1313, 1331, 1367, 1732, 1976, 2019, 2548, 2570, 2650, 2699, 2738, 2749, 2761, 2764, 2772, 2840, 3049, 3062, 3451, 3485, 3543, 3603, 3795, 4017, 4104, 4187, 4266, 4302, 4566, 4672, 4868, 5197, 5243, 5244, 5413, 5434, 5641, 5829, 5876, 5932, 5939, 6032, 6073, 6092, 6263, 6412, 6477, 6480, 6503, 6577, 6656, 6665, 6701, 6726, 6728, 6814, 6869, 6981, 7033, 7187, 7238, 7310, 7416, 7550, 7659, 7803, 7871, 8182, 8348, 8398, 8436, 8603, 8620, 8743, 8781, 8831, 8862, 8878, 9339, 9384, 9407, 9520, 9616, 9827, 9939

Results from the uploaded Dear Spark Monday Weekly Lottery sheet dated July 6, 2026.

The Dear Lottery draws continue to remain popular among participants because of their frequent prize announcements and attractive jackpot rewards.

Also Read: Nagaland State Lottery Dear Spark Saturday Result Today 1 PM: Who Won Rs 1 Crore Jackpot? Full Winners List Here

Gujarat's New Rubber Dams to Boost Irrigation in Remote Regions

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:31:04 +0530

To further strengthen Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Catch the Rain" campaign, the Gujarat Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, is undertaking several major initiatives to improve irrigation and water availability across the state's remote regions.

As part of this initiative, two advanced Air-Filled Rubber Dam projects have been approved and are currently under construction: Rajvasana Rubber Dam on the Heran River near Rajvasana village in Bodeli taluka, Chhota Udepur district and Pathakwadi Rubber Dam on the Ambika River near Pathakwadi village in Dolvan taluka, Tapi district.

Rajvasana Rubber Dam Project

Guided by Water Resources and Water Supply Minister Ishwarsinh Patel, the Rajvasana project is being developed at a cost of ₹82.97 crore and is targeted for completion by September 2027. Once operational, it will provide direct irrigation benefits to farmers in 25 nearby villages.

Similarly, the Pathakwadi Rubber Dam, being built at a cost of ₹79.13 crore, is based on advanced Japanese design and uses South Korean rubber bladder technology. It will provide irrigation water to approximately 650 hectares of farmland, significantly benefiting local farmers.

The project involves the installation of a 180-metre-long and 3.5-metre-high inflatable rubber bladder across the Heran River. The key advantage of this technology is that it will significantly enhance the storage capacity of the existing weir, allowing it to store 3.5 million cubic metres (MCM) of water. This will substantially raise groundwater levels in surrounding areas, ensuring a reliable supply of irrigation and drinking water.

Currently, 75% of the project has been completed. Unlike conventional weirs, the rubber dam can release accumulated sand and silt, maintaining its storage capacity. During heavy monsoon floods, the dam can be deflated, allowing floodwaters to pass freely and protecting nearby villages.

Construction includes 900 metres of flood protection wall on the left bank and 500 metres on the right bank of the river.

The project includes 10 years of Operation and Maintenance (O&M) to ensure smooth and uninterrupted functioning. It will provide irrigation to 3,420 hectares across 25 villages, enabling farmers to cultivate both Kharif (monsoon) and Rabi (winter) crops.

In the future, the Rajvasana canal network will also be connected to village ponds, improving groundwater recharge and ensuring long-term availability of both drinking and irrigation water.

Pathakwadi Rubber Dam Project

A major breakthrough in water conservation is taking shape in Tapi district, known for its perennial rivers and natural beauty. The Government of Gujarat is constructing a ₹79.13 crore Air-Filled Rubber Dam across the Ambika River near Pathakwadi village in Dolvan taluka. The project will provide sufficient irrigation water for Kharif and summer crops to farmers in Pathakwadi, Dhodiyawad, Unai, Sindhai, and nearby villages. At present, 90% of the construction work has been completed.

Innovative Technology and Design

Due to the region's flat terrain and low riverbanks, constructing conventional check dams or weirs was not technically feasible. Following representations from local farmer leaders and Mohanbhai Kokni, the Water Resources Department conducted a survey and decided to adopt the innovative Air-Filled Rubber Dam technology instead of a traditional barrage.

The dam has been designed according to the Japanese Code 2000. Its specially manufactured South Korean rubber bladder, ranging from 18 mm to 32 mm in thickness, is engineered to withstand temperatures exceeding 50°C and has an estimated service life of 30 years.

One of the project's most advanced features is its SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) automation system. The rubber bladder can be inflated and deflated remotely using a computer, eliminating the need for manual operation.

The structure consists of a 2.0-metre-high concrete base, a 2.5-metre inflatable rubber bladder, fixed with J-bolts, a total height of 4.5 metres, a total length of 280 metres across four spans, Flood Protection and Reduced Soil Erosion.

Operational and Environmental Advantages

Unlike conventional steel-gated dams, the inflatable rubber dam allows floodwaters to pass freely during the monsoon when deflated, reducing riverbank erosion. It also enables accumulated silt to flow downstream naturally, ensuring that the reservoir maintains its water storage capacity over the long term.

The Pathakwadi Rubber Dam will store approximately 3.5 Million Cubic Metres (MCM) of water and provide irrigation to 650 hectares of agricultural land. It will also recharge nearby wells and borewells, improving groundwater levels and ensuring a reliable supply of drinking water for local communities.

In the future, this technology can also be used as a tidal regulator to prevent seawater intrusion into freshwater systems along coastal regions.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi's Indonesia visit to deepen strategic ties, expand cooperation

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:30:39 +0530

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in Jakarta, India's Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, said that PM Modi's three-day visit (July 6-8) to Indonesia will deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries, expand cooperation across key sectors, and send a strong message of collaboration amid geopolitical uncertainity.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty

Speaking to ANI, Chakravorty said that India and Indonesia share historically strong and friendly ties, and PM Modi's fourth visit to Indonesia will further strengthen bilateral relations. He said, "India and Indonesia are comprehensive strategic partners. This is Prime Minister Modi's fourth visit to Indonesia since he came to power. Our ties have been historically very strong, very cordial and friendly. Prime Minister Modi's visit will further intensify those ties and build cooperation in many areas and open up new areas of cooperation, whether it is in manufacturing, science and technology, space, nuclear, or even educational exchanges."

"It is a multifaceted relationship, and I think in the current geopolitical context where there is so much turmoil in the world, India and Indonesia working together, I think, gives a strong message to the world," he added. The ambassador said that several agreements are expected to be signed during the visit, covering sectors including health, agriculture, food security, science, technology, space, pharmaceuticals, education, manufacturing and critical minerals.

He said, "There will be agreements in the health sector, in agriculture, in food security, in science and technology, space, pharmaceuticals, education, in manufacturing, in critical minerals. So there are many, and I think Prime Minister Modi's visit will open up new chapters of cooperation. It will give a boost to what is happening already." "The base with Indonesia is strong, and his presence here will give a further boost to whatever is happening, not only at the governmental level but also at the business-to-business level, at the people-to-people level, and I am very, very confident that you will see a greater intensification of our ties after the visit," he added.

A Pivotal Visit Reinforcing 'Act East' Policy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday departed for a six-day visit (July 6-11) to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, stating that the high-level engagement would reinforce India's Act East Policy, advance its "MAHASAGAR" vision and deepen the country's commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

The Prime Minister will commence the first leg of his visit to Indonesia from July 6 to 8 at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. This high-profile engagement signifies the Prime Minister's fourth visit to the maritime neighbour and stands as the inaugural bilateral visit since the relationship was formally elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018. Recalling that the two democracies elevated their ties during his 2018 visit, the Prime Minister observed that this marks his first bilateral visit since then, following President Prabowo's high-profile visit to India as the Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations in January 2025. During his schedule, he will interact with the Indian diaspora and accompany President Prabowo on a visit to the Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta, describing the UNESCO-listed site as a symbol of the deep cultural links between the two nations.

Key Areas of Bilateral Cooperation

Defence and Maritime Security

This visit to Indonesia marks a pivotal milestone in reinforcing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations, with advancing defence and maritime cooperation serving as a cornerstone of the bilateral agenda. Strategic security ties have achieved robust momentum, characterised by an expanding scope of high-level visits, regular bilateral and multilateral exercises, and deeper defence industry cooperation, which includes the significant sale of BrahMos missiles. As immediate maritime neighbours, both democracies previously adopted the Shared Vision of India-Indonesia Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific in 2018. To provide further impetus to collective maritime domain awareness, an Indonesian Liaison Officer is being stationed at the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in India. Furthermore, New Delhi will earmark dedicated training slots for Indonesian cadets and officers at the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) to bolster long-term defence capacity building.

Economic Collaboration and Growth

Economic collaboration remains positioned to drive growth through expanded trade and mutual investments. Strong institutional synergies have emerged between the respective long-term developmental visions of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Emas (Golden) Indonesia 2045. Indonesia has established itself as India's second-largest trading partner within the ASEAN region, with bilateral trade reaching USD 24.78 billion during the 2025-26 fiscal year. Currently, more than 130 Indian enterprises maintain active investments across diverse sectors of the Indonesian economy.

Food Security and Critical Minerals

Addressing regional food stability, the two allies are building resilient food security cooperation. India has actively extended support to Indonesia's primary food security priorities, notably through the critical supply of 100 tonnes of high-quality "DWR 162" wheat seeds. This forms part of a broader, sustained engagement aimed at developing resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bowling a no-ball is a crime: Maninder Singh on India's T20I loss

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:30:35 +0530

Former Indian cricketer Maninder Singh on Monday expressed his disappointment following India's 4-wicket loss to England in the 2nd T20I. He highlighted that despite India being in a strong position until the 16th over, crucial errors cost them the match.

Maninder Singh Slams 'Criminal' Bowling

Speaking to ANI, Maninder particularly criticised the 17th over, where Ravi Bishnoi conceded 29 runs, citing the importance of disciplined bowling in modern T20 cricket. "It was very disappointing, because till the 16th over I felt that this game was in India's pocket. But the way Bishnoi put in the 17th over and the way he bowled no-balls, cutting the side line, I feel that the coaching staff with the team, it is their job to help him," he said.

Maninder expressed disappointment with the loss, pointing out that bowling no-balls in T20S is a "crime". "When bowlers are practising in the nets, the bowling coach isn't paying enough attention to their positioning or whether they might bowl a no-ball during a match. In today's cricket, I consider bowling a no-ball a crime. We lost the match because of the 29 runs Bishnoi conceded in the 17th over," he added.

Support for New Skipper Shreyas Iyer

Meanwhile, Maninder Singh supported the newly appointed T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer, noting the lack of preparation time compared to his IPL role with Punjab Kings and backed Shreyas to make a comeback and get his first win as T20I captain soon. "His first win will come. As captain of PBKS, he knows his players very well because they hold a long camp before every IPL, which allows him to get to know everyone. He hasn't had that kind of time here, but he is a captain with a good head on his shoulders who thinks really well. His winning streak will come; he knows how to motivate the boys. Once he has a team of his choice, it will start to make a difference," he added.

Concerns Over Batting and English Conditions

He also shared his thoughts on debutant Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and the ongoing batting struggles, which have appeared shaky throughout the UK tour. He noted Tilak Varma's struggles with his strike rate, Sanju Samson's lack of form, and Ishan Kishan's 40-ball 49-run knock in Manchester, a performance significantly slower than his usual explosive standards. The former cricketer highlighted the stark contrast between English and Indian conditions and the adjustment period required for players, especially following the high-scoring "run-fest" of the 2026 IPL. He further suggested that the squad should have travelled much earlier to acclimatise.

"I am a little worried about India's batting struggles because the conditions are so different," he said. "The conditions in England are totally distinct from those in India." He explained the technical difficulties players face, stating, "When you play in the IPL, you get batting pitches where the ball comes onto the bat perfectly, making it easy to play shots. Here in England, it is a bit more uncertain; even in the summer with the sun out, there is still moisture in the air. In India, pitches have a different kind of bounce. Yesterday, we saw that when Vaibhav Sooryavanshi or Abhishek Sharma tried to hit big shots early on, they were tested by the bounce."

"It takes time for players to adjust," he added. "That is why I felt that if they had gone on tour earlier and played some practice matches, they would have adapted more quickly. When you go from playing on Indian surfaces to these conditions, you cannot expect a sudden transition. These minor problems will persist for the Indian batters until they adjust."

Match Summary: How England Secured Victory

India's Innings

India opted to bat first and handed Sooryavanshi a much- anticipated international debut, making him the youngest Indian international player at 15 years and 99 days. Sooryavanshi could last only 10 balls, scoring 14 on his debut with two sixes. Meanwhile, Abhishek Sharma (43 in 24 balls, with eight fours and a six) and Shreyas lyer (37 in 22 balls, with three fours and a six) played entertaining knocks. Ishan Kishan (49 in 40 balls, with six fours) put up 65 runs for the third wicket with lyer. Following that, India collapsed from 130/2 to 165/6. Tilak Varma (24* in 11 balls, with a four and two sixes) played a quickfire cameo to take India to 190/7 in 20 overs. Sam Curran (3/33) was England's best bowler.

England's Chase

In the chase, England lost both their openers, Phil Salt and Jos Buttler, for ducks, their first time in T201s. However, England made a solid enough recovery courtesy of a quickfire knock from skipper Harry Brook (39 in 15 balls, with four boundaries and three sixes), who put on a fifty-run stand with Jacob Bethell. Bethell put in a 67-run stand for the fourth wicket with Tom Banton (39 in 32 balls, with six fours) before Banton and Witt Jacks' wickets reduced England to 133/5 in 15.2 overs. Bethell (76* in 46 balls, with five fours and five sixes) changed the course of the game by upping the gears in slog overs, ending the chase in 19 overs with Jofra Archer (10%).

England takes a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, with three matches left for India to make an impact. The first T201 ended in a washout. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Don't view Baruipur rape through political prism: Congress's Pawan Khera

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:30:26 +0530

Asserting that all crimes of sexual violence are "equally horrifying," Congress leader Pawan Khera on Monday stated that the rape and murder of a minor girl in West Bengal's Baruipur should not be viewed through a "political prism." Khera's remarks come amidst a major political standoff in West Bengal's Baruipur, following the rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl. While the Trinamool Congress (TMC) chairperson, Mamata Banerjee, intended to visit the victim's family, the party alleged that she was effectively placed under "house arrest" due to a massive police deployment that prevented her movement toward the site.

Speaking to ANI on the political discourse surrounding such tragedies, Khera criticised the tendency to prioritise crimes based on which party is in power. "A rape which happens under the watch of the opposition becomes a huge issue. And rightly so, all rapes should become a huge issue until the society and the governments wake up. But if a rape happens under the watch of the BJP government, you put the opposition in house arrest. All rapes are equally horrifying, and they cannot be looked at through the prism of which political party do you belong to," Khera said.

Investigation Progress

Meanwhile, the Baruipur Police District confirmed that significant progress has been made in the investigation as two individuals have been arrested in connection with the minor girl's death. Earlier, Jadavpur MP Saayoni Ghosh, in an X post, said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the case, and she held a conversation with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

TMC Alleges 'House Arrest' of Mamata Banerjee

The remarks come after security was tightened outside the residence of Banerjee on Sunday night as central forces took positions ahead of her scheduled visit to Baruipur, following the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl.

Against this backdrop, TMC MP Dola Sen asked if the deployment was an attempt to house arrest the former CM. Dola Sen told reporters, "What is going on in Bengal and Kolkata? Everyone knows what happened in Baruipur. Didi (Mamata Banerjee) is a mass leader. She wanted to go there after such a heinous incident had happened. But have they house arrested her? By doing this, will they be able to stop Didi? I had to come here because of this. So many police administration deployed here without any reason. This is not right, whatever the police administration is doing. This is a super emergency."

TMC leader Madan Mitra said, "Didi is meeting party workers at her residence. What can the police really do? Someone has to raise slogans. You can't just keep committing one-sided atrocities while the public quietly accepts it; that's not how it works. Just as there are calls for justice regarding the RG Kar incident, there should be justice here in Baruipur too."

TMC Slams BJP Government

Meanwhile, TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee slammed the BJP government in the state after the tragic incident in Baruipur. He raised questions over the BJP, stating that the government was unable to fulfil its promise of women's safety in the state. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

'Murder of democracy': TMC fumes as Mamata stopped from Baruipur visit

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:30:26 +0530

TMC Calls it a 'Super Emergency', 'Murder of Democracy'

Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders on Monday slammed the alleged stopping of Party Chairperson and former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee from visiting Baruipur following the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl, with the party describing the development as a "super emergency" and a "murder of democracy". Speaking to ANI, TMC MP Dola Sen said, "It is not just an emergency; it is a 'super emergency'. What is happening is not right."

TMC MP Pratima Mondal also condemned the alleged move, saying, "It is a shameful incident and amounts to the murder of democracy; we strongly condemn it. They did not allow the former Chief Minister. These people are afraid of Mamata Banerjee. Mamata Banerjee is a lioness. The country knows what she is capable of and how she stands up in protest. If Mamata Banerjee goes there, thousands of people will gather to bless her and pledge their support for her struggle. That is why the BJP and this government are afraid of Mamata Banerjee."

TMC Delegation Heads to Baruipur Amidst Tightened Security

Meanwhile, a three-member TMC delegation comprising Biman Banerjee, Dola Sen and Pratima Mondal left from Mamata Banerjee's residence for Baruipur. The visit follows public demonstrations in the region triggered by the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in Baruipur.

Political Fallout and Accusations Intensify

A 12-year-old girl was allegedly raped and murdered in the Baruipur area of South 24 Parganas. Jadavpur MP Saayoni Ghosh, in a post on X, said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) had been constituted to investigate the case and that she had spoken to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

Meanwhile, the TMC criticised the deployment of central forces outside Mamata Banerjee's residence. TMC MP Dola Sen questioned whether the deployment amounted to house arrest for the former Chief Minister. Speaking to reporters, she said, "What is going on in Bengal and Kolkata? Everyone knows what happened in Baruipur. Didi (Mamata Banerjee) is a mass leader. She wanted to go there after such a heinous incident had happened. But have they house arrested her? By doing this, will they be able to stop Didi? I had to come here because of this. So many police administration deployed here without any reason. This is not right, whatever the police administration is doing. This is a super emergency."

Abhishek Banerjee Slams BJP Over Women's Safety

TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee slammed the BJP over the incident, alleging that it had failed to fulfil its promise of ensuring women's safety. In a post on X, Abhishek Banerjee wrote, "@BJP4India doesn't just fail women; it fosters a climate where those accused of heinous crimes appear to believe they enjoy political protection. Where political connections seem to influence justice. Where influence appears to speak louder than the rule of law. Where disturbing questions arise over whether political pressure is overshadowing the pursuit of justice. That is the real tragedy behind the Baruipur horror!"

He further wrote, "BJP came to Bengal promising women's safety and security. Instead, every such incident raises fresh questions about its HOLLOW PROMISES. The silence is equally telling. No protests. No outrage. No demands for accountability. No demands for resignations. No sudden awakening of conscience. When justice becomes selective, and outrage becomes political, it is not only the victim who suffers; it is society that pays the price. Extremely shameful state of affairs." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pune: Landslide in Maval Kills One, Two Trapped; Rescue Underway

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:30:23 +0530

One person has died during the landslide incident that occurred on Monday in the Patal village of Maval Tensil of Pune district. two more persons are feared trapped beneath the debris. Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) Local Administration and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are currently carrying out the search and rescue operation in the region.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday and triggered an emergency response as local authorities scrambled to locate the residents. Following the distress call, the District Information Office confirmed that immediate assistance was requested from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

NDRF Rescue Operation Underway

A specialised 30-member team from the 5th Battalion, stationed in Pune, was rapidly deployed to the site, according to the District Information Office, Pune. The operation is being led by Inspector Ravinder, under the direct supervision of Assistant Commandant Chandraketu Sharma. The team includes two senior officers and 27 highly trained disaster management personnel. The unit departed for the village at 5:50 AM, equipped with advanced rescue gear and disaster management tools necessary to navigate the unstable terrain and clear the debris safely.

Maharashtra on Red Alert Amid Heavy Rains

This came as Maharashtra witnessed a strong morning spell of rain lashing several parts of the state amid the 'Red Alert' issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) today.

Mumbai Weather and Tide Forecast

Meanwhile, as per the forecast issued by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) at 8 AM today, Mumbai and its suburbs are expected to experience very heavy, continuous spells of rain. The forecast showcased an average rainfall of 105.24 mm in the city in the last 24 hours. While the Eastern Suburbs recorded an average rainfall of 161.11 mm, the Western Suburbs recorded at 159.40 mm during this period.

The authorities noted that a high tide of 4.08 meters is expected at 3:56 PM, followed by a low tide of 1.52 meters at 10:13 PM today. The tide will reach a high of 3.44 meters at 04:38 AM, followed by a low tide of 1.86 meters at 09:59 AM on Tuesday. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

MP Horror: Man Shoots Wife In Leg, Then Dies By Suicide Before Daughter's Eyes

Shweta Kumari — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:23:50 +0530

A 40-year-old man allegedly shot his 35-year-old wife in the leg before turning the gun on himself and dying by suicide over a domestic dispute in Madhya Pradesh's Bhind district. The couple's eight-year-old daughter witnessed the entire incident, police said. The incident unfolded around 5 pm on Saturday in Bamrauli village. The man took his wife and their daughter to a cowshed situated on the outskirts of the village before the situation escalated into violence.

Police said a heated argument erupted between the couple inside a room at the cowshed. During the confrontation, the man allegedly pulled out a country-made pistol and fired at his wife, striking her in the leg. Moments later, he used the same weapon to shoot himself in the forehead.

The man died on the spot, while the injured woman was rushed to a nearby hospital. After receiving first aid, she was referred to the district hospital for advanced treatment. Doctors said her condition remains serious but stable.

Police have sent the deceased's body for postmortem examination and seized the country-made pistol used in the incident. They also collected forensic evidence from the crime scene as they continue to probe.

Did Gauri Spratt Convert To Islam Before Marrying Aamir Khan? Here's What We Know

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:19:52 +0530

Aamir Khan and longtime partner Gauri Spratt registered their marriage in a private ceremony at his Bandra home on July 5, 2026. Soon after, social media was flooded with questions about whether Gauri had converted to Islam. Read On to find out

LCID Stock Rises Overnight: Lucid Reportedly Cuts Europe Workforce After Delivery Weakness And Delayed Launches

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:10:00 +0530

Spain and Austria launches have reportedly shifted to 2027, while the U.K. launch slipped to early 2028.
The company is moving toward a partner-led sales model using local dealers and importers.
European demand remains weak, with just 54 registrations across four key markets in Q1 2026.

Shares of Lucid Group (LCID) rose 0.3% overnight late Sunday after a report said that the EV maker is slowing its European expansion and preparing regional workforce cuts before the end of September, adding to concerns over weak demand and a broader company reset.

LCID stock jumped 3% last week, logging its fourth straight weekly gain despite an 8% drop on Thursday.

LCID Europe Rollout Slows

Lucid had planned to enter several new European markets in 2026, including Belgium, Denmark, France, Italy, Spain and the U.K., while also expanding its physical footprint. The plan has apparently narrowed, with Spain and Austria reportedly being pushed to 2027, while the U.K. launch has slipped again to early 2028. The remaining 2026 push now appears centered on Belgium, Denmark, France and Italy, EV reported.

The slowdown comes as Lucid shifts toward a partner-led sales model in Europe, relying more on local dealers and importer groups instead of expensive company-owned studios.

Lucid registered 319 vehicles across Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Norway in 2025, down from 470 a year earlier. In the first quarter of 2026, registrations across those four markets totaled just 54 vehicles. The pace remained weak in the following months, with 29 registrations in April and 35 in May. In Norway, one of the world’s most mature EV markets, Lucid has registered fewer than 40 vehicles since opening in Oslo in 2023.

The numbers highlight the challenge facing the Air sedan and Gravity SUV in a region where Lucid’s current models may be too large, too expensive or too niche to support rapid expansion.

Lucid Turnaround Efforts

Lucid recently announced leadership changes under CEO Silvio Napoli, saying the moves were designed to “simplify the company’s structure, sharpen accountability and improve execution.” The company also said that the changes halve the number of direct reports to the CEO.

Lucid also named Alexander De Bock as incoming CFO, while current CFO Taoufiq Boussaid will leave after supporting the company through second-quarter results. The company also appointed new executives across tech, customer operations, transformation, digital functions and program management.

Lucid produced 4,774 vehicles and delivered 3,953 vehicles in the second quarter ended June 30. The company will report full second-quarter financial results on August 4.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About LCID?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for LCID slipped to ‘bullish’ from ‘extremely bullish’ levels a day ago amid an 80% jump in 24-hour message volumes.

LCID sentiment and message volume as of July 6| Source: Stocktwits

One user said, “'It's a bull market': Wall Street sees more upside in stocks for the second half of 2026. Les go LUCID”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user said, “$LCID i see a shuddering bankruptcy of this dangerous company..partnerships being canceled ..be careful here.. very low FCF and their tech has not matured in all these years...i would stay away”

View this Stocktwits post

LCID stock has declined 70% over the past year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

SOFI Stock Rises Overnight: Cathie Wood’s ARK Invest Has Boosted Stake By $1M

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:05:00 +0530

This marks the fourth consecutive purchase by Wood in a week.
On July 1, the asset management firm bought about $85,700 worth of SoFi shares, before purchasing about $5.3 million in shares over the preceding two days.
The purchases are consistent with Wood's positive view of the proposed CLARITY Act, which aims to establish clearer rules for digital assets.

Shares of SoFi Technologies Inc. (SOFI) climbed 0.88% in the overnight session headed into Monday, after Cathie Wood’s ARK Investment Management added a significant position in the company last week.

The ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK) purchased 54,838 shares of the fintech firm worth about $1 million on Thursday, according to its trade notification. This marks the fourth consecutive purchase by Wood in a week.

On July 1, the asset management firm bought about $85,700 worth of SoFi shares, before purchasing about $5.3 million in shares over the preceding two days.

SoFi’s Latest Launches

Last week, the fintech company launched SoFi Small Business Loans, offering fixed-rate financing of up to $250,000 with fast eligibility checks and funding within 24 hours of approval.

In June, it introduced Composer by SoFi, an AI-powered investing platform that allows users to turn investment ideas into automated strategies, test them with historical data, and execute them according to predefined rules. The platform also enables investors to explore community-created strategies and build portfolios aligned with their market outlook.

Retail Stance On Wood’s SOFI Purchase

While retail sentiment around SOFI stock was in the ‘bearish’ territory at the time of writing, many investors took note of Wood’s purchase of SOFI stock.

“While many tech and AI names sold off Thursday afternoon, ARKK still added another 54,838 SOFI shares... Whether you agree with Cathie or not, it's notable they continued accumulating SoFi into market weakness rather than waiting for a better day,” one user said.

View this Stocktwits post

Another user said, “...over the past few years, she has bought and sold at the EXACTLY right times. And last week she bought. History says that will prove to be a very smart purchase.”

View this Stocktwits post

However, one bearish user countered the above views, saying, “When ark invest (Cathy wood) buys its time to sell.”

View this Stocktwits post

SOFI stock has declined more than 33% in 2026.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Aussie skipper Molineux channels Shane Warne in T20 WC celebration

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:01:56 +0530

Following her side's record extending seventh ICC Women's T20 World Cup win, Australian skipper Sophie Molineux re-created late spin wizard Shane Warne's iconic celebration in the Lord's balcony on Sunday.

A half-century from the ultimate Aussie 'clutch-girl' Beth Mooney and Phoebe Litchfield's fireworks helped Australian side mow down a modest 151 run target with seven wickets and 17 balls left.

A Tribute to Shane Warne

After the match, Sophie, in pure jubilation, poured a bottle of beer on her head, much like a young Shane Warne, known for his love for alcohol, food, partying and for just being a mischievous character on and off the field.

After sealing the 1997 Ashes in UK following a win at Trent Bridge, Warne was photographed pouring a bottle of beer on his head in the stadium's balcony. Just like the late Aussie icon, Molineux was also seen celebrating with a stump holding a stump over head, as her teammates smiled and celebrated around her.

Match Recap: Australia Overpowers England

View this post on Instagram Coming to the match, an unbeaten England was put to bat first and was reduced to 70/4. From there, skipper Nat Sciver Brunt (58* in 53 balls, with five fours) and Freya Kamp (44* in 28 balls, with four boundaries and a six) formed an 80-run stand, taking England to 150/4 in 20 overs.

Kim Garth (1/20) and Molineux (1/32) were amongst the best bowlers, bowling their full four over quota.

During the chase, Australia lost Georgia Voll (9) early but knocks from Mooney (64 in 49 balls, with 10 fours) and Litchfield (48 in 35 balls, with six fours and two sixes) laid down a platform for Ellyse Perry (13*) and Ash Gardner (3*) to finish things off.

Mooney Shines with Bat, Bags Top Honours

Mooney, the 'Player of the Match' continued her fantastic run in women's T20 WC knockouts, with 424 runs in 10 innings at an average of 70.66 and a strike rate of almost 133 with five fifties.

With 238 runs in seven innings at an average of 47.6 and a strike rate of over 142, with three fifties, Mooney also bagged the 'Player of the Tournament' honours. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

NBFCs to report strong Q1 FY27, may raise growth guidance: Report

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:01:35 +0530

NBFCs, including both large- and mid-cap companies as well as diversified and monoline players, are expected to report a strong first quarter of FY27. Despite global challenges such as the escalating West Asia conflict and ongoing inflation concerns that weighed on investor sentiment during much of the quarter, the sector remained operationally resilient, according to a Kotak Institutional Equities report.

Growth Guidance and Margin Expansion

The report said, "We expect NBFCs to raise guidance on growth, which was mixed last quarter due to the overhang of the West Asia war; most diversified NBFCs are firmly above 20% loan growth; expect guidance to inch up to ~25% for the larger pack."

The sector experiences a favourable shift in earnings dynamics, primarily driven by an expansion in margins. As per the report, most non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) will report healthy net interest margin expansion of 9 to 80 basis points year-on-year (YoY), though some compression remains visible in specific players.

Profitability Drivers: Costs and Yields

A primary catalyst for this performance is the reduction in liabilities costs, as borrowing costs declined by 22 to 90 basis points YoY for most players over the past four quarters. The benefit of lower exit cost of borrowings drives the margin expansion in Q1FY27.

At the same time, asset yields present a varied landscape across the industry. Yields contracted 5 to 80 basis points YoY, but likely inched up quarter-on-quarter for most firms, except affordable housing finance companies that recently cut benchmark rates. While the incremental cost of funds rose toward the end of the year, the same softened by June 2026, aided by a rally in bond markets. Looking ahead, increases in marginal cost of funds-based lending rates by banks by 5 to 10 basis points in select buckets will weigh on margins. With comfortable liquidity, competitive intensity remains intense, which puts pressure on asset yields.

Strong disbursements and insurance fees fuel fee income growth, though impending insurance commission guidance requires close monitoring.

Segment-Specific Momentum and Outlook

The report further added that "Affordable HFCs, with encouraging incremental growth trends, will likely be more assertive about growth. Concerns of a weak monsoon and food inflation will be the only outliers."

Individual segments showed a clear revival in momentum across the board. Unsecured lending segments regain traction, while vehicle finance gains support from major automotive manufacturers reporting healthy 15 to 20 per cent volume growth across most segments alongside a stronger exit month. Gold loans held well despite process changes from new regulations and a fall in gold prices. Affordable housing finance companies, which faced a slowdown over the last two years, show early signs of improvement since the fourth quarter of the financial year 2026, with momentum expected to pick up through the financial year 2027. (ANI)

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Karur stampede: SC to hear DMK plea against TN ministers on July 7

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:01:34 +0530

The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear a plea filed by by RS Bharathi, Organising Secretary of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) alleging attempts to influence witnesses in the Karur rally stampede case by certain accused persons who are Ministers in the current Tamil Nadu government led by Chief minister Joseph Vijay.

A bench of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Sheel Nagu agreed to take up the matter tomorrow after the plea was mentioned by Senior Advocate Hufeza Ahmadi appearing on behalf of the applicants. The tragic stampede which took place during TVK chief and actor Vijay's political rally on September 27 in Karur and left 41 persons dead is being investigated by the CBI.

DMK's Plea Seeks Key Directives

The plea alleges that persons connected with the case are making public statements that could influence witnesses and interfere with the CBI investigation. It has sought directions restraining all persons connected with the case, including TVK chief C. Joseph Vijay, Aadhav Arjuna, Bussy Anand and C.T. Nirmal Kumar, from making statements on the merits of the pending investigation. "Direct that, pending completion of the investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation pursuant to the orders of this Hon'ble Court, no person, including Thiru C Joseph Vijay, Thiru Adhav Arjuna, Thiru Bussy Anand, Thiru CT Nirmal Kumar or any accused or person connected with the investigation in Crime No. 855 of 2025, shall make public statements attributing criminal liability, threatening political opponents, or otherwise commenting upon the merits of the pending investigation in a manner likely to prejudice or interfere with the fair and independent investigation directed by this Hon'ble Court," the plea states.

Bharathi has also raised concerns over the grant of benefits to the families of the deceased and injured during the pendency of the investigation, alleging that such measures could affect material witnesses. While acknowledging that the State government may extend ex gratia assistance, compassionate appointments and other welfare measures, the application has sought safeguards to ensure that such benefits do not affect the integrity of the investigation. "Direct that while the State Government shall be at liberty to extend ex gratia assistance, compassionate appointments, Government Orders and other welfare measures to the families of the deceased and injured victims of the Karur Stampede, no such benefits shall be conferred during the pendency of the CBI investigation except in accordance with such procedure and safeguards as may be directed by this Hon'ble Court and after placing the proposed course of action before the Central Bureau of Investigation, so as to ensure that the integrity of the ongoing investigation and the evidence of material witnesses remain completely unaffected," the plea states.

The application has further sought a direction to the CBI to act against public statements allegedly made by Aadhav Arjuna on July 2, 2026. It has specifically sought a direction to the agency to "register a complaint and proceed against the public statements made by Thiru Aadhav Arjuna on 02.07.2026, for influencing, tampering with witness and impeding with investigation connected to Crime No. 855 of 2025."

Background of the Karur Stampede Investigation

The Karur stampede took place during a rally of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay on September 27, 2025, leaving 41 people dead and several others injured. In October 2025, the Supreme Court transferred the investigation from a state-level Special Investigation Team (SIT) to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), emphasising the need for an independent and impartial probe.

A bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and N.V. Anjaria also constituted a three-member committee headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Rastogi to monitor the CBI investigation and ensure a fair and impartial probe into the tragedy. The investigation is examining several aspects of the rally, including crowd-management arrangements, the timeline of Vijay's arrival and the coordination between party organisers and local authorities. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Baglihar Dam gates opened as Chenab river swells in Jammu and Kashmir

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:01:31 +0530

Authorities on Monday opened three gates of the Baglihar Dam in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district after the water level in the Chenab River rose significantly due to incessant rainfall in the Doda-Kishtwar region. The administration said it is continuously monitoring weather conditions and the river flow, with all concerned departments remaining on alert to respond to any emergency situation.

Indus Waters Treaty in Abeyance

The development comes days after India reiterated that the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan will remain in abeyance until Islamabad credibly and irrevocably ends its support for cross-border terrorism. Addressing a weekly media briefing on Friday, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India's position on the treaty remains unchanged. "India's position on the Indus Waters Treaty is consistent. IWT stands in abeyance in response to Pakistan's continued sponsorship of cross-border terrorism. Pakistan must credibly and irrevocably abjure its support for cross-border terrorism," Jaiswal said.

Earlier, on June 5, Jaiswal stated that the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty would remain in abeyance following the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. Speaking at the weekly media briefing earlier, Jaiswal had said, "The Indus Waters Treaty stands in abeyance in response to Pakistan's sponsorship of cross-border terrorism," while rejecting Pakistan's criticism of India's hydroelectric projects on the Chenab and Beas rivers.

The MEA also rejected the May 15, 2026 award of what it described as an "illegally constituted" Court of Arbitration (CoA) on maximum pondage and treaty interpretation. India said it has never recognised the court and considers all its proceedings and decisions "null and void."

Earlier, on May 3, all the gates of the Baglihar Dam on the Chenab River in Ramban district remained closed more than a year after the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty following the Pahalgam terror attack. The continued closure of the gates had highlighted the impact of the treaty's suspension on water management and hydroelectric operations in the region.

Baglihar Project and IWT Framework

The Baglihar Hydroelectric Power Project, located on the Chenab River in Ramban district, plays a key role in hydroelectric power generation and water regulation.

The Indus Waters Treaty, signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, governs the sharing of the waters of the Indus River system. Under the treaty, India has exclusive rights over the eastern rivers - Ravi, Sutlej and Beas - while Pakistan receives the waters of the western rivers - Indus, Jhelum and Chenab. India retains limited rights over the western rivers for domestic, agricultural and run-of-the-river hydroelectric use, as specified under the treaty.

India has also been given the right to generate hydroelectricity through run-of-the-river (RoR) projects on the western rivers, subject to specific criteria for design and operation, which are unrestricted. To fully utilise the eastern river waters allocated to it, India has developed major infrastructure projects, including the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej, Pong and Pandoh dams on the Beas, and Thein (Ranjit Sagar) Dam on the Ravi. These storage works, together with other works like the Beas-Sutlej Link, Madhopur-Beas Link, Indira Gandhi Nahar Project, etc., have helped India utilise most of the waters of the eastern rivers. (ANI)

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'Lenin' team with Nagarjuna, Akhil Akkineni seek blessings at Tirumala

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:01:27 +0530

Ahead of the theatrical release of the upcoming Telugu action drama 'Lenin', producer and actor Nagarjuna Akkineni, his son Akhil Akkineni, actress Bhagyashri Borse, producer Suryadevara Naga Vamsi, and members of the film's team visited the Tirumala Temple on Monday to seek blessings. The team was seen dressed in traditional attire in accordance with temple customs as they offered prayers ahead of the film's release.

About The Film 'Lenin'

'Lenin', starring Akhil Akkineni and Bhagyashri Borse in the lead roles, is an upcoming Telugu-language action drama directed by Murali Kishor Abburu and produced by Nagarjuna Akkineni under Manam Enterprises LLP, along with Suryadevara Naga Vamsi under Sithara Entertainments. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on July 10, 2026.

Plot and Music

Set against a gritty Rayalaseema backdrop, the story follows a fierce protagonist navigating intense family and political conflict in his journey to carve out a legacy. The film features music composed by S. Thaman.

Teaser Release Marks Nagarjuna's Milestone

The teaser was released on May 23, Nagarjuna Akkineni's special day in his cinematic journey, marking 40 years as a lead actor since his debut film Vikram.

The veteran actor expressed gratitude to fans on the occasion and also recalled his journey, including his earlier collaboration with his father, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, in the film Manam, which also featured Naga Chaitanya, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, and Shriya Saran. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

BJP slams Congress' 'hypocritical' stance on 130th Amendment Bill

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:01:19 +0530

As the debate over the proposed Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill intensifies ahead of upcoming parliamentary sessions, BJP leader Karunasagar on Monday criticised the Congress party for its resistance to the legislation. The Bill, which seeks to mandate the removal of Prime Ministers, Chief Ministers, and Ministers if they remain in judicial custody for 30 consecutive days on serious criminal charges, has become a major flashpoint between the ruling coalition and the opposition.

BJP Accuses Congress of Hypocrisy

Speaking to ANI, Karunasagar accused the Congress of adopting a "hypocritical" stance, preaching transparency while simultaneously blocking reforms that aim to uphold the integrity of executive offices. "Congress, on one hand, lectures the country about corruption and clean politics, while on the other, it vehemently opposes a constitutional amendment that seeks to ensure individuals holding the highest executive offices do not continue in power if they remain in judicial custody for 30 consecutive days," the BJP leader remarked.

He clarified that the amendment is not a verdict of guilt, but a safeguard for the institution of governance. Karunasagar emphasised, "This amendment does not declare anyone guilty; that is for the courts to decide. However, it emphasised the need for the highest moral standards and public trust in those holding constitutional offices."

He challenged the opposition to put the national interest above political strategy, stating, "Public office is a sacred trust, not a shield from accountability, and those who believe in constitutional morality should welcome such reforms rather than resist them for political gain."

Details of the Proposed Amendment

The Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha in August 2025, aims to fill a significant legislative gap. Under current laws (the Representation of the People Act, 1951), disqualification typically triggers only after a formal conviction. By targeting the "interim period" of arrest and detention, the Bill seeks to prevent the spectacle of governance from behind bars, which the government argues undermines the dignity and public trust associated with constitutional posts.

Concerns and Government's Position

The Bill is currently under scrutiny by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), and its potential passage remains one of the most significant constitutional developments in the current legislative calendar. Critics of the Bill, however, continue to raise concerns regarding the "basic structure" of the Constitution, arguing that such measures could be misused by investigative agencies to unseat political rivals before any judicial determination of guilt. Despite these concerns, the BJP leadership has maintained that the reform is essential to "decriminalize politics" and restore the sanctity of India's democratic institutions. (ANI)

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Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman to Visit Saudi Arabia on Crown Prince's Invite

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:01:00 +0530

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia shortly, following an official invitation from the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, which the Prime Minister has formally accepted. The development was shared with journalists on Monday by the Foreign Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister, Humayun Kabir.

Invitation Extended, Reciprocal Visit Expected

Elaborating on the bilateral interaction, Kabir stated, "Basically, I wanted to brief you on a call by His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Jafar H. Bin Abiyah, the Honourable Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This morning, he called on the Honourable Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, at the Cabinet Secretariat."

"And a very cordial discussion took place, along with an exchange of pleasantries. The Honourable Ambassador conveyed greetings from His Highness the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and extended an invitation from His Highness the Crown Prince to our Honourable Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," Kabir said.

The Adviser further noted that the diplomatic engagement points towards a reciprocal high-level visit from Riyadh to Dhaka. "The Ambassador also conveyed that His Highness the Crown Prince, His Excellency Mohammed bin Salman, is very much interested in visiting Bangladesh at a convenient time," the Foreign Affairs Adviser stated.

Deepening Strategic Partnership

Underscoring the trajectory of the long-standing geopolitical relationship, Kabir emphasised Dhaka's commitment to deepening its engagement with Riyadh across critical domains. "So, from this exchange, you can see that we are very positive about having strategic cooperation and partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Historically, our bilateral relations have always been good. We will further strengthen them, and the ties will reach, Inshallah, new heights," he added.

Boosting Economic and Diplomatic Ties

The Adviser highlighted that the upcoming high-level interactions are poised to unlock substantial economic opportunities, noting a surge in commercial interest from both public and private entities in Saudi Arabia. "We will strengthen our diplomatic relations, as well as the volume of trade and investment in our partnership. There has been tremendous interest this morning from Saudi Arabia, both from the private sector and the government, in investing in Bangladesh," Kabir observed.

"It is also a significant moment in our bilateral relations. You can see ahead that not only has the Prime Minister been invited to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, but the Crown Prince has also expressed his interest in visiting Bangladesh. So, it's both ways," the Adviser said.

A Result of Proactive Diplomacy

Reflecting on the diplomatic strides made by the administration since assuming office, Kabir traced the breakthrough to sustained, proactive regional outreach over the last four months. "It only shows how significant these four months have been for the Government of Bangladesh after our new government was elected and that we have established brotherly ties across the Middle East.

"After all, you are very much aware that our Honourable Prime Minister, through his special envoy during that period, travelled across the Middle East," Kabir stated.

"And this gesture from our Prime Minister has established tremendous goodwill in the Middle East. "Part of that has culminated in a significant moment where we will strengthen and increase our strategic communication and partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," Kabir said. (ANI)

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Mumbai rains: SDMA advises WFH amid red alert for several districts

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:59 +0530

The Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) on Monday advised private offices in Mumbai to allow employees to work from home wherever possible, while non-essential government offices will function for a half-day, in view of the prevailing weather situation. The advisory comes as heavy to extremely heavy rainfall continues to lash parts of Maharashtra, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a red alert for several districts.

Earlier in the say, heavy rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas of Raigad. Traffic movement on the Mumbai-Goa Highway was also severely affected due to the waterlogging in the area.

IMD Issues Red Alert

IMD scientist Bikram Singh said many places in Mumbai received heavy to very heavy rainfall, while isolated places and ghat regions witnessed extremely heavy rain. "Many places in Mumbai have received heavy to very heavy rains, with extremely heavy rains in isolated places and over ghat regions. Pune district, Raigad and Palghar have also received extremely heavy rains. Lonavala has received the highest rainfall today at 670 mm," he told ANI.

"For the next 24 to 48 hours, we are again keeping a red warning for Raigad, ghat region of Pune district, Nashik and Palghar. The next 48 hours for these districts is crucial. Over the Konkan region, an orange alert is in place," Singh added.

Train Services Disrupted

Central Railway Services Affected

Meanwhile, Central Railway on Monday informed that several train services have been diverted, short terminated, short originated and rescheduled following the landslide between Lonavala and Karjat. Passengers are requested to check the revised train timings before commencing their journey.

CPRO (Chief Public Relations Officer) of Central Railway also said that local services were halted between Kanjurmarg and Bhandup on slow line towards CSMT (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) because of a plastic stuck on OHE (Overhead Equipment). "The plastic is being removed by turning off OHE and services will be restored shortly," it said.

Western Railway Services Impacted

Separately, CPRO of Western Railways Vineet Abhishek informed that the Palghar area received rainfall in excess of 300 mm in the last 24 hours which led to a water-logging situation in the Vasai, Nalasopara, Virar area. "We have been seeing over the last 2-3 days that it's been raining heavily, and just in the Palghar area, in the last 24 hours, we received rainfall in excess of 300 mm. This has led to a water-logging situation in the Vasai, Nalasopara, Virar area... As a result, train services are impacted between Vasai, Nalasopara, and Virar. As far as local trains are concerned, between Churchgate and Vasai Road, our trains are running smoothly with a delay of around 20 to 25 minutes," he told ANI.

He added that, "Regarding local train services between Vasai, Nalasopara and Virar, we are running the bare minimum number of services between these stations. Regarding long-distance trains, most of the trains are getting regulated. Those trains which are coming towards Mumbai are getting regulated before Virar. Some of the trains have been short-terminated, and we are regularly informing our passengers about the status of these trains."

He further said that railways is coordinating with city authorities to ensure that the communication reaches passengers in real time through social, print, and electronic media. "Monsoon is so heavy, particularly for the city of Mumbai, and we are ensuring that effective coordination, impactful coordination is maintained with city authorities, both the railways together, and we are ensuring that as far as our communication to our passengers is concerned. It's coordinated, and we are ensuring that the communication reaches our passengers in real time through social, print, and electronic media, and we are ensuring that our passengers do not get inconvenienced," he said.

BMC Issues Safety Advisory for Construction Sites

Meanwhile, in view of prevailing weather conditions, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has also issued a safety advisory for construction sites in view of wind speeds of 70-80 kmph. It directed developers, architects, licensed surveyors, contractors, project managers and site engineers to ensure that scaffolding, cranes, tin sheets, loose materials and other temporary structures are inspected and secured.

The civic body also directed that lifting operations and work at heights be suspended where weather conditions pose a risk, while weather conditions should be continuously monitored until normalcy returns. The BMC said safety compliance is mandatory and urged all stakeholders to strictly adhere to the advisory to ensure the safety of workers, nearby residents and the general public.

"All workers shall use prescribed PPE and fall protection. An immediate site-wide safety inspection shall be conducted and all unsafe conditions rectified without delay. The safety of workers, neighbouring residents and the general public is of paramount importance. All developers are requested to treat this advisory with utmost seriousness and ensure strict compliance with all applicable safety regulations and best construction practices," the BMC said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Women's WC 2026: Sachin lauds Australia's unbeaten title campaign

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:58 +0530

Sachin Tendulkar Hails Australia's Unbeaten Run

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar congratulated Australia on winning the ICC Women's World Cup 2026, praising the team's consistency and composure throughout its unbeaten title-winning campaign.

Australia clinched a record-extending seventh Women's World Cup title after defeating England in the final at Lord's. Chasing 151 for victory, Australia completed the chase in 17.1 overs, with Beth Mooney top-scoring with 64 runs after England were bowled out for 150.

Reacting to the triumph, Tendulkar lauded Australia's ability to adapt to different situations during the tournament. "Congratulations to Australia on another World Cup title! The unbeaten run really shows how well they managed different match situations and stayed consistent throughout. That kind of stability is usually what brings trophies home," Tendulkar wrote on X.

Congratulations to Australia on another World Cup title! The unbeaten run really shows how well they managed different match situations and stayed consistent throughout. That kind of stability is usually what brings trophies home. — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 6, 2026

Australia's Clinical Chase

Chasing a target of 151, Australia reached the finish line with 17 balls to spare after recovering from the early loss of opener Georgia Voll, who was dismissed by Lauren Bell in the second over.

Mooney and Litchfield Dominate

Mooney steadied the chase with a fluent half-century, while Litchfield played an aggressive supporting role as the pair dominated the England attack. Their partnership powered Australia to 62/1 at the end of the powerplay, the second-highest powerplay score in a Women's T20 World Cup knockout match, behind Australia's own 63/2 against the West Indies earlier in the tournament.

The duo continued to build momentum, taking Australia beyond the 100-run mark in the 11th over before Charlie Dean dismissed Litchfield for a well-made 48 in the 13th over.

Mooney reached her fifty from 38 deliveries, registering her ninth Women's T20 World Cup half-century to equal Nat Sciver-Brunt's record. She continued to accelerate the scoring before Sophie Ecclestone removed her for 64 in the 16th over. Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner then ensured there were no further setbacks, guiding Australia to victory with an unbeaten stand to seal the title.

England's Innings Restrained

Earlier, Australia's disciplined bowling display restricted England to 150/4 after captain Sophie Molineux opted to field first. England endured a difficult start as Amy Jones (7) and Danni Wyatt-Hodge (8) departed during the powerplay. Alice Capsey briefly counterattacked with 23 before falling, while Heather Knight's dismissal for 2 left the hosts struggling at 70/4.

Sciver-Brunt and Kemp Lead Recovery

Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt once again led from the front, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 58 from 53 deliveries. She found valuable support from Freya Kemp, who struck an enterprising 44 off 28 balls. The pair stitched together an 80-run partnership from 55 balls to revive England's innings, taking the total past 150 with a productive final over.

Australia's bowling effort was shared among Annabel Sutherland, Sophie Molineux, Lucy Hamilton and Kim Garth, with each claiming one wicket as the defending champions successfully restricted England before completing a clinical chase to lift the trophy. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Govt won't interfere in SIR process, says DK Shivakumar on NDA's plea

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:57 +0530

Rebuffing allegations made by NDA leaders regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process in the state, Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Monday asserted that the government will not interfere in the procedure and claimed that the Opposition is "worried" by the large-scale awareness being created by the administration.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru regarding the NDA's complaint to the Election Commission (EC), Shivakumar said the Opposition's despondency stems from the government's efforts to empower the poor and minorities. "The government will not interfere in the SIR process. The Opposition is worried because the government is creating awareness about the process on such a large scale. Around 45 million (4.5 crore) people have obtained caste and income certificates. They have been given the facility to download these certificates online. The Opposition only wants poor people and minorities to face difficulties," Shivakumar said.

Challenge to Opposition on Illegal Immigration

Responding to the Opposition's rhetoric regarding illegal immigration, the Chief Minister challenged their past performance. "Tell us where the Bangladeshi migrants are. If they are there, why didn't your government take action when it was in power? Let them criticise as much as they want. Criticism fades away, but good work remains," he stated.

Karnataka's Welfare Schemes a National Model

Shivakumar also highlighted the success of the state's welfare initiatives, stating that the 'Five Guarantees' launched by the Karnataka government are now being emulated at the national level. "We have delivered five guarantee schemes. We introduced these guarantees to provide financial assistance to the people. The decisions we implemented are now being adopted by the Central Government as well. Karnataka has become a model for others," the Chief Minister added.

Upholding Democratic Rights

Stressing the importance of the SIR process in safeguarding democratic rights, he said, "We are ensuring that everyone gets the right to vote. The Opposition should appreciate the work we have done. I have also instructed our party workers to remain alert. The Opposition only speaks to criticise."

Opposition's Allegations

His remarks come after the opposition raised serious concerns regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise being conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in Karnataka, saying that the instructions of the apex poll body are not being followed properly by the officers on the ground. They alleged that Congress leaders are "pressuring" Booth Level Officers (BLO) to enrol ineligible individuals into the electoral rolls to increase the party's vote share. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

JD(S) slams K'taka govt over bus with mobile torch for headlight

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:52 +0530

JD(S) slams govt over 'administrative failure'

Janata Dal (Secular) State Youth President Nikhil Kumaraswamy on Monday criticised the Congress government over the condition of Karnataka's public transport system, alleging that a KKRTC bus was forced to run at night with a mobile torch as a headlight due to a lack of maintenance funds. He also claimed that the state government had failed to issue the Letter of Award (LoA) for 4,500 electric buses allotted to the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) under the PM E-DRIVE Scheme.

In a post on X, the JD(S) youth leader criticised the Congress government over the condition of the state's public transport system and alleged administrative failures in deploying new buses. "A shocking state of affairs in Karnataka! On one hand, a KKRTC bus runs blindly at night with just a mobile torch for a headlight due to zero maintenance funds. On the other hand, absolute administrative failure by the Congress govt in inducting new buses!" the post said.

The JD(S) leader further claimed that Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy's Ministry of Heavy Industries had allocated 4,500 electric buses to BMTC under the PM E-DRIVE Scheme, but the state government had failed to act despite receiving confirmation in December 2025. "Union Minister Sri. @hd_kumaraswamy's Ministry of Heavy Industries allocated a massive 4,500 electric buses to @BMTC_BENGALURU under the PM E-DRIVE Scheme. Despite receiving confirmation way back in Dec 2025, the state @tdkarnataka has failed to even issue the Letter of Award (LoA), stalling the whole deployment!" the post read.

A shocking state of affairs in Karnataka! On one hand, a KKRTC bus runs blindly at night with just a mobile torch for a headlight due to zero maintenance funds. On the other hand, absolute administrative failure by the Congress govt in inducting new buses! Union Minister Sri.… pic.twitter.com/cQkwKfIaHL — Nikhil Kumar (@Nikhil_Kumar_k) July 6, 2026 Kumaraswamy also alleged that the state government owed ₹4,573 crore in Shakti reimbursements, affecting the maintenance of existing buses. "They owe ₹4,573 Cr in Shakti reimbursements, starving current buses of basic repairs, yet they sit on 4,500 free new e-buses out of sheer incompetence," the post added.

Widespread poor maintenance alleged

Meanwhile, JD(S) MLC Bhojegowda said the issue was not limited to a single incident and alleged that poor maintenance affected KSRTC buses across the state. Speaking to ANI, Bhojegowda said, "it is not what our young leader Nikhil Kumaraswamy observed, that a North West Karnataka KSRTC bus was moving with a mobile torch. It is not a new thing. You see, not only North West Karnataka, almost all KSRTC buses are like this."

Driver assignment and maintenance

He alleged that frequent changes of buses assigned to drivers and conductors affected maintenance. "Whenever the new buses come, they are allotted to the depot. Once you allot the bus to the conductor and driver, that bus should remain with the same conductor and driver for a minimum of six months. You can change the route. Then automatically they will maintain it properly. The conductor and the driver will take care of the bus," he said.

He further said that mechanics could only attend to major faults and claimed that buses were reassigned after repairs instead of remaining with the same crew. "If proper maintenance is not there, how can you take action against the driver and the conductor? The mechanic is there. Once the major faults come, the mechanic will take care of them. Once repaired, again you allot the bus to somebody else. It is not correct," Bhojegowda said.

Allegations of corruption in procurement

The JD(S) MLC also alleged irregularities in the procurement of tyres for KSRTC buses. "The government is giving money, or KSRTC people are giving money, for buying new tyres. Some percentage is spent on new tyres. They also have a retread shop. Instead of buying new tyres for all KSRTC buses, they go for retreading. This is done to make corruption in the money allotted for new tyres. This is also one issue. The officers are not managing things properly," he alleged.

He questioned why chairpersons and officials responsible for overseeing the transport corporation had not addressed the issue. "So many chairmen are there. Every division has chairmen. Non-official bodies and government bodies are looking after these things. Why have they not taken care of all these things? They should take care of them. Then only proper maintenance can be ensured. Once new buses come, allot them to the same driver and conductor and let them remain with them for a minimum of six months. Then only we can give good service to the people and proper maintenance will be taken care of," Bhojegowda said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India's power demand to grow 6% annually, renewable sector robust

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:34 +0530

Power Demand to Grow Amidst Renewable Push

India's power demand is expected to grow at around 6 per cent annually over the next four to five years, supported by continued renewable energy capacity additions of 45-50 GW every year, according to a Centrum Institutional Research Q1FY27 power sector results preview report.

"Power demand is expected to grow at 6% pa as we expect renewable capacity additions to continue in the range 45-50 GW per year over next 4-5 years," the brokerage said in its report.

Healthy Performance Expected for Renewable Sector

Against this favourable demand backdrop, the report expects renewable energy companies to post healthy June-quarter performance despite the first quarter typically being a seasonally weak period for renewable energy equipment manufacturers. It added that independent power producers (IPPs) are likely to sustain the growth trend seen over the past few quarters.

Capacity Addition on Track

According to the report, India added 6.8 GW of solar capacity and 712 MW of wind capacity during the first two months of FY27, keeping the country on track to achieve 45-50 GW of renewable energy capacity additions in FY27. The brokerage said solar manufacturers continue to benefit from strong domestic demand and import substitution opportunities, while renewable IPPs are expanding their operational portfolios through faster project commissioning and increasing participation in hybrid renewable, Firm and Dispatch able Renewable Energy (FDRE), and energy storage projects.

Key Growth Drivers and Positive Outlook

The report said, "Industry growth remains underpinned by India's target of achieving approx. 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, rising power demand, favourable regulatory support, and increasing adoption of BESS solutions."

The report also highlighted the continued rise in electricity consumption, noting that "Power demand continues to see strong growth as India achieved peak power demand of 271 GW in May 2026 vs 242 GW for FY26."

Looking ahead, the brokerage maintained a positive outlook on the sector, citing "capacity expansion, backward integration and growing project pipelines." It added that "Rising corporate decarbonisation commitments, growing demand for RTC renewable power and rapid deployment of battery energy storage systems are further expected to accelerate investment and capacity addition momentum over the medium term."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Can't proactively monitor YouTube, Google tells Delhi High Court

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:30 +0530

Google Cites Intermediary Status

Google LLC has told the Delhi High Court that it cannot be directed to proactively monitor YouTube or prevent the recurrence of allegedly unauthorised recordings of court proceedings, contending that as an intermediary it neither creates nor controls third-party content and cannot be burdened with an obligation to police millions of videos uploaded on its platform. In an affidavit filed before the High Court in the PIL concerning the circulation of videos of the April 13 hearing in Arvind Kejriwal's recusal plea, Google submitted that YouTube is merely an intermediary under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and that liability, if any, rests with the publisher or uploader of the content rather than the platform.

'Legally Untenable' Demands

Google further submitted that the relief sought by the petitioner, directing social media platforms to prevent recurrence of such recordings, monitor re-uploads and impose penalties for non-compliance, is legally untenable, vague and incapable of implementation. It argued that court proceedings are recorded by third parties outside the YouTube platform and YouTube has no means to determine whether a particular uploaded video relates to court proceedings, whether the recording is unauthorised or whether it violates any specific law, especially when rules governing the recording of court proceedings vary across courts.

Compliance with Court Orders

According to the affidavit, YouTube is only required to disable access to specific URLs after a competent court adjudicates the identified content to be unlawful. It asserted that the platform cannot proactively scan millions of videos to identify possible unauthorised recordings or prevent future uploads. Google also informed the Court that of the nine YouTube URLs identified in the petition, several had already been blocked in India or made unavailable even before the High Court's interim order dated April 23, 2026. Following the Court's directions, it also blocked the remaining identified URLs as a matter of abundant caution. It stated that no further URLs containing the alleged recordings have since been notified to it by the petitioner.

Reliance on Legal Precedents and Safe Harbour

The affidavit states that YouTube neither publishes nor endorses user-generated content and cannot be expected to adjudicate the legality of videos uploaded by third parties. Google submitted that the Supreme Court's decision in Shreya Singhal v. Union of India makes it clear that an intermediary acquires "actual knowledge" only upon a court order or notification by the appropriate government and cannot be compelled to independently decide whether content is unlawful.

Google further argued that intermediaries enjoy safe harbour protection under Section 79 of the IT Act and cannot be subjected to a proactive monitoring obligation. It submitted that any direction for removal must identify specific URLs, and that general directions requiring platforms to monitor or prevent future uploads would create a chilling effect and are contrary to settled law. It also maintained that any orders regarding the removal of content ought to be directed primarily against the originators or publishers after giving them an opportunity of being heard, rather than against intermediaries. The affidavit concludes by seeking dismissal of the petition insofar as it concerns Google.

Background of the Case

The Delhi High Court had earlier directed the removal of all social media links containing the April 13 proceedings before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma in the recusal plea moved by former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. A Division Bench of Justice V. Kameswar Rao and Justice Manmeet Arora also impleaded the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) as a respondent and issued notice to all respondents, including Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, journalist Ravish Kumar and others. The PIL, filed by advocate Vaibhav Singh, alleges that the April 13 court proceedings were recorded and circulated on social media without permission in violation of the Delhi High Court's Electronic Evidence and Video Conferencing Rules, 2025.

The Court had noted that recording and uploading court proceedings without prior permission is expressly prohibited under the High Court Rules. It directed the removal of any remaining links and observed that if such videos reappear, the platforms must remove them upon being informed and intimate the Registrar General. Senior Advocate Arvind P. Datar, appearing for one of the intermediaries, had submitted that the flagged content was removed after official communication and that intermediaries cannot function as censors. Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma had submitted that the issue concerns the institution of the judiciary and requires serious consideration. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Indian banks to see better CD ratio in FY27, credit growth at 14%

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:30 +0530

Indian banks are expected to see an improvement in the credit-to-deposit (CD) ratio in FY27, led by public sector banks (PSBs), while overall credit growth is likely to remain steady at around 14 per cent year-on-year, according to a report by Motilal Oswal Financial Services (MOSFL).

The report said systemic credit growth rose to 17.7 per cent as of June 15, 2026. The growth was driven by strong demand for working capital loans due to higher input costs, a regulatory shift from the loan-to-deposit ratio (LDR) to the liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) and net stable funding ratio (NSFR), and higher corporate borrowings following the rise in bond yields during the first quarter of FY27.

RBI Measures to Boost Inflows

MOSFL also said the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) decision to exempt FCNR(B) deposits with a tenure of three to five years from cash reserve ratio (CRR) and statutory liquidity ratio (SLR) requirements has made the scheme more attractive for banks. "The measure alone is expected to generate USD 40-50 billion of foreign exchange inflows in FY27 and should support overall business growth," the report said.

Outlook on Margins and Yields

According to the report, yields on fresh loans increased by 6 basis points (bp) for public sector banks and fell by 7 bp for private banks, resulting in a 1 bp increase for the banking sector in May 2026.

The report said the outlook for net interest margins (NIMs) remains mixed, with a negative bias for mid-sized banks. It added that the impact of earlier repo rate cuts on external benchmark-linked loans has largely been absorbed as the repo rate has remained unchanged over the past six months. "Going forward, movements in asset yields are expected to be driven primarily by changes in the product mix and residual deposit repricing," the report said.

Healthy Asset Quality Amidst Risks

The report said asset quality remains healthy across most segments, with no immediate impact from the West Asia conflict. However, higher input costs and pressure on operating margins could affect the profitability of borrowers.

Future Credit Growth Drivers

MOSFL expects credit growth to remain supported by a recovery in corporate lending, steady retail loan demand, and continued growth in MSME and gold loans. "Accordingly, we expect systemic credit growth at around 14 per cent in FY27," the report said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Heavy Rain in Maharashtra: Minister Urges Caution, Avoid Unnecessary Travel

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:25 +0530

Minister Urges Caution Amid Heavy Rains

Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Girish Mahajan on Monday appealed to people to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel as heavy rainfall continued to disrupt normal life across several parts of the state, affecting road and rail traffic and prompting authorities to remain on high alert.

"People should avoid travelling to tourist destinations for the time being and should leave their homes only when absolutely necessary. Strong winds of 70 to 90 kilometres per hour are blowing in many areas, and the Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for some places with heavy to very heavy rainfall expected today and tomorrow," Mahajan said.

Mahajan said the torrential rain had disrupted road and rail services in many parts of Maharashtra, while schools had also been closed in several places as a precautionary measure. He said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had convened a high-level meeting with officials of the Disaster Management Department to review the situation.

According to the minister, the government is closely monitoring developments and all concerned departments have been put on alert. Mahajan also added that a section of the Mumbai Expressway's missing link had been closed following a landslide.

He appealed to all political parties and leaders not to politicise the natural disaster and instead cooperate with the government in relief and rescue operations.

Opposition Criticises Government's Response

Meanwhile, Congress MLA Satej Patil criticised the state government over the situation arising from the heavy rainfall and demanded that it make a detailed statement in the Assembly.

"There was a rush to inaugurate the missing link of the Mumbai Expressway and take credit. The government should now take responsibility for the incidents and chaos that occurred there," Patil said.

He alleged that the present situation reflected a failure of governance and claimed that inadequate planning had left people stranded on major highways without timely information. "No effective planning was done by the government, due to which people stranded on major highways could not receive timely information," he alleged.

He also questioned why people were not notified sooner when the Meteorological Department had already issued red and orange alerts. Patil claimed that the government did not appear to be concerned about the situation, and that Mumbai's infrastructure appeared to be collapsing in the face of heavy rain. While some in the government refer to it as "infra-man," who is responsible for it now? He further demanded that the state government make a detailed statement in the House and place before it complete information on the heavy rainfall, traffic management and disaster response measures. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ketan Agarwal Murder: Siya Goyal Studied Raja Raghuvanshi Case, Searched If Women Are Beaten in Police Custody

Divya Danu — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:49:34 +0530

Police investigating the murder of Pune resident Ketan Agarwal say accused Siya Goyal searched online for details about the Raja Raghuvanshi murder case and police custody before the crime. Investigators recovered a second phone from her home.

PEP Stock Faces Fresh Pressure: Barclays Cuts Price Target, Warns Turnaround Is Losing Steam Ahead Of Q2 Earnings

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:06 +0530

Barclays lowered its price target on PepsiCo to $144 from $158 and kept its Equal Weight rating.
The firm cited concerns that the North American foods turnaround is losing momentum.
Last week, JPMorgan cut its price target on PepsiCo to $170 from $178, citing weaker pricing, product mix and soft demand trends.

PepsiCo (PEP) stock is facing caution from Wall Street after Barclays lowered its price target on the beverage and snacks giant ahead of its second-quarter earnings, reflecting growing concerns about the pace of recovery in the company’s North American food business.

Barclays Sees PEP’s Turnaround Losing Momentum

Barclays cut its price target on PepsiCo shares to $144 from $158 while maintaining an ‘Equal Weight’ rating, citing concerns that improvements seen earlier this year may be difficult to maintain.

Analysts at Barclays said PepsiCo has lagged behind many of its consumer staples peers as investors question whether the company's turnaround strategy for its North American foods segment can deliver lasting results.

According to the firm, ongoing weakness in the company's core unflavored snack portfolio continues to limit the potential for a stronger recovery.

In addition to trimming its price target, Barclays reduced its sales projections for PepsiCo ahead of the Q2 earnings. The firm believes the company's operational improvements have not advanced enough to fully offset continued challenges in key product categories.

PepsiCo stock edged 0.08% lower overnight, ahead of Monday.

UBS also lowered its price target on PepsiCo to $172 from $186.

JPMorgan Predicts Soft Demand For PepsiCo

Last week, JPMorgan reduced its price target on PepsiCo to $170 from $178 but maintained an ‘Overweight’ rating, reflecting continued confidence in the company's longer-term outlook despite softer near-term expectations.

The firm lowered its Q2 forecasts, expecting weaker pricing, a less favorable product mix and slower revenue growth than previously expected. JPMorgan also said recent sales data points to soft demand, leading to a more cautious outlook for the quarter.

According to Koyfin data, analysts expect PepsiCo to report Q2 revenue of $23.9 billion and earnings of $2.21 per share.

PepsiCo has been relying heavily on price increases to offset inflation over the past two years. So the Q2 results are expected to offer insight into changing consumer spending patterns and the effectiveness of its evolving business strategy.

While PepsiCo's North American food division continues to face slower demand, investors expect stronger growth from overseas operations to provide support. Latin America and the Europe, Middle East and Africa regions are projected to outperform the company's domestic business.

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around the stock turned to ‘neutral’ from ' bullish’ territory the previous day with a 400% increase in message volume over the last 24 hours.

PEP stock has gained 0.5% year-to-date.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

8th Pay Commission: Central Govt Staff Salary to Jump 283%? Big News from Delhi

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:59:40 +0530

There's a lot of buzz among Central government employees about the 8th Pay Commission. Everyone is asking one question: will the basic salary really increase by 283%? Actually, employee unions have given several proposals for a new salary formula.

Village-Style Chicken Curry: Make Authentic Thanni Kuzhambu at Home

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:49:32 +0530

We've all had our share of chicken gravy and fry. But one taste of the village-style Chicken Thanni Kuzhambu, and you'll be hooked for life. Serve it with hot rice, and its incredible flavour will have you eating more than you planned!

FIFA World Cup 2026: What Did Neymar Tell Norway's Goalkeeper During Their Heated Penalty Exchange?

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:48:31 +0530

Neymar and Brazil have been knocked out of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a Round of 16 defeat to Norway at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday, July 5. The five-time world champions struggled to find rhythm against a clinical Norwegian side, ultimately succumbing to a 1-2 defeat that saw Erling Haaland net a decisive late brace.

Brazil’s lone goal was from their star Neymar, who converted a stoppage-time penalty. Until then, Selecao was frustrated by resolute Norwegian defence and the goalkeeping heroics of Orjan Nyland, who had kept them at bay for the majority of the match.

Brazil had an opportunity to convert a penalty earlier in the contest, but Nyland had brilliantly denied Bruno Guimaraes, setting the stage for a high-stakes psychological duel that would follow between the Norway goalkeeper and Neymar.

Also Read: Norway's unity key to historic World Cup win over Brazil, says coach

What Did Neymar Tell Nylan?

Brazil got a second opportunity for a penalty in the dying moments of the match after a VAR ruled that a Norwegian defender committed a foul in the box. As Neymar stepped up to take the crucial spot-kick, Orjan Nyland attempted to play verbal mind games and distract his focus from the goal.

Nyland reportedly taunted Neymar by saying:

“Where do you want it? I'll stop it for you, I'll stop it."

Neymar, who played over 130 international matches for Brazil, maintained his composure under pressure and coolly converted the penalty. Immediately after the ball hit the back of the net. After netting a penalty goal, Brazil star toward Nyland and retorted:

“Not to me! Not to me!"

Neymar talking back at Norway goalkeeper, Nylan after he taunted him before the penalty pic.twitter.com/fp9xR5b2uh

— Victory (@VictoryOwai) July 5, 2026

The match referee and Norway players intervened to break up the heated confrontation, as tensions flared in the closing moments of the game. Despite the intensity of the exchange, Neymar’s goal proved to be the final act of his international career.

Despite limited appearances in the FIFA World Cup 2026, featuring in just two of five matches, Neymar managed to leave the tournament with only one goal to his name, a defiant final strike that captured both his enduring quality and the heartbreak of Brazil's early exit. A brief 15-minute cameo was enough for the Brazilian fans to catch a glimpse of their star player.

Neymar Calls Time On His International Career

Following Brazil’s pre-quarterfinal exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026, Neymar announced his immediate retirement from international football, bringing a definitive end to a storied 16-year career with Selecao, which began in 2010.

Speaking to the reporters after the match, the 34-year-old was visibly emotional as he reflected on the gravity of the moment, noting the poetic symmetry of concluding his journey at MetLife Stadium, the very same venue where he made his debut by donning the Brazil jersey against the United States back in 2010.

“I tried. It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over.” Neymar said.

Neymar’s retirement from international football brings an end to an era for Brazilian football. Though his final tournament was significantly hampered by a persistent right calf injury, his two appearances, the group stage against Scotland and the Round of 16 clash against Norway, served as a poignant final showcase of his enduring legacy.

However, Neymar will continue to play club football for the time being, though he has admitted that he is currently taking his career ‘year-to-year’. He is playing for his boyhood club, Santos FC, after making an emotional return to his roots in early 2025. It remains to be seen how the Brazilian football star takes his career forward after international retirement.

Also Read: FIFA WC: Brazil suffer earliest exit since 1990 after loss to Norway

Bengaluru Viral Video: Bikers Perform Stunts, Block Ambulance Carrying Patient; Clip Sparks Outrage (WATCH)

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:46:46 +0530

In the early hours of Saturday, a group of motorcyclists in Bengaluru allegedly obstructed an ambulance's path and engaged in risky stunts on a busy road, causing a great deal of public indignation.

The motorcyclists were causing trouble from the Goraguntepalya to Yeshwanthpur region at approximately 2:30 in the morning. The ambulance was going with its siren on, transporting a patient who need immediate medical assistance. Despite this, it is said that five or six motorcyclists blocked the road, making it impossible for the ambulance to pass as they carried on with their careless antics.

The motorcyclists are seen riding ahead of the ambulance in a video of the event that has gone viral on social media, and none of the pillion riders are wearing helmets. The patient is seen laying inside the car in the footage as well.

Watch Viral Video

Bengaluru: Bikers perform stunts, block ambulance despite blaring siren. pic.twitter.com/5fO7h8J9Pr

— News Arena India (@NewsArenaIndia) July 6, 2026

The public has reacted harshly to the event, with many social media users calling for severe punishment for individuals who put lives in risk and hindered rescue personnel.

Aamir Khan's Rs 50 Crore Pali Hill Home: Inside His Luxurious Duplex Surrounded by Greenery

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:42:12 +0530

Aamir Khan just gave a rare peek into his Pali Hill home. Turns out, he still lives in the same building he moved into as a kid, and it's all about natural light and lots of greenery.

Venezuela Earthquake: Terrifying Video Shows Waves Crashing Out of Backyard Pool During 6.7-Magnitude Tremor (WATCH)

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:32:05 +0530

A dramatic video capturing the impact of a powerful 6.7-magnitude earthquake in Venezuela has gone viral on social media, offering a chilling glimpse into the force of the tremor. The footage shows water surging violently out of a backyard swimming pool as the ground shakes, underscoring the intensity of the earthquake.

The earthquake struck northern Venezuela, with tremors felt across several parts of the country and neighbouring regions. According to seismic monitoring agencies, the quake occurred at a significant depth, which helped limit widespread surface damage despite its strong magnitude. Authorities continued to assess the situation, while residents reported feeling prolonged shaking that prompted many to evacuate buildings as a precaution.

The now-viral video, recorded from a residential property, shows calm pool water suddenly transforming into powerful waves that spill over the edges of the pool. The dramatic scene has been widely shared online, with viewers comparing the movement to a miniature tsunami. The clip quickly gained traction across social media, drawing attention to the unpredictable nature of earthquakes and the dangers they pose even in seemingly safe environments.

Check the viral video here:

A terrifying video captures a backyard pool violently sloshing and spilling most of its water, showcasing the powerful seismic forces during the M7.5 earthquake in, La Guaira, Venezuela. pic.twitter.com/uDTaqanwOn

— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) July 5, 2026

Odisha Woman's Muqabla Performance Has Internet Comparing Her To Prabhu Deva (WATCH)

Shweta Kumari — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:30:54 +0530

Odisha's Moti Behera's high-energy performance to the iconic track Muqabla has become an internet sensation, with her Instagram reel amassing more than 1.9 million views. Viewers have flooded the comments section, comparing her to Prabhu Deva.

In the viral video, Behera appears in a simple kurti and jeans, dancing to the unmistakable beats of Muqabla. Her expressive performance, crisp footwork and seamless transitions have left many viewers saying she gives legendary dancer Prabhu Deva a serious challenge.

View this post on Instagram

According to her Instagram profile, Behera is not a professional dancer but a teacher and a mother. While balancing family life and her career, she continues to nurture her passion for dance, frequently sharing her performances online.

This is not the first time Behera has caught the spotlight. She had previously showcased her talent on a television dance reality show for mothers, where her performances earned widespread appreciation.

The song itself carries an iconic legacy. The original Muqabla was composed by A.R. Rahman for the 1994 Tamil film Kaadhalan. Sung by Mano and Swarnalatha, it became a nationwide phenomenon after being dubbed into several languages, including Hindi. Featuring Prabhu Deva's unforgettable choreography, the track continues to be celebrated as one of Indian cinema's greatest dance numbers decades after its release.

Social media users were quick to shower Behera with praise, describing her performance as "electrifying" and applauding the ease with which she recreated one of Indian cinema's most challenging dance routines.

Satluj LEAKED: Diljit Dosanjh Reacts as Fans Send HIs Film’s Download Links on Instagram Live

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:26:17 +0530

Just days after Satluj was pulled off ZEE5 India, Dosanjh addressed the matter in an Instagram Live. The actor’s film has been embroiled in a censorship struggle for years and the star talked with fans when they swamped the comments section stating they had already downloaded the movie before it mysteriously disappeared from the OTT platform.

Diljit Dosanjh asks ZEE5 to provide the download links after taking down Satluj

Reacting to the compliments, Diljit said, “I am happy that so many people were able to download the film. He even requested those who had it to give the download links to others so that more and more people may watch Satluj till it comes back to ZEE5. He also urged the audience to see the movie with their families.

In another moment from the live session which has since gone viral, Diljit remarked, “Hun tension nahi, sab ne kar layi download.” He said that he was not afraid anymore because people had already viewed the video before it was taken down.

Diljit Dosanjh: ‘We Fought This Battle Ourselves’

Diljit also opened up about the tough road to the film’s release, since neither he nor the creators approached the Punjabi film industry or Bollywood for help. “We’ve been fighting to get this film released for the last three to four years. We never went to anyone asking for support. I never asked anyone from my industry, nor did I ever ask anyone in Bollywood to help release our film, support us, or stand by us. We fought this battle ourselves," he said in Punjabi.

He went on to add, “Everyone feels their own struggle is the biggest. Whatever work you’re in, everyone is fighting their own battle on their own platform. We too brought our film to the audience on our own, got it released, and made sure it reached the people."

The Satluj Controversy And Real Story

Satluj, directed by Honey Trehan, was originally called Ghallughara, then renamed Punjab ’95, and finally Satluj. The film is based on the story of human rights campaigner Jaswant Singh Khalra and has been in limbo for years after allegedly receiving over 120 requested edits by the CBFC. It was supposed to release in theatres but finally premiered on ZEE5 on July 3, only to be taken off the site in India, two days later. Since then ZEE5 has indicated that they are considering legal alternatives to reinstate the film.

PM Modi Departs for Indonesia | Three-Nation Tour to Australia & New Zealand Begins | World News

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:17:19 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed from New Delhi on July 6, 2026, beginning a six-day, three-nation diplomatic tour covering Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand. The first stop is Jakarta, Indonesia, where PM Modi is expected to hold bilateral talks with President Prabowo Subianto to deepen cooperation in trade, defence, maritime security, manufacturing, emerging technologies, education, and the Indo-Pacific. He is also scheduled to interact with the Indian diaspora and visit the historic Prambanan Temple complex. The Prime Minister will then travel to Melbourne, Australia for the India-Australia Annual Leaders' Summit with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, focusing on defence, critical technologies, trade, investments, education, mobility, and people-to-people ties. The final leg of the tour takes him to Auckland, New Zealand, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in nearly 40 years. Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening economic ties, implementing the recently signed Free Trade Agreement, and engaging with the Indian community. According to PM Modi's departure statement, the visit is aimed at strengthening India's Act East Policy, advancing the MAHASAGAR Vision, and reinforcing a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Watch the visuals as Prime Minister Narendra Modi emplanes for Jakarta, launching one of India's most significant diplomatic engagements in the Indo-Pacific this year.

NVDA, AAPL Stocks In Focus: Foxconn Beats Q2 Revenue Estimates But Sounds Caution On Geopolitics

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:15:00 +0530

Foxconn’s revenue in the April-June period surged 39.8% to NT$2.513 trillion won ($78.71 billion).
AAPL shares dipped in overnight trading, while NVDA stock rose.
Retail sentiment was ‘bearish’ for NVDA and AAPL.

Taiwan’s Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry, on Sunday reported strong June sales, lifting its second-quarter revenue above expectations, while also offering a subtle warning of the geopolitical and other risks looming on the horizon.

Foxconn is a key manufacturer for Apple and Nvidia, among other U.S. companies. AAPL stock dipped 0.8%, while NVDA stock rose 0.3% in overnight trading ahead of Monday.

“Looking ahead to the third quarter, AI rack shipments are expected to maintain growth, and operations will gradually gain momentum as ICT (Information and Communication Technology) products enter peak season,” Foxconn said in its June report.

“The outlook for overall operations expects both QoQ and YoY growth, though it remains necessary to monitor the impact of the volatile global political and economic situation,” the company said, without elaborating.

Market Volatility

The war in the Middle East, which has triggered volatility in oil prices, has been a sizable influence on businesses and markets around the world in the last few months.

In the U.S., investors are closely watching how tech firms are spending record capital for AI development and new data centers, and how that is fueling growth in semiconductors as well as a number of adjoining industries.

Meanwhile, Apple recently raised prices across the majority of its products globally, citing rising prices of memory chips that go into them – creating alarm among fans as well as tech analysts and investors.

Foxconn’s Q2 Results

Foxconn’s revenue in the April-June period surged 39.8% to NT$2.513 trillion won ($78.71 billion), beating the NT$2.372 trillion analysts’ estimate from LSEG/Reuters. June ⁠revenue alone rose 52% to T$821.8 billion.

Foxconn said strong AI demand led to robust revenue growth for its cloud and networking products division, while smart consumer electronics, which includes iPhones, posted "significant" growth.

Foxconn, the world’s largest electronics maker, produces consumer electronics, cloud and networking products, including AI servers, computing products such as personal computers, electric vehicles, and other components.

The company’s shares in Taipei have gained 4.3% this year, underperforming the 61.5% rise for the Taiwan market.

Retail View On AAPL, NVDA

On Stocktwits, the retail sentiment was bearish for both AAPL and NVDA. AAPL shares rose nearly 5% on Thursday, the last day of the shortened week which had the Independence Day holiday, taking its year to date gains to 13.7%.

NVDA has gained a mere 4.6% year to date, and remains well below the gains in the benchmark S&P 500 index.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

IBRX Stock Slips Overnight: Insider Sale Tests Retail Optimism Ahead Of FDA Growth Catalyst

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0530

Officer Cheryl L. Cohen filed to sell 131,210 IBRX shares, according to a regulatory filing on Thursday.
Cohen’s shares came from a July 2 stock-option exercise and restricted stock units acquired in 2021.
Retail sentiment cooled over the past day, slipping to 'bullish' from 'extremely bullish' levels.

Shares of ImmunityBio, Inc. (IBRX) slipped 0.1% overnight late Sunday as a proposed insider sale worth $1.2 million cooled retail sentiment, even as bulls continued to focus on Anktiva’s global rollout and potential label expansion.

IBRX stock jumped 8% last week, marking its fourth consecutive weekly gain.

ImmunityBio Exec Files To Sell Shares

A regulatory filing from Thursday showed that officer Cheryl L. Cohen filed a notice to sell 131,210 shares of IBRX common stock. The proposed transaction was valued at about $1.21 million. Cohen is listed by ImmunityBio as an independent director and chairperson of the nominating and corporate governance committee.

The filing showed that the shares were related to two sources: 55,979 shares from a stock-option exercise on July 2 and 75,231 shares from restricted stock units acquired in 2021. The notice also said Cohen had no reported sales in the prior three months.

Anktiva Label Expansion In Focus

Retail traders are now watching whether ImmunityBio’s next update could involve papillary bladder cancer, an area where the company is also pursuing a U.S. label expansion. Last month, the FDA accepted the company’s application to expand Anktiva plus BCG to patients with papillary-only bladder cancer whose disease no longer responds to standard BCG treatment. The agency assigned a target decision date of Jan. 6, 2027.

Anktiva is now approved or authorized in 34 countries across five regulatory regions. In ImmunityBio’s Quilt-3.032 study, 58.2% of patients remained disease-free at 12 months, while more than 80% avoided bladder removal surgery through three years.

IBRX Traders Watch Q2 Catalysts

Traders are also looking for signs of whether ImmunityBio could provide an early read on second-quarter sales before its formal quarterly filing. The focus follows a strong first quarter, when Anktiva helped drive a 168% jump in net sales to $44.2 million, slightly ahead of Wall Street expectations.

ImmunityBio’s net loss widened to $632.8 million, largely due to warrant, derivative liability and convertible note-related adjustments. Still, the company ended the period with $380.9 million in cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, up from $242.8 million at the end of 2025.

Investors are also tracking updates from founder Patrick Soon-Shiong on ImmunityBio’s automated NK-cell manufacturing platform. Soon-Shiong recently said that the company’s robotic system remained on track. ImmunityBio is developing an AI-driven system that can automate the handling and production of natural killer cells for its cell-therapy platform.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About IBRX?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for IBRX slipped to ‘bullish’ from ‘extremely bullish’ levels a day ago amid a 24% rise in daily message volumes.

IBRX sentiment and message volume as of July 6| Source: Stocktwits

One user said, “Pat is growing this company horizontally as well as vertically... i dont know of any biotech to compare this to.... but i believe this will be the "Amazon" of the biotech by 2028.”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user speculated, “We will receive a release regarding sales next week—along with other news, provided the sales figures are good. Otherwise, we will likely have to wait for news concerning Europe. They have already delivered strong results twice, and the company does not want to delay announcing them.”

View this Stocktwits post

IBRX stock has surged 258% over the past year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Gurugram Horror! Man Takes Wife To Girlfriend's Rented Room, Shoots Her; Murder Shocks Internet

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:08:38 +0530

While the country is still reeling from the murder of Pune realtor Ketan Agarwal, allegedly orchestrated by his fiance Siya Goyal and her alleged lover, a chillingly similar case has surfaced from Haryana's Gurugram. Three months after being married, a 25-year-old man in Manesar reportedly shot and killed his wife with the help of his girlfriend, according to the police. According to investigators, the couple plotted to kill the wife in order to maintain their three-year relationship, and the murder was planned in the girlfriend's leased room.

The case came to light on May 22, when the victim's mother lodged a complaint at Manesar Police Station. She told police that her 22-year-old daughter had married Ankit, a resident of Manesar, in February. According to the complaint, the woman had gone missing on May 21. Her family searched for her and contacted her in-laws, but did not receive any satisfactory response. Suspecting the complicity of her husband and his family members, the victim's mother called the police, following which a FIR was lodged under relevant provisions.

On May 22, cops found the woman's body in a Manesar room while conducting an inquiry. She had been shot dead, according to preliminary results. After the finding, the investigation was stepped up and murder charges were added to the case.

Police later arrested the accused husband, 25-year-old Ankit, a resident of Manesar in Gurugram, and his 38-year-old girlfriend Rajni Devi, a resident of Haryana's Jhajjar district.

According to authorities, Ankit owns a tobacco shop in Manesar, while Rajni works at a beauty salon in the same neighbourhood. During interrogation, investigators discovered that Ankit and Rajni had reportedly been in a relationship for three years. Investigators said the couple had planned the murder in Rajni's rented room. On the day of the crime, Ankit allegedly took his wife to the room, where the two accused allegedly shot her dead.

The weapon used in the murder, according to police, was bought from Uttar Pradesh around two months before to the incident. According to investigators, the weapon was purchased expressly to carry out the murder.

Police claim that Ankit and Rajni escaped to Haridwar following the murder before crossing into Nepal. The accused allegedly stayed at large till returning to India on June 30. They were subsequently arrested by the Crime Branch team in Manesar. Both were produced before a court and have been remanded to five days of police custody.

Will The Fed Hike Interest Rates In Its July Meeting? Here’s What The Market Thinks

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:05:00 +0530

Warsh’s speech at the European Central Bank Forum in Sintra, Portugal, offered few clues about the central bank's policy path going forward.
Meanwhile, U.S. payrolls rose by 57,000 in June, missing Wall Street analysts' expectations of 115,000 jobs.
Chief Market Strategist at WellingtonAltus, James E. Thorne, is taking a contrarian stance, saying the Fed's next move on rates will be a cut.

A weaker-than-expected jobs report and Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh’s guarded remarks at the European Central Bank Forum in Sintra, Portugal, have reduced the odds of a rate hike at the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) in July, according to Barclays.

U.S. payrolls rose by 57,000 in June, missing expectations for 115,000 jobs, while downward revisions to April and May payrolls signaled slower hiring. The unemployment rate edged down to 4.2%, beating forecasts of 4.3%

Meanwhile, Warsh’s speech at the ECB offered few clues about the ECB's policy path, but he did highlight that inflation was currently “too high.”

"Our baseline remains an extended hold in policy rates, conditional on inflation, activity, and labor market conditions moderating through the summer," Barclays said in a note on Thursday, according to Investing.com.

"The principal risk is that gains in employment and spending re-accelerate while labor supply remains constrained, keeping inflation pressures elevated and placing hikes on the table," the firm added.

Wall Street Largely Bets On Steady Interest Rates

"Warsh’s remarks at Sintra provided no clues about how policy might respond to data just as the economy approaches a critical juncture," Barclays said.

The firm reportedly said the jobs report, meanwhile, pointed to a moderating labor market, potentially due to slower immigration and labor supply constraints. When viewed together, the Fed's rate trajectory seemed uncertain, as per Barclays’ analysts.

Warsh declined to signal the direction of the next rate decision, saying policymakers will have a "good debate" when they meet in four weeks.

Allianz Chief Economic Advisor Mohamed El-Erian said in a post on X following the jobs report that the supply side of the labor force was the primary driver of the lower job creation. “As to implications for Fed policy, this should dampen market expectations for a rate hike this year—a scenario I have argued was a misreading of the Fed’s likely stance,” he said.

The Contrarian View

Meanwhile, James E. Thorne, Chief Market Strategist at WellingtonAltus, is taking a contrarian stance. “Ignore the noise. The next move in rates by the Fed will be a cut,” he said, sharing a chart of the U.S. 2-Year Treasury Note in a post on X late Sunday.

According to data from the CME FedWatch tool, the probability of the Fed holding rates steady is 78.1%, while the odds of a rate hike are 21.9%. A month ago, the probability of a rate hike was at 12.5%.

Source: CME FedWatch

At the time of writing, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY), which tracks the S&P 500 index, was up by 0.38%, the Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (QQQ) climbed 0.92%, and the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust (DIA) rose 0.02%.

The iShares 1-3 Year Treasury Bond ETF (SHY) was up 0.04% amid ‘neutral’ sentiment.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

NIO Stock Jumps Overnight: Premium SUV Demand Lifts Average Selling Price To $65,300

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:00:06 +0530

Nio’s main brand recorded a June average transaction price of $65,300.
Deutsche Bank estimated ES9 June deliveries at about 8,000 units and backlog above 40,000 orders.
Nio also reported legal wins and action against fake promotions, reinforcing its direct-sales model and brand protection push.

U.S.-listed shares of Nio, Inc. (NIO) jumped 3% overnight heading into Monday, after fresh data showed that the Chinese EV maker’s core premium brand is commanding higher prices, driven by demand for its high-end SUV lineup and growing hopes for a margin turnaround.

Nio’s U.S.-listed stock fell 1% last week, marking its fifth straight weekly loss.

Nio’s Premium Pricing Power

The company’s main Nio brand posted an average transaction price of 443,000 yuan, or about $65,300, in June, according to Ma Lin, Nio’s vice president of branding and communications. The figure sits well above China’s broader passenger-vehicle market and reinforces Nio’s positioning in the premium segment, where vehicles priced above 300,000 yuan are generally considered high-end, CnEVPost noted.

Nio’s pricing strength was driven by the rapid ramp-up of the ES9, its flagship SUV, which starts at 498,000 yuan. The ES9 launched in late May and quickly became a key pillar of Nio’s premium push. By late June, the model had crossed 10,000 deliveries in about 30 days.

Deutsche Bank estimated that ES9 deliveries reached about 8,000 units in June, up sharply from 3,108 in May. The bank also estimated that the model’s non-cancellable order backlog exceeds 40,000 units, signaling that demand remains ahead of near-term supply.

Nio Deliveries Hit Yearly Peak

Nio’s main brand delivered 21,908 vehicles in June, up more than 50% from a year earlier. Across all brands, Nio delivered 40,597 vehicles, its highest monthly total so far this year. The company also began deliveries of the six-seat aisle version of the ES9, adding another premium configuration to the lineup.

The model uses independent second-row seats and a central aisle for third-row access, while still offering 816 liters of cargo space with all six seats occupied.

ES8, ES9 Boost NIO Profit Outlook

Nio is also preparing to launch the five-seat ES8 on July 9, after opening pre-orders on June 28. The third-generation ES8 starts at 406,800 yuan and has become another important high-margin model for the company. Since its September 2025 launch, the updated ES8 has delivered strong volumes, including 11,475 units in May, marking its seventh straight month above 10,000 units.

Deutsche Bank said Nio’s June deliveries were slightly below guidance partly because some buyers appeared to be waiting for the five-seat ES8. Even so, the firm expects Nio to reach non-GAAP breakeven in the second quarter, helped by the strong contribution from the high-margin ES9.

Nio Wins Legal Rulings

Separately, Nio said multiple suspects have been placed under criminal compulsory measures after allegedly fabricating promotional offers for its brands on Xiaohongshu. The company said some accounts had posted “false promotional information” for an extended period, misleading consumers into submitting personal data by posing as authorized sellers. Nio stressed that it operates a direct-sales model and has not authorized third parties to sell its vehicles, EV reported.

Nio also disclosed favorable rulings in four defamation cases, including an appellate decision against the operator of the ‘BelieveDB’ account. The court found that the account continued posting infringing content even after a first-instance judgment, leading to a longer apology period and higher damages.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About NIO?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for NIO was ‘neutral’ amid an 83% jump in 24-hour message volumes.

NIO sentiment and message volume as of July 6| Source: Stocktwits

One user said, “$NIO I increased my shares by $800K last week. Very optimistic for a swing upwards.”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user said, “HK listing up 2.24% equivalent to 4.91 USD on Friday when US market was closed. HK will have another session Monday before US market opens. If the momentum is kept, It can easily close +5 and the US market should catch up this value and take it from there.”

View this Stocktwits post

Nio’s U.S.-listed stock has risen 38% over the past year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.

Kasaragod Private Bus Strike: Operators Protest KSRTC Free Travel Scheme for Women

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:50:23 +0530

Commuters across Kasaragod district faced significant disruption on Monday as private bus operators launched a one-day token strike, suspending services throughout the district. The protest was organised against the Kerala government's free travel scheme for women on KSRTC buses, which private bus owners claim has severely affected their revenue. The strike brought public transport to a standstill in several areas, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and renewing calls for government intervention.

Bus Operators Cite Mounting Financial Losses

Private bus operators allege that the free travel scheme has led to a sharp decline in passenger numbers, pushing many operators into financial distress.

"We do not even have enough money to buy diesel," bus owners claimed, adding that several services have become financially unviable.

The strike was called jointly by the Bus Operators Federation and various trade unions. As part of the protest, the operators planned a march in front of the District Collectorate at 10.30 am.

Operators Place Key Demands Before Government

The protesting operators have put forward several demands, urging the state government to address the challenges faced by the private transport sector.

Among their key demands are limiting the free travel scheme to students and senior citizens aged 65 and above, irrespective of gender, providing a 50 per cent subsidy on diesel, granting a complete waiver of road tax, and discontinuing free travel on interstate and town-to-town bus services.

Commuters Left Stranded

The strike affected all private bus services in Kasaragod district, causing considerable inconvenience to commuters.

Passengers in areas such as Badiyadka, Mulleria, Adoor and Vorkady were particularly affected, as these regions have little or no KSRTC bus connectivity.

One commuter travelling to Badiyadka told the media at the bus stand, "I was not aware of the strike. Now I will have to take an auto."

The strike has once again highlighted the growing tensions between private bus operators and the government over welfare schemes and their impact on the viability of private public transport services.

Indian Army Launches AI Education Initiative For Northeast Tribal Children Under IIT Kanpur Mentorship

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:47:46 +0530

By Tarun Vijay: In a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at bridging the educational divide in the country’s remote border regions, the Indian Army has facilitated the enrolment of around 100 tribal children from the Northeast into an artificial intelligence (AI)-focused education programme under the mentorship of IIT Kanpur, while ensuring they continue their regular CBSE curriculum at the ITITI Doon Sanskriti School in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

The programme, spearheaded by the Army’s Spear Corps in partnership with the Assam Rifles, brings together children from some of the country’s most remote border villages in Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Meghalaya and Assam. Among those selected are children from relief camps in violence-hit Manipur, where thousands remain displaced following the ethnic unrest that began in 2023. Under the initiative, the students will receive specialized training in artificial intelligence through an AI laboratory mentored by IIT Kanpur while pursuing their regular CBSE education at the tribal Gurukul in Dehradun. The school follows a value-based education model that combines science and technology with patriotism and cultural roots.

The initiative seeks to expose children from India’s ‘first villages’ along the borders with Tibet and Myanmar to emerging technologies and quality education, opening pathways that would otherwise remain inaccessible.

For many of the students, the journey itself marked a milestone, with several travelling by train and boarding an aircraft for the first time as they made their way to Dehradun under the Army’s Operation Vidya initiative.

The children received ceremonial send-offs from senior civil and military leaders before departing for their new academic session. In Manipur, Governor Ajay Bhalla interacted with and blessed the students, while Brigadier Pratyush Kumar, Commander of the Assam Rifles, extended his support to the participants.

In Arunachal Pradesh, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein personally bid farewell to children from Namsai, describing education as a means of empowering tribal youth and strengthening national integration.

The programme also enjoys support from the Department of Science and Technology and the Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST), which has established a STEM laboratory at the school. Plans are also underway to create a language laboratory for preserving and digitising tribal languages, with the first book already being developed in collaboration with the National Book Trust.

The initiative reflects the Army’s expanding role in supporting education and community development in border areas, complementing its operational responsibilities with long-term human capital development in strategically important regions.

(The author is a former Rajya Sabha MP and social worker.)

Delhi Goes Green: Amit Shah to Launch Massive Tree Plantation Drive on July 7

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:39:32 +0530

One of the greatest green projects in the national capital, the Delhi government's ambitious 70 lakh (7 million) tree plantation effort, will be launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on July 7. A drive has been launched to expand green cover in Delhi and combat air pollution, with citizens called upon to actively participate through the recently launched Green Drive Portal.

Mega Plantation Drive to Increase Green Cover

While announcing the project, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the government is fulfilling its commitment of planting 70 lakh trees around the city. The planting push is a part of a larger strategy to fight pollution, increase environmental sustainability and build a healthier Delhi.

Green Drive Portal - Public Participation

The residents may join by enrolling on the Green Drive Portal where they can:

Book slots, plant, collect seedlings free from government nurseries, participate in community planting drives, request a Vriksh Rath, join us as Delhi Green Warriors (D.G.W)

Volunteers might also be asked to join future planter initiatives around the city, the authorities said.

Delhi’s anti-pollution plan

The planting drive is part of the Delhi government’s larger environmental measures such as the new EV policy and cutting down on waste dumps and boosting green cover to control pollution. The administration feels that the massive-scale planting push would be a crucial factor in making the capital cleaner and greener.

Crowd Loots Mangoes From Overturned Truck, Viral Video Sparks Outrage Online (WATCH)

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:37:38 +0530

A viral video showing a crowd allegedly looting mangoes from an overturned truck has ignited a fierce debate on social media, with many users expressing disappointment over the lack of empathy shown towards the driver and the loss of his cargo.

The incident, captured on video and widely shared online, shows a truck carrying mangoes overturned on the roadside after reportedly meeting with an accident. Instead of helping the driver or securing the spilled produce, dozens of people can be seen rushing towards the vehicle and collecting mangoes scattered across the road.

The footage, shared on X (formerly Twitter) by the account @gharkekalesh, quickly gained traction across social media platforms, drawing thousands of views and prompting strong reactions from internet users. Many criticised the crowd's actions, arguing that people chose personal gain over offering assistance to someone who may have been in distress following the accident.

Check the viral video here:

Video of people grabbing mangoes from a crashed truck instead of helping pic.twitter.com/bBDSaROjZh

— Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) July 4, 2026

Several users pointed out that the cargo represented the driver's or transporter's livelihood, making the incident even more disheartening. Others questioned why bystanders did not first check on the driver's condition before taking away the fallen fruit.

The video has reignited discussions about public behaviour during road accidents and the importance of extending help to victims before thinking about material possessions. Many users stressed that compassion and responsibility should take precedence in such situations.

One social media user summed up the prevailing sentiment by writing, "Humanity is dead." Another commented, "Instead of helping the driver, people started collecting mangoes. This is heartbreaking." Several others urged authorities to spread awareness about responsible behaviour during emergencies and accidents.

While the exact location and circumstances surrounding the accident have not been independently verified, the clip continues to circulate widely, with users calling it a stark reminder of how quickly public attention can shift from helping those in need to taking advantage of an unfortunate situation.

So far, there is no official statement regarding the driver's condition, and there have been no reports of injuries to any passersby.

The incident has sparked conversations beyond the viral video itself, encouraging many to reflect on empathy, civic responsibility and how society responds during moments of crisis.

'Swachh Hawa, Swasth Delhi': CM Rekha Gupta Unveils Rs 8,300 Crore Anti-Pollution Plan

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:33:42 +0530

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has launched a seven-year project, ‘Swachh Hawa, Swasth Delhi’ to fight air pollution in the national capital. The World Bank-funded ₹8,300 crore initiative would aim at lowering emissions, boosting air quality monitoring and promoting public health.

₹8,300 crore project to continue till 2033

The project would be implemented in all the districts of Delhi from September 2026 to August 2033. “The World Bank will finance 65% of the project cost with the Delhi government contributing 35%. A session of government agencies and World Bank officials is planned on July 10 for finalising the implementation roadmap.

TARGET MAJOR POLLUTION SOURCES

The effort focuses on the largest pollution sources in Delhi including automotive emissions, road dust, building and demolition debris, industrial pollution, solid waste management, water pollution and increasing green cover. Also, it attempts to speed up the implementation of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).

Advanced Monitoring & Push to EV

The government would construct a Project control Unit (PMU), set up state-of-the-art air quality monitoring equipment, develop an Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC), and enhance data-driven pollution control. Measures also include phasing out outdated polluting cars, encouraging electric vehicles, improving public transit and updating the Pollution Under Control (PUC) monitoring system.

Organ Donation System and Digital Health

CM Rekha Gupta, on a visit to the Lajpat Nagar Colony Hospital, also spoke about the government’s healthcare initiatives. Delhi currently has digital patient data and online appointments in government hospitals, and is establishing a single emergency bed availability platform integrating public and private hospitals, she added. Besides, the government will also develop an exclusive digital platform for organ donation to promote organ donation services.

Indian auto retail records best-ever June with 21.83% YoY growth

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:30:55 +0530

The Indian auto retail sector registered its best-ever June performance in history, achieving a robust year-on-year (YoY) growth of 21.83 per cent and a 1.03 per cent increase over May. According to data released by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), the industry retailed 25,57,234 units during the month. Two-wheelers, three-wheelers, commercial vehicles, and passenger vehicles each posted their highest-ever June registration figures.

Reflecting on the June 2026 performance, FADA President C S Vigneshwar said, "June'26 has been a landmark month for Indian Auto Retail -- the best June ever recorded, with Two-Wheelers, Three-Wheelers, Commercial Vehicles, Passenger Vehicles and overall registrations each posting their highest-ever June figures."

Passenger Vehicle Sales and Inventory Concerns

Passenger vehicle retail emerged as a major driver, growing 28.63 per cent YoY and 2.05 per cent month-on-month (MoM) to reach 4,10,853 units. The alternative-fuel share in the passenger vehicle segment, comprising CNG, hybrid, and electric vehicles, crossed the 40 per cent mark for the first time, settling at 40.35 per cent. Electric passenger vehicles achieved an all-time high of 31,823 units. However, passenger vehicle inventory levels rose by one day over May-end to 32-34 days, exceeding the recommended benchmark.

Addressing the inventory situation, Vigneshwar stated, "We once again urge PV OEMs to calibrate dispatches to retail through the monsoon-soft July window so that dealer capital is not locked in aged stock."

Two-Wheeler Segment Growth

The two-wheeler segment recorded 18,28,458 units, marking a 21.22 per cent YoY growth, despite a minor month-on-month (MoM) decline of 0.89 per cent. FADA noted that the sequential dip was entirely rural, caused by the late onset and uneven progress of the south-west monsoon. At the same time, the electric vehicle share in two-wheelers crossed double digits for the first time at 10.60 per cent.

Performance Across Other Segments

Commercial vehicle retail sales grew 16.88 per cent YoY to 90,972 units. Rural commercial vehicle sales outpaced urban demand with a 21.63 per cent growth.

Three-wheelers recorded 1,20,889 units, showing a 16.20 per cent increase, while tractor sales grew 25.31 per cent YoY to 1,00,818 units, marking the second-best June in history.

Total electric vehicle sales across all categories touched 3,06,220 units.

Future Outlook and Risks

Looking forward to July, dealer sentiment remains constructive, with 51.24 per cent of dealers expecting growth.

For the upcoming July-September period, confidence strengthens further, as 66.17 per cent of dealers anticipate growth.

FADA noted that 38.31 per cent of dealers revised their FY27 retail outlook upward, supported by a 15.35 per cent YoY growth in the first quarter of the fiscal year. The primary risks identified for the upcoming quarter include monsoon shortfalls and potential inventory pile-up pressures. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi pens Op-Ed on Syama Prasad Mookerjee's 125th birth anniversary

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:30:36 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has penned an insightful Op-Ed reflecting on the life, vision, and enduring legacy of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, on the 125th birth anniversary of the legendary statesman and academician.

The special piece, which provides a deep dive into Dr Mookerjee's contributions to the Indian nation, was shared on Monday by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal. In an op-ed titled "A life dedicated to the unity and progress of India," the Prime Minister said Dr Mookerjee's contributions to education, industry, humanitarian service and national integration continue to inspire India's journey towards becoming a developed nation.

A Life of Courage and Dedication

The Prime Minister described Dr Mookerjee's life as one of "courage and unwavering dedication to Mother India," and praised him as a rare leader who combined scholarship, public service, and strong moral values. The Prime Minister wrote that despite coming from a wealthy family, Dr Mookerjee chose a life of sacrifice and remained committed to public service despite suffering personal tragedies, including the loss of his young child and later his wife. However, these personal losses only strengthened his resolve to dedicate his life to national service.

Champion of National Unity

"The foremost objective of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee's life was to protect the unity and integrity of India. At the time of partition, he played a key role in keeping West Bengal an integral part of India. A few years later, with the same objective, he also fought for the issue of Jammu and Kashmir. Even jail and house arrest couldn't deter him from his path. When he died during detention, he was far removed from the countless people for whom he had fought all his life. There are moments in history when an individual's supreme sacrifice transcends politics and becomes a part of the nation's memory. Dr. Mookerjee's sacrifice was one such example," he wrote.

Visionary for a Modern India

Pioneer in Education

Quoting Dr Mookerjee, PM Modi wrote, "It is wrong to consider educational institutions merely factories for producing clerks or low-paid employees. We must prepare students to assume leadership roles. They must be prepared to shoulder greater responsibilities in our autonomous institutions, such as municipal corporations, provincial and central legislatures. They must also be able to showcase their talents in areas such as finance, trade, and industry."

Architect of Industrial Development

The Prime Minister said Dr Mookerjee's vision also shaped independent India's industrial development. He credited him with laying the foundations for projects such as the Damodar Valley Corporation and the Sindri Fertilizer Plant, while also supporting handloom, cottage industries and artisans.

A Firm Believer in Democratic Values

The Prime Minister then described Dr Mookerjee as a firm believer in democratic values. He noted that although Dr Mookerjee joined Jawaharlal Nehru's cabinet in the interest of nation-building, he resigned when he believed the national interest demanded a different course. PM Modi also referred to Dr Mookerjee's opposition to the first Constitutional Amendment and criticised the Congress for later imposing the Emergency and passing the 42nd Constitutional Amendment.

Humanitarian at Heart

Highlighting Dr Mookerjee's humanitarian work during the Bengal Famine of 1943 and relief efforts following the 1942 Medinipur cyclone, the Prime Minister said compassion remained central to his public life.

A Message for India's Youth

Calling upon the youth to carry forward Dr Mookerjee's ideals, PM Modi said the greatest tribute to him would be to build "an India that is strong, united, confident, and sensitive" while working towards the goal of a 'Viksit Bharat'. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kejriwal attacks BJP over Hanuman video, says party disgraced Hinduism

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:30:21 +0530

Kejriwal demands BJP apologise to Hindu community

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party over a viral video showcasing an individual dressed as Lord Hanuman dancing and waving a BJP flag at a BJP rally, saying that the party has inflicted damage and disgrace on Hinduism. In an X post, Kejriwal demanded that the BJP issue an apology to the Hindu community. "The damage and disgrace you people have inflicted on Hinduism, perhaps even the foreign invaders in India's 5000-year history, haven't done as much. The way you've looted Hindus, no one has looted them like this until now. You people are a stain on Hinduism. Watch this video. What are you doing? Do you feel any shame? Apologise to the entire Hindu community," he said. https://x.com/arvindkejriwal/status/2073967746807984208?s=46 The remarks came amid the ongoing Ram Mandir donation embezzlement row, which has kept the entire nation on toes.

AAP's devotion vs BJP's 'means to power'

In another post on X, the AAP national convenor drew a stark comparison between the ideologies of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Aam Aadmi Party, saying that while AAP worships the Hindu deities, the BJP uses them to gain money and power. "These two pictures are symbols of two ideologies towards the Hindu faith. Our ideology - We are devotees of Lord Ram and Hanuman ji, and we have faith and devotion in them. We worship them, bow our heads before them, and seek their blessings. Their ideology - These people do not even consider Hanuman ji and Ramchandra ji as gods. For them, Ram and Hanuman are merely means to gain power and money. They have no hesitation in insulting the gods," he added. https://x.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/2073977878727766346

Sanjay Singh slams BJP

AAP leader Sanjay Singh also criticised the BJP over the representation of Lord Hanuman as a 'flag-bearer' of the party, saying that the BJP will wipe out 'Hinduism' and impose 'BJP religion' while the party leaders are declared as gods. "What kind of joke is this? BJP leaders are making Lord Bajrang Bali dance in their procession by handing him the BJP flag. If this continues, the BJP will wipe out 'Hinduism' and impose 'BJP religion'. It will declare its leaders as gods, build temples for them, and force the people of the country to worship them," he said. https://x.com/sanjayazadsln/status/2073972380452770267?s=46

The Hanuman video controversy

The controversy erupted after a video surfaced online showing an individual dressed in the attire of Lord Hanuman dancing around while waving a BJP flag at the rally of the party's National President Nitin Nabin recently. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Telangana: 3 die in house fire, another blaze at Hyderabad court

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:30:20 +0530

A massive fire broke out on the third floor of Nampally criminal court building on Monday triggering panic among people who were present in the premises, said fire official. According to officials, upon receiving the incident, two fire tenders reached the spot and brought the flames under control. The cause of the fire is yet to be known. Further details awaited.

3 Die In Miryalguda House Fire

In a separate fire incident, three people died after a fire broke out in a house in the Kalakawada area of Miryalguda, Telangana, following a cylinder explosion late on Thursday night, officials said. According to a fire department official, information about the blaze was received at around 12:30 am, following which a fire engine was rushed to the spot. The official said an investigation into the incident is underway and the bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination.

"Last night around 12.30, we received information that a fire had broken out in a house in Kalakawada, Miryalguda. One fire engine reached the spot and brought the fire under control. Three people lost their lives following a cylinder explosion. We are investigating the matter. The bodies have been shifted for a post-mortem. The deceased are an elderly woman, a girl, and a boy. We will provide more details after the investigation is complete," the fire official said.

Blaze At Ameerpet Helmet Bazaar

Earlier, a massive blaze erupted at a commercial helmet bazaar in the Ameerpet area of Hyderabad on Friday. Firefighting teams were rushed to the spot to prevent the flames from spreading nearby. The Hyderabad police confirmed that casualties had been reported so far. A fire official from Hyderabad said, "A fire broke out at a helmet bazaar in Ameerpet, Hyderabad. Seven fire engines reached the spot and controlled the fire. There are no casualties reported so far." Further details are awaited. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ketan Agarwal Murder Case: Suchitra Krishnamoorthi Hits Back at Siya Goyal Supporters; Here's What She Said

Richa Barua — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:21:52 +0530

Suchitra Krishnamoorthi slammed a social media user attempting to justify the alleged actions of Siya Goyal in the Ketan Agarwal murder case by citing forced marriage. Calling such arguments unacceptable, the actor said that no culture or personal circumstances can be invoked to justify alleged criminal behaviour.

The controversy erupted after an X user argued that if Siya Goyal and her alleged lover, Chetan Chaudhary, had been living in the US or Europe, they could have been in a live-in relationship and Ketan Agarwal would never have been part of the equation. The user added that "forced marriage is wrong."

Reacting to the post, Suchitra said that even if Siya had been pressured into marriage, she had several legal and personal options available instead of allegedly resorting to violence.

No culture can justify criminal behaviour.Shame on you and everyone who is trying to justify such criminal behavior.She could have run away, she could have eloped, she could have filed a case against her family too to force her into marraige against her concent.But to pre… https://t.co/2EFRQXTtAz

— Suchitra Krishnamoorthi (@suchitrak) July 4, 2026

Suchitra said on X, “No culture can justify criminal behaviour. Shame on you and everyone who is trying to defend such illegal actions. She could have ran away, she could have eloped, she could have launched a complaint against her family too to push her into marriage against her permission. But to pre plot and force her fiance to death down a cliff- that is the thinking of a psychopath (sic)."

Ketan Agarwal died during a trek at Lohagad Fort on June 18. While the incident was initially treated as an accidental fall, the investigation later took a different turn after police allegedly uncovered evidence suggesting that his death may have been planned.

Investigators have alleged that the conspiracy involved Ketan's fiancee, Siya Goyal, and her alleged lover, Chetan Chaudhary. Both have been arrested in connection with the case and remanded to judicial custody. The investigation is ongoing, and the allegations against them are yet to be proven in court.

The alleged conspiracy involves a pre-planned plot by Siya Goyal and her lover, Chetan Chaudhary, to kill her businessman fiance, Ketan Agarwal, because she was unwilling to proceed with their upcoming marriage.

The duo reportedly rehearsed the crime at Lohagad Fort a day prior, and during a subsequent trek, Siya gave a pre-arranged signal to Chetan to push Ketan off the cliff while ensuring she remained safely out of his grasp. Siya initially attempted to mislead investigators by framing the murder as a tragic slipping accident.

Who is Suchitra Krishnamoorthi?

Suchitra Krishnamoorthi is an actor, singer, writer and painter, best known for playing Anna opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the 1994 film Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa. She later released pop albums including Dole Dole and Dum Tara, wrote the memoir Drama Queen, and has also exhibited her paintings through several solo shows. She was last seen in the 2024 film Dunk: Once Bitten Twice Shy.

India's Longest-Serving Prisoner Released After 37 Years, Shows No Remorse Over Three Murders

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:14:42 +0530

With slow, measured steps, a long white beard and greying hair reflecting the passage of time, 72-year-old Saibanna Lingappa Natikar recently walked out through the main gates of Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Prison. After spending nearly 37 years behind bars, he finally breathed the air of freedom. Saibanna was among the 24 life-term convicts released by the Karnataka government on Saturday for good conduct and rehabilitation. However, his release has drawn widespread attention, not only because he is believed to be the country's longest-serving prisoner, but also because of the chilling crimes that put him behind bars and his complete lack of remorse even after decades in prison.

According to prison officials, Saibanna is the longest-serving prisoner in India. Confirming his release, Director General of Police (Prisons) Alok Kumar said, "I had spoken with Saibanna when I was posted in Belagavi and Kalaburagi prisons. His behaviour inside the prison was very good."

A Life Changed by Suspicion

Saibanna, a native of Jevargi in Kalaburagi district, was once employed as a clerk in a cooperative society. Although he had dropped out of high school, he led a stable life with a steady job. However, his growing suspicion about the fidelity of his wives ultimately destroyed his life and resulted in a series of brutal murders.

First Wife Murdered in 1988

In 1988, Saibanna became convinced that his first wife, Malkavva, was having an extramarital affair. Acting on his suspicion, he brutally murdered her. He was arrested, tried and sentenced to life imprisonment for the crime.

Parole, Second Marriage and Another Tragedy

While serving his life sentence, Saibanna was granted parole in 1994. During this period, he remarried, started a new family and later became the father of a daughter, Vijayalakshmi.

However, during a subsequent parole, Saibanna once again began to suspect his second wife, Nagamma, of infidelity. In a violent outburst, he allegedly hacked Nagamma to death with a sharp weapon. His young daughter, Vijayalakshmi, who tried to intervene, was also killed in the attack. After the murders, Saibanna attempted to take his own life by stabbing himself, but survived.

I Have No Regrets: Saibanna

Saibanna's remarks after his release have shocked many. Despite spending nearly four decades in prison for three murders, he expressed no remorse and instead attempted to justify his actions.

Speaking to the media, he claimed that both his wives had been unfaithful.

"I have proof that my wives were cheating on me. The man involved with my first wife escaped, so I killed her. My second wife's mother encouraged her to go down the wrong path. I would not have cared if my wife was blind, but what mattered to me was her loyalty," he said.

He also claimed that the murders had cost him not only his job but also around 10 acres of land, which he said is now worth more than ₹1 crore.

Death Sentence Reduced to Life Imprisonment

Following the murders of his second wife and daughter, a trial court sentenced Saibanna to death in 2003, citing the brutality of the crime. However, the Karnataka High Court later commuted the sentence to life imprisonment.

During his incarceration, Saibanna spent nearly a decade in solitary confinement. The High Court subsequently ruled that his prolonged solitary confinement was "illegal and inhuman". The considerable delay in deciding his mercy petition also weighed in his favour.

Eventually, after spending nearly 37 years in prison, Saibanna was released on humanitarian grounds.

Rehabilitation Over Retribution

Saibanna was one of the 24 life-term convicts released by the Karnataka government as part of its rehabilitation policy for prisoners who had demonstrated good conduct during their incarceration.

The initiative reflects the state's belief that prisons should serve not only as places of punishment but also as institutions of reform, offering deserving inmates an opportunity to reintegrate into society and lead responsible lives. However, Saibanna's release, coupled with his unapologetic defence of the murders, has reignited debate over rehabilitation, justice and the reintegration of convicted murderers into society.

Brazil vs Norway Highlights: Haaland's Double Stuns Brazil | FIFA World Cup | Football News

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:12:53 +0530

Norway pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by defeating Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16. Erling Haaland scored a sensational late brace after Ørjan Nyland's penalty save, while Neymar's stoppage-time goal couldn't stop Brazil's heartbreaking exit. In this video: 0:00 Brazil vs Norway – Round of 16 Highlights 1:30 Haaland Scores Twice to Shock Brazil 2:30 Brazil Eliminated as Norway Reach Quarterfinals

England vs Mexico: Three Lions Survive Late Scare, Reach FIFA World Cup Quarter-finals | Football

Asianet Newsable English — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:12:35 +0530

England defeated Mexico 3-2 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash to book their place in the quarter-finals. After racing into a three-goal lead, the Three Lions survived a spirited Mexican comeback and will now face giant-killers Norway for a place in the semi-finals. In this video: 0:00 England vs Mexico – Round of 16 Highlights 1:30 England Race Into a 3-0 Lead 2:30 Mexico Fight Back, England Reach Quarterfinals

Why Did T, MAT, And HTZ Stocks Slump To 52-Week Lows Last Week?

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:10:00 +0530

T stock slumped to a 52-week low but recovered to close up about 0.49% on Thursday as the company has recently come under pressure after reports of SpaceX’s direct-to-consumer mobile expansion.
MAT stock slumped nearly 3% at close amid competitive pressures and lowered consumer spending.
HTZ stock closed down more than 3.6% amid concerns over its rising vehicle depreciation costs.

Shares of AT&T Inc. (T), Mattel, Inc. (MAT), and Hertz Global Holdings Inc. (HTZ) slumped to annual lows last week amid challenging market conditions and Wall Street caution that weighed heavily on the companies.

T stock slumped to a 52-week low but recovered, closing up about 0.49% on Thursday. The telecom giant’s stock came under pressure last week after reports on Elon Musk’s direct-to-consumer mobile expansion triggered a sell-off.

MAT stock slumped nearly 3% at close amid competitive pressures and lower consumer spending, while HTZ closed more than 3.6% lower amid concerns over rising vehicle depreciation costs.

Markets were closed on Friday for U.S. Independence Day.

AT&T Falters On SpaceX Threat

Shares of the telecommunications company slumped to a fresh annual low of $19.89 on Thursday but recovered slightly, closing in the green.

AT&T took a hit alongside other telecom companies last week, with the stock slumping more than 9%, its steepest weekly drop in four years, after reports suggested that SpaceX was in talks with Charter Communications (CHTR) to partner on a consumer mobile phone offering. SpaceX’s Starlink, which currently has about 12 million subscribers, could pose a challenge to traditional carriers.

Following the reports, TD Cowen said that SpaceX's Starlink would likely be an effective complement for mobile coverage for dead zones with its direct-to-device service, but added that "satellites fall short" for a true mobile experience. The analyst said that it was "cautiously optimistic" that the incumbent big-three carriers, including AT&T will not budge, while also noting that the SpaceX overhang "does not have an ending date" and "looks like it will unfortunately remain an overhang on wireless stocks," as per TheFly.

“SpaceX will disrupt the $1.6T communications industry,” Oppenheimer analyst Tim Horan reportedly said in a client note in June, as per a Barron’s report.

T stock has declined more than 16% so far this year. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment slipped to ‘bullish’ from ‘extremely bullish’ levels at the time of writing.

Mattel Continues To Fall On Cautious Outlook

Mattel shares fell to a fresh 52-week low of $13.17 at close on Thursday, capping off three consecutive weeks in the red.

The toy maker has come under pressure after weaker-than-expected quarterly results amid an already cautious consumer spending environment.

In its latest earnings report in late April, Mattel’s first-quarter net sales grew 4% year over year, driven primarily by international markets, partly offset by a 3% decline in North America, reflecting weaker demand in key categories such as Barbie and Fisher-Price.

While the company posted a net profit of $61 million, gross margin declined and operating loss widened to $103 million due to tariff costs, unfavorable foreign exchange, inflation, and higher advertising spending. Mattel maintained its full-year 2026 guidance, noting 3%-6% expected sales growth, adjusted operating income of $580 million to $630 million, and adjusted earnings per share of $1.27-$1.39.

MAT stock has declined more than 33% in 2026, with retail sentiment dropping to ‘bearish’ from ‘neutral’ territory over 24 hours.

Hertz Slips Amid Rising Depreciation Concerns

Hertz stock fell to a fresh 52-week low of $2.09 as concerns about the company’s rising vehicle depreciation costs and weakness in the used-car market have triggered a sell-off.

HTZ stock has clocked eight consecutive sessions of declines after recording the worst monthly decline in June. The rental car company also slashed its second-quarter earnings forecast to a range of $50 million to $80 million, citing unexpected weakness in the used car market.

Following the updates, Morgan Stanley lowered the price target on the company to $3.50 from $5 and kept an ‘Equal Weight’ rating on the shares, citing higher depreciation per unit.

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around HTZ stock slipped to ‘bullish’ from ‘extremely bullish’ territory over the past 24 hours. The shares have declined more than 59% this year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Water Explodes Through Cracked Pune Road, Viral Video Leaves Internet Stunned | WATCH

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:05:22 +0530

Panic spread among residents of Talegaon Dabhade in Pune district after a section of a road suddenly cracked open, sending a powerful jet of water shooting into the air. The incident interrupted local traffic and raised alarms in the community. Preliminary evidence indicates that the event happened during a recently installed underground water pipeline's testing run. The unanticipated break has prompted questions concerning the quality of the pipeline project and the contractor's execution of the job.

The water supply scheme was scheduled to be inaugurated next week, but the defect surfaced during testing even before the project became operational. Authorities are expected to examine the reason of the pipeline breakdown.

A series of deadly incidents in Mumbai, Pune, and other areas have rekindled worries about public safety and civic infrastructure as the unrelenting monsoon rains continue to hammer Maharashtra. The efficacy of pre-monsoon preparedness procedures has come under increasing examination after accidents involving open manholes, exposed electrical equipment, fallen trees, and uncovered drainage pits claimed numerous lives in a matter of days.

Watch Viral Video

Pipeline testing caused a MASSIVE water burst on a newly built road in Pune.pic.twitter.com/iEz9FkYvKG

— News Algebra (@NewsAlgebraIND) July 5, 2026

The most recent instance was reported from Thane district, where a 42-year-old lady lost her life on Saturday, July 4, after reportedly getting into touch with a live electric wire near a power transformer amid heavy downpour.

A similar tragedy occurred in Mumbai on Friday, July 3, when 55-year-old Aslam Isak Shaikh perished after sliding into an exposed manhole in the Sakinaka neighbourhood after intense rain. According to reports, the manhole was left exposed while drainage work was being done. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) dismissed four officers and initiated a departmental investigation after the event drew intense condemnation.

QXO Stock Gains Overnight: Why TopBuild Acquisition Has Investors Energized

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:05:00 +0530

QXO closed the TopBuild acquisition last week and expects the combined company to generate more than $18 billion in annual revenue.
CEO Brad Jacobs said the deal expands QXO's product portfolio and presence in fast-growing markets such as data centers.
KeyBanc cited merger arbitrage and sector weakness as recent pressures but sees deal closure as a potential future catalyst.

QXO Inc. (QXO) stock gained overnight and is looking to snap a three-day losing streak after completing its $17 billion acquisition of TopBuild last week, an important step in the company's plan to build a large technology-driven building products distribution business.

QXO’s Execution Takes Center Stage

With the acquisition finalized on July 1, the combined business is expected to generate more than $18 billion in annual revenue and over $2 billion in adjusted EBITDA. The completion of the deal also ends merger arbitrage activity that had weighed on QXO shares while the transaction remained pending.

“By acquiring TopBuild, we’re broadening our product offering, adding installation capabilities, and expanding our exposure to fast-growing end markets like data centers. By 2030, we expect to generate at least $300 million in annual synergies largely from procurement, pricing, and cross-selling, while applying TopBuild’s operational excellence across QXO,” said CEO Brad Jacobs.

Investors are also watching whether the acquisition will help QXO grow its business in infrastructure markets, including data center construction, where demand for insulation and waterproofing products continues to increase.

QXO stock traded over 1% higher, heading into Monday.

KeyBanc Sees Long-Term Upside For QXO Despite Lower Price Target

QXO received a lower price target from KeyBanc, but the firm maintained its ‘Overweight’ rating, signaling continued confidence in the company's long-term outlook despite recent pressure on the stock.

KeyBanc reduced its price target on QXO to $28 from $32 after shareholders approved the acquisition of TopBuild. Still, the revised price target implies a 72% upside to the stock’s last closing price.

Analysts said QXO shares have struggled in recent sessions due to merger-arbitrage trading tied to the TopBuild acquisition, as well as broader economic headwinds affecting the construction and building-products industry.

KeyBanc believes the closing of the TopBuild transaction could remove a significant source of uncertainty surrounding the stock. The firm also pointed to improving conditions at Beacon Roofing Supply (BECN), suggesting that signs of stabilization across the industry may provide additional support for QXO as it begins executing its integration strategy.

The firm also believes the company's technology platform could become a more meaningful competitive advantage over time, helping improve operations and creating additional value as the combined business expands.

QXO Retail Traders View

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around the stock remained in ‘extremely bullish’ territory.

A user said, “Pointing at you QXO! Time to reclaim $25 on your forward prospects!”

Another user said, “Prepare for blast off any day now.”

QXO stock has declined nearly 16% so far this year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Karnataka SIR row: JDS MLA alleges forms filled at mosques, not homes

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:01:22 +0530

JDS MLA Demands Fresh SIR Exercise

Janata Dal (Secular) MLA from the Turvekere constituency in Tumakuru district, MT Krishnappa, on Monday demanded that the ongoing distribution of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) forms be stopped immediately and restarted through a fresh door-to-door exercise by Booth Level Officers (BLOs).

Speaking in Tumakuru, Krishnappa alleged that SIR forms were being filled at mosques, Shadi Mahals and choultries instead of being distributed directly to households. He said Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy had already shown a video purportedly showing SIR forms being filled at such locations.

"They are not following the rules. Every BLO should visit every house, and every household should be covered through the Gram Panchayat. Therefore, all the recently distributed SIR forms should be stopped immediately. Every BLO should go door to door, and the entire exercise should begin afresh," Krishnappa said.

The JDS MLA said this was his demand and added that Kumaraswamy had already conveyed the issue to the authorities. "Kumaraswamy has already informed the BDO, given a statement and reviewed the matter. That is why I support Kumaraswamy's stand," he said.

BJP Alleges Congress Pressure on Officials

Earlier, Bharatiya Janata Party's Karnataka MLA G.B. Jyothi Ganesh raised serious concerns on Sunday regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise being conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in Karnataka, saying the instructions of the apex poll body were not being followed properly by the officers on the ground.

The MLA alleged that Congress leaders were "pressuring" Booth-Level Officers (BLOs) to enrol ineligible individuals in the electoral rolls to increase the party's vote share. Speaking to ANI, the BJP leader claimed that the exercise, which began on June 30, was being diverted from its intended purpose to benefit a specific vote share. He said people were being asked to gather at religious places for enumeration.

"In a lot of places, complaints have come that some BLOs and government officers are gathering a lot of crowds, especially the minority crowd, in mosques and open spaces... I think they are doing this based on the instructions from the Congress party. They are not acting as per the instructions given by the Election Commission of India... Every Indian citizen should be eligible to vote," he said.

According to the BJP leader, BLOs were instead supposed to go door to door for the exercise. "The Election Commission of India has started SIR in Karnataka from June 30. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) were supposed to go house to house in each booth and paste a sticker on the door of the house to guarantee that they had given the enumeration form," he added.

Saying that "anti-nationals and illegal immigrants" should not be given the right to vote, he accused the Congress-led government in the state of "pressuring" the BLOs to enrol certain ineligible people. "We don't want anti-nationals, people from outside the country, and illegal immigrants to be given the voting right... I think the Congress government in Karnataka is provoking and pressurising these BLOs to illegally enrol immigrants to increase their vote share," he said.

Kumaraswamy Launches Scathing Attack

Meanwhile, on Saturday, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy launched a scathing attack on the Karnataka government, alleging widespread irregularities in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The JD(S) leader accused the state administration of "misusing" the machinery to manipulate the voter list and called for the immediate scrapping of the current exercise.

Kumaraswamy alleged that the SIR exercise in various constituencies, including Yeshwanthpur and Ramanagara, was being conducted under direct political influence rather than following Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines.

Slams Congress Leaders' Silence

Kumaraswamy launched a scathing attack on KPCC President BK Hariprasad and Home Minister Priyank Kharge over their silence on the issue. Speaking to the media at his residence, the Union Minister said, "Poor fellow. I don't know where the KPCC President has disappeared. Despite all this chaos unfolding, he is nowhere to be seen. He comments on virtually every issue, every single day. The State Home Minister, too, issues statements on almost everything. Should he not speak about the irregularities in the SIR process? Those who lecture everyone about discipline and restraint should surely have something to say about this as well."

"They are always the first to lecture others. The SIR issue is being discussed across the length and breadth of the State. I am surprised by the silence of both the Home Minister and the KPCC President," Kumaraswamy said.

Demands Fresh Exercise Under Central Oversight

Kumaraswamy urged the ECI to scrap the entire SIR of electoral rolls conducted so far in Karnataka and appoint a competent officer from outside the state to oversee a fresh SIR exercise. "Electoral roll revision in Karnataka is witnessing irregularities on an unprecedented scale. The State Government is misusing the entire administrative machinery to facilitate this," he alleged.

He further alleged that there was "no credibility left" in the exercise, adding, "There is no credibility left in the electoral roll revision exercise being conducted in Karnataka. We have already lodged a complaint with the State Election Commission and have also sent a complaint to the Election Commission of India. The State election authorities have said they will act in accordance with the directions received from the Commission. Our party's unequivocal demand is that the entire revision exercise conducted so far must be scrapped."

Kumaraswamy said he would travel to Delhi on Monday to lodge an official complaint with the ECI. "I will travel to New Delhi on Monday. We will meet the Election Commissioner and lodge a formal complaint. We will place before the Commission details of the irregularities that have taken place here. We will urge the Election Commission to immediately halt the entire process carried out so far in Karnataka and conduct the SIR exercise afresh," Kumaraswamy said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA WC 2026: England beat Mexico; Henderson suffers wrist injury

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:01:09 +0530

England head coach Thomas Tuchel praised his side's resilience and mentality after the Three Lions defeated co-hosts Mexico 3-2 to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals, according to The Athletic. England secured a hard-fought victory despite playing much of the second half with 10 men following Jarell Quansah's red card, setting up a high-voltage quarterfinal clash with Norway.

'We overcame every obstacle'

Reflecting on the performance, Tuchel said his players had shown tremendous character to overcome every challenge during the match. "My emotions are mixed. I'm proud of the mentality and attitude. This is the moment in tournaments where you find a way to win. It was hard, but we did it with pure mentality. We overcame every obstacle. It's a very special night for us," Tuchel said, as quoted by The Athletic.

Henderson suffers serious injury

The England manager, however, revealed that Jordan Henderson had suffered a wrist injury and was taken to hospital. For those unversed, Henderson suffered an injury while celebrating after England's memorable win over co-hosts Mexico. "I'm sad because Jordan (Henderson) injured his wrist. It's quite serious. He's in hospital. It doesn't fit with the rest of the evening. I don't know the procedure," he said.

Tuchel also thanked England supporters for their backing during the dramatic contest. "I just want to say thank you if you stayed up and sent us your energy. We feel it 100 per cent. There is so much to love about this team. We will now go full steam ahead and use this energy to keep pushing," he added.

England's Dramatic Win

England defeated co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash to book a quarter-final meeting with Norway.

Jude Bellingham scored twice and was named Player of the Match, while becoming the youngest player to make 10 FIFA World Cup appearances, according to FIFA. Despite playing most of the second half with 10 men following Jarell Quansah's red card, England held off Mexico's late fightback to keep their hopes of a second World Cup title alive. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pune Expressway reopens after landslide debris, water completely removed

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:00:59 +0530

The water accumulated near the Pune Expressway and the debris that fell on the road due to landslides have been completely removed, after which the road has been opened again for vehicular traffic, traffic police said.

Karan Shikalgar, Police Sub-Inspector, Traffic Police Karan Shikalgar said that the Vehicles are being allowed to proceed from there. The traffic police are constantly trying to organise the vehicular movement. the Police said that if there is any obstacle on the new route, then we will divert the traffic to the old route.

Pune-Mumbai Route Blocked Due to Rains

Earlier, the Pune traffic authority stated that all the roads going from Pune to Mumbai have been closed due to landslides and waterlogging in various areas because of relentless rains since the last 48 hours. A landslide occurred at Tunnel No. 40 (BB EMD) on the Mumbai-Pune railway route. The Railway authorities have been carrying out the debris removal work on a war footing, and efforts are underway to restore the route.

Pune Traffic SP Shivaji Pawar appealed to the people to avoid travelling towards Mumbai through the old Mumbai-Pune Highway as well as the Expressway. "The connecting link on the Pune-Mumbai Expressway is currently completely closed due to a landslide. The old expressway route is shut due to waterlogging, and a landslide has occurred on the old highway as well. The entire route from Pune to Mumbai is currently blocked. The Mumbai-to-Pune lane remains operational with no issues, although traffic is moving slowly. We appeal to everyone to postpone their journey from Pune to Mumbai. The administration will provide full details once the road is cleared. You should only set out for Pune from Mumbai if it is an emergency; that lane is operational," he said.

Mumbai on Red Alert Amid Heavy Rainfall

Meawhile, Mumbai and its suburbs are expected to experience very heavy, continuous spells of rain, according to the forecast issued by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) at 8 AM today. Additionally, residents should prepare for occasional gusty winds, which are likely to reach speeds of 60-70 Kmph. Considering the impact of wind, Mumbai has been upgraded to Red Alert.

The forecast showcased an average rainfall of 105.24 mm in the city in the last 24 hours. While the Eastern Suburbs recorded an average rainfall of 161.11 mm, the Western Suburbs recorded at 159.40 mm during this period. The authorities noted that a high tide of 4.08 meters is expected at 3:56 PM, followed by a low tide of 1.52 meters at 10:13 PM today. The tide will reach a high of 3.44 meters at 04:38 AM, followed by a low tide of 1.86 meters at 09:59 AM on Tuesday.

Fallen Tree Blocks Road in Colaba

Meanwhile, a big tree has fallen on the road in the Colaba Area of Mumbai, blocking the road leading to the military area. The Fire Brigade teams are at the spot and are trying to clear the road by cutting the stems and branches of the tree on the road.

Railway Services Affected

Due to heavy rainfall, the Mumbai-Pune railway services have been affected, with some trains cancelled and others diverted. The Passengers are advised to check the status of their train before travelling.

Meanwhile, the Western Railway PRO has updated that the Palghar area had recorded a rainfall of 300 mm within the last 2 hours. Water from this area is inundating the Vasai to Virar area. "Water is accumulating due to water coming from the Palghar side. All city and district water channels are overflowing," the PRO said.

The PRO said that the entire Nalasopara city area flooded, and hence water from the track and station area is not able to drain out. As of now, trains are running, but at restricted speed. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US DoJ's move to drop Adani case backed by global legal experts

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:00:33 +0530

Legal experts from India, the United Kingdom and the United States have largely endorsed the US Department of Justice's (DoJ) decision to defend its move to withdraw the criminal case against industrialist Gautam Adani, saying the department's response before a federal court strongly justifies why the prosecution should not continue.

The comments come after the DoJ filed a detailed submission before a US federal court explaining its decision to seek dismissal of the indictment. The department reportedly argued that the alleged conduct did not involve organised criminal groups, did not affect US companies, had no national security implications, and had already been investigated in India. It also questioned whether the prosecution should have been initiated in the first place.

Experts Weigh In on DoJ's Justification

Harish Salve on Jurisdictional Issues

Speaking to ANI from London, Senior Advocate Harish Salve said the DoJ's filing suggests that the case lacked the characteristics that ordinarily warrant prosecution in the United States. "The argument is that the case lacks the typical elements that would justify such a prosecution, particularly any demonstrable national security impact, involvement of US entities, or links to organised criminal activity. The filing also explains that multiple attorneys reviewed the evidence extensively. It was also stated that this white-collar case was indicted in late 2024 without first hearing from defence counsel," Salve said.

Commenting on the broader context, Salve alleged that the previous US administration had pursued an anti-India narrative. "The Biden administration had a constant anti-India narrative running. There are senators there who constantly had rhetoric against India and were trying to pressure India. It has been said that the case was filed as a 'name and shame' exercise without any realistic prospect of a trial occurring. The expectation is that the court is likely to close the case," he said.

Vikas Pahwa Highlights Jurisdictional Questions

Senior Advocate Vikas Pahwa described the DoJ's response as "strongly worded", noting that it was filed after the federal court sought an explanation for the withdrawal request. Pahwa said one of the central grounds raised by the DoJ was the issue of jurisdiction. "The department has argued that all the alleged transactions took place in India. The individuals involved are Indian, the companies are Indian, and the alleged bribery also occurred in India. Therefore, it questioned how the investigation and prosecution could practically be conducted in the United States," he said.

According to Pahwa, the DoJ also stated that, in hindsight, the indictment should not have been filed and indicated that the chances of securing a conviction were minimal. "They have also stated that they would not be able to successfully prove the charges before a US court. That is one of the reasons they have given while justifying why the indictment should be cancelled," he added.

Vijay Aggarwal on Lack of Evidence

Speaking to ANI from Goa, renowned Advocate Vijay Aggarwal said the DoJ's own assessment indicates that the prosecution lacked a solid evidentiary foundation. "In their assessment, there was no substantive case to begin with. The DoJ has indicated that the evidence is far weaker than initially expected, and crucially, there appears to be no demonstrable loss. In such circumstances, the basis for prosecution itself becomes questionable," Aggarwal said.

He added that courts do not independently pursue criminal prosecutions but adjudicate cases brought before them. "The court does not initiate or sustain prosecution on its own--it adjudicates only when the prosecution chooses to proceed. In this situation, the foundation of 'no loss' and lack of evidence becomes decisive," Aggarwal said.

US Legal Perspective

Raian Karanjawala Questions Initial Prosecution

Managing Partner of Karanjawala & Company, Raian Karanjawala, said the key issue was whether a prosecutable case existed in the first place. "The real question was whether a case was made out or not. Adani's lawyers had raised these issues before the Department of Justice. The matter was considered over a period of time, and ultimately the DoJ accepted the Adani group's contention that this was not a fit case for prosecution and therefore approached the court seeking permission to withdraw," he said.

Jim Walden on Court's Limited Options

US lawyer Jim Walden also described the DoJ's submission as robust and said the federal court now has little option but to dismiss the case. "The response of the DoJ was strong. It is not unusual for the department to explain the basis of its decision, particularly where allegations of partial treatment have been made. The judge's responsibility is now clear. The only possible outcome is dismissal, and that should be the finish line," Walden told ANI.

Walden further argued that American courts should exercise restraint in pursuing matters centred on alleged conduct outside the United States. "The United States subjected one of its allies to two years of scrutiny. Indian agencies, which are fully capable of examining the matter, found no misconduct. There is well-established US case law that American justice should not pursue foreign transgressions, whether real or perceived. This appeared more like jurisdictional theatre than a serious criminal prosecution," he said.

The federal court is now expected to consider the DoJ's submission and decide whether to grant its request to dismiss the criminal case. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Removal of 'Satluj' an attempt to suppress Punjab's history: AAP MP

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:00:31 +0530

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Malvinder Singh Kang on Monday criticised the removal of actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh-starrer Satluj from the OTT platform ZEE5 India, alleging that the move reflected an attempt to suppress Punjab's history.

'Attempt to Suppress Punjab's History'

In a post on X, Kang termed the film's removal "beyond shocking" and condemned what he described as the unexplained decision to make the film unavailable. "Beyond shocking. When a nation begins to fear its own history, censorship becomes its most dangerous weapon. I unequivocally condemn the unexplained removal of Satluj from Zee5 India," Kang said.

He said the film portrays the alleged human rights violations of the 1980s and 1990s through the struggle of Jaswant Singh Khalra and questioned why it had been taken down without a public explanation.

'Who is Afraid of Punjab's Truth?'

"Propaganda-driven films such as The Kashmir Files and The Kerala Story were promoted and screened without obstruction. Yet when a film raises uncomfortable questions about the human rights violations and atrocities in Punjab, it disappears from an OTT platform. Why? Who is afraid of Punjab's truth?" he said.

Kang Alleges BJP Prejudice Against Punjab

The AAP MP further alleged that the BJP was uncomfortable with "Punjab's truth" and urged the government to ensure that the film is restored on the streaming platform. "By blocking Satluj, the BJP has exposed its true face. It is yet another reminder of its deep discomfort with Punjab's truth and its persistent prejudice against Punjab. I strongly urge the Government to ensure that Satluj is reinstated without delay. History must be confronted with honesty, not buried through silence and censorship," Kang said.

ZEE5 Says Film 'Unavailable Until Further Notice'

The remarks come after Diljit Dosanjh-starrer 'Satluj' was taken down from ZEE5 India until further notice, with the streaming platform stating that it is exploring options to bring the film back for audiences in the country. The film is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who disappeared in 1995. Helmed by Honey Trehan, produced by RSVP and MacGuffin Pictures, 'Satluj' also stars Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan.

In an official statement, ZEE5 announced the removal. The streamer said, "In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bye-elections for 3 Assembly seats in Bihar, Gujarat, MP on July 30

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:00:26 +0530

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday issued a formal notification for the conduct of by-elections to three key Assembly constituencies across Bihar, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. According to the commission, polling for these seats is scheduled to be held on July 30. The bye-elections will be conducted for the 182-Bankipur constituency in Bihar, the 145-Manjalpur constituency in Gujarat, and the 22-Datia constituency in Madhya Pradesh.

Bye-election Schedule

As per the schedule released by the ECI, the process will begin with the filing of nominations, for which the last date has been fixed as July 13. The scrutiny of the nomination papers will take place on July 14, while candidates wishing to withdraw their names from the contest can do so by July 16. The commission stated that the voting will take place on July 30, from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the entire election process is mandated to be completed by August 4, 2026.

Reasons for Vacancies

Bihar: Bankipur Constituency

In Bihar, the bye-election for the Bankipur seat was necessitated following the resignation of the sitting member, Nitin Nabin, on March 30, 2026. The seat has remained vacant since his departure from the state legislative assembly.

Gujarat: Manjalpur Constituency

In Gujarat, the vacancy in the Manjalpur Assembly constituency arose following the unfortunate demise of Yogeshbhai Narandas Patel on June 2, 2026. The ECI has called for the bye-poll to fill the seat for the remainder of the assembly's term.

Madhya Pradesh: Datia Constituency

Meanwhile, in Madhya Pradesh, the Datia seat became vacant due to the disqualification of Rajendra Bharti on April 2, 2026. The notification cited that the disqualification was under the provisions of Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and Article 191(1)(e) of the Constitution of India.

The respective state governments have published the ECI's notification in their extraordinary gazettes to inform the general public and stakeholders. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

ASTS Stock Rises Overnight: Vodafone Ireland Trial Shows AST Tech Can Support Emergency Services During Outages

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:00:06 +0530

Vodafone Ireland tested AST-powered satellite emergency communications in Europe.
The test also showed that standard smartphones could support voice and data services for frontline responders when mobile networks fail.
AST SpaceMobile is scaling its BlueBird network, with satellites in production through BlueBird 37 and BlueBirds 11-13 targeted for early August launch.

Shares of AST SpaceMobile (ASTS) rose 1% in overnight trading late Sunday after Vodafone Ireland said it successfully tested satellite-enabled emergency communications using AST SpaceMobile’s satellite constellation, marking a first-of-its-kind trial in Europe.

ASTS stock jumped 19% last week, snapping a four-week losing streak.

AST Tech Supports Emergency Calls

The test, conducted by Vodafone Ireland in partnership with the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer, or OGCIO, demonstrated how integrated terrestrial networks and low-Earth-orbit direct-to-device satellite broadband could help maintain communications during storms, power outages and in hard-to-reach areas.

The live trial took place on Clare Island in County Mayo, Ireland, as part of Vodafone and OGCIO’s collaboration on mission-critical communications (MCx). The test was conducted with Satellite Connect Europe, the Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile joint venture, and connected to AST SpaceMobile’s satellite constellation.

Vodafone said that the trial showed how satellite connectivity on a standard smartphone could support voice and data services for frontline responders when traditional coverage is unavailable. The satellite-enabled MCx call was made by Vodafone and OGCIO representatives to David Lund, coordinator of the European Union Critical Communications Service in the U.K. Vodafone said that the test marked a milestone for Ireland and for the evolution of emergency communications across Europe.

Vodafone-AST JV Builds Ground Stations

The Ireland test adds momentum to Satellite Connect Europe, which formally launched in February as a European open-access direct-to-device satellite broadband provider for mobile network operators. The Luxembourg-based company has exclusive European access to AST SpaceMobile’s low-Earth-orbit constellation, which the company says can deliver mobile broadband directly to standard 4G and 5G smartphones without specialized software, device upgrades or updates.

Satellite Connect Europe is also rolling out five Europe-based ground stations, with builds underway in Spain and the U.K. and three more locations being finalized. The company says the structure keeps network operations, data handling and service control within European jurisdiction.

ASTS Satellite Pipeline Hits 37

The Vodafone Ireland trial comes as AST SpaceMobile continues to scale its BlueBird satellite network. Last week, the company said BlueBirds 8, 9 and 10 are in orbit and operational, with BlueBirds 11, 12 and 13 next. AST SpaceMobile also said satellites are now in production through BlueBird 37, up from BlueBird 32 earlier this year.

The next batch, targeted for launch from Cape Canaveral in the first half of August, is expected to feature commercial communications arrays of about 2,400 square feet and deliver nearly double the peak data speeds of the company’s initial Block 1 BlueBird satellites.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About ASTS?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for ASTS was ‘bullish’ amid ‘normal’ message volume.

ASTS sentiment and message volume as of July 5| Source: Stocktwits

One user said, “$ASTS so excited for upcoming week! I await some PRs which will bring us easy to over 100$ This stock is so undervalued right now. Time to bring it to a fair value”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user expects “$90+ on the open tomorrow on its way to ATH!”

View this Stocktwits post

ASTS stock has risen 86% over the past year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Pilot's Heartwarming Surprise: First-Time Captain Flies Mother, Emotional Video Wins Hearts Online (WATCH)

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:49:30 +0530

A heartwarming moment between a pilot and his mother has captured the internet's attention after a video of the emotional reunion went viral on social media. The touching clip shows the pilot fulfilling a lifelong dream by flying his mother for the first time after becoming a captain, making the journey an unforgettable milestone for both.

The video, shared on Instagram by pilot Tapesh Kumar, begins with the pilot welcoming passengers before revealing that his mother is among those on board. As the aircraft prepares for departure, he makes a heartfelt announcement expressing his gratitude and pride in being able to fly with his mother on his very first flight as captain.

"My first flight as a Captain, with the most special passenger on board—my Mom. This one's for every sacrifice, every prayer, and every dream she carried for me before I could carry this aircraft."

Check the viral video here:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tapesh Kumar (@boeing.boy)

The emotional surprise left passengers applauding while the pilot's mother appeared visibly overwhelmed by the special gesture. The video later shows the two sharing an affectionate embrace, highlighting the years of dedication and sacrifice that led to the milestone.

Also Read: Mumbai Rains: Loco Pilot Stops Local Train To Save Stray Dog On Railway Tracks, Internet Reacts (WATCH Viral Video)

Sharing the clip online, the pilot reflected on the significance of the occasion and thanked his mother for her unwavering support throughout his journey. The emotional post quickly resonated with social media users, many of whom praised the bond between the mother and son while congratulating the pilot on achieving his dream.

The video has since garnered widespread attention, attracting thousands of likes, comments and shares. Internet users described the moment as "wholesome," "beautiful" and "truly inspiring," with many saying it reminded them of the importance of acknowledging parents' sacrifices.

The story has struck a chord with viewers because it celebrates not only a professional achievement but also the emotional connection between a parent and child. For many, the pilot's gesture symbolises gratitude, perseverance and the joy of sharing life's biggest milestones with loved ones.

The video continues to receive praise online, with users calling it one of the most heartwarming moments shared on social media in recent days.

Also Read: Patriotic Skydiver Crashes Into Tent After US Flag Gets Stuck Mid-Landing, Walks Away Unhurt (WATCH)

Welcome To The Jungle Box Office Collection Day 10: Akshay Kumar Film Crosses Rs 100 Crore

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:43:49 +0530

Welcome To The Jungle Box Office Collection Day 10: Akshay Kumar's Welcome To The Jungle has crossed the Rs 100 crore net mark at the Indian box office during its second weekend. Check box office collection for today

Himachal Pradesh: IMD issues orange alert for heavy to very heavy rain

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:30:26 +0530

IMD Issues Orange Alert

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Himachal Pradesh centre has issued an orange alert for Kangra, Una and Sirmaur districts, warning of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall, while isolated heavy rain is also likely in Chamba, Mandi and Shimla districts.

According to IMD, the intense rainfall may trigger localised waterlogging in low-lying areas, make roads slippery, reduce visibility and increase the risk of vehicles skidding. The weather conditions are also expected to cause traffic congestion and may temporarily disrupt essential services and routine outdoor activities in affected areas.

Advisories for Residents and Tourists

"Isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely over Kangra, Una and Sirmaur districts, while isolated heavy rainfall is expected over Chamba, Mandi and Shimla districts on July 6. The public is advised to remain vigilant, follow weather updates and adhere to advisories issued by the state government and local authorities," IMD stated.

The weather office has advised residents and tourists to follow traffic advisories issued by local authorities, avoid travelling to vulnerable and landslide-prone areas, maintain a safe distance from rivers, streams and other water bodies, and stay updated with the latest weather bulletins.

The IMD has also urged people to strictly follow all advisories and guidelines issued by the Himachal Pradesh government and district administrations as rainfall activity continues across the state.

Flash Floods Hit Kinnaur District

Heavy monsoon rains have already triggered flash floods in multiple locations in Himachal Pradesh's tribal district of Kinnaur, severely disrupting road connectivity after torrents of water and debris blocked the strategic National Highway-5 (NH-5) near Cholling and washed away sections of the Ribba-Kande link road. While several vehicles were damaged, authorities confirmed that no casualties or injuries were reported.

According to the district administration, a flash flood struck the Cholling area at around 4 am after intense overnight rainfall caused a massive surge in the Miru Nallah. Large quantities of debris, boulders and slush engulfed nearly a 30-metre stretch of NH-5 near Cholling School, completely blocking the highway and bringing traffic to a standstill. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

OPEC+ nations to boost oil production by 188,000 bpd in August 2026

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:30:25 +0530

Seven key OPEC+ producers have agreed to increase oil production by a combined 188,000 barrels per day (bpd) in August 2026, while reaffirming their commitment to maintaining stability in the global crude market amid evolving demand and supply dynamics.

The decision was taken through a virtual meeting by Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria and Oman, the group of countries that had earlier announced additional voluntary production adjustments in April and November 2023.

According to the official statement, the participating countries reviewed global market conditions and the overall outlook before deciding to proceed with the next phase of easing their voluntary production cuts. "In their collective commitment to support oil market stability, the seven participating countries decided to implement a production adjustment of 188 thousand barrels per day from the additional voluntary adjustments announced in April 2023," the statement said.

Production Breakdown by Country

As per the production schedule for August 2026, Saudi Arabia and Russia will each raise output by 62,000 bpd, the largest increase among the participating countries. Iraq will increase production by 26,000 bpd, followed by Kuwait with 16,000 bpd, Kazakhstan with 10,000 bpd, Algeria with 6,000 bpd, and Oman with 5,000 bpd.

New Production Levels

Following the adjustment, Saudi Arabia's required production level will stand at 10.416 million bpd, Russia at 9.887 million bpd, Iraq at 4.405 million bpd, Kuwait at 2.660 million bpd, Kazakhstan at 1.618 million bpd, Algeria at 1.001 million bpd, and Oman at 836,000 bpd.

Conditional Increase and Market Flexibility

The seven countries emphasised that the production increases remain conditional and can be modified depending on market developments. The producers also reiterated the importance of maintaining flexibility in implementing production policy, including the ability to increase, pause or reverse the phase-out of voluntary output adjustments if required to support market stability.

Commitment to Conformity and Compensation

The statement noted that the latest production adjustment would also enable participating countries to accelerate compensation for previous overproduction and reaffirmed their commitment to achieving full conformity with the Declaration of Cooperation and all additional voluntary production adjustments monitored by the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC).

The seven OPEC+ producers further confirmed their intention to fully compensate for any excess production since January 2024 and said they would continue holding monthly meetings to assess market conditions, production conformity and compensation efforts. Their next meeting is scheduled for August 2, 2026.

Current Market Prices

At the time of filing this report, Brent crude was trading at USD 71.73 per barrel, down 0.51%, while crude oil was trading at USD 68.44 per barrel, down 0.47%. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi carrying forward Mookerjee's self-reliance vision: Manoj Tiwari

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:30:25 +0530

BJP MP Manoj Tiwari on Monday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is carrying forward the principle of self-reliance envisioned by Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee as the country marked his 125th birth anniversary.

Speaking to ANI, Tiwari recalled Dr Mookerjee's contribution to India's industrial policy and said his vision continues to guide the country's development. "Today marks the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, and his presence remains with us... The industrial policy he presented to the nation in 1948 was grounded in the principle of self-reliance... Today, PM Narendra Modi is dedicated to advancing the nation and every citizen based on that very principle," Tiwari said.

Tributes Pour In From Party Leaders

Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta also paid tribute to Dr Mookerjee and said his vision for national unity had been realised. "... Dr Mookerjee sacrificed all for the integrity of this nation. The vision he articulated nearly 75 years ago has now been realised. Article 370 has been completely abolished, and the people of Kashmir have been granted the opportunity to witness a new dawn..." Gupta said.

PM Modi Hails Mookerjee as a 'Remarkable Nation-Builder'

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary, describing him as one of India's "most remarkable nation-builders" whose commitment to national unity, education and industrial development continues to inspire the country's journey towards a developed India.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, "Today, on the 125th Jayanti of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, I bow to one of India's most remarkable nation-builders, whose life was defined by scholarship, courage and an unwavering commitment to national service. He dedicated himself to the cause of India's unity, dignity and progress. Dr Mookerjee's contributions spanned diverse spheres. He was an outstanding thinker and educationist, who supported innovation and futuristic learning. As Industries Minister, he laid the foundations of industrial self-reliance while ensuring that traditional sectors and livelihoods flourished. His humanitarian efforts during the Bengal Famine reflected his profound compassion for those in distress. Above all, his steadfast commitment to the unity and integrity of India remains an enduring source of inspiration. As we move forward in our journey towards a Viksit Bharat, his vision continues to illuminate our path."

Commemorations Across States

In Jaipur, Rajasthan, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma paid floral tributes to Dr Mookerjee's portrait at the Chief Minister's residence.

A day earlier, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini paid floral tributes to Dr Mookerjee at 'Ekta Sthal' in Madhopur ahead of his birth anniversary. Addressing a programme, Saini highlighted Dr Mookerjee's role in strengthening national integration, particularly his views on Jammu and Kashmir. "Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee said that there cannot be two supreme leaders, two legislatures, and two constitutions in the country. This was not merely a slogan but the very foundation of the nation's system. He rejected power and position, placing the nation above all," Saini said.

Speaking to reporters, the Haryana Chief Minister added, "He was a great personality who envisioned an undivided India. Today marks the 125th birth anniversary of such a great personality, and we are all remembering him and his sacrifices for the unity and integrity of the country."

Who Was Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee?

He inherited a legacy of scholarship and nationalism from his father, Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, who served as the Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and as a judge of the Calcutta High Court.

The BJP observes Dr Mookerjee's death anniversary on June 23 as 'Balidan Diwas' to commemorate his death in Kashmir in 1953. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Legal experts weigh in on US DoJ's decision to drop Adani case

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:30:22 +0530

Expert: Prosecution's Discretion is Key

Seth DuCharme, Partner Bracewell LP says that it reasons to stand that if the prosecution decides not to pursue a case then it will not happen. "The letter points out where the discretion lies to prosecute in the Executive Branch as opposed to the Judicial Branch. And if we think ahead to the ultimate conclusion of what would happen, the basic principle here is can a court essentially compel a prosecutor to continue to prosecute a case in which they have determined there's no longer a public interest or a prosecutorial interest in pursuing. And I think it's inevitable that if the prosecution decides not to pursue a case, then it will evaporate...I think collectively that were a prosecutor to determine that it was no longer just to prosecute. I think that's where the empathy for the defendant lies," he said.

"The Department has responded with far more detail than they typically do. And ultimately if the Department doesn't want to prosecute the case, there will be no prosecution. Whether Judge Garaufis finds the letter sufficient from his point of view remains to be seen. But the law is pretty clear. I would say, that a court cannot compel a prosecution to continue," he added.

"The presumption is that if you indict a person they should have the opportunity to have their day in court, and that's the only time that the government's case can really be challenged publicly. So, if you indict someone without ever expecting them uh to appear and if you have a rule of reason, in other words, why would someone appear, in federal court to face charges in the United States when they don't have to, it's really the only way that you can defend and vindicate your rights under most circumstances. Here, the indictment was dismissed and so certainly there was advocacy that prevailed and discretion that was exercised," Seth DuCharme said.

Aggressive Prosecutors and Shifting Policies

"The Eastern District of New York US Attorney's Office is known for being a very aggressive office. They often prosecute cases that involve people outside the United States...In that way when you have entrepreneurial prosecutors trying to show positive results within the policies of the administration in which the indictment was brought, it's not, uh, unusual that the office would make an aggressive case, and it's similarly reasonable that a new DoJ with new policies would take a more conservative view of how those statutes should be used," Seth DuCharme added.

Weak Evidence and Expected Outcome

The case against Gautam Adani and others had alleged a bribery scheme linked to solar power contracts in India which further allegedly misled US investors. In May this year the US DoJ had moved to dismiss these charges following which the US Court of the Eastern District of New York has sought a reply from the DoJ. With that reply cementing the US DoJ's position, legal experts argue that the Judge in all likelihood would back the DoJ stand. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mumbai Rains: Loco Pilot Stops Local Train To Save Stray Dog On Railway Tracks, Internet Reacts (WATCH Viral Video)

Gargi Chaudhry — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:13:48 +0530

With Mumbai under a red alert due to heavy rainfall and local train services running slower than usual, a heart-stopping incident at Kurla railway station has gone viral on social media. In the footage, a Mumbai local train is seen approaching the platform while a stray dog unintentionally wanders into the railway lines and refuses to move. Despite repeated honking by the loco pilots in an attempt to scare the animal away, the dog remained on the tracks.

Moments later, a man climbed down onto the tracks and tried to chase the dog to safety. However, the frightened animal appeared defensive and did not immediately respond. The viral clip ended without revealing what happened next, leaving viewers concerned about the dog's fate.

Watch Viral Video

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A post shared by StreetdogsofBombay (@streetdogsofbombay)

Internet Reacts

Later, a number of commuters who said they saw the incident flocked to the comments section to reassure anxious viewers that the dog was eventually saved.

One user wrote, "I was present there on Thursday night while I was on my way to home, I got down to take him up, but he was aggressive. But as soon as train arrive, motor man ne gaadi slow ksr kar le ke gaya till the dog found the way, he is safe, thanks everyone for the concern."

Another commenter said, "Someone reached out to tell me that their mum’s friend was boarding this train, and that the loco pilot didn’t move the train until the dog was safely taken off the tracks and moved to safety by a Good Samaritan. I can sleep somewhat peacefully now."

While the exact circumstances remain unverified, the comments have reassured many that the dog escaped unharmed thanks to the caution shown by the loco pilot and the efforts of bystanders.

SNDK, WDC, MU: US Memory Stocks Rebound Overnight After Anthropic-Driven Selloff; Traders Eye Samsung Results Next Week

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:10:00 +0530

Retail traders are eyeing memory stocks after a pullback from record highs this week.
They say Samsung’s third-quarter report, due Tuesday, and SK Hynix’s Nasdaq listing on Friday would have a major bearing on the memory trade.
The retail sentiment for SNDK and DRAM was ‘extremely bullish’ late Sunday, the highest among the group of memory stocks.

U.S. memory stocks were rallying overnight late Sunday after sharp declines in the past week as traders set positions ahead of the upcoming quarterly report of the world’s largest memory chipmaker, Samsung Electronics.

Western Digital Corp shares rose 3.3%, while SanDisk Corp, Micron, and Seagate Technology stocks were up by more than 2% and the Roundhill Memory ETF (DRAM) increased 0.8%.

SNDK stock declined by over 14% on Thursday, while WDC and MU shed 10% and 5.5%, respectively, in a panic selloff after a report said AI startup Anthropic was in talks to contract Samsung to develop a custom AI chip.

The Information reported, citing people familiar with the plan, that Anthropic was considering developing in-house chips to address supply shortages and high costs. While the technology and use case for the chip are still under discussion, a potential partnership with Samsung would be seen as a setback for the U.S. chipmakers with which Anthropic already has ties.

Late last month, Apple increased prices of Macs, iPads, the Apple TV, the HomePod, and the Vision Pro headset globally, citing higher prices for the memory chips that go into them, and indicated that price hikes for its remaining gadgets, including the iPhone, are likely.

The move was the strongest signal of the crunch tech companies are facing from memory shortages and high prices. Meanwhile, Apple itself is reportedly looking to secure memory components from Chinese company ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) and seeking clearance from the U.S. government.

Samsung Reports Q3 Results On Tuesday

The rally in U.S. memory stocks comes as investors position ahead of Tuesday’s quarterly earnings report from Samsung, the world’s largest memory chipmaker, while also snapping up shares after last week’s pullback.

The South Korean giant is expected to post a preliminary operating profit of 84.3 trillion won ($55.1 billion) for the June quarter, according to analysts’ estimates compiled by Bloomberg.

That would represent an 18-fold increase from a year earlier and would exceed the company’s total profit for all of 2025. Revenue is projected to rise 127% to a record 169 trillion won.

As U.S. memory chip stocks wrapped up their best six-month stretch on record, the rally hit turbulence in June amid concerns over intensifying competition from Samsung and SK Hynix, as well as stretched valuations.

That has heightened the importance of Samsung’s earnings report, which many see as a key catalyst for global chip stocks and as the latest read on high-bandwidth memory demand and pricing.

Retail View On Memory Stocks

On Stocktwits, the retail sentiment was ‘extremely bullish’ for SNDK and DRAM, ‘bullish’ for MU, and ‘bearish’ for STX and WDC. “DRAM The demand for AI memory didn't go away because we had a bad week,” a trader wrote.

Meanwhile, traders are watching SK Hynix’s upcoming Nasdaq listing, scheduled for July 10.

“SK Hynix's order book opens tomorrow as the company prepares for its Nasdaq debut on Friday, 7/10. It's trading at a *very* large discount to $MU. Expect major volatility and perhaps significant selling in $MU as institutions look to free up funds to go from the most expensive memory company to the HBM leader that's trading at a huge discount to Micron,” a trader wrote.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

BE Stock Is Trading At A Massive Premium To Peers — Retail Bulls Still See A Nearly 4x Rally

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:05:00 +0530

In comparison, peers GE Vernova and Enphase Energy trade at forward valuation multiples of 60x and 21.4x.
Last week, Bloom Energy announced an expanded partnership with the global investment firm, increasing the commitment from $ 5 billion to $ 25 billion effective October 2025.
On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around BE stock is extremely bullish, with message volumes in the ‘extremely high’ territory at the time of writing.

Shares of Bloom Energy Corp. (BE) have rallied more than 1,000% in the past year. The stock is now trading at a premium valuation compared to its peers.

Yet retail investors, as well as Wall Street analysts, see further upside in the company’s share price amid the AI infrastructure boom.

Bloom’s Massive Forward P/E

The San Jose, California-based company trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 112.1, according to Koyfin data. In comparison, GE Vernova Inc. (GEV) and Enphase Energy Inc. (ENPH) trade at forward valuation multiples of 60x and 21.4x.

This suggests that investors are assigning a significant premium to the company, given its AI-driven growth prospects, especially after its expanded partnership with Brookfield.

Last week, Bloom Energy announced an expanded partnership with the global investment firm, increasing the commitment from $ 5 billion to $ 25 billion effective October 2025.

The new partnership increases funding fivefold, with the company noting that the additional financing will support the global growth of the fuel cell partnership, while also reflecting surging demand from hyperscalers and AI infrastructure developers for Bloom Energy’s power supply.

Meanwhile, short interest in the stock is also nearing three-year lows.

BE Stock: Retail Investors See More Room To Grow

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around BE stock is extremely bullish, with message volumes in the ‘high’ territory at the time of writing. Traders are actively discussing a further upside to Bloom’s stock.

One user predicted the company’s shares would surge to $1,000 by the end of 2027. BE shares last closed at $270.89 on Thursday.

View this Stocktwits post

Another user estimated that the surge to $1,000 would happen as soon as this year.

View this Stocktwits post

A third bullish user said, “Bloom is positioned to scale quickly, with little to no bottlenecks in raw materials that other energy providers may have challenges with. We find ourselves on the precipice of the electricty revolution that requires a paradigm shift in how we source and sustain its flow.”

View this Stocktwits post

BE Stock: Wall Street Stance

Despite a high forward P/E of 112x, Bloom Energy has continued to attract price target hikes from Wall Street analysts amid a broader opportunity in AI infrastructure.

Several brokerages have raised their price targets on the company after Brookfield expanded its partnership. UBS and Evercore ISI lifted their targets to $350, while Clear Street hiked its target to $290. Evercore highlighted Bloom's ability to provide reliable, dispatchable on-site power for the volatile energy demands of AI infrastructure.

According to Koyfin data, the 12-month average price target for BE stock is currently $280.93, with 14 ‘Buy’ or higher ratings, 12 ‘Hold’ ratings, and 2 ‘Sell’ ratings.

BE stock has surged 174.49% in 2026.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Trump posts altered Obama pic, months after 'racist' ape video row

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:01:06 +0530

US President Trump on Sunday (local time) posted a digitally altered image on Truth Social showing former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama boarding an Air Force One jet covered in graffiti. The post on Truth Social depicts the Obamas waving at the top of the aircraft stairs. The plane is defaced with slogans including "Yes We Can," "Obama," "BLM," and the Arabic phrase "alhamdulillah," meaning "praise be to God."

Previous Controversial Post and Backlash

This comes months after US President Donald Trump on February 6 deleted a 'racist' video from his Truth Social account hours after posting it, following a widespread bipartisan backlash. According to CNN, the video, shared late February 5 night, depicted former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama as apes in a jungle, invoking a longstanding racist trope.

The post was removed nearly 12 hours later after sharp criticism from lawmakers across party lines, including several close Republican allies. Just before noon on February 6, the White House blamed a staffer for the post and said it had been taken down. "A White House staffer erroneously made the post. It has been taken down," a White House official told CNN. Earlier, the administration had dismissed criticism as "fake outrage."

The backlash included condemnation from GOP Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, the only Black Republican in the Senate, who called the post racist and urged its removal. In a post on X, Scott said, "Praying it was fake because it's the most racist thing I've seen out of this White House. The President should remove it."

CNN reported that the controversy put the White House in damage-control mode, with officials and allies contacting lawmakers and media outlets to insist that Trump was not personally involved. One White House adviser told CNN, "The president was not aware of that video, and was very let down by the staffer who put it out."

The Obamas appeared briefly near the end of the deleted video, which otherwise promoted false claims about the 2020 US election. Their faces were superimposed on the bodies of apes, accompanied for a moment by the song The Lion Sleeps Tonight. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi's 3-nation tour to boost Act East, Indo-Pacific vision

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:57 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Monday for a three-nation to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. In his departure statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office, he stated that the visit will further strengthen India's Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision as well as India's outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Over the next few days, I will be attending various programmes in Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. The aim of these meetings would be to boost economic and strategic cooperation with these valued developmental partners and ensure the youth of our nation get more… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2026

PM's Departure Statement Details Three-Nation Tour

Visit to Indonesia

"I am undertaking a three nation visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand from 6-11 July 2026. At the invitation of the President of the Republic of Indonesia H.E. Mr. Prabowo Subianto, I will be visiting Indonesia from 6-8 July. India and Indonesia elevated bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during my first visit to Indonesia in 2018. This will be my first bilateral visit after the elevation of our bilateral ties and follows the state visit of President Prabowo, who was the chief guest at our Republic Day celebrations on 26 January, 2025," his departure statement said.

"India and Indonesia share strong civilizational and people-to-people ties and my visit will further deepen all aspects of our multifaceted partnership. During this visit, I will also interact with the Indian diaspora in Indonesia and visit the Prambanan Temple complex at Yogyakarta with President Prabowo, which is another remarkable testament to our close cultural ties," the statement noted.

Visit to Australia

PM Modi will then travel to Australia at the invitation of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. "From Indonesia, at the invitation of the Prime Minister of Australia, the Hon'ble Anthony Albanese, I will travel to Melbourne. My visit will strengthen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and I shall in my discussions with Prime Minister Albanese, take forward our relations in the areas of defence and security, trade and investments, education and mobility and people-to-people ties. In Melbourne, I will have the opportunity to interact with the Indian diaspora which is an important pillar of our strategic partnership. Further, this visit will also provide an opportunity for India and Australia to deepen our bilateral ties in the areas of emerging and critical technologies, sports and sports science," he said in the statement.

Visit to New Zealand

PM Modi will then visit New Zealand at Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's invite. "From Melbourne, at the invitation of the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt. Hon'ble Christopher Luxon, I shall visit Auckland, New Zealand. My visit will meaningfully build upon the strong momentum in our bilateral ties pursuant to the visit of Prime Minister Luxon to India in March 2025. During my visit, I shall discuss with Prime Minister Luxon how to further enhance economic, trade and commercial engagements. India and New Zealand have committed themselves to strengthening bilateral trade and commercial ties with the signing of the Free Trade Agreement. Our bilateral ties have seen significant contribution from the Indian diaspora and during this visit I look forward to addressing a large gathering of the Indian community who have excelled in all spheres of life," he said.

"My visit to Indonesia and Australia in the Eastern and Southern Indian Ocean respectively, followed by New Zealand will further strengthen India's Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision as well as our outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific," he added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Amarnath Yatra: Ramban sets up medical teams for round-the-clock aid

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:55 +0530

The Ramban Health Department has finalised its medical preparedness along the pilgrimage route, ensuring round-the-clock emergency support for thousands of devotees in view of the Amarnath Yatra.

Chief Medical Officer Ramban, Kamal Jee Zadoo, said that the department has mobilised 16 medical teams across transit points to provide comprehensive health coverage. "Just like every year, the Ramban Health Department is fully prepared for the Amarnath Yatra. We have deployed 16 teams across the stretch; these teams are stationed at various sites and transit centres," he said.

24/7 Mini-Hospitals and Medical Staff

The centrepiece of this year's readiness includes the establishment of 24/7 "mini-hospitals" at the Chanderkote Yatri Niwas and Lamber Yatra Camp Ground. These facilities are equipped with specialised care, including cardiac monitors, ECG machines for diagnostic support, and nebulisers for respiratory management. "At two specific locations, Chanderkote Yatri Niwas and the Lamber Yatra Camp Ground, we have set up mini-hospitals. Both these locations are equipped with four-bed facilities. Essential cardiac diagnostic facilities, such as ECGs, are available, along with nebulisers for asthma cases and cardiac monitors. These mini-hospitals operate 24/7. To cover the entire Yatra route and handle emergencies, we have deployed a medical team of approximately 75 members, comprising around 20 doctors and about 50 paramedical staff," he said.

Meanwhile, the fourth batch of pilgrims for the Amarnath Yatra 2026 departed from the Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam this morning, continuing their journey towards the holy cave shrine of Shri Amarnath.

SDRF Ensures Pilgrim Safety

The Jammu and Kashmir State Disaster Response Force has set up a 24x7 emergency response camp along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway to ensure the safety of pilgrims during the Amarnath Yatra.

According to Sub-Inspector, J&K SDRF, Kartar Singh, the camp has been established under the directives of the Additional Director General of Police. Sub-Inspector Singh told ANI on Saturday, "Our team consists of at least 20 personnel, including members from both the SDRF and the Home Guard. This camp has been set up under the directives of the ADG, and we are deployed along the National Highway for the pilgrimage."

On July 3, the 57-day pilgrimage commenced, which is being heavily monitored using digital surveillance and RFID tracking systems to ensure crowd management and safety. The annual yatra is scheduled to conclude on August 28, coinciding with the festival of Raksha Bandhan. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ujjain floods: Shipra River water level rises, temples inundated

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:52 +0530

The water level of the Shipra River continued to rise in Ujjain on Monday following heavy rainfall in the city and surrounding areas over the past three to four days, leading to the submergence of several temples along the banks at Ram Ghat. Officials said nearly 7 to 8 feet of water had accumulated on the bridge connecting Ram Ghat and Datt Akhada, disrupting movement in the area.

Although rainfall had stopped in Ujjain on Sunday, heavy to extreme showers continued in nearby areas, resulting in an increase in the river's water level. Several temples located along Ram Ghat have been inundated, and authorities warned that more temples could be submerged if the water level continues to rise. In view of the situation, the police administration has appealed to devotees, especially those visiting from outside the city, to avoid entering deep waters as the river continues to swell. Authorities are monitoring the situation, and further updates are awaited.

IMD Issues Heavy Rain Alert

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heavy to very heavy rainfall alerts, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and squally winds, for both East and West Madhya Pradesh.

Labourer Swept Away in Indore

Earlier on Tuesday, a 26-year-old labourer was swept away while attempting to cross a flooded culvert on a motorcycle following heavy rainfall in Madhya Pradesh's Indore district, and a search operation is underway to trace him, officials said on Thursday. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening at Ahirkhedi culvert under Bhanwarkuan police station limits when two persons, Mahesh Chauhan and Manish Chauhan, who work as labourers, were returning home from work. Both were riding separate motorcycles and while crossing the culvert, there was a sudden rise in the water level due to the strong flow in a drain. Manish managed to swim to safety after being swept away, but Mahesh went missing. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA World Cup: Donald Trump praises 'great player' Harry Kane

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:49 +0530

United States President Donald Trump praised England captain Harry Kane following the striker's performance in England's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 victory over Mexico. Kane played a key role in England's thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico, converting a second-half penalty after Anthony Gordon was fouled inside the box. The goal was Kane's sixth of the tournament and helped England secure a place in the World Cup quarter-finals.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the Bayern Munich striker as a "great player." "Harry Kane of England is a GREAT player," Trump wrote. Kane continued his remarkable form against Mexico, registering a goal and an assist to take his tally to 81 goal involvements in 63 appearances for club and country across all competitions during the 2025-26 season (73 goals and eight assists). According to OptaJoe's X handle, Kane also became the first player on record since 1966 to both score a penalty and concede a penalty in the same FIFA World Cup match.

Bellingham Sets New World Cup Record

England defeated co-hosts Mexico in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 contest to book a quarter-final clash with Norway. According to FIFA, at 23 years and six days, Jude Bellingham became the youngest player to make 10 FIFA World Cup appearances, surpassing the previous record held by Argentina's Mario Kempes, who was 23 years and 334 days against Poland in 1978. Bellingham was also named the Player of the Match.

Thrilling Contest Sees 10-Man England Advance

The Three Lions advanced despite playing much of the second half with 10 men after defender Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute. Roared on by a passionate home crowd, Mexico mounted a spirited comeback in pursuit of their first World Cup quarter-final appearance in four decades, but England held on to secure victory.

Mexico controlled possession during the opening exchanges before England struck twice in quick succession through Bellingham. The midfielder first headed home from Bukayo Saka's cross before doubling the lead moments later after Harry Kane capitalised on a Mexican turnover and set him up for a composed finish.

The hosts responded before the interval when Julian Quinones fired past Jordan Pickford from close range, and the England goalkeeper then produced an outstanding save to deny Raul Jimenez an equaliser before halftime.

The intensity continued after the restart. Nico O'Reilly hit the post for England before Quansah received a straight red card following a challenge on Jesus Gallardo.

Despite being reduced to 10 players, England restored their two-goal cushion when Anthony Gordon was fouled inside the penalty area by Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel, allowing Kane to convert from the spot for his sixth goal of the tournament.

Mexico were awarded a penalty of their own after a VAR review adjudged Kane to have fouled Brian Gutierrez. Jimenez converted from 12 yards to make it 3-2, setting up a tense finish.

Mexico pushed relentlessly for an equaliser that would have forced extra time, but England defended resolutely to seal a place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Norway in Miami on July 11. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

GDN trailer: R Madhavan is unrecognisable as 'Edison of India'

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:42 +0530

The official trailer of GDN, the much-awaited biographical period drama starring R Madhavan, was released by makers on social media, offering a first look at the actor's dramatic transformation into legendary engineer and philanthropist Gopalaswamy Doraiswamy Naidu, widely known as the "Edison of India." The film is directed by Krishnakumar Ramakumar, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Madhavan.

After earning acclaim for portraying a real-life figure in 'Rocketry: The Nambi Effect', Madhavan once again steps into the role of a historical personality. In GDN, he depicts multiple stages of GD Naidu's life, from his determined younger years to an elderly version in which the actor appears almost unrecognisable.

What the 'GDN' Trailer Reveals

Running for nearly three minutes, the trailer opens with speculation surrounding Naidu's later years, including a rumour that he had gone mad and bombed his own building. It then traces his journey from a grassroots innovator to a pioneering industrialist who built the UMS public transport network and established some of India's earliest polytechnic institutions. The narrative also highlights the opposition Naidu faced from those in power.

In one key moment, a British administrator asks, "Who the h**l is this fakir?" Moments later, the trailer displays the tagline: "Feared by the British. Forgotten by his countrymen."

The trailer further teases several challenges that shaped Naidu's life, including police raids, fabricated allegations of tax evasion, and a serious charge of treason linked to his business dealings with the Nazis, setting up the film's central conflict.

Star-Studded Cast and Production

GDN features an ensemble cast including Sathyaraj, Jayaram, Priyamani, Vinay Rai, Dushara Vijayan and Aditi Balan. The film's background score is composed by Govind Vasantha, while Aravind Kamalanathan serves as cinematographer. The film is produced by Varghese Moolan Pictures in association with Madhavan's Tricolour Films.

Release Date and Launch Event

The trailer was unveiled during a special launch event at the Kari Motor Speedway in Coimbatore, the hometown of GD Naidu.

GDN is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on July 17, 2026. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Indian markets open in green; Sensex gains 177 pts, Nifty above 24300

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:30 +0530

Indian markets open in green on Monday as domestic equity benchmarks trade higher at the opening bell. The BSE Sensex gained 176.99 points, or 0.23 per cent, to reach 77,940.90, while the Nifty 50 rose by 36.00 points, or 0.15 per cent, to trade at 24,306.85.

The positive start followed mixed trends across Asian peers, where the GIFT Nifty traded at 24,365.50, and the Hang Seng advanced to 23,476.00. Minor positive movements are also seen in the Shanghai Composite at 4,046.71 and Thailand's SET Composite at 1,612.30. On the other hand, South Korea's KOSPI showed the sharpest decline, dropping to 7,933.28, closely followed by Japan's Nikkei 225, Taiwan Weighted, Singapore's Straits Times, and the Jakarta Composite.

The Indian primary market also sees a substantial wave of capital raising. Institutional promoters and private equity players utilize mega public issues and massive Offers for Sale (OFS) to monetize current valuations.

Market Outlook and Sectoral View

Ajay Bagga, banking and market expert, said, "India remains a buy-on-dips market, with the Nifty 200EMA a key resistance, which once pierced could lead to a sustainable rally after years of underperformance. Sectors that look attractive are financials, pharma, telecom, real estate and defence."

Commodity Market Trends

The commodities segment reflected a downward movement. At the time of filing, Brent Crude traded lower at USD 71.74 per barrel, down by 0.51 per cent; Crude oil sat at USD 68.44 per barrel, down by 0.47 per cent; and Gold registered a minor drop to USD 4,165.62, down by 0.11 per cent.

"To address high structural oil prices, seven core OPEC+ nations (led by Saudi Arabia and Russia) have enacted their second consecutive monthly production adjustment, increasing July output quotas by 188,000 barrels per day (bpd)," Bagga noted.

"While the Strait of Hormuz experiences tight regulatory and security pressures, the actual movement of physical barrels is restricted. If or when shipping tensions ease, the market could shift rapidly from an artificial shortage to a physical surplus," Bagga added.

Meanwhile, global commodity trends remain highly sensitive to macroeconomic indicators from the United States, particularly labor data and central bank policy expectations. Manav Modi, Commodities Analyst at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd, said, "Gold prices edged higher as a weaker US dollar and softer-than-expected US labor market data prompted investors to reduce expectations of a Federal Reserve interest rate hike this year. The weaker nonfarm payrolls and unemployment data released last week eased concerns that the Fed would need to tighten monetary policy further, providing support to bullion after months of pressure from elevated rate expectations."

Modi mentioned that gains remained limited as inflation continues to stay above the Fed's target, keeping policymakers cautious about easing financial conditions.

US Markets and Week Ahead

In the US markets the Dow Jones Futures stood at 52,841.29, showing a decline of 0.11 per cent. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 stood relatively flat at 7,483.24. At the same time, the Nasdaq experienced a more notable drop, standing at 25,832.67, representing a dip of 0.80 per cent.

"Focus this week will remain on the Fed minutes, U.S. inflation expectations, and speeches from Federal Reserve officials for further guidance on the interest rate outlook and the direction of gold prices. Market could see some volatility after Friday's US Independence Day holiday," Modi noted. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi pays tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee on 125th birth anniv

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:29 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tribute to Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary, describing him as a nation-builder whose life was dedicated to India's unity, integrity and progress.

In an op-ed titled "A life dedicated to the unity and progress of India," the Prime Minister said Dr Mookerjee's contributions to education, industry, humanitarian service and national integration continue to inspire India's journey towards becoming a developed nation. The Prime Minister described Dr Mookerjee's life as one of "courage and unwavering dedication to Mother India," and praised him as a rare leader who combined scholarship, public service, and strong moral values. "Today, July 6th, is a very special day for millions of countrymen who believe in the ideals of nationalism and selfless service. Today, we celebrate the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee. His life is an inspiring example of courage and unwavering dedication to Mother India. Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee's personality was a remarkable blend of scholarship, public service, and high moral values. Few leaders in modern India possess so many qualities simultaneously," PM Modi wrote.

The Prime Minister wrote that despite coming from a wealthy family, Dr Mookerjee chose a life of sacrifice and remained committed to public service despite suffering personal tragedies, including the loss of his young child and later his wife. However, these personal losses only strengthened his resolve to dedicate his life to national service

Champion of National Unity

PM Modi then highlighted Dr Mookerjee's role in safeguarding India's unity during Partition and his campaign on Jammu and Kashmir, saying his sacrifice later found recognition through the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35(A). "The foremost objective of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee's life was to protect the unity and integrity of India. At the time of partition, he played a key role in keeping West Bengal an integral part of India. A few years later, with the same objective, he also fought for the issue of Jammu and Kashmir. Even jail and house arrest couldn't deter him from his path. When he died during detention, he was far removed from the countless people for whom he had fought all his life. There are moments in history when an individual's supreme sacrifice transcends politics and becomes a part of the nation's memory. Dr. Mookerjee's sacrifice was one such example," he wrote.

Vision for Education and Industry

The Prime Minister also highlighted Dr Mookerjee's contribution to education, recalling his tenure as the youngest Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and his efforts to modernise higher education. Quoting Dr Mookerjee, PM Modi wrote, "It is wrong to consider educational institutions merely factories for producing clerks or low-paid employees. We must prepare students to assume leadership roles. They must be prepared to shoulder greater responsibilities in our autonomous institutions, such as municipal corporations, provincial and central legislatures. They must also be able to showcase their talents in areas such as finance, trade, and industry."

Recalling the revival of the Sindri Fertilizer Plant under his government, PM Modi wrote, "The Sindri plant, which Dr. Mookerjee worked tirelessly to establish with a clear vision of a self-reliant India, was grossly neglected by those in power for decades. I am gratified that our government had the privilege of reviving it. Being present at that event became one of the most special and unforgettable moments of my public life."

A Firm Believer in Democratic Values

Compassion in Public Life

A Call to India's Youth

The article concluded with Dr Mookerjee's message to young people: "Whatever you do, do it with complete seriousness, dedication, and honesty. Never leave any task unfinished. Do not consider yourself satisfied until you have given it your best." Calling upon the youth to carry forward Dr Mookerjee's ideals, PM Modi said the greatest tribute to him would be to build "an India that is strong, united, confident, and sensitive" while working towards the goal of a 'Viksit Bharat'.

"Today, our country is rapidly moving towards the goal of a developed India. Our true tribute to him would be to strive daily towards building the India he envisioned: an India that is strong, united, confident, and sensitive. I have full faith in the youth of the country that they will actively participate in achieving this goal and will work with full energy to realise this resolve." PM Modi wrote. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mumbai: 6 die in Mankhurd building collapse, CM announces Rs 5L aid

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:25 +0530

Mankhurd House Collapse Kills Six

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday expressed profound grief over the loss of six lives in a house collapse incident in Mumbai's Mankhurd area and announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the kin of each deceased.

Commenting on the tragedy, Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawade highlighted the illegal nature of the construction and the recurring problem of unauthorized buildings in the area. "This was a three-storey building and it was completely illegal. There was a godown as well... The upper floors fell directly onto the neighboring house where a family was living... It was a horrific incident that took place around 8:30 AM... We tried to rescue them, but unfortunately, no one survived," Tawade said.

She further pointed out the administrative challenges in curbing such constructions in Mankhurd. "The situation here is that the Collector issues notices to those who build illegally and even demolishes the structures, but the same thing happens again 10-15 days later. The illegal houses are rebuilt immediately. This is the ongoing situation in Mankhurd," she added.

Monsoon Fury Disrupts Mumbai-Pune Connectivity

The incident occurred amid a period of intense monsoon activity in the financial capital, which has led to several rain-related accidents across the city and its suburbs.

Previously in the day, incessant rainfall triggered landslides in the Mumbai-Pune ghat section on Monday, severely disrupting both rail and road connectivity between the two cities. Several train services were cancelled or diverted after boulders fell on railway tracks, while traffic on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the old Mumbai-Pune Highway was suspended until further notice following a major landslide.

Rail Services Disrupted

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed the situation and said restoration work was underway despite continued heavy rainfall. "Reviewed the situation arising out of heavy landslides and boulders falling onto the railway tracks in the Mumbai-Pune ghat section. The team is fully geared up for restoration. Heavy rainfall is expected today also. Have asked both Western and Central Railway officers to work as one team to ensure early restoration of all train services," the minister said.

According to Central Railway, incessant heavy rainfall in the South East Ghat section between Karjat and Lonavala triggered a landslide between Thakurvadi (TKW) and Monkey Hill Loop Cabin (MHLC) on the Up Main Line of the Mumbai Division, forcing the cancellation and diversion of several train services.

Central Railway said local train services continue to operate on all four corridors. Services on the Main Line are running six to eight minutes behind schedule, while Harbour Line trains are delayed by around four minutes. Services on the Transharbour and Uran-Belapur lines are operating as per schedule.

Expressway Traffic Affected

Road traffic was also severely affected after a major landslide occurred on the Missing Link section of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway near the Khandala exit. The Mumbai-bound lane has been completely closed. According to preliminary information, no casualties have been reported and efforts are underway to reopen the route. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Why US DoJ dropped charges against Gautam Adani: Legal expert explains

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:24 +0530

The US Department of Justice (DoJ) strongly defended its decision to drop the high-profile charges of the alleged criminal bribery case against Gautam Adani, citing evidentiary weakness, jurisdictional overreach, and constitutional limits on judicial power. US legal expert Adam Goldberg, Partner Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman said that the US DoJ in its reply had detailed that the case falls outside the very clearly delineated priorities of this administration.

Expert Explains Rationale Behind DoJ's Decision

"The most significant is likely the fact that the case falls outside the very clearly delineated priorities of this administration. So there was no, for example, national security basis. There was no tie to transnational criminal organizations. In pausing anti-corruption enforcement, FCPA enforcement specifically, the Department of Justice, under the Trump administration has been very clear that they were resetting the priorities, which is not to say that they were stopping enforcement, but that they were looking in different places. This case falls outside of that fact. I think that piece of it, as well as the fact that no US investors were injured because as has been widely discussed, you know, people made money, nobody lost money. Had significant US investors lost money, uh, then I think there would have been a different discussion potentially. But because there was no harm to US investors and there was no national security tie, and on top of that, as the DOJ noted, Indian authorities investigated and didn't seem to find anything, those were all very significant bases," Adam Goldberg said.

The US DoJ in its reply had argued that the case was weak due to evidentiary problems. It further said that most of the alleged evidence was based in India making US prosecution difficult. In its reply, the DoJ also said that forcing prosecutors to spell out their reasoning in detail could undermine constitutional authority over prosecutorial decisions. Prosecutors say the alleged case took place in India and it was not appropriate for US prosecutors to get into it. This, experts believe leaves the court with very little room but to agree with the DoJ.

Court's Role and Likely Outcome

"It would be very unusual if the court did something other than close the case quickly. It is very unusual in the United States for the courts to tell the Department of Justice that they cannot stop a prosecution that they do not wish to prosecute...The judicial branch, which is the courts, has the authority under the rules of criminal procedure applicable to this case, they have to approve the dismissal, but they do not have the authority to second-guess the executive branch and tell the executive branch how to prosecute cases. It is not so uncommon for a judge to ask the Department of Justice for more information. They tend to want to pursue that approval requirement under Rule 48 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to make sure that a dismissal is in good faith. But the Department of Justice response here was very detailed. They laid out in a lot of detail, a number of bases why they no longer wish to prosecute, from the difficulties of pursuing the case, the jurisdictional bases, the fact that Indian authorities had already investigated this and hadn't seemed to- to find any misconduct, and the fact that no US investors had been harmed. So given the amount of detail that the Department of Justice provided here, it would be even more unusual for the court to somehow say, No, I am not going to approve this," Goldberg said.

Case Background

The case against Gautam Adani and others had alleged a bribery scheme linked to solar power contracts in India which further allegedly misled US investors. In May this year the US DoJ had moved to dismiss these charges following which the US Court of the Eastern District of New York has sought a reply from the DoJ. With that reply cementing the US DoJ's position, legal experts argue that teh the Judge in all likelihood would back the DoJ stand. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

NAVN, JNJ, CRWD Stocks Hit 52-Week Highs Last Week: What's Driving The Surge?

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:06 +0530

Navan shares hit a record high of $25.85 on Thursday after the company launched its Model Context Protocol (MCP).
Johnson & Johnson shares reached a record high of $263.10 as investors rotated into defensive stocks.
CrowdStrike shares hit a record high of $199.53 on Thursday after completing a 4-for-1 stock split.

Navan (NAVN), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), and CrowdStrike Holdings (CRWD) stocks climbed to fresh 52-week highs on Thursday, as investors turned cautious ahead of the Independence Day holiday weekend, stepping away from risk assets and focusing on company-specific developments.

Navan and Johnson & Johnson stocks gained over 5% and 3%, respectively, while CrowdStrike finished the session 0.4% higher.

Navan Rallies On New AI Integration Platform

Navan stock stood out in an otherwise subdued trading session on Thursday, climbing to a record high of $25.85 as investors responded to the travel and expense software provider’s new tools designed to integrate its platform with leading AI systems.

The company launched its Model Context Protocol (MCP), an open system that lets businesses connect AI models directly to Navan's travel and expense data. Instead of using traditional dashboards, users can simply ask questions through AI chat tools to access travel and financial information.

The launch represents the first phase of the company's broader "Navan Anywhere" strategy. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around the stock improved to ‘bullish’ from ‘neutral’ territory the previous day.

Johnson & Johnson Draws Defensive Buyers

Johnson & Johnson stock also reached an all-time high of $263.10 on Thursday as investors sought defensive stocks amid heightened market caution.

While technology shares faced pressure from profit-taking ahead of the Independence Day holiday weekend, the healthcare giant attracted buyers as it raised its 2026 financial outlook, and the dividend reassured investors that Johnson & Johnson continued to deliver steady operating performance despite an uncertain economic backdrop.

The company shared encouraging clinical trial results for IMAAVY (nipocalimab), its experimental treatment for generalized myasthenia gravis, at the European Academy of Neurology 2026 Congress. The findings showed the drug continued to help control the disease, strengthening hopes that newer medicines can offset sales losses as older drugs face patent expirations.

Guggenheim analyst Vamil Divan increased his price target on Johnson & Johnson shares to $270 from $266 while maintaining a Buy rating ahead of its fiscal second-quarter earnings on July 15.

Retail sentiment around the stock remained in ‘neutral’ territory.

CRWD Benefits From Stock Split

CrowdStrike stock reached a record high of $199.53 on Thursday as it attracted strong buying interest after completing its 4-for-1 stock split. The lower post-split share price made the cybersecurity company's stock more accessible to a wider range of investors.

The rally also followed continued investor optimism on the company's expanding recurring revenue base. Retail sentiment around the stock remained in ‘bullish’ territory.

So far this year, JNJ stock has gained 27%, while CRWD and NAVN stocks have surged 65% and 50%, respectively.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Gruha Jyothi Scheme: Karnataka To Begin Door-to-Door Verification of Free Electricity Beneficiaries from July 7

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:56:21 +0530

The Karnataka government has launched a door-to-door verification drive under its flagship Gruha Jyothi scheme to ensure that only eligible households continue to receive free electricity benefits. The exercise, which begins on July 7, is aimed at improving transparency, updating beneficiary records and preventing misuse of the scheme.

Teams comprising officials from electricity supply companies (ESCOMs), along with other authorised personnel, will visit households covered under the scheme to verify consumer details. During the exercise, officials are expected to confirm information such as the beneficiary's identity, electricity connection details and continued eligibility for the subsidy.

"Meter readers and Escom staff will visit consumers' homes to check records and collect beneficiary information. This process will be completed on-site using a mobile application and a declaration form,” the department said in a statement.

The verification follows concerns that some consumers who do not meet the scheme's eligibility criteria may have enrolled and are availing themselves of free power benefits. By conducting physical verification, the government hopes to weed out ineligible beneficiaries while ensuring that genuine households continue receiving the subsidy without disruption.

Also Read: 'Guarantee will be there': DK Shivakumar on Gruha Lakshmi, Jyothi

Chief Minister D K Shivakumar recently stated that many commercial establishments were also taking advantage of the scheme and called for a reverification of the beneficiaries.

Consumers have been advised to cooperate with verification teams and keep relevant documents, including electricity bills and identity proof, readily available if requested. The government has also urged beneficiaries to provide accurate information during the verification process to avoid delays or discrepancies in their records.

Introduced as one of the Karnataka government's flagship welfare initiatives, the Gruha Jyothi scheme provides eligible domestic consumers with up to 200 units of free electricity every month, subject to prescribed conditions. Since its rollout, the programme has benefited millions of households across the state by reducing monthly electricity expenses.

Officials have clarified that the verification drive is intended to strengthen the implementation of the scheme rather than inconvenience beneficiaries. The exercise is expected to help maintain accurate records, improve service delivery and ensure that public funds are directed towards eligible consumers.

Also Read: Karnataka CM directs officials to ready power plan for El Nino effect

Alpha Box Office Collection Day 3: Alia Bhatt, Sharvari Wagh Spy Thriller Nears Rs. 60 Crore World Wide

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:53:13 +0530

Alpha Box Office Collection Day 3: Alia Bhatt and Sharvari's Alpha wrapped up its opening weekend on a strong note with steady growth at the box office. The YRF Spy Universe film has crossed Rs 34 crore

Patriotic Skydiver Crashes Into Tent After US Flag Gets Stuck Mid-Landing, Walks Away Unhurt (WATCH)

Shweta Kumari — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:48:20 +0530

A patriotic skydiving display at a Northern California rodeo took a terrifying turn when a flag-carrying parachutist crash-landed just metres from spectators, turning a festive Independence Day celebration into a heart-stopping moment captured on video. The incident unfolded at the Folsom Pro Rodeo near Sacramento, where skydiver Ross was performing a ceremonial jump while carrying a giant American flag as part of the Independence Day festivities leading up to America's upcoming 250th birthday celebrations. What began as a powerful tribute to national pride quickly spiralled into an unexpected mishap as Ross approached the landing zone.

WATCH: Skydiver carrying huge American flag crashes hard after it snags a tree at Folsom Pro Rodeo. Landed in a tent—walked away with just a cut lip. #SkydiverCrash pic.twitter.com/nbF8oYoIIH

— Public News X (@PublicNewsX) July 4, 2026

Viral footage shows the skydiver descending smoothly toward the rodeo arena with the American flag flowing behind him. Moments before touchdown, however, the massive flag appeared to become entangled in a nearby tree, abruptly disrupting his descent.

The snag threw Ross off course, causing him to lose control before crashing into a small tent positioned near the arena. The force of the impact flattened the tent and unfolded alarmingly close to spectator stands packed with attendees, narrowly avoiding a potentially far more serious accident.

The video ends shortly after the dramatic landing, leaving many viewers worried about Ross' condition.

Relief came soon after, as rodeo organisers confirmed the skydiver escaped without any injuries.

In a statement shared with Fox 40, organisers said, “On behalf of the Folsom Pro Rodeo and Choose Folsom, our skydiver Ross is safe and walked into our arena, post jump, to a standing ovation. He will be skydiving into our arena again tonight, July 3rd.”

The organisers also shared the same update with ABC News, confirming Ross' safety and announcing that he would return for another jump later that evening.

Thoothukudi: Salt pan workers seek higher monsoon relief, land rights

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:31:31 +0530

Salt production is in full swing across Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district, but workers have renewed their demand for better government welfare measures ahead of the monsoon, when salt production comes to a complete halt for several months. They have urged the government to improve financial assistance, increase monsoon relief, and extend welfare benefits, including support for land rights, to help sustain their families during the annual off-season.

Speaking to ANI, salt pan worker Sekar said salt production in the district is seasonal, and workers remain without employment once the monsoon begins. "Every year, salt production in the Thoothukudi district begins in February and continues until October. Once the monsoon season starts, salt production comes to a complete halt. As a result, we are left without work for several months and have to remain at home without any source of income. During the rainy season, the government provides us with a relief of ₹5,000. We rely on this amount to meet our family's basic expenses. Although we possess ownership documents related to the salt pans, we do not have land ownership (patta). We therefore requested the government to take our situation into consideration and provide us with the necessary assistance and appropriate welfare benefits," he appealed.

Salt production is one of the main sources of livelihood in the Thoothukudi district, with thousands of workers depending on the industry. However, operations come to a complete halt during the monsoon, leaving workers without a regular source of income until production resumes the following season.

Workers' Key Demands

Earlier, on June 16, salt pan workers had demanded that the government increase the monsoon relief assistance from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000, saying the existing amount was insufficient to support families during the three-month lean period.

Hike in Financial Aid and Housing Support

Speaking to ANI, salt pan worker Kasi Ammal said, "We work under extremely difficult conditions in the salt pans. Although we get work for several months starting from the Tamil month of Thai, our employment is completely affected during the monsoon season. The Rs 5,000 monsoon relief assistance provided by the government is not sufficient to meet our family expenses for three months. Therefore, the relief amount should be increased to Rs 10,000." Ammal also sought house-site pattas and government support for housing. "We also need house-site pattas. Many of us are living in rented houses, and we require government support to build our own homes," Ammal added.

Another worker, Mariammal, echoed similar concerns and urged the government to raise the relief amount in view of rising living costs. "It is impossible to run a family for three months with just Rs 5,000 as monsoon relief assistance. With the rising cost of essential commodities, the government should take steps to increase the relief amount. We request Chief Minister Vijay Thambi to consider our appeal and assure an increase in the monsoon relief assistance," Mariammal told ANI.

The workers also urged the government and political parties to address their long-pending demands, including an increase in monsoon relief assistance and the grant of house-site pattas at the earliest.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Poonch: 'Gurmat Samagam' near LoC marks 450th year of Harmandir Sahib

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:31:22 +0530

A grand 'Gurmat Samagam' (religious gathering), dedicated to the 450th Foundation Day of Sri Harmandir Sahib, was organised at the Gurdwara Yaadgar Sant Bhai Bahadar Singh in Khari Dharamsal village, near the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch.

Aims and Participation

The aim of the annual gathering is to connect people with the religion and dissociate them from societal evils and drugs.

The event organised on Sunday witnessed participation from devotees in large numbers in the religious gathering to offer prayers.

Annual Tradition and Significance

Ranveer Singh, present at the Gurdwara Yaadgar Sant Bhai Bahadar Singh during the event, said that the 'Gurmat Samagam' (a religious gathering) is an annual programme here and is organised to honour great figures or historical events of the Sikh religion. "The gathering is being held here at Gurdwara Sant Bhai Bahader Singh. This Gurdwara is situated right on the border line, and a 'Gurmat Samagam' (a religious gathering) is held here every year. Devotees come from far and wide to attend this gathering. This year, the organisers have dedicated this 'Gurmat Samagam' to the 450th foundation day of Sri Harmandir Sahib. These gatherings are always held to honour great figures or historical events of the Sikh religion," he said.

He added that the preachers from Darbar Sahib came to perform 'Hazoori Ragi' (devotional singing). "Army officers and local people--including Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs--are all actively participating in this event," he said.

Promoting Brotherhood and Combating Social Evils

Sardar Manmohan Singh said that various programmes for women, children, and Sikh organisations run for almost 38-42 days. "We hold this gathering here every year, where programmes run for over 35-42 days or longer. It includes various religious programs, programs for children, programs for women, and programs for Sikh organisations, along with a free medical camp. This place is a branch of the one that began with Guru Gobind Singh Ji," he said.

Singh added that the main goal of the event is to encourage mutual brotherhood and connect people with religion. He further said that the event also encourages children to stay away from societal evils and drugs. "People from every religion come here, and the biggest mission is to maintain mutual brotherhood and connect people with religion. When children become religious, they naturally move away from drugs and social evils; this is a very big mission that we are running here. It is a place of spirituality where people attain peace. People connect with religion, so this gathering is held here every year, and it is taking place this year as well," he said.

An Interfaith Gathering for Peace

Sardar Hazara Singh noted that the gathering initiated on May 28, including various programmes for children, youth, the Sikh community, the All India Sikh Students Federation, and a medical camp. The samagam concluded on Sunday. "This gathering started on May 28th and includes programs for children, youth, Sikh history, and the All India Sikh Students Federation, along with a medical camp, which is reaching its completion today," he said.

He emphasised that people of every faith remember their almighty as per their beliefs while attending the gathering. "People from Poonch, Jammu, Kashmir, Rajouri, and Punjab have all shifted here and are gathered here. People of every faith--Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims--come here and, according to their beliefs, remember that Almighty Waheguru," he said.

"Gurbani says, 'Koi bole Ram Ram, Koi Khudaye, Koi Seve Gosaiya, Koi Alaye' (Some call Him Ram, some Khuda, some serve Him as Gosaiya, others as Allah)," he added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Congress MP Mallu Ravi proposes 'Congress Swayamsevak Sangh' vs RSS

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:31:19 +0530

Congress MP Proposes 'Swayamsevak Sangh' to Counter RSS

In a sharp escalation of political rhetoric, Congress Member of Parliament Mallu Ravi has proposed the active mobilisation of a "Congress Swayamsevak Sangh" (CSS), alleging that the nation is currently being torn apart along religious and caste lines by the influence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The senior Congress leader claimed that while the RSS works to secure electoral victories for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress party's own volunteer wing has a historic mandate rooted in the struggle for national independence.

Historical Mandate and Current Need for CSS

Speaking to ANI, Ravi contended that the CSS was established alongside the Congress party over 150 years ago, serving as a pillar for the freedom movement rather than a vehicle for political power. He emphasised that in the current national climate, the presence of the CSS is more necessary than ever. "From now on, there is a requirement for CSS and the Congress party, as it was required during the freedom fight, because now the country is getting divided on religion and caste. Hence, people are in danger and fear," Ravi stated.

RSS Accused of Fostering Social Fragmentation

Mallu Ravi took direct aim at the RSS, accusing the organisation of fostering social fragmentation. He contrasted this with what he described as the Congress party's inclusive vision for India. Ravi alleged that the BJP's three consecutive terms in power were directly attributable to the ideological and ground-level support provided by the RSS. Asserting that the Congress maintains a secular approach, he stated, "The Congress party is not dividing the people based on caste and religion. Whoever is born in India are Indians, and we are working for the benefit and welfare of the people of India." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US DoJ justifies dismissing case against Adani, cites weak evidence

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:31:06 +0530

The US Department of Justice has filed a strongly worded reply to the Judge of the US District Court of the Eastern District of New York which detailed out its reason for seeking the dismissal of its case against Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani and others. Legal experts in the US say that the US DoJ has complete discretion to decide on whether it should bring a case or not and in their reply the DoJ had raised questions on the quality of evidence presented to bring the case.

Expert: DoJ Has Discretion to Dismiss Case

Seth Levine, Partner at Levine Lee LLP says that the prosecutors have exercised this discretion in deciding to seek the dismissal of its case. "I think that when one steps back and analyses what's happened, one has to understand that first, the Department is taking an important step of dismissing an indictment, which no administration does lightly. In that context, the court has properly asked for an explanation and I think the most important thing is DoJ has provided a fairly detailed explanation of multiple reasons why they believe that it is in the public interest to dismiss this indictment, both legal reasons, policy reasons, procedural reasons, and they've laid that all out. There is another debate in the United States about the role of courts in dismissing indictments because unlike other matters, the role of the courts is limited in these matters. Department, even though it has given a substantive response, staked out its position, not only for this case but for others, that there should be real limits on what the court's discretion is and the inquiry that the court should make here to determine whether or not dismissal is appropriate," he said.

"The Department has responded with far more detail than they typically do. And, ultimately, if the Department doesn't want to prosecute the case, there will be no prosecution. Whether Judge Garaufis finds the letter sufficient from his point of view remains to be seen. But the law is pretty clear, is very clear. I would say that a court cannot compel a prosecution to continue," he added.

In its reply the US DoJ argues that the prosecution should never have been brought and questioned the legal and jurisdictional basis of the case. "I think that the key point is the DoJ has laid out in detail, various reasons for dismissal and the standard here really is to establish that there's a good faith, a reason for this rather than having a searching inquiry on every aspect of whether or not someone could second guess the decision. So while I agree with the question, think the key part is the DoJ has laid out a lot of specific reasons of why they think this is the appropriate thing to do at this time, "said Seth Levine.

"The letter points out where the discretion lies, to prosecute in the Executive Branch as opposed to the Judicial Branch. If we think ahead to the ultimate conclusion of what would happen, the basic principle here is can a court essentially compel a prosecutor to continue to prosecute a case in which they have determined there's no longer a public interest or a prosecutorial interest in pursuing. And I think it's inevitable that if the prosecution decides not to pursue a case then it will evaporate...I think collectively that were a prosecutor to determine that it was no longer just to prosecute, that the prosecutor could dismiss the charges without much inquiry. And I think that's where the empathy for the defendant lies," he added.

Prosecutors Cite Jurisdictional Concerns

'Not Unusual' for New Administration to Drop Case

"The Eastern District of New York US Attorney's Office is known for being a very aggressive office. They often prosecute cases that involve people outside the United States. In that way when you have entrepreneurial prosecutors trying to show positive results within the policies of the administration in which the indictment was brought. It's not unusual that the office would make an aggressive case, and it's similarly reasonable that a new DOJ with new policies would take a more conservative view of how those statutes should be used...I really don't see anything unusual about the office bringing the case in the first place, and I don't see anything on its face that's utterly unreasonable in the current Department deciding to no longer pursue the case on policy grounds among other grounds," said Seth Levine

Bribery Allegations and Expected Dismissal

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Chhattisgarh: Saas-bahu duo script floriculture success in Surguja

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:30:58 +0530

A 22-year-old married woman, Ratna Majumdar, along with his mother-in-law, is scripting new history to take Chhattisgarh's Surguja on the path of becoming a hub for the production of a variety of flowers. Breaking the stereotype of a relationship, which is usually misunderstood, the duo of daughter-in-law and mother-in-law have turned floriculture into a source of self-reliance and identity.

Moreover, the district administration is also making continuous efforts to promote flower farming by providing them with technical know-how, quality seeds, subsidies and other assistance.

Breaking New Ground in Digma Village

The landscape of agricultural fields within village Digma in the district is witnessing a transition as traditional farming is now being replaced with floriculture, and the credit goes to Ratna as well as her mother-in-law, Shanti Majumdar. After marriage, when Ratna came to the village of Digna, she noticed that her family was engaged in small-scale farming and desire to do something new.

Taking inspiration from his uncle-in-law, who is engaged in floriculture on a small scale, Ratna also started flower farming in a small area with a few saplings and limited resources. Eventually, the farming started on a small-scale transformed into an enterprise providing employment opportunities for several. Ratna has not only strengthened her family's financial condition but has also paved a new path for other women and youth in the village.

From Small Start to Thriving Enterprise

As compared to traditional crops like paddy and vegetables, floriculture yields much higher profits, said young farmer Ratna Majumdar, elaborating that during the peak season, she receives large-scale orders for weddings, festivals, and events.

Apart from the local market, the flowers are being supplied to neighbouring districts, added Ratna. Ratna further informed that she had employed workers for plucking, maintaining, and packing the flowers in the fields, turning this cultivation into a small enterprise. Currently, the farming is being practised on two acres, and they are now planning to scale this business, added Ratna.

A Model for Self-Reliance

"After the daughter-in-law's arrival, new energy has infused both the home and the fields. Where the work was earlier limited, modern farming methods are now being used on the same land, and the family has become more self-reliant than before," said Shanti Majumdar, Ratna's mother-in-law.

"The demand for flowers in the local market is very high, but they still have to be procured from other states. In such a scenario, if local production increases, it will not only boost the income of the farmers but will also strengthen the district's economy," said Surguja Collector Ajeet Vasant. (ANI)

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FIFA WC 2026: 10-man England beat Mexico 3-2 to reach quarter-finals

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:30:55 +0530

England overcame a hostile atmosphere at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium and a second-half red card to defeat co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a gripping FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 encounter. The high-intensity contest, which also featured a weather delay of nearly an hour, proved to be one of the standout matches of the tournament as England secured a place in the World Cup quarter-finals for the third successive edition.

England to Face Norway in Quarter-Finals

Still chasing their first World Cup title since lifting the trophy in 1966, England will next face Norway, led by Erling Haaland, in Miami Gardens on Saturday for a place in the semi-finals. Mexico twice responded after falling two goals behind, but were ultimately unable to complete the comeback, with their wait to reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since hosting the tournament in 1986 continuing.

First Half Action

Jude Bellingham struck twice in the first half (36th and 38th minutes) to give England control before Mexico's Julian Quinones (42nd minute) reduced the deficit before the break, reigniting hopes for the home side and its supporters.

Second Half Drama: Red Card and Penalties

In the second half, England defender Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card after a VAR review of his challenge on Jesus Gallardo in the 54th minute, with England leading 2-1. Quansah became the fourth England player to be sent off at a FIFA World Cup and the first since Wayne Rooney's dismissal in 2006. Ray Wilkins (1986) and David Beckham (1998) are the only other England players to have received red cards at the tournament, according to ESPN.

Following Quansah's red card, England head coach Thomas Tuchel replaced Bukayo Saka with John Stones to strengthen the defence. Despite being reduced to 10 men, England extended their lead six minutes later when Harry Kane converted a penalty after Anthony Gordon was fouled inside the area by Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel.

Mexico pulled one back in the 69th minute through a Raul Jimenez penalty, reducing the deficit to 3-2. Despite holding a numerical advantage for much of the second half, Mexico were unable to break down a 10-man England side and saw their World Cup campaign come to an end on home soil.

Mexico's Last-16 Heartbreak Continues

According to ESPN. Mexico have now exited the World Cup at the same round-of-16 stage eight times since they reached the quarterfinals in 1986. The only other time they went past the last 16 was the previous time they hosted the tournament in 1970. (ANI)

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US DoJ defends dropping Adani case, cites weak evidence, overreach

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:30:54 +0530

'Name and Shame' Exercise

The alleged case against Adani and others was filed merely as a "name and shame" exercise designed to levy accusations without any prospect of a trial occurring, said Senior Advocate Harish Salve. Salve stated that the original indictment reflected a broader political agenda rather than a standard legal proceeding. "This is what I have always said, at least it was my view, that the timing of this was such that the Biden administration had a constant anti-India narrative running," Salve told ANI. "There are senators there, I don't want to name them, who constantly have this India's bad on human rights, India's this, India's corrupt all the time trying to paint India in a bad light. And they were trying to pressure India. I don't think it's any secret. The Biden administration was not in love with India. That's why they are saying. They said it was filed as a 'name and shame' design to levy accusations without any prospect of any trial occurring. It was a political move."

DoJ Cites Jurisdictional and Constitutional Limits

The US Department of Justice in its reply said that forcing prosecutors to spell out their reasoning in detail could undermine constitutional authority over prosecutorial decisions. Prosecutors say the alleged case took place in India and it was not appropriate for US prosecutors to get into it. The US DoJ in its reply had argued that the case was weak due to evidentiary problems. It further said that most of the alleged evidence was based in India making US prosecution difficult.

'Hard-Hitting' Response Leaves Judge Little Room

Legal experts noted that the firm stance taken by the DoJ leaves the presiding judge with very little room to keep the matter alive. "Will the judge close the case soon? I think he will have to. After this, he may have to. I mean, I don't see why he will not close it," Salve said. "If he doesn't close, for them, they are raising it to a larger issue. I'd end by saying it is the Constitution wastes the prosecutorial power in the executive not the judiciary. They are telling the judge whether to prosecute or not is for us to decide, not for you."

The Senior Advocate also observed that the tone used by the US Justice Department in its response to the court was remarkably firm, even when accounting for the direct nature of American legal communications. "See, because the judge, the attorney general's office obviously has taken offense. See, American English, the way they address courts and the way they write, it's very different from even the British here in England, the kind of language we use. And India, of course, is even more differential. America is more direct. Even their judgments are in more direct language. So you have to account for that. even by the American standard, this is a pretty hard hitting statement."

"They even said that they were not satisfied. They should never have brought this case," Salve added.

Case Background and Likely Outcome

The case against Gautam Adani and others had alleged a bribery scheme linked to solar power contracts in India which further allegedly misled US investors. In May this year the US DoJ had moved to dismiss these charges following which the US Court of the Eastern District of New York has sought a reply from the DoJ. With that reply cementing the US DoJ's position, legal experts argue that teh the Judge in all likelihood would back the DoJ stand. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Maharashtra Rains: Pawana River floods temple, IMD issues red alert

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:30:53 +0530

Following incessant rainfall in various parts of Maharashtra, the water level of the Pawana River has risen significantly, leading to water entering the premises of the Morya Gosavi Ganpati Temple in Pimpri-Chinchwad on Monday.

IMD Issues Red Alert Amid Extreme Rainfall

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad as intense spells of rain with gusty winds reaching 50-60 kmph are very likely to occur at isolated places. According to rainfall data, several locations in the state have recorded extreme precipitation. Lonavla (Office) witnessed a massive 670 mm of rain in the last 24 hours, while Bhira recorded 609 mm. Other areas experiencing heavy rainfall include Tamini (580 mm), Shirgaon (540 mm), Ambona (537 mm), and Khopoli (516 mm). Significant rainfall was also noted in Lonavla (495 mm), Davdi (474 mm), Dongerwadi (451 mm), and Walwhan (442 mm), contributing to the rapid rise in water levels of local water bodies and rivers.

Precautionary Measures and Advisories

Meanwhile, following a 'Red Alert' issued by the IMD warning of extremely heavy rainfall, the district administration declared a holiday for all schools across Pune district today as a precautionary measure for the safety of students. In an X post, Pune Municipal Corporation has also appealed to citizens to avoid stepping out of their homes unless absolutely necessary, stay away from rivers, streams, and other dangerous locations, and strictly follow the instructions issued by the local administration from time to time.

Landslides Disrupt Mumbai-Pune Connectivity

The heavy downpour has also triggered landslides in the Mumbai-Pune ghat section on Monday, severely disrupting both rail and road connectivity between the two cities. Several train services were cancelled or diverted after boulders fell on railway tracks, while traffic on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the old Mumbai-Pune Highway was suspended until further notice following a major landslide. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed the situation and said restoration work was underway despite continued heavy rainfall.

Road traffic was also severely affected after a major landslide occurred on the Missing Link section of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway near the Khandala exit. The Mumbai-bound lane has been completely closed. According to preliminary information, no casualties have been reported, and efforts are underway to reopen the route. (ANI)

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Dalai Lama's 91st birthday: Monks hold special prayers in Shimla

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:30:31 +0530

The Tibetan Buddhist monks-in-exile offered special prayers to mark the 91st birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama at the Dorje Drak Monastery in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. The monastic community and residents gathered early in the morning to participate in the religious rituals, dedicating the day to the long life and global message of the spiritual leader.

A Look into the Dalai Lama's Early Life

Born to a small farming family in Tibet's Takster on July 6, 1935, he was originally named Lhamo Thondup, which literally means "Wish-Fulfilling Goddess", according to the Dalai Lama's website. At the age of two, he was recognised as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama and was brought to Lhasa in October 1939 before being formally installed as the head of the State of Tibet on February 22, 1940.

Named Tenzin Gyatso at the age of six, the Dalai Lama was officially enthroned as the temporal leader of Tibet on November 17, 1950, in a ceremony held at the Norbulingka Palace.

Exile and Enduring Legacy

However, in March 1959, following the suppression of the Tibetan National Uprising, the spiritual leader was forced to escape into exile in India along with more than 80,000 refugees.

More than six decades after he first entered exile, the milestone anniversary serves as an enduring symbol of the broader struggle over faith, identity, and legitimacy, a complex geopolitical and cultural challenge that Beijing has still failed to solve.

For more than 60 years, the Dalai Lama has continued working for the promotion of peace, love, and compassion. The annual event, organised systematically every year by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), remains a major draw for followers worldwide.

Current Context and Community Voices

Highlighting his physical absence from the main public stage this year, his office stated that he travelled to Delhi in early June to undergo a left knee replacement operation, which preceded his scheduled stay in the Ladakh region during the summer.

This milestone birthday also comes on the heels of last year's celebrations, which were highlighted by the launch of the "Year of Compassion" campaign by the CTA. That initiative focused heavily on environmental and cultural preservation through widespread tree-planting campaigns and the promotion of the Tibetan language.

'A Champion of Global Peace'

Speaking about the significance of the occasion, Tibetan Buddhist monk Dawa Tsering told ANI, "Today is an important day, the birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His birthday is celebrated across the globe, and we are observing it here as well.

"Since early morning, prayers and rituals have been performed at Dorje Drak Monastery for his longevity, followed by a cake offering. Preserving the institution of the Dalai Lama is crucial, especially for the Tibetan community living in exile. "His continued presence is essential, not just for Tibetan Buddhist monks, but for the entire world, as he is a champion of global peace."

'Our Guru, Our Kind of a God'

Echoing similar sentiments regarding the leader's global and personal impact, local Tibetan resident Tenzin Chemi told ANI, "Today is His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama's 91st birthday. We (Tibetans), especially those living in exile in India and across the world, are in exile.

"We are honoured to celebrate his birthday every year. He's very important to us, and he's a promoter of peace. For us Tibetan people, he is our guru, our kind of a god, an avatar." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

US DoJ defends dropping Adani case; expert sees dismissal as certain

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:30:29 +0530

DoJ's Strong Reply on Adani Case

With the US Department of Justice defending its decision to seek the dismissal of the alleged bribery case against Gautam Adani and others, legal experts have weighed in to say that the reply is sufficient and raises questions on the quality of evidence presented to bring the case. Jim Walden, Partner at Walden Haran Williams LLP said that the Judge of the Eastern District Court of New York was now left with very little option except to rule in favour of the DoJ.

"The response of the DOJ was strong. It is not unusual that the DOJ tries to provide clarity so that the judge understands the basis for it, particularly when there have been allegations of partial treatment... Now the judge's responsibility is clear; their only possible decision is dismissal here and that is clearly the finish line here," he said "Dismissal is the only finish line here. The court is of limited jurisdiction, especially with an issue like this. He has some power of oversight, but he cannot veto the prosecutors. So I expect that he's going to dismiss this week,' he added.

'A Jurisdictional Theatre'

"The US subjected one of its allies to 2 years of scrutiny, where there were Euro investor losses, and Indian agencies who are fully capable of looking into it in an ethical way, found no misconduct... There is a clear case law in the US that American justice should not be pursuing foreign transgressions, real or perceived. For me, this was a jurisdictional theatre rather than a serious criminal case and I hope this stands as a lesson and a reminder that American courts are courts of limited jurisdiction... We should be respecting the criminal justice system of the entire world, particularly our allies," Jim Walden said.

"One of the things that I think makes American justice extraordinary is the importance that we've always placed on making sure that people who are accused of serious crimes have due process of law. And I'm glad that the defendants in this case got due process of law," he added.

Weak Case and Evidentiary Problems

The US DoJ in its reply had argued that the case was weak due to evidentiary problems. It further said that most of the alleged evidence was based in India making US prosecution difficult.

"Because somebody had misguided priorities and really didn't carefully look at all of the things that I've focused on before. There were no losses. You know, there was no jurisdiction in the United States. No American citizens hurt. And the Indian authorities are sophisticated and capable and can carry out these investigations on their own. So I hope whether it's a Republican or Democratic administration in the future, if they think about doing something like this, they'll think again," Walden said.

The case against Gautam Adani and others had alleged a bribery scheme linked to solar power contracts in India which further allegedly misled US investors. In May this year the US DoJ had moved to dismiss these charges following which the US Court of the Eastern District of New York has sought a reply from the DoJ. With that reply cementing the US DoJ's position, legal experts argue that teh the Judge in all likelihood would back the DoJ stand. (ANI)

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Norway's unity key to historic World Cup win over Brazil, says coach

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:30:29 +0530

Norway head coach Stale Solbakken praised his team's unity and togetherness after the Scandinavian nation reached the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals for the first time in its history with a memorable victory over Brazil, according to Reuters. Norway stunned five-time champions Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16, with Erling Haaland scoring twice to send his side into the last eight.

'A Great Group': Solbakken Hails Team Unity

Reflecting on the team's success, Solbakken said the squad's close bond had been central to its achievements. "This is a great group, they love being together, they train well, they help each other and protect each other. We have a strong culture and we give the opportunity to let people be themselves and say whatever they want, and that's a very important part of the whole thing, when things go well and when things go not so well," Solbakken told reporters, as quoted by Reuters.

The Norway coach said the team's success had united supporters across the country. "I think that the whole nation is rowing together, and with that, I mean that we are having a great party here and in Oslo and in all the other big and small cities all the way through Norway," he said. "The rowing is in a way a symbol of that, and that we are all together. So I think it's great days, it's a great summer to be a fan -- I think it's better to be a fan than a coach," he added.

Haaland's Brace Decisive Against Dominant Brazil

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Shashwat Rao sets historic mountain record, conquers Hamta Pass run

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:30:28 +0530

Shashwat Rao's Historic Mountain Record

In a historic display of human endurance, India's ace trail runner, Shashwat Rao, has set an astonishing all-time mountain record on one of the country's most legendary alpine routes. Crossing the gruelling 4300m Hamta Pass--a treacherous, high-altitude crossover trail that typically takes trekkers four to five days to navigate. Rao completed the entire 39 km journey from Chattru in Lahaul to Manali in a mind-boggling 5 hours and 10 minutes.

A World-Class Event in the Himalayas

The record-shattering run took place during the inaugural edition of the Himalayan Xtreme Trail Running Fest 2026. Notably, the festival forms an official part of the prestigious Indian National League circuit and is fully certified by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA), granting international ranking points to finishing athletes.

Organized by the Himalayan Xtreme Sports Association (HXSA), this groundbreaking event was fully supported by Himachal Tourism, the Kullu District Administration, and the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS). To ensure athlete safety across the high-risk, high-altitude terrain, the festival deployed world-class safety protocols. Critical emergency medical support was executed on the ground by Rapid Tactical, while specialized mountain search and rescue teams from the Adventure Tour Operators Association (ATOA) Manali were stationed at key high-altitude choke points.

The Three Brutal Race Formats

The mega-event brought together 35 elite pro athletes from across the country to battle extreme altitudes, technical scree, and freezing river crossings across three brutal race formats: The Hamta Pass Sky Traverse (39 km) is a punishing, ITRA-certified alpine course starting from the arid landscape of Chattru at 3300m, climbing over the freezing Hamta Pass at 4300m, and plunging down into the lush Kullu Valley to finish at ABVIMAS, Manali. The Chikka Jobri Dash (18 km) is a fast, technical mountain race testing speed and agility through dense forests and rugged riverbeds. The Manali Vertical Challenge is also a pure, relentless battle against gravity featuring a crushing, continuous vertical elevation gain.

Local Athlete Natasha Mahar Claims Podium Finish

Adding to the historic nature of the day, local mountain athlete Natasha Mahar from Manali delivered a phenomenal performance. Competing as the lone female athlete in the gruelling main event, Mahar defied the odds to claim the 3rd position overall, cementing her place as a rising icon in Indian skyrunning.

A New Benchmark for Indian Trail Running

"What these athletes achieved today rewrites what we thought was possible in the Indian Himalayas," said an event spokesperson. "An ultra-endurance feat of this scale across Hamta Pass requires absolute precision.

Thanks to the unwavering backing of Himachal Tourism, the Kullu Administration, ABVIMAS, and our elite safety partners Rapid Tactical and ATOA Manali, India has officially proven it can host world-class, safe skyrunning events on the global stage," the spokesperson added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi hails Mookerjee as transformative nation-builder on 125th Jayanti

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:30:28 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tribute to Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary, hailing him as one of India's most transformative nation-builders whose legacy remains a cornerstone of the country's ongoing development journey. In a heartfelt tribute, the Prime Minister, in a post on X, reflected on the multifaceted life of the Jana Sangh founder, describing him as a man of profound intellect, indomitable courage, and selfless service. Prime Minister Modi highlighted that Dr. Mookerjee's life was defined by an "unwavering commitment to national service," noting that his contributions shaped the very foundations of independent India. "As we move forward in our journey towards a Viksit Bharat, his vision continues to illuminate our path," the Prime Minister stated. The tribute underscored several key dimensions of Dr. Mookerjee's enduring influence. PM Modi recognised him as an "outstanding thinker and educationist" who championed innovation and forward-thinking academic structures. Serving as India's first Industries Minister, Mookerjee was credited with laying the groundwork for industrial self-reliance while carefully balancing the needs of traditional sectors to ensure the livelihoods of millions were protected. The Prime Minister specifically recalled Mookerjee's compassion and active humanitarian efforts during the Bengal Famine, noting that his leadership was always rooted in empathy for those in distress. Above all, the Prime Minister emphasised Mookerjee's "steadfast commitment to the unity and integrity of India," which he described as an "enduring source of inspiration" for the current generation. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, "Today, on the 125th Jayanti of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, I bow to one of India's most remarkable nation-builders, whose life was defined by scholarship, courage and an unwavering commitment to national service. He dedicated himself to the cause of India's unity, dignity and progress. Dr Mookerjee's contributions spanned diverse spheres. He was an outstanding thinker and educationist, who supported innovation and futuristic learning. As Industries Minister, he laid the foundations of industrial self-reliance while ensuring that traditional sectors and livelihoods flourished. His humanitarian efforts during the Bengal Famine reflected his profound compassion for those in distress. Above all, his steadfast commitment to the unity and integrity of India remains an enduring source of inspiration. As we move forward in our journey towards a Viksit Bharat, his vision continues to illuminate our path." Today, on the 125th Jayanti of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, I bow to one of India's most remarkable nation-builders, whose life was defined by scholarship, courage and an unwavering commitment to national service. He dedicated himself to the cause of India's unity, dignity and... -- Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2026

BJP Leaders Pay Homage Across India

BJP leaders in Delhi also paid floral tributes to the portrait of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on the occasion of his birth anniversary. Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra and other senior party leaders took part in the commemorative event. In Jaipur, Rajasthan, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma paid floral tributes to Dr Mookerjee's portrait at the Chief Minister's Residence. A day earlier, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini paid floral tributes to Dr Mookerjee at 'Ekta Sthal' in Madhopur ahead of his birth anniversary. Addressing a programme, Saini highlighted Dr Mookerjee's role in strengthening national integration, particularly his views on Jammu and Kashmir. "Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee said that there cannot be two supreme leaders, two legislatures, and two constitutions in the country. This was not merely a slogan but the very foundation of the nation's system. He rejected power and position, placing the nation above all," Saini said. Speaking to reporters, the Haryana Chief Minister added, "He was a great personality who envisioned an undivided India. Today marks the 125th birth anniversary of such a great personality, and we are all remembering him and his sacrifices for the unity and integrity of the country."

Who Was Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee?

Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh on October 21, 1951, the ideological predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Born on July 6, 1901, in Calcutta, he was an educationist, parliamentarian, statesman and humanitarian. He inherited a legacy of scholarship and nationalism from his father, Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, who served as the Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and a judge of the Calcutta High Court. In 1940, he became the acting president of the Hindu Mahasabha and declared complete independence for India as its political goal. He later served as Minister for Industry and Supply in Jawaharlal Nehru's Interim Government before resigning. He also left the Hindu Mahasabha in the year Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated. The BJP observes Dr Mookerjee's death anniversary on June 23 as 'Balidan Diwas' in remembrance of his death in Kashmir in 1953. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kerala Bhagyathara BT-61 Lottery Result Today: Rs 1 Crore Jackpot Up for Grabs; Check Draw Time and Details

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:11:06 +0530

The Kerala State Lotteries Department is set to conduct the Bhagyathara BT-61 lottery draw on July 6, with thousands of ticket holders eagerly awaiting the official results. The weekly government-run lottery is among the most popular in Kerala, offering participants a chance to win substantial cash prizes through a transparent draw process.

The draw will be held at Gorky Bhavan, near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram, under the supervision of Kerala State Lottery officials. As per the schedule, the draw is expected to begin in the afternoon, after which the complete list of winning ticket numbers will be published on the department's official channels.

This week's Bhagyathara BT-61 lottery features multiple prize categories, including the coveted first prize, followed by second, third, consolation and several lower-tier prizes. The structured prize system gives ticket holders multiple opportunities to win.

Also Read: Kerala Lottery Samrudhi SM-62 Result Today (July 5): Rs 1 Crore Winner is MO 454496, Full Winners List Here, Claim Process

Participants are advised to keep their lottery tickets safe and verify the winning numbers only through the official results released by the Kerala State Lotteries Department. The final prize list will include all winning ticket numbers across various prize slabs.

Winners should carefully cross-check their ticket details before claiming any prize. Those winning higher-value amounts will be required to submit the original ticket along with valid identity proof, PAN details and bank account information while completing the claim process. Prize money is subject to applicable taxes and other statutory deductions as per government rules.

The Kerala State Lottery is one of India's oldest and most trusted government-operated lottery systems, conducting weekly draws under strict supervision. Its transparent procedures and consistent prize structure have made it a popular choice among lottery enthusiasts across the state.

The Bhagyathara BT-61 results will be declared later today. Ticket holders are advised to stay updated through the official Kerala State Lotteries website or other authorised platforms and avoid relying on unverified information circulating online.

Also Read: Kerala Karunya KR-760 Lottery Result Today: Rs 1 Crore Winner Is KF342721, Full Winners List Here

Mumbai Weather LATEST Update: IMD Red Alert for Mumbai; Heavy Rain, Strong Winds and School Closures Continue

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:07:15 +0530

Mumbai Weather LATEST Update: Mumbai remains on high alert after the BMC issued a Red nowcast warning for heavy rain and strong winds. Schools and colleges are closed today as authorities urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ancelotti to use Brazil's exit as motivation

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:00:57 +0530

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti said his team would use its FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 exit as motivation for the future after suffering a 2-1 defeat to Norway in New Jersey, according to ESPN. The five-time world champions were knocked out after Erling Haaland scored twice late in the match to send Norway into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in the nation's history.

'We have to accept it'

Reflecting on the defeat, Ancelotti said the team would continue working to improve despite the disappointment. "What I say is that we continue to do our jobs and look for new ideas," Ancelotti said after the match, as quoted by ESPN. "It's the same thing we did this year. It is an experience on my side; it is a very disappointing result and all of us are really saddened. But this was a great group and I have to thank my players; they worked really hard. I don't think we deserved to lose, but we have to accept it," he added.

The Brazilian coach acknowledged the emotional impact of the defeat but stressed that the team must respond positively. "That is football for you, that is sports. Sometimes you have to manage the sadness and bitter taste of a defeat. I am very used to that, but we are going to take this defeat and use it as fuel for the new cycle," Ancelotti said, as quoted by ESPN. "Everyone is profoundly sad, as the fans are. This is normal to have those feelings, but what we have to do is react correctly," he added.

Focus on the Future

Ancelotti said a crucial element of Brazil's rebuild will be finding new players in midfield, with Neymar saying he will retire from international competition after the elimination and the likes of Casemiro and Fabinho expected to follow him. "We have to think about the future, but it is very evident that in the midfield, I think that we have to move some players," he said. We need some young talent; we need some high-level players coming into Brazilian football. This national team has a very solid group, great players that continue and some new players that can come in."

On the missed penalty

On a missed penalty by Bruno Guimaraes in the first half, Ancelotti said "statistics" showed the Newcastle midfielder to be the best option to take the spot-kick. " We did statistics for the players and according to that, Raphinha was the best option [as penalty taker]," Ancelotti said. The best person would be Raphinha and then Neymar, and after that, Bruno Guimaraes. After Bruno, it would be Martinelli, so we chose Bruno Guimaraes as we felt he would be the best."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi in Indonesia to deepen strategic ties, review bilateral relations

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:00:40 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive in Indonesia today for a three-day official visit aimed at reviewing bilateral ties and deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. The visit, scheduled from July 6 to 8, marks the Prime Minister's first bilateral trip to the country since relations were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018.

High Expectations from Indian Diaspora

Members of the Indian diaspora speaking to ANI expressed high expectations for the visit, particularly regarding trade, financial integration, and technological cooperation.

Focus on Financial Integration

Akash Damniwala, President Director of Bank SBI Indonesia, highlighted the potential progress on a local currency settlement framework. "PM Modi is coming. For the banker side, we have one big expectation in line. Indonesia and RBI had signed in 2024 one agreement, which is local settlement; the current settlement was signed," Damniwala said. He noted that the framework would facilitate a de-dollarized method for transactions between the Indonesian rupiah and the Indian rupee.

"If the formulation will happen, we hope that when PM Modi visits, the signing will happen and a procedure will come in place that will actually help the trade between both the countries in the local currency," Damniwala added. "The requirement of dollars will come down, which is one of the important things for both countries."

Official Engagements and Community Outreach

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that Prime Minister Modi is undertaking the visit at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto. This trip represents the Prime Minister's fourth visit to Indonesia. During his time in Jakarta, Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with President Prabowo and address a gathering of the Indian diaspora.

Bipin Mishra, CEO of PT. Leap Digital Indonesia stated that approximately 5,000 people are expected to attend the community event. "The excitement is at an all-time high... We are looking at close to 5,000 people coming in... The bilateral ties are at an all-time high," Mishra said.

Expanding Cooperation in Trade, Tech, and Healthcare

Mishra indicated that trade relationships possess further room for expansion, alongside existing academic exchanges. "We definitely feel that there's still a lot of opportunity for the trade relationships to grow further. We now have a lot of student programs where Indonesian students are visiting India. I think that can also be ramped up further. But the bilateral ties are growing. They have grown tremendously in the last 10 years," Mishra stated.

Prashanth Jayaraman Iyer, Group Chief Marketing Officer and Country Head for Nityo Infotech, observed that enthusiasm among the community remained consistent across the Prime Minister's successive visits. "This is the fourth visit of PM Modi. The level of excitement remains the same for every visit... We are looking forward to collaboration between India and Indonesia in the AI and technology sectors," Iyer said.

The official itinerary also includes a visit to the Prambanan Temple complex at Yogyakarta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting the historical links between the two countries.

Healthcare Collaboration on the Rise

Ashok Bajpai, Chief Transformation Officer of Indonesia Healthcare Corporation, noted expanding bilateral cooperation within the medical field, referencing an initiative by the local ministry to arrange training for 1,000 Indonesian doctors in India. "I have witnessed this kind of enthusiasm here for the first time. When the news arrived that the Prime Minister was coming to Indonesia, the excitement I saw not just within the Indian community but also among the Indonesian people was truly unprecedented," Bajpai said.

"If you look at the developments over the last few years, cooperation between India and Indonesia in the healthcare sector has been steadily growing," Bajpai added. "The local ministry has engaged with Indian hospitals to arrange training for 1,000 doctors in India. This serves as a recognition that Indian doctors, hospitals, and expertise can be effectively shared with Indonesia."

The visit to Indonesia forms part of a wider three-nation tour by the Prime Minister that also includes Australia and New Zealand. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

HIMS Stock Rises Overnight: CEO Shrugs Off Wild Swings, Bets On ‘Gold Standard’ Of Healthcare Over Next Decade

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:00:06 +0530

Dudum downplayed HIMS' stock volatility and emphasized long-term execution.
He argued that many stock moves have “nothing to do with the business,” adding that Hims has grown “numb” to volatility.
The CEO defended Hims’ early public listing as a “boot camp” that created forced rigor and discipline.

Shares of Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (HIMS) rose 0.3% overnight late Sunday after CEO Andrew Dudum brushed aside the stock’s roller-coaster history and said that the company’s real test lies in patient impact, profitability and long-term healthcare disruption.

HIMS stock jumped 8% last week even after declining over 2% on Thursday.

HIMS CEO Shrugs Off Stock Swings

Speaking on the Prof G Markets Founder Series podcast, Dudum acknowledged that HIMS has had a bruising and volatile ride in public markets, saying the stock was moving from “70 to 2 to 50 to 10.” “Public markets is brutal,” Dudum said. “You have to have a stomach of steel.”

But the CEO said that many of the stock’s sharp moves are disconnected from the company’s underlying performance. He pointed to rival announcements or industry headlines that can send HIMS sharply lower or higher, saying “many of the reasons that it fluctuates has nothing to do with the business.”

“So I think we’ve gotten numb to the movements,” Dudum said. “Long term, I think, is where everybody’s focused.” He added that “the stock is not the company” and said that Hims’ real measure is its long-term impact on patients and its ability to build a profitable, cash-flow-generating business.

He said that even when the stock “rockets for no reason” or “tanks for some reason,” he keeps the same internal operating cadence — checking product tests, tracking numbers, and asking why metrics are not improving. “The first time you bring it up can’t be the day that the stock goes down 10%,” he said, adding that teams need to be reminded consistently that the ticker will move up and down.

HIMS CEO Calls Public Markets A Boot Camp

Dudum also defended Hims’ early move into public markets, saying that the decision was intentional: “For me, going public was an intentional decision to put our team in boot camp.” The CEO said that public markets forced Hims to build discipline quickly, requiring the company to balance quarterly execution with a long-term vision. Companies, he said, must “deliver growth and efficiency at the same time” and hit the targets they give Wall Street or “lose all trust.” He called the pressure “forced rigor” and “forced discipline,” saying that the experience has prepared Hims to chase a much larger opportunity.

Dudum said Hims treats 10,000 or 15,000 patients a day globally, calling the scale potentially “the largest healthcare system” in terms of daily patient interactions. Despite that, he said Hims remains in the “earliest of innings.” Dudum added: “My vision is nearly everybody you know would be silly not to have a Hims and Hers membership.”

Hims’ Long-Term Target: Healthcare’s ‘Gold Standard’

Looking ahead, Dudum said he hopes Hims becomes “the gold standard” for healthcare over the next decade. He aims to build a system around proactive care, advanced diagnostics, wearables, AI and doctors on demand. The goal, he said, is to create a platform that supports both major clinical needs, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity, and confidence-driven categories such as hormonal support, skincare, dermatology and sexual health.

“When you’re disrupting something so big as the healthcare system, everybody in the world is incentivized for you to lose,” he said, pointing to PBMs, insurers, drug companies and regulators.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About HIMS?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for HIMS was ‘bearish’ amid ‘low’ message volume.

HIMS sentiment and message volume as of July 5| Source: Stocktwits

One user said, “$HIMS MOONSHOT LOADING!! Weekly chart flipping bullish hard after that base — higher lows locked, Fonsie Channels coiling, volume exploding on the green days!! This telehealth beast is waking up!!’

View this Stocktwits post

Another user noted that HIMS technical setup is “improving fast,” saying: “weekly structure is starting to flip bullish. Strong bounce off the lows and the chart is building cleaner higher lows. Multi-month base looks mature, and the expanding green candles suggest momentum is returning as the platform scales.“

View this Stocktwits post

HIMS stock has declined 22% over the past year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Petrol, Diesel Prices Today: Check Latest Fuel Rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru & Other Cities as Crude Oil Eases

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:56:52 +0530

Petrol and diesel prices across India remained unchanged on July 6 despite a decline in global crude oil prices, offering stability to consumers. Oil marketing companies continued with existing retail fuel rates, while international crude prices softened as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz improved and supply concerns eased.

Brent and WTI crude prices have retreated from recent highs, raising expectations that retail fuel prices in India could eventually witness relief if the softer trend continues. However, domestic petrol and diesel prices remain dependent on multiple factors, including international crude oil prices, exchange rates, taxes and the pricing decisions of state-run oil marketing companies.

City-wise Petrol & Diesel Prices (July 6, 2026)

City	Petrol (Rs /litre)	Diesel (Rs /litre)
Delhi	Rs 102.12	Rs 95.20
Mumbai	Rs 111.21	Rs 97.83
Kolkata	Rs 113.51	Rs 99.82
Chennai	Rs 107.76	Rs 99.55
Bengaluru	Rs 111.68	Rs 99.56
Hyderabad	Rs 116.99	Rs 105.03

Source: Daily retail fuel prices published by oil marketing companies.

Also Read: Petrol, Diesel Prices Today July 4: Check Latest Fuel Rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Other Cities

Fuel prices in India are revised daily at 6 am under the dynamic pricing mechanism. Although rates are reviewed every day, they do not necessarily change unless global and domestic market conditions warrant an adjustment. Retail prices also vary from one state to another because of differences in Value Added Tax (VAT), dealer commissions and local levies.

Earlier this month, private fuel retailer Nayara Energy reduced petrol and diesel prices at its outlets, but state-run oil marketing companies have not announced similar cuts and continue to maintain existing prices across major cities.

Consumers are advised to check the latest fuel prices before refuelling, particularly if travelling between states where local taxes can significantly affect pump prices. Industry watchers will continue monitoring global crude oil movements, geopolitical developments and government policy decisions for any indication of future changes in retail fuel prices.

Also Read: Petrol, Diesel Prices Today: Check July 3 Fuel Rates in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Other Major Cities

Chennai Weather LATEST Update: Rain Likely in Chennai, IMD Issues 6-Day Forecast

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:54:06 +0530

Chennai Weather LATEST Update: Tamil Nadu is expected to witness light to moderate rainfall over the coming days, with Chennai likely to receive light showers today. The IMD has also issued strong wind warnings and a marine advisory for fishermen

Delhi Weather LATEST Update: Orange Alert for Delhi After First Strong Monsoon Spell Hits NCR

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:42:15 +0530

Delhi Weather LATEST Update: Delhi experienced its first widespread spell of monsoon rain on Sunday, bringing relief from heat after days of isolated showers. The IMD has now issued orange alert, predicting more rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds

Kolkata Weather LATEST Update: IMD Issues Orange Alert for Heavy to Very Heavy Rain

Amrita Ghosh — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:37:11 +0530

Kolkata Weather LATEST Update: A deep depression over the northwest Bay of Bengal has intensified monsoon activity across West Bengal. The IMD has issued an orange alert, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds

Haaland's brace powers Norway past Brazil in historic World Cup win

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:31:38 +0530

Erling Haaland described Norway's stunning FIFA World Cup Round of 16 victory over Brazil as "one of the most insane days in Norwegian history" after his second-half brace powered the Scandinavian nation into the quarter-finals for the first time, reported ESPN.

Haaland scored twice in a famous 2-1 win over the five-time world champions at MetLife Stadium, sending Norway into the last eight, where they will face the winners of the Mexico-England clash.

'This will inspire many young people'

Reflecting on the historic achievement, the Manchester City striker said the victory would be remembered as the greatest in Norwegian football history. "Maybe this will write history in Norway," Haaland said, as per ESPN. "Everyone just needs to enjoy themselves. This is just an insane day. It's one of the most insane days in Norwegian history. Just enjoy it, embrace it and enjoy the moment."

The 25-year-old also spoke about the impact he hopes the victory will have on future generations. "We're very proud of this, and it was certainly a huge game for Norway against Brazil. I think this will inspire many young people, just as I was inspired when I was young," he said.

He added, "We're very proud of what we've achieved here. Everyone needs to enjoy and savour this great victory, Norway's biggest victory in soccer. This is crazy. It's all just wonderful."

Haaland's brace seals historic win

Norway, appearing at their first World Cup since 1998, produced a disciplined display before Haaland broke the deadlock in the 79th minute with a powerful header. He then sealed the result moments later with a composed left-footed finish, taking his tally to seven goals in the tournament and drawing level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.

Patience was key

Looking back on the match, Haaland said patience proved crucial. "Every game is different," he said. "We needed one chance or another; it was important to wait for the opportunities and simply score when they came," Haaland added.

"A header to make it 1-0. The 2-0 was incredible-absolutely crazy. In Norway's history, this is the greatest game. We're proud to have secured these victories against Ivory Coast and Brazil," he said.

'All of Norway is now rowing'

Following the final whistle, Haaland led teammates and supporters in Norway's now-famous "Viking Row" celebration, beating a drum in front of jubilant fans.

Head coach Stale Solbakken said the celebrations had spread throughout the country. "I think all of Norway is now rowing," Solbakken said, as per ESPN. "It is great that this has become one of the images of the World Cup and that our fans back home are having such a good summer."

Calling it "the greatest night in Norwegian football history," Solbakken added that he had no preference over whether his side faced Mexico or England in the quarter-finals. "I don't have any preference. If it's Mexico, it's Mexico; if it's England, it's England," he concluded.

History repeats itself

Remarkably, if there's one team Brazil can't figure out, it's Norway. Across five meetings, the five-time champions have never beaten the Norwegians -- 2 wins for Norway, 3 draws. And twice it's happened on the World Cup stage.

In 1998, Norway trailed in Marseille before Flo and a Rekdal penalty turned it around in the final minutes, 2-1. That result sent them through. 28 years later, history repeated. On July 5, 2026 at MetLife Stadium, Haaland scored twice late to down Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16. The win took Norway to its first World Cup quarterfinal and ended Brazil's tournament. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Yogi Adityanath to inaugurate Prerna Park, unveil statues in Prayagraj

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:31:36 +0530

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will inaugurate Prerna Park on the banks of the Yamuna in Prayagraj on Monday and unveil bronze statues of Jana Sangh founder Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and former International President of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad Ashok Singhal. During the visit, the Chief Minister will also flag off the Ekta Boat Race on the Yamuna and address a public meeting at the park.

According to the programme, more than two dozen boats will participate in the Ekta Boat Race, which is being organised in memory of Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. Later, Yogi Adityanath will visit the auditorium of the Prayagraj Mela Authority at Parade Ground to review 1,553 works of the Public Works Department and other departments in the Prayagraj Zone involving projects worth more than Rs 2,500 crore.

Prerna Park: A Source of Inspiration

Prerna Park has been developed by the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation near Kali Ghat on the banks of the Yamuna for Rs 1 crore.

Prayagraj Mayor Umesh Chandra Ganesh Kesarwani said the park has been constructed with the aim of conveying the life values and ideas of Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Ashok Singhal, who are regarded as sources of inspiration for national service, cultural nationalism, social harmony and public welfare, to future generations. The park includes gardens, lighting, pathways, seating arrangements, beautification works and sanitation facilities around the statues.

The Chief Minister's visit also comes as the state government is undertaking works to give a new look to the ghats of the Ganga and Yamuna in Prayagraj.

Besides inaugurating Prerna Park and unveiling the statues, the Chief Minister's programme includes flagging off the Ekta Boat Race, addressing a public meeting and reviewing development works in the Prayagraj Zone.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Zlatan hails Norway's historic World Cup win, compares them to '94 Sweden

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:31:19 +0530

Former Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic hailed Norway's historic victory over Brazil, saying the Scandinavian side reminded him of Sweden's memorable run to a third-place finish at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, in a video shared by FOX Sports on X.

Reacting after Norway defeated Brazil to book a place in the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in their history, Ibrahimovic credited Norway's resilience and tactical discipline while questioning Brazil's display. "When the lion is hungry, he eats," Ibrahimovic said in a video shared by FOX Sports on X. "Listen, this Norway reminds me of Sweden, World Cup '94. And let's see if they can reach as far as Sweden did. Sweden came third place, but this story is a little bit similar and it's beautiful to see they continue to row this boat," he said.

Zlatan Questions Brazil, Praises Norway's 'Joga Bonito'

The former striker said Brazil had failed to impress him throughout the tournament and felt the tactical changes made by head coach Carlo Ancelotti did not produce the desired outcome. "And Brazil never convinced me, not since their first game, and the changes that Carlo did today didn't give results. The changes that Solbakken did gave results, and it seems like Norway was doing Joga Bonito while Brazil was doing Joga I don't know what," Ibrahimovic remarked in a video shared by FOX Sports on X. He further said, "They were dancing before the win, and yeah, now the Vikings is through to the next round."

'We're Enjoying Haaland': Ibrahimovic

Ibrahimovic reserved special praise for Norway striker Erling Haaland, who scored twice in the victory. "We're enjoying Haaland. I said it before the game, player to watch. Will he go a game without a goal? Not yet, another two today," he added.

Match Recap: How Norway Stunned Brazil

Erling Haaland scored twice in the closing stages as Norway stunned Brazil 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 at MetLife Stadium, reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in the nation's history.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ayodhya Ram Temple donation row: Trust to hold crucial meeting Monday

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:31:16 +0530

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust will hold a crucial meeting on Monday at the Ram Temple complex in Ayodhya amid the ongoing controversy over the alleged embezzlement of temple donations. The meeting comes as the issue has triggered a sharp political confrontation, with Opposition parties demanding a probe while the BJP accuses them of targeting the Hindu faith.

Temple administration assistant Gopal Rao said the meeting would take place at 3 pm inside the temple premises and that all members had been informed. "The trust meeting will take place at 3 PM within the temple complex. Everyone has been notified; we expect everyone to attend," he said.

Speaking later after arriving at Shri Vaidehi Bhavan Pushp Vatika, Rao said, "The meeting will be held inside the temple premises. Mahant Nritya Gopal Das ji will preside over it."

Political Row Intensifies Over Allegations

The controversy has intensified after allegations surfaced that donations made to the Ram Temple were misused. The Opposition has demanded an independent investigation, while BJP leaders have accused them of politicising an issue linked to the faith of millions of Hindus.

Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad said, "Our leader Akhilesh Yadav and we have demanded not once but multiple times that the trust should be dissolved... An investigation should have been conducted by keeping all the people of the trust out..."

In Mumbai, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray led the party's "Ram Raksha" protest at Dadar Hanuman Temple over the alleged donation embezzlement. Addressing supporters, Thackeray said, "All the Hindus of the country were awakened by Balasaheb. Hindus will not forgive them. All common people should be ashamed to take money as Hindus. Thieves have no right to take Rama's name. Today, all Hindus are gathered here. Let's crack down on these thieves. We will not rest until the theft is solved."

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant questioned the fate of donations made by his party. "Today, the offerings made by our countrymen are being stolen. Uddhav Thackeray visited the temple on behalf of the Shiv Sena party, and we made donations as well. Where did the silver brick we donated go? You engage in politics over people's sentiments and faith," Sawant said.

Party leader Vinayak Raut described the protest as the beginning of a larger campaign. "The entire Hindu community was present here today. The Ram Bachao movement began today. In the future, we will have to fight and move forward to protect Hindutva and Lord Ram," he said.

Investigation Progresses Amidst Political Heat

Meanwhile, the investigation into the alleged donation theft has progressed. Police sources said the Ayodhya Police have obtained court permission to question five of the eight accused currently lodged in jail. The accused, Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Ram Shankar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey and Manish Yadav, will be questioned inside the jail, and their statements will be formally recorded.

The Ayodhya Sant Mandal has also extended its support to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and urged the Trust not to accept his resignation.

BJP Accuses Opposition of Attacking Faith

Addressing the BJP's 'Shakti Kendra Sanyojak Sammelan' in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused the Opposition of shifting its politics towards attacking matters of faith after failing in what he described as caste and class-based politics. "The 'double-engine' government is working tirelessly to deliver the benefits of state schemes without discrimination to every section of society... this is precisely what troubles these opposition parties: the Samajwadi Party and the Congress. Their concern is that the very sections of society they used to divide along lines of caste and class have now been brought into the fold by the double-engine government through welfare schemes," Yogi said.

He added, "Seeing their divisive efforts fail, they are now resorting to attacking India's faith. That is why I call upon all of you: this is the time for us to be vigilant."

BJP National President Nitin Nabin also accused the Opposition of trying to gain political mileage from the controversy. "Even if we have to shed our own blood, we will ensure that no one plays with the faith associated with Lord Ram's temple. We are prepared to make whatever sacrifice is required. However, regarding these anti-Hindu forces, if they are trying to score political points today. Let me say this clearly to Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Arvind Kejriwal: do not underestimate Hinduism by thinking we will fall for your ruses or be misled by your deceptions," Nabin said.

He also said, "Regarding Lord Shri Ram's temple in Ayodhya, today, some people are raising questions about the discourse surrounding it. These are the same people who questioned the very existence of Lord Ram. They questioned the existence of the Ram Setu. These are the same people who opened fire on 'Kar Sevaks', causing rivers of blood to flow. Those who shed crocodile tears can never truly speak for the faith of Hindus."

SIT Probe Widens

Meanwhile, on Friday, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple arrived at the temple premises to carry out further investigation in the case. The SIT has been granted a 15-day extension to complete its investigation. The extension has been given to enable the SIT to widen the scope of its probe and conduct a comprehensive inquiry into all aspects of the case. The investigation will be expanded to ensure that every angle is thoroughly examined and that no guilty person is spared.

The Uttar Pradesh Police also intensified its investigation and questioned accused Avinash Shukla at the Special Operations Group (SOG) office in Ayodhya. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Priyank Kharge slams RSS over Ram Mandir fund row, alleges complicity

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:31:15 +0530

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Monday slammed the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) following remarks made by General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale regarding the alleged embezzlement of funds meant for the Ram Mandir. Addressing the controversy surrounding the collection and management of donations for the Ayodhya temple, Kharge questioned the moral authority of the organisation to call for punitive action against those involved in the misappropriation of funds.

Speaking to reporters in Kalaburagi, the Minister challenged the RSS leadership's delayed response to the allegations, suggesting deep-seated internal complicity within the organisations involved in the fundraising drive. "Who are they to seek punishment? Why did they wait for so long? Their own people did this. I am sure some funds must have gone to them also," Kharge stated.

RSS calls for strict action, transparent management

The remarks came after Hosabale said that the Uttar Pradesh government had constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) at the request of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust and initiated legal proceedings based on its recommendations. "It is essential to ensure that whoever is found guilty in the investigation receives strict punishment," Hosabale said.

He further urged the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust to treat the episode as an extraordinary matter and address any shortcomings in financial management and administrative systems. "The entire Hindu society, including the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, naturally expects the Trust to treat this highly condemnable incident as an extraordinary matter and take effective, serious steps to rectify all shortcomings in management and operations; this is essential to ensure that the faith and reverence of millions of Ram devotees in the Ayodhya temple remain unbroken and steadfast," he said.

Expressing confidence in the Trust, Hosabale said it would continue to strengthen devotees' faith through transparent financial management, seamless operations and systems rooted in sanctity and accountability.

RSS appeals for patience amid probe

The RSS also appealed to devotees to maintain patience while the investigation is underway and cautioned against attempts by what it termed "anti-Hindu" and "anti-national" forces to exploit the controversy. "The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh also appeals to the entire Hindu society to demonstrate necessary patience and restraint in this difficult moment and to foil the conspiracies of anti-Hindu, anti-national forces who seek to exploit this unfortunate incident to malign Hindu dharma and society," the statement said.

SIT investigation and resignations

The remarks come as the Special Investigation Team continues its probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple. The Uttar Pradesh government on July 1 granted the SIT a 15-day extension to broaden the scope of its investigation and conduct a comprehensive inquiry into all aspects of the case.

Meanwhile, an FIR was registered on June 25 after the SIT submitted its preliminary report on June 23, following which eight accused were arrested. Subsequently, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and former trustee Anil Mishra resigned, taking moral responsibility for the alleged misappropriation of temple donations. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

MEA warns against fake social media accounts claiming to be advisors

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:31:07 +0530

MEA Issues Stern Advisory Against Online Fraudsters

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a stern advisory warning the public against fraudulent social media accounts that falsely claim to guide the ministry on critical policy areas, including trade and migration. In a post shared by its official FactCheck handle on X, the ministry flagged that certain individuals are misrepresenting their credentials online by implying they hold advisory roles within the establishment. These deceptive accounts are reportedly soliciting money by offering paid sessions on how to collaborate with the ministry.

Scammers Falsely Claiming Advisory Roles

Categorically distancing itself from these handles, the MEA clarified that these individuals have no association with the government body. "It has come to the notice of the Ministry that certain individuals on social media platforms are making posts suggesting that they are advising MEA on policy-related matters, including trade, migration, and other issues. Further, these handles are also offering paid advice/sessions on how to work with MEA. These individuals have no connection to the Ministry, and the Ministry urges all to be careful against such fraudulent posts on social media platforms," the official handle posted.

It has come to the notice of the Ministry that certain individuals on social media platforms are making posts suggesting that they are advising MEA on policy related matters including on trade, migration and other issues. Further, these handles are also offering paid… — MEA FactCheck (@MEAFactCheck) July 5, 2026

Call for Vigilance Amid Misinformation Campaign

In light of these activities, the ministry has strongly urged citizens to remain vigilant and rely exclusively on verified official channels for any authentic communication or assistance. This advisory forms a core part of the government's wider campaign to tackle misinformation, impersonation, and online fraud. In line with this, authorities have consistently warned citizens against trusting unofficial accounts that exploit the names of government departments or fabricate claims of insider access to deceive the public for financial gain. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Uttarakhand: Alaknanda river submerges Namami Ghat in Rudraprayag

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:30:55 +0530

The Namami Ghat in Rudraprayag has been completely submerged following a rise in the water level of the Alaknanda River due to continuous heavy rainfall in the upper reaches of Uttarakhand's Garhwal region, officials said on Monday.

River in Spate, Water Level Rises

According to the district administration, persistent rainfall in the upper Himalayan region has led to a steady rise in the Alaknanda River's water level. The river is flowing with a strong current, while the water has turned highly turbid due to the heavy inflow. Officials said the Alaknanda River's water level was recorded at 622.90 metres above mean sea level (MSL) on Monday.

Authorities on High Alert

Following the situation, the district administration, Disaster Management Department and the Municipal Council are continuously monitoring the situation and have appealed to people to stay away from the riverbanks. The district administration has urged residents and visitors to avoid venturing near the Alaknanda River and remain in safe locations as heavy rainfall continues in the region.

Residents Urged to Evacuate

Meanwhile, speaking to ANI, Rudraprayag Municipal Council Chairman Santosh Rawat also urged residents living along the riverbanks to vacate their current dwellings and exercise extra caution. "The extreme heat is causing the snow to melt, while continuous rainfall in the region is raising the river's water level. We urge those living along the riverbanks to stay in safe locations; as the water level gradually rises, residents should vacate their current dwellings and exercise extra caution, especially at night," he said.

He added that the municipality is making public announcements to ensure that everyone living near the river moves to safe areas. "The municipality conducts a special campaign every year, and we are currently making public announcements to ensure that everyone living near the river moves to safe areas, prioritising their safety in light of the rising water levels," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India, Qatar deepen strategic partnership during Jaishankar's visit

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:30:41 +0530

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar concluded a pivotal visit to Qatar on July 5, 2026, marking a significant step in reinforcing the long-standing strategic partnership between New Delhi and Doha. During the visit, Jaishankar held extensive bilateral discussions with Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar. The talks centred on deepening cooperation across key sectors, including energy security, trade, and strategic investments, while also reaffirming the vital "people-to-people" ties that serve as the backbone of the relationship.

A major highlight of the discussions was the regional security landscape. Jaishankar specifically commended Qatar for its prominent and proactive mediation role in the ongoing US-Iran negotiations, acknowledging Doha's contribution to regional de-escalation efforts. "External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar concluded his visit to Qatar on 05 July 2026. During the visit, he held meeting with H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar. They reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations with a focus on energy, trade, investments and people to people ties. They also discussed regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest. EAM commended the prominent and active mediation role played by Qatar in the ongoing US-Iran negotiations," read the Ministry of External Affairs press release.

Both leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, identifying new pathways to boost trade and investment flows between the two nations, which remain crucial partners in the energy sector. The EAM also met with representatives of the Indian diaspora in Qatar. He lauded their resilience and steady commitment to deepening the India-Qatar partnership, particularly during the recent period of regional volatility. "EAM also interacted with representatives of Indian community and commended their resilience during the challenging time of regional conflict and appreciated their commitment to deepening India - Qatar partnership," added the release.

Jaishankar Thanks Qatari Leadership

Jaishankar on Sunday described the meeting as "a pleasure" and thanked the Qatari leadership for ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community in the Gulf nation. He said the discussions covered a wide range of areas of bilateral cooperation, including energy, trade, investments, connectivity, security and people-to-people ties. "A pleasure to meet Qatar PM & FM Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani in Doha today. Thanked him for ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community. Reviewed various facets of our bilateral cooperation especially energy, trade, investments, connectivity, security and people-to-people ties. Explored new opportunities for deepening our Strategic Partnership," the post stated.

India and Qatar elevated their ties to Strategic Partnership during the state visit of the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, to India in February last year. Jaishankar also appreciated Qatar's sharing of assessments on the ongoing West Asia conflict and its impact on the region. "Appreciate his sharing of assessments on the West Asia conflict and its impact," the EAM added.

During the visit to these countries, he will be meeting with his counterparts and the leadership. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

MP first state to reconstitute Waqf Board, includes 2 Hindu members

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:30:29 +0530

Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in the country to reconstitute its Waqf Board under the newly amended legislative framework, following a significant decision by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. In a first-of-its-kind move, the state government has included two Hindu members in the newly formed 10-member board. A notification regarding the reconstitution has been issued in the Madhya Pradesh Gazette. Sanwar Patel has been appointed as the Chairman of the MP Waqf Board.

New Board Composition

The two Hindu members included in the board are Manoj Malpani from Indore and Animesh Bhargava from Raghogarh, Guna. Exercising powers conferred by Section 13 (1) of the Waqf Act, 1995 (Amended-2025), the State Government formed the board as per the provisions mentioned in Section 14 of the Act.

The newly appointed members of the board include Najma Heptulla (New Delhi), Atif Aqueel (MLA Bhopal North), Faizan Khan (Ujjain), Sister Fatema Choudhary (Indore), Shaista Sultan (Councillor Berasia Bhopal), and Shabana Khan (Councillor Ratlam). Additionally, the Commissioner of Backward Classes and Minority Welfare has also been appointed as a member.

According to the notification, Najma Heptulla, who was previously appointed from the elected category in April 2023, will continue her tenure as her term is effective until April 18, 2028. Her name has been included in the new notification for the remaining duration of her term.

The reconstitution of the board under the updated Act marks a major administrative step by the government, aiming for prompt implementation of the new provisions of the Waqf Act.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Pune landslide: Family feared trapped in Mawal, NDRF team deployed

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:30:27 +0530

A harrowing incident unfolded early this morning in the remote village of Patan, located in Pune's Mawal taluka, after a landslide struck a residential home, leaving an entire family feared trapped under the debris. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, July 6, has triggered an emergency response as local authorities scramble to locate the residents.

NDRF team deployed for rescue

Following the distress call, the District Information Office confirmed that immediate assistance was requested from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). A specialised 30-member team from the 5th Battalion, stationed in Pune, was rapidly deployed to the site, according to the District Information Office, Pune.

The operation is being led by Inspector Ravinder, under the direct supervision of Assistant Commandant Chandraketu Sharma. The team includes two senior officers and 27 highly trained disaster management personnel. The unit departed for the village at 5:50 AM, equipped with advanced rescue gear and disaster management tools necessary to navigate the unstable terrain and clear the debris safely.

As of this report, the rescue operation is in full swing at the site. Authorities have stated that while the family is suspected to be trapped beneath the rubble, no casualties have been officially confirmed at this stage. The administration is focusing all efforts on clearing the landslide debris as quickly as possible to reach the occupants. Further updates are expected as the NDRF continues to work through the challenging conditions in the Mawal region.

Heavy Rains Lash Maharashtra

Earlier on Sunday, a massive landslide on the road leading to Rajmachi Fort completely blocked vehicular movement in Lonavala. Earth movers were deployed to carry out the debris clearance operations, traffic and local police said.

This came as Maharashtra witnessed a strong morning spell of rain lashing several parts of the state amid the 'Red Alert' issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) today.

The IMD also forecasted a "generally cloudy sky with moderate rain" to continue across the district till 10th July in Tehsil Mawal in Maharashtra's Pune district.

The Pawana River in the Ravet locality of Pimpri-Chinchwad was gushing as the area received heavy rainfall. The Pawana River in the Ravet locality of Pimpri-Chinchwad was gushing as the area received heavy rainfall.

Meanwhile, the Kondhwa area of Pune felt relief as local markets carried a vibrant hue in the light rain. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Disney Stock Gets Fresh Price Target Cut From Wall Street — So Why Is Retail Still Strongly Bullish?

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:15:01 +0530

The revised target still indicates an upside potential of about 11.5% from its last close.
Meanwhile, 27 out of 30 analysts covering the stock have a ‘Buy’ to higher recommendation, according to Koyfin data.
Retail investors on Stocktwits are ‘extremely bullish’ on the stock, with some calling it undervalued.

Walt Disney Co. (DIS) received a fresh price target cut from Raymond James on Thursday amid rising competition from rival Comcast’s (CMCSA) theme parks.

Analyst Ric Prentiss of the firm lowered the price target on Disney to $111 from $119, but kept an ‘Outperform’ rating on the shares. The revised target still indicates an upside potential of about 11.5% from its last close.

Despite the lowered target, retail investors remain ‘extremely bullish’ on the company, according to Stocktwits data.

Wall Street Consensus: Bullish Or Bearish?

While Raymond James lowered DIS’s price target based on its “Walk in the Parks” survey findings and various other channel checks, which indicated there would likely be some impact on very near-term park attendance and softer summer sentiment due to competition from Comcast, Wall Street is largely bullish on Disney’s growth potential.

Last week, JPMorgan raised its price target on DIS shares to $140 from $139 and maintained an ‘Overweight’ rating. The analyst also noted that investor sentiment on the stock "remains generally muted" amid concerns around its park attendance and future streaming growth. However, it added that it remains bullish on Disney's price and volume opportunity for experiences and direct-to-consumer channels.

As per Koyfin data, the 12-month average price target of $129.67 on DIS shares implies an upside potential of more than 30% on the company’s stock. Meanwhile, 27 out of 30 analysts covering the stock have a ‘Buy’ or higher recommendation.

Analysts overwhelmingly rate Disney a 'Buy' | Source: Koyfin

DIS Stock: Retail’s Bullish Stance

Retail investors are debating whether the company’s shares are deeply undervalued. One bullish user said, “so everywhere can get in before they release their ai advertising agent. Parks and ships undervalued, streaming undervalued.. ill take another block here.”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user responded to a bearish comment about the company’s shares with, “yeah. Im going to buy into overbuilding on pure speculation instead of a solid undervalued tried and true company .. this guy will end up being broke.”

View this Stocktwits post

A third user said, “Their closest conglomerate competitor $CMCSA is throwing themselves off a cliff. Disney about to have free reign on parks and experiences.”

View this Stocktwits post

DIS stock has declined about 11% in 2026.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

IREN Stock Climbs 5% Overnight As Speculation Builds Over Anthropic Contract

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:10:01 +0530

Many retail traders believe Anthropic’s RFP confirms that it is in the final stages of contracting IREN.
Anthropic could make the final decision in six weeks, The Australian Financial Review reported.
IREN trended on Stocktwits late Sunday, with a ‘bullish’ retail sentiment reading.

IREN Ltd. shares rose nearly 5% in overnight trading on Sunday after a report revealed that Anthropic had privately tendered for $15 billion in cloud capacity in Australia, a development many believe puts the neocloud company in pole position to land a significant contract with the AI startup.

Anthropic is seeking to procure at least 1.4 gigawatts of cloud capacity from Australian data centers and wants a local company to build and operate a data center campus of that scale, according to the tender, which was floated privately and reviewed by The Australian Financial Review (AFR).

The request for proposals (RFP), which landed on the desks of CDC Data Centers, AirTrunk, NextDC, Iren and Stack, among other players, culminated in an initial round of proposals in March, according to the report. A handful of parties were invited to on-site meetings in Canberra in early April, when Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei visited the city to meet Treasurer Jim Chalmers.

As of Sunday, Anthropic was said to be at least six weeks away from making a final decision, with the expectation that it could split the deal into four or five smaller contracts rather than signing with just one data center landlord.

IREN’s Pivot To Cloud Computing

The report comes after months of speculation that IREN has been in talks with the AI Startup for a cloud deal.

New South Wales-headquartered IREN has emerged as a closely watched stock, as the company pivots away from pure-play crypto mining toward AI cloud computing.

The move is anchored by two major milestones: a landmark agreement with Microsoft, signed in November 2025, that includes a 200-megawatt lease at its Childress facility, and a five-year contract worth an estimated $9.7 billion tied to Nvidia's GB300 GPU capacity.

Retail View On IREN, Neocloud Operators

IREN was trending among the top five tickers on Stocktwits late Sunday. Retail sentiment for the stock climbed in July and was ‘bullish’ as of the last reading, with message volume increasing by 336% over the past week.

“BIG BIG NEWS!!! Probably the BIGGEST news ever!!! On twitter a huge account, Serenity, who has a MILLION followers and was a big IREN bear has now turned MEGA BULLISH along with another former bear, NightHawk Capital, and put a $500 target on IREN!!! Why? It leaked that ANTHROPIC is looking to BUY 1.4GW of data center capacity in Australia and ONLY IREN HAS THAT!” a trader wrote.

In fact, the entire neocloud space is being closely watched amid surging demand for cloud capacity from AI firms, hyperscalers, and tech companies.

About 41% of some 4,700 respondents to an ongoing Stocktwits poll said they would bet on Nebius as their cloud stock of choice; IREN was second with 23% of votes.

IREN stock is up 3% year-to-date, based on its closing price on Thursday.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Why Retail Traders Couldn’t Take Their Eyes Off These Stocks Last Week: META, MU, BABA, TSLA, RKLB

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:05:01 +0530

Meta faced legal and regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. and India, and Alphabet lost a key EU antitrust appeal.
Alibaba reportedly moved employees toward its in-house AI coding tool while settling a $600 million U.S. DOJ case.
Rocket Lab’s $8 billion Iridium Communications acquisition garnered attention.

Artificial intelligence remained the centerpiece of the technology industry in the first week of July, but it wasn't the only story driving headlines. Major investments in AI infrastructure unfolded alongside antitrust rulings, lawsuits, product strategy shifts and government actions that touched nearly every corner of the technology sector, from cloud computing and semiconductors to electric vehicles and space.

Meta, Google And Amazon Face Regulatory Hurdles Even As AI Investments Rise

Meta Platforms (META) faced legal pressure in the U.S. after a federal judge allowed much of a lawsuit over Facebook and Instagram's alleged addictive design to move forward. Also, the Indian government raised concerns over Meta introducing usernames on WhatsApp, citing possible cybercrime risks.

On Saturday, India told Meta Platforms to remove all child sexual abuse content from its platforms, including Instagram.

Meta Platforms’ stock rose over 3% during the holiday-shortened week. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment toward the stock remained bullish.

Meanwhile, the European Union's highest court upheld a multibillion-euro antitrust penalty against Alphabet (GOOGL, GOOG), while Australian regulators sued Amazon.com (AMZN) over changes to its Prime Video subscription model.

Google's parent, Alphabet, and Amazon each gained 1% over the week.

Meta is planning to launch an AI cloud business that would rent computing power from its data centers to business customers, helping generate more revenue from its AI investments. Meanwhile, Microsoft drew attention for its new five-year partnership with Haleon (HLN), highlighting the growing use of AI tools such as Microsoft 365 Copilot and Azure in large businesses.

BABA’s AI Policy Shift And Regulatory Settlement

Alibaba (BABA) remained in focus after reports said it would stop employees from using Anthropic's Claude Code starting July 10 over alleged security concerns and instead shift them to its in-house AI coding tool, Qoder.

Separately, Alibaba agreed to a $600 million settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice to resolve allegations of illegal pharmaceutical sales through Alibaba.com, including forfeitures, penalties, and compliance measures.

Alibaba’s stock gained 0.6% while retail sentiment around the stock remained in ‘bearish’ territory.

Micron Hit With DRAM Lawsuit

The semiconductor sector drew attention after a proposed class-action lawsuit accused Micron Technology (MU), Samsung Electronics and SK hynix of coordinating DRAM production to keep prices elevated.

Micron stock slumped 14% over the week, while retail sentiment toward the stock remained in ‘bullish’ territory.

Separately, Amazon continued investing in custom chips for consumer devices, while Amazon Web Services announced a $1 billion commitment to a new engineering initiative supporting enterprise customers.

Apple's (AAPL) semiconductor supply chain also drew attention after reports that the company was seeking approval to source memory chips from Chinese manufacturer CXMT. Apple stock recorded a weekly gain of 9%.

Tesla Delivers Strong EV Growth

Tesla (TSLA) reported stronger-than-expected second-quarter deliveries, delivering 480,126 vehicles, up 25% from a year ago and above Wall Street estimates. Most deliveries were Model 3 and Model Y vehicles.

The company also had a strong quarter in China, where June sales of Shanghai-built Model 3 and Model Y vehicles rose 24.4% year over year to 89,091 units, marking its best monthly performance of 2026.

The company also said production capacity for its legacy Model S and Model X lines has been updated to manufacture Optimus humanoid robots. Despite the strong numbers, Tesla stock tumbled 4% over the week while retail sentiment around the stock remained in ‘bullish’ territory.

Space Industry Sees Lunar Mission Awards And M&A Activity

NASA selected Firefly Aerospace (FLY), Intuitive Machines (LUNR) and Astrobotic to help with future Moon science missions under its Moon Base program. The move shows that NASA continues to rely on private space companies to transport equipment and scientific payloads to the Moon.

While Intuitive Machines tumbled 6%, Firefly Aerospace stock slipped 0.5% over the week.

Rocket Lab’s plans to buy Iridium Communications in an $8 billion cash-and-stock deal to create a fully integrated space company stoked investors’ interest. The acquisition would combine Rocket Lab's rocket launches and satellite manufacturing with Iridium's global satellite communications network, helping the company expand into services such as satellite internet, direct-to-device communications, and navigation.

Rocket Lab stock gained over 2% in the week and retail sentiment around the stock turned to ‘neutral’ from ‘bullish’.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

TSLA Stock Rises Overnight: Analyst Sees Rebound This Week After EV Delivery Surge, But Calls Stock ‘Fully-Priced’

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:00:06 +0530

Black expects TSLA to rebound this week as Wall Street raises Q2 and FY26 estimates.
Tesla delivered 480,126 vehicles in Q2, up 25% year over year, while energy deployments rose 41%.
Morgan Stanley kept an ‘Equal Weight’ rating and $415 target, while Morningstar raised fair value to $450.

Shares of Tesla, Inc. (TSLA) rose 1% overnight late Sunday as investors weighed a sharp second-quarter (Q2) delivery rebound against an analyst warning that the stock still looks “fully-priced.”

TSLA stock rose 4% last week, snapping a two-week losing streak despite a 7% drop on Thursday.

Gary Black Sees TSLA Rebound

Gary Black, managing director of The Future Fund, said on X that he expects Tesla stock to rebound this week as Wall Street revises estimates after the EV maker’s stronger-than-expected delivery report. Tesla reported 480,126 global vehicle deliveries in Q2, up 25% from the same period last year. The company also said energy deployments grew 41%, extending momentum in a business that had already been growing quickly while auto sales slowed.

The second-quarter rebound followed a 6.3% delivery gain in the first quarter, which was still Tesla’s second-worst sales period since 2022.

“I expect TSLA stock to rebound this week as the sell-side climbs over one another to increase 2Q and FY’26 earnings ests,” Black said, adding that higher estimates “could boost TSLA price targets.” Still, Black said that the stock trades at a 2026 price-to-earnings multiple of over 200x, compared with expected long-term earnings per share (EPS) growth of about 35% for 2027-2032, leaving it at a 6x PEG ratio. That, he said, “continues to suggest TSLA is fully priced.”

Black also said that Tesla’s Q2 delivery strength may have been driven more by rising gasoline prices than excitement around autonomy. He said that the average price of a gallon of gas climbed from $2.98 before the U.S.-Iran war to $3.86 over the July 4 weekend, after peaking at $4.56 in June.

TSLA Targets Rise After Q2 Beat

Morgan Stanley analyst Andrew Percoco said Tesla’s Q2 deliveries beat sell-side consensus by 18% and marked the company’s highest auto growth rate since the third quarter of 2023. The firm maintained an ‘Equal Weight’ rating and a $415 price target on Tesla, implying a 6% upside from the current levels.

Morningstar also raised its fair value estimate for “narrow-moat” Tesla to $450 from $425 after the report, saying deliveries were nearly 20% above the company-compiled consensus. The new estimate implies a 14% upside from the last close. The firm said it was “surprised by the July 2 selloff,” though it still viewed the stock as fairly valued and in '3-star territory.'

Tesla AI Push Drives Bull Case

Morningstar said Tesla’s full self-driving (FSD) software is “starting to be approved for use by multiple European countries,” which it expects will support delivery growth in Europe. The firm also said that higher deliveries should lift automotive gross profit margins.

Tesla’s broader AI push remains central to the long-term bull case. Morningstar said “the majority” of its Tesla valuation comes from AI software and robotics ventures, with robotaxi accounting for 35%, FSD software subscriptions nearly 20%, and Optimus humanoid robot sales and subscriptions nearly 30% of its fair value estimate.

Over the weekend, Tesla Robotaxi said on X that its service is now available in Miami, posting, “What’s up with Miami? Robotaxi now available in Miami.” Tesla also introduced the Model Y Long Wheelbase in the U.S. and Puerto Rico last week, adding a six-seat layout, expanded cabin space, 325 miles of estimated range and support for FSD Supervised with integrated Grok AI.

Tesla will report full second-quarter earnings on July 22, when investors will be watching for updates on margins, robotaxi expansion, FSD, Cybercab, Semi production and the company’s AI roadmap.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About TSLA?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for TSLA was ‘bullish’ amid ‘high’ message volume.

TSLA sentiment and message volume as of July 5| Source: Stocktwits

One user said, “Retail will try to pump this back up and the market will happily take their money. Those delivery numbers were heavily engineered through profit destruction. Thats why the stock took such a big hit.”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user said, “since they added Miami this weekend to the Robotaxi service and production is ramping of the Robotaxi specific vehicle I think we’re gonna see him a large increase in the actual Robotaxi handling these cities, and maybe some expansion of the areas the first major leg in RoboTaxi expansion”

View this Stocktwits post

So far this year, Tesla's stock has lagged its "Magnificent Seven" peers, making it the group's second-worst performer, with a 13% loss.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Gold, Silver Prices Today, July 6: Precious Metal Rates Rise; Check Latest Prices in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata & More

Deevika NM — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:43:57 +0530

Gold prices remained firm on July 6 as both domestic and international bullion markets traded higher, reflecting sustained investor interest in precious metals amid global economic uncertainty. Silver also witnessed gains, tracking positive momentum across commodity markets.

In India, gold prices varied across cities depending on local taxes and jewellers' premiums. Buyers looking to purchase jewellery or invest in bullion should note that rates differ for 18-carat, 22-carat and 24-carat gold. Major markets including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Noida and Pune continued to report strong prices for the yellow metal.

City-wise Gold & Silver Rates Today (July 6, 2026)

City	24K Gold (10g)	22K Gold (10g)	Silver (1 kg)
Delhi	Rs 1,46,870	Rs 1,34,640	Rs 2,49,900
Mumbai	Rs 1,46,720	Rs 1,34,490	Rs 2,49,900
Kolkata	Rs 1,46,720	Rs 1,34,490	Rs 2,49,900
Chennai	Rs 1,49,450	Rs 1,36,990	Rs 2,59,900
Bengaluru	Rs 1,46,720	Rs 1,34,490	Rs 2,49,900
Hyderabad	Rs 1,46,720	Rs 1,34,490	Rs 2,59,900

In the futures market, gold contracts on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) traded with an upward bias, while silver futures also edged higher. Internationally, bullion prices on COMEX remained supported by expectations surrounding interest rates, currency movements and continued safe-haven demand from investors. A softer US dollar and uncertainty over the global economic outlook have continued to lend support to precious metals.

Also Read: Gold, Silver Rates Today, July 4: Check Latest Gold and Silver Prices Across Major Indian Cities

Market experts say gold continues to attract investors seeking protection against inflation and financial market volatility. Silver, meanwhile, is benefiting from both its appeal as a safe-haven asset and its growing industrial demand, particularly from the renewable energy and electronics sectors.

Investors are closely monitoring upcoming global economic data and signals from major central banks, as these are expected to influence the near-term direction of bullion prices. Any changes in monetary policy expectations, inflation trends or geopolitical developments could trigger fresh movement in gold and silver.

For jewellery buyers, checking city-wise rates before making purchases remains important, as prices can differ due to local levies, making charges and retailer margins. Long-term investors also continue to view gold as an effective portfolio diversifier during periods of economic uncertainty.

With bullion markets remaining volatile, analysts recommend keeping a close watch on both domestic MCX trends and international COMEX prices before making investment decisions. Gold and silver are likely to remain in focus this week as traders react to fresh global cues, currency fluctuations and developments in international financial markets.

Also Read: Gold, Silver Prices Today, July 3: Check Latest 22K, 24K Gold and Silver Rates Across Major Indian Cities

Will be a shield for CM Vijay; TVK govt has ended corruption: Vaiko

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:30:34 +0530

MDMK Chief Vaiko on Sunday said he would stand as a "shield" to protect Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay from political attacks by the opposition while accusing the DMK of targeting him for supporting the ruling TVK government.

Vaiko made the remarks while speaking to reporters after arriving in Coimbatore to attend a programme on the destruction of Karuvelam trees scheduled to be held in Tiruppur district on Monday.

'TVK govt ended culture of commission, bribery'

Praising the TVK government, Vaiko claimed it had taken effective steps to eliminate corruption. "The government has ended the culture of commissions and bribery. Eradicating corruption is the TVK government's greatest achievement," he said.

Vaiko alleged that the DMK was unable to accept being out of power and claimed he was being targeted because of his support for the TVK government.

'Mekedatu dam a threat to Tamil Nadu'

Referring to the Mekedatu dam project, Vaiko alleged that the Union government was "encouraging Karnataka to proceed with it". He claimed the proposed dam would pose a threat to Tamil Nadu and called for a united protest against the project.

Demands Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation

MDMK chief Vaiko also demanded that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan should resign over the alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) examination.

Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore, Vaiko briefly said, "I fully support that demand. Dharmendra Pradhan should immediately submit his resignation..." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Nasdaq, S&P 500, Dow Futures Rise After Fourth Of July Break As Investors Await Fed Minutes: SLS, ONDS, HOOD, MARA, HUT In Focus

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:05:01 +0530

The Q2 earnings season is set to begin full throttle next week as major U.S. banks start reporting quarterly results from July 14.
However, the highlight of the week will be the minutes from the Federal Reserve’s June meeting, set to be released on Wednesday.
Crude oil prices retreated late Sunday as markets closely watched developments between the US and Iran.

U.S. stock futures climbed higher in the overnight session late Sunday, extending the previous week’s rally as investors await the Federal Reserve’s June minutes due on Wednesday.

Nasdaq 100 futures jumped 1.33%, S&P 500 futures climbed 0.53%, while Dow futures were up 0.15% at 8:11 PM EDT.

Among ETFs tracking benchmark indexes, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY), the Invesco QQQ Trust (QQQ) and the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust (DIA) were all trading higher at the time of writing, with sentiment in green.

The iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (TLT) was trading down 0.09% amid ‘bearish’ sentiment.

How Did US Markets Fare On Thursday?

The benchmark indexes closed mixed on Thursday last week. U.S. stock and bond markets were closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped to record highs, adding nearly 600 points to close up 1.14%. The S&P 500 was flat at the end of the trading session, white the Nasdaq lost more than 200 points to close down 0.8%.

Index	Move	Close
Dow Jones Industrial Average	1.14%	52,900.07
S&P 500	-	7,483.24
Nasdaq Composite	-0.80%	25,832.67

However, all three indexes closed in the green for the week, climbing about 2% each.

US Market Drivers

U.S. stock markets are poised to start off the week strong, extending last week’s rally as markets gear up for the second-quarter (Q2) earnings season.

PepsiCo. (PEP) quarterly results are expected on Thursday, while Delta Air Lines (DAL) will follow suit on Friday. The broader Q2 earnings season will begin full throttle next week as major U.S. banks start reporting from July 14.

However, the highlight of the week will be the minutes from the Federal Reserve’s June meeting, set to be released on Wednesday. This was Kevin Warsh’s first meeting as Fed Chair. The central bank held the key interest rates steady at 3.5% to 3.75%.

Meanwhile, a softer-than-expected jobs report and Warsh’s unwillingness to provide cues about the central bank's policy path going forward at the ECB Forum in Sintra, Portugal, have lowered market expectations for a July rate hike. According to data from the CME FedWatch tool, the possibility of the Fed holding rates steady is at 78.1%, while odds of a rate hike are at 21.9%.

U.S. payrolls released last week rose by 57,000 in June, missing Wall Street expectations. Meanwhile, Warsh did not provide any clear signals about the central bank’s policy decisions in the meeting later this month, although he highlighted “high” inflation and added that policymakers will have a "good debate" when they meet in four weeks.

"I think it's going to be interesting to see how the discussion went around the table, how incrementally hawkish are they leaning," said Matthew Miskin, co-chief investment strategist at Manulife John Hancock Investments, reportedly told Reuters.

"That's what investors ‌and markets ⁠are going to be wondering: What is this new Fed chairman and updated (Fed policymaking body) looking for to decide the path of rates from here?" Miskin added.

Meanwhile, on the geopolitical front, millions mourned the death of Iran’s former leader Ali Khamenei at his funeral. The flow of ships through the Strait of Hormuz is reportedly tightening again as Tehran seeks to get a stronger hold on the critical waterways.

At least eight ships turned around on Saturday after IRGC issued warnings, according to a report from The Guardian, with flow thinning even further on Sunday.

Trending Stocks To Watch

SELLAS Life Sciences Group Inc. (SLS): The biotech company jumped onto the retail radar as a key acute myeloid leukemia (AML) trial nears its final readout. Shares of the company closed up nearly 13% on Thursday but were edging lower in the overnight session on Sunday.

Ondas Inc. (ONDS): The defense company is garnering attention amid a high short interest, which has surged to nearly a third of the company’s total float at 31.70%, according to Koyfin data.

Robinhood Markets Inc. (HOOD): The brokerage firm jumped nearly 3% higher on Thursday and continued to climb in the overnight session on Sunday amid a flurry of positive catalysts for the company, including announcements from its ‘World Is Flat’ event and a price target update from Mizuho.

Marathon Digital Holdings Inc. (MARA) and Hut 8 Corp. (HUT) are garnering increased attention amid the shift from Bitcoin mining to AI infrastructure companies.

Global Market Trends

Crude oil prices retreated late Sunday as markets closely watched developments between the US and Iran. At the time of writing, Brent crude futures expiring in August were down about 0.42%, trading at around $71.82 per barrel. Meanwhile, WTI crude futures expiring in August fell by about 0.28% to $68.50 per barrel.

Yields on the 10-year Treasury were at 4.479% at the time of writing, while spot gold prices rose to around $4,184.52 an ounce.

Asian markets largely traded higher at the open on Monday. South Korea's KOSPI, China’s SSE Composite index and Japan’s Nikkei 225 all edged higher at the time of writing. However, Australian stocks were trading lower at the open.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

FIFA WC: Brazil suffer earliest exit since 1990 after loss to Norway

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:00:50 +0530

'Sometimes you have to taste defeat', Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti said after the five-time world champions suffered a stunning 2-1 loss to Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, admitting his side now needs fresh ideas and greater quality in midfield following their earliest World Cup exit since 1990.

'That's football for you'

"I think we did a solid job, but that's football for you, that's sports. Sometimes you have to taste defeat," Ancelotti told reporters, as per Reuters, after Brazil's campaign came to a disappointing end at MetLife Stadium. The Italian, appointed to guide Brazil back to World Cup glory, insisted his side had controlled large parts of the contest despite failing to capitalise on their chances against a resilient Norwegian defence.

"At the beginning, it seemed to me we were a controlled team; we were creating opportunities," he said. "It was difficult to put on too much pressure because Norway was locking its defence, applying too much is a risk."

Missed Penalty Opportunity

Brazil had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the first half after Kristoffer Ajer was penalised for a foul on Matheus Cunha following a VAR review. Bruno Guimaraes stepped up but saw his penalty comfortably saved by Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland. Ancelotti explained that the decision to hand Guimaraes penalty duties was based on statistical analysis. "According to that, Neymar was the best person to take the penalty, and then Raphinha, and then Bruno," he said. "So we chose him as we felt he was the best on the field."

Haaland's Brace Sinks Brazil

Neither Neymar nor Raphinha started the match, with the veteran forward introduced after the second-half hydration break to a huge ovation from the crowd. However, it was Norway that found the breakthrough.

After withstanding sustained Brazilian pressure, substitute Andreas Schjelderup delivered a pinpoint cross for Erling Haaland to head home in the 79th minute before the striker added a second with a composed left-footed finish to seal one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Neymar converted a stoppage-time penalty after Leo Ostigard fouled Casemiro, but the goal came too late to alter the outcome.

Rebuilding for the Future

Looking ahead, Ancelotti admitted Brazil must rebuild. "We need some young talent, we need some high-level players coming into Brazilian football," he said, adding that the team would continue to "look for new ideas."

Norway's historic victory secured the Scandinavians a first-ever World Cup quarter-final berth, while Brazil's defeat marked a seventh consecutive knockout-stage loss to European opposition and their first failure to reach the last eight since the 1990 World Cup.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Indian diaspora in Indonesia excited for PM Modi's visit, eyes edu ties

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:00:24 +0530

Diaspora Expresses Excitement and Hope

Members of the Indian diaspora in Indonesia on Sunday expressed excitement ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the country, saying they were eager to welcome him and hopeful that bilateral ties, especially in the education sector, would grow stronger. Ajay Mulani, Secretary of Gandhi Seva Loka (GSL), said the organisation's schools have helped preserve Indian values, culture and traditions in Indonesia, and expressed hope that the Prime Minister's visit would further strengthen educational cooperation between the two countries.

"Because of the schools, we are very much tied up with the Indian values, culture, and tradition. We are very excited and eagerly waiting to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We hope that in the future this tie-up between India and Indonesia extends towards the education sector because we see India as a powerhouse of talent, digital technology, and higher education," Mulani told ANI. Shilpa Dave, founder of Ganesha ek Sanskriti Indian Restaurant, also welcomed the Prime Minister's visit, saying it filled the Indian community in Indonesia with pride. "PM Modi is coming; this is the third time he is coming to Indonesia. We are so happy. It makes us feel so proud when we see our Prime Minister, and he encourages all of us. We are looking forward to seeing him. Our relationship with the Indonesians will grow more stronger," she said.

PM Modi's Itinerary in Indonesia

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit Indonesia from July 6 to 8 at the invitation of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as part of his three-nation tour covering Australia, Indonesia and New Zealand. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), this will be the Prime Minister's fourth visit to Indonesia and his first bilateral visit since India and Indonesia elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018. During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will hold bilateral talks with President Prabowo to review the progress in the partnership. He will also address a large gathering of the Indian diaspora in Jakarta and visit the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects the historical and cultural ties between India and Indonesia.

Three-Nation Tour Details

Following the Indonesia leg of his tour, the Prime Minister will travel to Australia from July 8 to 10 and New Zealand from July 10 to 11, where he is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings, interact with business leaders and members of the Indian diaspora, and review the full spectrum of bilateral relations with both countries. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Gupta slams Kejriwal's arrogance, calls 'Who are you?' jibe desperate

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:00:23 +0530

Kejriwal's Remark a Sign of Desperation: Rekha Gupta

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched a scathing attack on AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, claiming that his remark asking "Who are you" to BJP national president Nitin Nabin is a clear sign of frustration and desperation. In an X post, CM Gupta first offered a detailed introduction of Nabin to highlight his achievements. "Mr. Arvind Kejriwal, Mr. Nitin Nabin, aged 46, is the youngest-ever national president of the world's largest political party, the Bharatiya Janata Party. He has had the honor of representing the Bankipur Assembly constituency in Bihar for four consecutive terms. Starting as an activist in the Yuva Morcha, he has journeyed all the way to becoming the party's national president. Currently, he has been elected as a member of the upper house of Parliament in the world's largest democracy. This is a brief introduction to him," the Chief Minister said.

She went on to accuse the AAP chief of masking political desperation with arrogance. "Everyone knows you're feeling desperate and disheartened. But it seems your ego is still riding high in the seventh heaven!" she said.

Drawing a parallel with a similar remark once made by former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee about Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gupta added, "By the way, Mamata ji once asked too, 'Who is this Amit Shah?' Time answers every question. Even Ravana's arrogance couldn't hold; who are you to think yours will?"

War of Words Over Ram Mandir Issue

The war of words began over the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Nabin had accused the Opposition leaders of remaining silent over "insults" of Hindu deities. In an address at BJP's Shakti Kendra Sanyojak Sammelan in Lucknow, he said, "Today, I want to tell Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Kejriwal that you do not consider the Hindu religion so weak that people will fall for your rhetoric."

"Because when your people insult Hindu deities, you all remain silent. The people of UP and the country will never tolerate the insult to Sanatan. We have preserved our heritage, for which our ancestors even made sacrifices," the BJP president said as the party gears up for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. Following that, Kejriwal had remarked, "Who are you?"

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Arvind Kejriwal have been outspoken and have cornered the BJP government at the Centre and in the state over the case.

Update on Ram Mandir Donation Probe

In a development in the probe into the Ram Mandir donation issue, on Saturday, police sources said the Ayodhya Police had obtained court permission to interrogate five of the eight accused currently lodged in jail in connection with the Ram Mandir donation theft case. The accused - Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Ram Shankar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey and Manish Yadav - are scheduled to be questioned inside the jail premises, with their statements to be formally recorded. Investigators may later seek their custody for further interrogation based on the findings of the questioning, police sources added.

Meanwhile, the Ayodhya Sant Mandal has extended its support to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust General Secretary Champat Rai, urging the Trust not to accept his resignation amid the controversy. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Trump spoke to FIFA's Infantino over Balogun's World Cup suspension

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:00:22 +0530

Trump's Intervention Confirmed

A United States official has confirmed that President Donald Trump spoke with FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding Folarin Balogun's suspension at the FIFA World Cup 2026, saying the conversation was aimed at understanding the basis for the striker's red card and subsequent one-match ban before an independent appeal process overturned the sanction.

Confirming the interaction, the official said, "The President and Infantino did speak, and the President wanted to better understand the reason why a red card was given and why there was a suspension. The appeal process is run by an independent board. The U.S. government provided additional evidence that was used in the appeal process. Ultimately, the correct and proper outcome was achieved."

FIFA Overturns Automatic Suspension

The confirmation comes a day after FIFA ruled that Balogun would be eligible to play in the United States' FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium despite having been sent off during the Americans' 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the previous round. The FIFA Disciplinary Committee announced on Sunday that the automatic suspension would not be enforced. In its statement, FIFA said, "By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year."

Controversy and Reactions

Balogun was shown a red card in the 64th minute against Bosnia and Herzegovina but had already established himself as one of the United States' standout performers at the tournament, scoring three goals during the campaign. Shortly after FIFA's decision was announced, Trump welcomed the outcome on Truth Social, posting, "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President Donald J. Trump." The decision has generated significant controversy, with Belgium's football federation objecting to FIFA's interpretation of its disciplinary regulations and stating it is examining all available legal options after Balogun was cleared to play.

Major Boost for US Ahead of Knockout Clash

For the United States, however, the ruling represents a major boost ahead of the knockout encounter in Seattle. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino will now have one of his leading attacking players available as the co-hosts bid to reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since the 2002 edition in Korea and Japan. The Americans last met Belgium in the World Cup during the Round of 16 in Brazil in 2014, where they were eliminated 2-1 after extra time despite Tim Howard's memorable 16-save performance. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

SLS Stock Notches 3-Week Winning Run: MassMutual Opens Tiny Stake Ahead Of Key AML Readout

Stocktwits Inc — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:00:07 +0530

MassMutual disclosed a tiny new stake of 24 SLS shares, valued at $354.24.
Investors remain focused on Sellas’ Phase 3 Regal AML trial, which is at 78 of 80 events needed for final analysis.
CEO Angelos Stergiou’s Fourth of July post and references to “strategic partners” fueled fresh retail buyout chatter.

Shares of Sellas Life Sciences (SLS) logged its third consecutive weekly gain last week after fresh institutional ownership data showed that MassMutual Private Wealth & Trust opened a small new position ahead of the company’s closely watched acute myeloid leukemia (AML) trial readout.

SLS stock rose 21% last week after a rally that included a 13% surge on Thursday. But shares are down 1% overnight late Sunday.

MassMutual Opens Small SLS Position

According to data from Quiver Quantitative, MassMutual Private Wealth & Trust, FSB disclosed ownership of 24 SLS shares as of June 30. The stake was valued at $354.24 and was reported on July 2. MassMutual’s 13F filing disclosed 2,495 stock positions with total holdings of $3.84 billion. Its largest holdings included Apple, Nvidia and Visa.

The same Quiver data also showed that First Financial Bank held 10,000 SLS shares, valued at $147,600, as of June 30. The stake was reported last week.

The central focus for SLS investors remains the company’s Phase 3 Regal trial of GPS, or galinpepimut-S, in AML. The trial has reached 78 of the 80 events required to trigger its final analysis, putting Sellas close to one of the most important clinical readouts in its history. Sellas CEO Angelos Stergiou has called the slower-than-expected event accumulation an encouraging sign.

Sellas has previously said the Regal trial would be considered successful if GPS extends median overall survival to 12.6 months, compared with 8 months under standard treatment.

SLS Retail Traders Watch For Buyout Signs

Sellas has also remained a focus among retail investors looking for possible buyout or partnership clues. Stergiou’s Fourth of July LinkedIn post also became fresh fodder for retail buyout chatter. In the message, the CEO said: “To our clinical investigators, research sites, collaborators, strategic partners, and shareholders: Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your continued belief in our vision. Meaningful innovation is never achieved alone,” adding that he was “incredibly optimistic about the future.”

Investors are also parsing Sellas’ updated executive severance and change-of-control arrangements. Stergiou’s amended agreement shifts certain change-of-control severance payments to a lump sum. CFO John Burns and Chief Development Officer Dragan Cicic would receive 15 months of base salary, target bonus payments, COBRA reimbursement and full equity acceleration under qualifying change-of-control terminations.

The company’s market cap has grown from $73 million at the start of 2024 to more than $1.5 billion by mid-2026. Sellas also ended the first quarter with $107.1 million in cash and raised another $28.7 million through warrant exercises in April and May.

Shareholders recently approved a 20 million-share increase to Sellas’ 2023 Equity Incentive Plan. Stergiou was also awarded 1.065 million restricted stock units, vesting over four years. Following the grant, his ownership increased to 1.76 million shares.

How Do Retail Traders Feel About SLS?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment for SLS has been ‘extremely bullish’ since a week amid ‘high’ message volume.

SLS sentiment and message volume as of July 5| Source: Stocktwits

One user said, “$SLS 80th news possibly this week, possibly Monday pre market”

View this Stocktwits post

Another user said, “$SLS I liked it at $3, I liked it at $8, I still like it at $15. Still cheap compared to BO price, IYKYK.”

View this Stocktwits post

SLS stock has surged 607% over the past year.

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Haryana: Powerful explosion at retired Army Subedar's house in Rewari

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 06:00:22 +0530

A powerful explosion occurred at the house of a retired Army Subedar in Hans Nagar, Rewari, leaving five people with burn injuries. All five were referred to a higher medical centre.

'Felt like an earthquake,' says eyewitness

Speaking to ANI, a local resident, describing the scale of the blast, said, "There was a massive explosion. The police were informed afterwards. The police arrived at the scene. The cause will be determined based on the findings of the forensic team. The situation inside is severe. People nearby said it felt like an earthquake. There were five people, and four of them have been referred to Rohtak."

Police investigation underway

Police officials reached the spot soon after the explosion was reported. Several things inside the house were thrown around and broken. Further details on the circumstances leading to the explosion are awaited. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Solidarity from Srinagar: Activist supports PoJK anti-Pakistan stir

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:30:52 +0530

Srinagar Activist Backs PoJK Protestors

Jammu and Kashmir-based social activist Javed Ahmad Beigh on Sunday expressed solidarity with people protesting in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), saying he stood with those demanding the release of Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir and others arrested there.

Massive anti-Pakistan protests have erupted across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) following a severe government crackdown and the sweeping arrests of more than 600 civil rights activists.

Beigh had planned to stage a protest outside the United Nations office in Srinagar in support of the demonstrators in PoJK. However, citing security reasons, he said the protest was held at his residence instead.

'Fighting Against Oppression'

Expressing support for the protesters, Beigh said, "Our Kashmiri Muslim brothers and sisters from all ethnic groups of Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), including Pothwaris, Paharis, Gojris (Muslim tribal community of Gujjar & Bakarwals), Sudhans, Muslim Rajputs, Hindkos, Mughals, Awans, Mirpuri Muslims, Muslim Jats and ethnic Koshur-speaking Kashmiri Muslims of Neelum Valley and from all 10 districts of PoJK (Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Hattian Bala, Bagh, Haveli, Poonch, Sudhnoti, Kotli, Mirpur and Bhimber), are gathering together under the banner of the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) and marching towards the Assembly Building of PoJK to demand the release of Shaukat Nawaz Mir, the leader of JKJAAC, and others arrested by the puppet police of PoJK under orders of Punjabi Muslim rulers sitting in Islamabad and Rawalpindi."

He further said, "On behalf of the people of the Indian Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, I extend my full solidarity with my brothers and sisters from PoJK who are fighting against the oppression and tyranny of the state of Pakistan and its Punjabi Muslim ruling elite."

Beigh further added that the demonstration planned outside the UN office in Srinagar could not be held due to security-related reasons, following which he expressed his support for the PoJK protesters from his residence.

Crackdown and Violence in PoJK

This come after police brutality by Pakistani forces on Sunday intensified against people protesting against the severe crackdown by Islamabad and the sweeping arrests of more than 600 civil rights activists in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), with reports of shelling, firing and clashes emerging from several parts of Muzaffarabad.

According to the information shared by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) on X, security forces resorted to shelling in Muzaffarabad and damaged the motorcycles of several youths during the protests.

The police and Pakistan Rangers fired tear gas shells at protesters as demonstrations continued in the city.

Tensions in the region escalated drastically today as one person was killed and several others were injured after Pakistan Rangers opened fire on protesters, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) PoJK unit said.

Meanwhile on June 30, the JAAC sharply criticised Islamabad after a political delegation led by opposition leaders was reportedly stopped from entering PoJK, describing the move as further evidence of the state's suppression of democratic rights and political dissent.

Activists state that Pakistani forces are currently using drones for surveillance of the people's sit-in protests, prompting local leaders to call for a complete boycott of the local elections scheduled for July 27.

The committee has called for peaceful demonstrations across PoJK, urging participants to carry white flags and demand fundamental rights while maintaining peace. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Delhi: Woman's death after fall sparks claims of husband's abuse

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:30:39 +0530

The family of a woman who died after allegedly falling from the third floor of an NDMC residential complex in Delhi's Lodhi Colony on Sunday claimed that the victim was subjected to harassment and physical abuse by her husband. Speaking to ANI, the deceased's brother, Amay Sutar, said the family was informed about the incident on Saturday night.

Family Alleges Harassment, Abuse

"We found out about all this last night, between 9:30 and 10:00 PM. When we called the police station, we learned that my sister had met with an accident or some sort of mishap. When we arrived here, we were made to wait for about an hour. We were told she was in the hospital, and we had to wait for a call. Later, we were informed that she was no more," he said. Alleging that his sister had faced abuse, Amay Sutar said, "She had been suffering for a long time; her husband used to blame her excessively. He would torture her, harbour extreme suspicions, and even physically abuse her. When she told us, we took action, just 2-3 days before this incident occurred."

According to police, the woman died after allegedly falling from the third floor of an NDMC residential complex in Lodhi Colony. Police are investigating the incident. Further details are awaited.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

World Cup 2026: Mexico-England match delayed due to severe weather

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:30:31 +0530

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash between Mexico and England was delayed by one hour on Sunday (Local Time) after severe weather, including lightning, heavy rain and hail, struck the area around the Azteca Stadium, reported ESPN.

Delay Confirmed Amid Severe Weather

FIFA confirmed that the match, originally scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. local time, would now kick off at 7 p.m. local time (9 p.m. EDT) after storm protocols were activated. "Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including risk caused by lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the kick-off of the World Cup 2026 round of 16 match between Mexico and England has been delayed to 7 p.m. local time (9 p.m. EDT). The safety and security of all individuals is FIFA's priority. We thank all fans for their understanding and cooperation," a FIFA statement read.

According to ESPN, a shelter-in-place order was issued approximately an hour before the scheduled kickoff, with spectators, media and stadium staff instructed to remain under cover as thunder rolled over the stadium and lightning flashed across the sky.

The disruption came after discussions earlier in the week about moving the match to an earlier start time to avoid forecast storms. At one stage, a noon kickoff was considered, but FIFA ultimately retained the original evening schedule before Sunday's weather forced the postponement.

Starting Lineups

Starting XIs England: Jordan Pickford, Jarell Quansah, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Nico O'Reilly, Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane.

Mexico: Raul Rangel, Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes, Johan Vasquez, Jesus Gallardo, Erik Lira, Luis Romo, Gilberto Mora, Raul Jimenez, Julian Quinones, Roberto Alvarado.

Tuchel made three changes to England's lineup, with Jarell Quansah replacing Djed Spence at right back and Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon returning to the starting XI. Aguirre, meanwhile, kept faith with the same Mexico side that defeated Ecuador in the previous round.

FIFA Lightning Protocol

Under FIFA protocol, a match cannot begin or continue if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium. Play can only resume after a 30-minute period without any lightning strikes, with each new strike resetting the countdown timer. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Heavy Rain Alert: Pune, Mumbai declare holiday for schools Monday

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:30:30 +0530

Following a 'Red Alert' issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of extremely heavy rainfall, the district administration here declared a holiday for all schools across Pune district on Monday as a precautionary measure for the safety of students.

In an X post, Pune Municipal Corporation has also appealed to citizens to avoid stepping out of their homes unless absolutely necessary, stay away from rivers, streams, and other dangerous locations, and strictly follow the instructions issued by the local administration from time to time. Important Notice | For citizens' information ️ 'Red Alert' issued for Pune district tomorrow (July 6, 2026). The Meteorological Department has issued a 'Red Alert' for Pune district on July 6, 2026, and in view of the potential for extremely heavy rainfall, the Hon. District Collector Shri. Jitendra Dudi has… pic.twitter.com/FOOYGgS3D7 — PMC Care (@PMCPune) July 5, 2026

Mumbai schools, colleges closed

Meanwhile, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Sunday announced that all government, private and civic body-run schools and colleges in Mumbai will remain closed on July 6 (Monday) after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an 'orange alert' forecasting heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds.

The BMC said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students in view of the weather forecast.

In a statement, the BMC said, "In view of this forecast and keeping the safety of students in mind, a holiday has been declared on Monday, July 6, 2026, for all government, private, and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) schools and colleges in Mumbai."

The BMC, however, clarified that government and private offices will function as usual.

Holidays in Thane, Navi Mumbai

Thane District Collector Shrikrishnath Panchal also announced that the Anganwadis, Balwadis, primary schools, and secondary schools will remain shut in the district tomorrow.

Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) also announced the closing of all schools on Monday for the safety of students amid incessant rain. Navi Mumbai Mayor Sujata Patil and NMMC Commissioner Kailas Shinde appealed to citizens not to step out of their homes unless absolutely necessary. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kolkata Puja committee unveils PM Modi mural, hopes he'll visit

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:30:25 +0530

Mural Depicts PM Modi Performing Aarti

Kolkata's historic Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja Committee unveiled a magnificent wall mural depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi performing the Aarti of Goddess Durga ahead of the autumn festivals. This artwork was created to commemorate the Prime Minister's recent visit to the nearby Thanthania Kali Bari.

Puja Committee Hopes for PM's Visit

Secretary of Chorebagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab Samity, Pratyusha Banerjee, expressed the wish for PM Modi to perform Durga Puja in Bengal in the future. She told ANI, "We know that our Honorable Prime Minister is a very religious person. We have seen him going to many religious places. Even before the Bengal elections, when he came to Bengal, he had performed Aarti for Mother Kali at Thanthania Kalibari. Thanthania Kalibari is at a five-minute walking distance from the Puja courtyard of Chor Bagan Durgotsav Committee. So it is our wish that the BJP government has been formed for the first time in Bengal. We hope that the Prime Minister, who is so religious, is seen at many religious places. Yes, so he should come to Bengal this year at the time of Durga Puja, perform Aarti in some pavilion, perform it for Mother Durga. Because we have never seen him in Bengal at the time of Durga Puja before. So maybe this year when the government has been formed, we might be able to see him."

A Historic Puja Committee

'Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durgotsav Samiti' is one of the most prominent and historic organisations hosting Durga Puja in central Kolkata. It is celebrating the 91st year of its tradition, devotion, and cultural heritage. As part of this year's preparations, the Puja committee has unveiled the mural. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Haaland's brace leads Norway to historic World Cup QF over Brazil

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:30:21 +0530

Norway's famous 'Viking Row' celebration echoed around MetLife Stadium after the Scandinavian nation scripted the biggest result in its football history, defeating five-time champions Brazil 2-1 to reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals for the first time.

Haaland Leads Iconic 'Viking Row' Celebration

With thousands of Norwegian supporters moving in perfect synchronisation to imitate the rowing of a traditional Viking ship, the now-iconic celebration once again became one of the defining images of the tournament. This time, it was match-winner Erling Haaland who took centre stage. After firing a decisive second-half brace to eliminate Brazil, the striker stood at the front of the jubilant celebrations, beating the drum and leading teammates and supporters through the thunderous chants of "Ro!" that have become synonymous with Norway's remarkable World Cup run. Captain Martin Odegaard had led the celebration after the Round of 32 victory, but following his match-winning heroics against Brazil, Haaland was handed the honour.

The Manchester City forward later summed up the night with a brief post on X, sharing a photograph of himself alongside the caption, "Well well well" followed by a smiling emoji. After some time, he shared another post with the caption, "Worth the 28-year wait!"

Disciplined Norway Stuns Tournament Favourites

On the pitch, Norway produced a disciplined and clinical performance to stun one of the tournament favourites. Brazil dominated much of the contest and were handed an ideal chance to take the lead after Kristoffer Ajer was penalised for a foul on Matheus Cunha inside the area. However, goalkeeper Orjan Nyland brilliantly denied Bruno Guimaraes from the penalty spot to keep the scores level.

Carlo Ancelotti's side continued to press after the break, but Nyland repeatedly frustrated the Brazilian attack before Norway seized control late in the contest.

Substitute Andreas Schjelderup changed the momentum after coming on and delivered a pinpoint cross in the 79th minute for Haaland to head Norway in front.

Moments later, the prolific striker struck again, calmly firing a left-footed finish beyond Alisson Becker to double the advantage.

Neymar converted a stoppage-time penalty after Leo Ostigard was penalised for a foul on Casemiro, but it proved only a consolation as Brazil crashed out.

The victory extended Norway's unbeaten record against Brazil to five matches and secured a historic place in the quarter-finals, where Stale Solbakken's side will face either Mexico or England. Haaland's two goals also took him to seven for the tournament, drawing level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Final: 6 Records Shattered by Australia With a Victory over England

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:02:06 +0530

Australia clinched their record-extending 7th Women's T20 World Cup with a victory against England at Lord's. The victory saw six records fall, including the highest successful chase in a final and milestones for Ellyse Perry and Beth Mooney.

Mooney's dual awards cap Australia's T20 World Cup 2026 triumph

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:59 +0530

Australia star Beth Mooney said the team's hard work and evolution over the past year made their ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 triumph even more satisfying after she starred in the final against England and swept both the Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament awards. Mooney anchored Australia's successful chase of 151 with a composed 64 off 49 balls as the defending champions defeated England by seven wickets with 17 balls to spare at Lord's to clinch a record-extending seventh Women's T20 World Cup title.

'A lot of growth': Mooney on satisfying win

Reflecting on being named Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament, Mooney said, "Yeah, this has been on the calendar for a little while for us. So, it's just nice to be part of the squad first and foremost and have a role to play, opening the batting and wicketkeeping. So, yeah, just pumped to be here. There's been a lot of evolution in this group in the last 12 months, and a lot of growth and some fun times as well. So, really nice that we've capped it off with this today."

Speaking about finally lifting the trophy after Australia fell short in the previous two ICC events, she added, "Yeah, just happy to be here. I think it's been pretty well documented that we haven't quite made it this far in the last two ICC events. So, yeah, just woke up this morning pretty grateful we made it this far."

Praise for Captain Molineux

Mooney also praised new captain Sophie Molineux for guiding the side through an unbeaten campaign. "Yeah, so, she's been amazing. She's just calm and composed and doesn't look too flustered, I think. She's put her own spin on the captaincy and been a great leader. I think she's been a great leader in Australian cricket for a long time. People probably just haven't been able to see that. And now we're fortunate we get to see it firsthand. And, you know, the girls have really got around her, and it's just amazing icing on the cake for what's been a pretty amazing tournament for us as a group," she said.

Reflections on Personal Performance

The experienced wicketkeeper-batter also reflected on her performances behind the stumps, including a sharp stumping of England opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge. "Yeah, you know, warmed up in the tournament. I think at the start I was a bit rusty, but got some great support in our coaching staff with Dan Kiley and Shell, the boys and Sean McLeod. So, I've had plenty of help along the way. I can't take too much credit. It's been really nice to have some consistency with the gloves and to play a role in the field as well," said the 32-year-old wicketkeeper-batter.

The Winning Chase

Explaining her approach during the title-winning chase, Mooney said, "Oh, I think, you know, as I spoke about in the semi-final, it's really important to settle the dugout in the powerplay in a big game. Voll got us off to a really good start, hit the ball really well and then had an unfortunate dismissal. Phoebe came out and nailed it from ball one. So, you know, I just kept going and tried to make sure we got ahead of the game as early as possible."

Australia recovered quickly after losing opener Georgia Voll in the second over, with Mooney and Phoebe Litchfield adding a match-defining partnership that powered the side to 62/1 at the end of the powerplay before taking them beyond the 100-run mark in the 11th over. Litchfield made a fluent 48, while Mooney registered her ninth Women's T20 World Cup half-century before Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner completed the chase.

Disciplined Bowling Restricts England

Earlier, Australia's disciplined bowling attack restricted England to 150/4 despite an unbeaten 58 from captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and 44 from Freya Kemp. Annabel Sutherland, Sophie Molineux, Lucy Hamilton and Kim Garth picked up a wicket apiece to lay the foundation for another memorable World Cup triumph. (ANI)

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BJD alleges 20 lakh voters excluded from Odisha's draft electoral roll

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:56 +0530

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has sounded an alarm over the recently published draft electoral roll in Odisha, alleging that the names of over 20 lakh voters have been excluded from the list during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.

BJD Voices Concern Over Deletions

Following the release of the draft roll on Sunday, BJD Vice President Debi Prasad Mishra spoke to ANI, expressing deep concern over the scale of deletions. "Today, in accordance with the schedule, the draft electoral roll has been released following the initial Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process," Mishra stated. "Before this, we had raised our concerns with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha regarding the data indicating that over 20 lakh voters have not been included."

The opposition party provided a granular look at the alleged gaps, highlighting inconsistencies across several regions. According to the BJD, over 50,000 voters were excluded across 49 Assembly constituencies, while another 46 constituencies saw more than 10,000 exclusions each.

Official Response and Public Recourse

Official data from the Chief Electoral Officer confirms that approximately 20.14 lakh names have been identified for deletion in the draft rolls, citing reasons such as death, permanent relocation, or duplicate entries.

While the BJD continues to push for a correction, CEO RS Gopalan has urged citizens to participate in the upcoming claims and objection period, which began Sunday. "If anyone's name is not found in the draft voter list, he or she has to fill out and submit a Form 6 to get the name included in the final roll," Gopalan stated.

The final electoral roll for Odisha is scheduled to be published on September 6, following a thorough verification of all claims and objections.

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Uddhav Thackeray leads 'Ram Raksha' protest over Ram Mandir funds

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:49 +0530

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday led the "Ram Raksha" protest organised by his party at the Dadar Hanuman temple in Mumbai on Sunday over the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya.

Addressing the gathering, Thackeray said, "All the Hindus of the country were awakened by Balasaheb. Hindus will not forgive them. All common people should be ashamed to take money as Hindus. Thieves have no right to take Rama's name. Today, all Hindus are gathered here. Let's crack down on these thieves. We will not rest until the theft is solved."

"Ram Raksha Andolan" was announced by Thackeray earlier last week. He had also questioned whether the BJP was running an "Operation Ram Mandir", referring to the 'Operation Tiger' which saw the party's MP switch to Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena earlier.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant, who also took part in the protest, raised questions over donations made by the party during an earlier visit to the temple. "Today, the offerings made by our countrymen are being stolen. Uddhav Thackeray visited the temple on behalf of the Shiv Sena party, and we made donations as well. Where did the silver brick we donated go? You engage in politics over people's sentiments and faith." Sawant said.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Vinayak Raut, addressing the protesters, described the gathering as the start of a larger movement to protect Lord Ram and 'Hindutva'. "The entire Hindu community was present here today. The Ram Bachao movement began today. In the future, we will have to fight and move forward to protect Hindutva and Lord Ram." Raut said.

Police Probe into Donation Theft

In a development in the probe into the donation issue, on Saturday, police sources said the Ayodhya Police had obtained court permission to interrogate five of the eight accused currently lodged in jail in connection with the Ram Mandir donation theft case.

The accused - Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Ram Shankar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey and Manish Yadav - are scheduled to be questioned inside the jail premises, with their statements to be formally recorded. Investigators may later seek their custody for further interrogation based on the findings of the questioning, police sources added.

Ayodhya Sant Mandal Backs Champat Rai

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PM's 3-nation tour to boost ties with Indo-Pacific partners: Shringla

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:32 +0530

Rajya Sabha MP and former Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Sunday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's three-nation visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand would further strengthen India's engagement with key Indo-Pacific partners by expanding strategic, economic and people-to-people cooperation.

Speaking to ANI, Shringla said the visit reflects the continued focus of India's Act East and Mahasagar policies and builds on the momentum created through recent high-level engagements in the region. "I think it's a very important visit because it is a focus on our Indo-Pacific partners. We just had a very significant visit of the Prime Minister of Japan to India, and now this is followed by the PM's visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. These are very important partners in the Eastern Indo-Pacific," he said.

A Focus on Indo-Pacific Partners

Calling the tour a continuation of India's regional outreach, Shringla said, "It is a continuation of our Act East and Mahasagar policies. From that perspective, it is also a consolidation of efforts that have already been made by Prime Minister Modi to significantly enhance our ties with these important countries, not only in the strategic and defence domains, but also on the economic side, cultural and heritage side, on the people-to-people connect areas."

"I think there will be a lot of interest in this visit, and we will look forward to many very positive outcomes from these countries," he added.

Strengthening Ties with Australia

On Australia, the former Foreign Secretary said bilateral ties have witnessed rapid growth over the past decade and expressed optimism about progress on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). "Our relations with Australia have developed very quickly in the last decade or so. We signed an agreement on cooperation in economic and trade areas, and we are looking to consolidate that into a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which is a balanced agreement, during the visit or at least in the near future," he said.

Shringla said Australia remains a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific, particularly through the Quad framework. "We just had a meeting of the QUAD foreign ministers. Japan, Australia, Indonesia -- these are all important aspects of that strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific, especially in the Eastern Indo-Pacific, and I think we will be building on that significantly," he said.

He also highlighted cooperation in critical minerals and energy security. "We will also be looking at how we can access critical and strategic minerals. Uranium is one of them, where I think we have now more or less reached a stage where we can start operational import of uranium from Australia. That will be an important step, but also the import of a lot of natural resources from Indonesia, especially rare earths and strategic minerals," Shringla said.

Historic Visit to New Zealand

Speaking on New Zealand, Shringla said the visit would be historic as it marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in four decades. "New Zealand is also a country with whom we have made very rapid strides in terms of developing practical areas of cooperation. A free trade agreement is one of them. It is very significant," he said.

Referring to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's support for the proposed trade pact, Shringla said, "There's been some opposition to the free trade agreement in New Zealand, but Prime Minister Luxon has pushed it through because he believes that the partnership is a very significant one and will be to the benefit of both countries."

"I think this is the first visit by a Prime Minister of India in 40 years to New Zealand. Very significant from that point of view. We also have a very big Indian-origin community in New Zealand, who are contributing greatly to New Zealand's economy. The idea is to capitalise on all of that and see how we can take this important relationship to the next level," he added.

PM Modi's Itinerary

PM Modi will visit Indonesia from July 6 to 8 at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto, followed by Australia from July 8 to 10 at the invitation of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and New Zealand from July 10 to 11 at the invitation of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the Prime Minister will hold bilateral meetings with the three leaders, interact with members of the Indian diaspora, and review the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation during the three-nation tour. (ANI)

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Belgium FA 'astonished' by FIFA ruling on US striker Folarin Balogun

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:31 +0530

Belgian FA Protests FIFA Decision on Balogun

The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) has expressed strong opposition to FIFA's decision to make United States striker Folarin Balogun eligible for Monday's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash, describing the ruling as surprising and saying it is exploring all possible avenues to protect its interests.

RBFA Cites Regulations in Legal Challenge

The statement said, "Article 66.4 of the same FIFA Disciplinary Code clearly provides that a red card (sending-off) automatically results in a suspension for the team's next match, as has been the case for all previous red cards issued during this FIFA World Cup."

The RBFA also pointed to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Competition Regulations, citing Article 10.5, which states that "If a player or team official is sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card (second caution), they will automatically be suspended from their team's subsequent match."

According to the Belgian federation, the principle of an automatic suspension had also been reinforced in FIFA World Cup 2026 Circular No. 16, distributed to participating member associations on May 12, and reiterated during pre-match coordination meetings and tournament workshops.

The federation concluded by saying it would consider its next steps, adding, "In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options."

FIFA Suspends Automatic Ban

The controversy follows FIFA's announcement that the implementation of Balogun's automatic one-match suspension had been suspended under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. In its statement, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee said, "By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year."

Donald Trump Welcomes Decision

The decision also drew a swift reaction from United States President Donald Trump, who thanked FIFA on Truth Social, writing, "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice! President Donald J. Trump."

Balogun is now expected to be available when the United States face Belgium in Seattle, with a place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals at stake.

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Iran thanks India for attending Khamenei's funeral, lauds deep bonds

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:29 +0530

The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India on Sunday expressed gratitude to the Government and people of India for participating in the funeral ceremonies of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, saying the gesture reflected the "deep historical, cultural, and human bonds" between the two countries.

In a post shared on X, the embassy said, "The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Republic of India extends its heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation to the friendly Government and people of India, especially the official delegation that attended on behalf of the Government and people of India, for participating in the funeral ceremonies and paying tribute to the martyred Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, His Eminence Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei."

The embassy said the presence of Indian political leaders, Members of Parliament, scholars, intellectuals and representatives of different faiths at the ceremonies reflected the longstanding relationship between the two nations.

"The esteemed presence of political leaders, Members of Parliament, eminent scholars, intellectuals, and leaders of India's diverse faiths and religious communities at these solemn ceremonies reflected the deep historical, cultural, and human bonds between our two nations. It also stood as a powerful expression of mutual respect and sincere solidarity with the people of Iran during this time of national mourning," it said.

Expressing appreciation for India's participation, the embassy added, "The people of Iran will never forget this gesture of friendship, compassion, and heartfelt respect. They regard it as a precious testament to the enduring ties between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of India, and as a valuable foundation for further strengthening the longstanding friendship between our two countries."

The embassy also thanked Indian officials, public figures and citizens who expressed sympathy with Iran following Khamenei's death. "The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India once again conveys its sincere appreciation to all Indian officials, distinguished personalities, and the noble people of India who stood with the people of Iran and expressed their sympathy during this period of grief," the post added. https://x.com/Iran_in_India/status/2073850220853834142

Indian Delegation Attends Funeral

Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain represented India at the funeral ceremony held in Tehran.

Senior Congress leader and former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid, who also attended the funeral, paid tribute to Khamenei.

Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti, who attended the funeral, also expressed solidarity with Iran. "As I depart from Tehran my thoughts are with its brave leadership & resilient people in this moment of profound loss and grief. We will always stand with you. Deepest gratitude to the Iranian government for being such gracious & warm hosts. It's been an honour to be here," she said in a post on X.

Khamenei's Death and Succession

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes on February 28 this year, triggering heightened tensions across West Asia. Millions of mourners gathered in Tehran for the funeral ceremonies, where Iranian political and military leaders pledged to continue his legacy and vowed accountability for those responsible for his death.

Mojtaba Khamenei Appointed New Supreme Leader

Following Khamenei's death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic.

According to Al Jazeera, he is expected to skip the six-day funeral ceremonies due to security concerns amid continued Israeli threats. (ANI)

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Heavy rains lash Mumbai: University exams postponed; schools closed

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 04:00:23 +0530

The University of Mumbai has postponed all examinations scheduled for July 6 after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a weather alert for Mumbai as a precautionary measure. New dates for the exams will be announced soon. This comes as the city has been battered by incessant rains and waterlogged areas in the last few days. The university emphasised that the decision was taken while keeping the students' safety in mind.

Schools, Colleges Closed Across Region

Earlier, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) also announced that all government, private and civic body-run schools and colleges in Mumbai will remain closed today after the IMD issued an 'orange alert' forecasting heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds. The BMC, however, clarified that government and private offices will function as usual.

Thane District Collector Shrikrishnath Panchal also announced that the Anganwadis, Balwadis, primary schools, and secondary schools will remain shut in the district tomorrow. Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) also announced the closing of all schools on Monday for the safety of students amid incessant rain. Navi Mumbai Mayor Sujata Patil and NMMC Commissioner Kailas Shinde appealed to citizens not to step out of their homes unless absolutely necessary.

City on High Alert

Meanwhile, the BMC also said 142 incidents of trees or branches falling were reported across Mumbai as gusty winds of 72-75 kmph accompanied heavy rainfall, while Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide directed the entire civic administration to remain on high alert on Monday in view of the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) forecast of continued heavy rain.(ANI)

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Israel has tremendous support from India, says PM Benjamin Netanyahu

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 03:30:26 +0530

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (local time) cited India as one of Israel's strongest supporters while rejecting US Vice President JD Vance's remark that Israel should avoid criticising its "only powerful ally", the United States. In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu said Israel enjoys "tremendous" support from India.

"I respect JD Vance, and we have a very good relationship, but it doesn't mean that I agree with everything that he says. Donald Trump is the greatest friend we ever had in the White House, and I stand by that completely," he said. Netanyahu then pointed to India's support for Israel. "We have some other friends, like a small country called India. You know it has 1.4 billion people, and boy, do we have tremendous support there. You know, I have this Facebook thing, and I'm just flooded by the overwhelming support there," he said.

Global Support and Technological Prowess

He also highlighted that Israel enjoys backing from several other countries despite criticism on social media and in sections of the international media. "Many leaders call me up and say, 'Hey look, I've got this problem with public opinion, but I want you to know we respect you, and can we make some deals, and can you teach us some of the things that your military does, and can we have some of your AI and cyber expertise?'" Netanyahu said.

He added that Israel remains a global leader in technology. "You know Israel is the number two country in cyber in the world, and our technology is so good. So the relations are not quite as they appear, and we have many, many friends," he said.

Context: JD Vance's Remarks

Netanyahu's remarks came in response to comments made by Vance last month during a White House briefing, when he urged Israel to respect ongoing US-Iran peace talks. "If I was in the Cabinet of the Israeli government, I might not be attacking the only powerful ally that I have anywhere left in the entire world," Vance had said while responding to reports that Israeli leaders were unhappy with the US-Iran agreement and had criticised US President Donald Trump.

Netanyahu-Trump Meeting on the Cards

Meanwhile, according to Axios report, Trump had said Netanyahu requested a meeting at the White House that could take place after the US President returns from the NATO summit. Trump said that the two leaders would meet soon after speaking over the phone, although Israeli officials indicated the visit may be scheduled for the following week because of Trump's travel commitments.

The proposed meeting comes amid reported differences between Trump and Netanyahu over Iran, Lebanon and broader regional security issues. Despite those differences, the two leaders have agreed to meet in Washington as Israel prepares for its October elections. (ANI)

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TMC's tenure built on 'scam', probe will reveal truth: Locket Chatterjee

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 03:30:24 +0530

TMC's tenure built on 'scam': Locket Chatterjee

West Bengal BJP general secretary and MP Locket Chatterjee launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Sunday, alleging that the party's tenure in West Bengal was built entirely on "scam", and the ongoing probe into the "Sebaashray" health camps related to TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee will bring truth to "light". Speaking to ANI, Chatterjee said, "The entire Trinamool government was a sham; fake doctors, fake nurses--everything was fake. None of it was genuine, and they have completely looted the public. I believe the ongoing investigation into the 'Sebaashray' matter must proceed; the actual truth needs to come to light."

'No interest in TMC's internal rift'

When asked about the resignation of Chandrima Bhattacharya from all TMC posts amid an escalating internal rift in the party, Chatterjee said they have no interest in the developments of the opposition party. "Who is the state president now, who was there, who has gone now, we do not have any desire or interest to know about this because the Trinamool party is already finished. Our vision is that we should prepare a new Bengal and we are focused on that. This is our mission, and we have no interest in what that party is doing," she said.

BJP alleges 'appeasement politics' by TMC

Chatterjee also renewed the BJP's long-standing charge of "appeasement politics" against the TMC, stating that the new government has brought a shift in the people's minds. "We have seen how Hindus have been tortured in West Bengal for so many years. There is still a case against us. But when it was Muharram, they did not say anything. This is the complete appeasement politics going on in West Bengal. Just like the double engine government is running in the whole country, the same will start in West Bengal also. Now you people are seeing how much West Bengal has changed in two months and how much the public mind has also changed," she added.

Bhattacharya, the TMC's State President and a former minister, resigned from all party posts amid an escalating internal feud. Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Saugata Roy on Sunday said that Bhattacharya betrayed party chief Mamata Banerjee's trust and failed her responsibilities by not opposing "outsiders" who tried to take over the party office, adding that no one attempted to stop her departure due to internal anger over her actions. Her remarks come against the backdrop of a change of government in the state, with the BJP winning a majority in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly election and ending the TMC's 15-year rule, following which Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the state's first BJP Chief Minister in May.

Chatterjee backs Uniform Civil Code implementation

Chatterjee also backed the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in West Bengal. "In reality, this should have been implemented long ago; our state has lagged behind. It is particularly essential for West Bengal. We used to watch its implementation in Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and other states, wondering with regret when it would happen here. Without it, West Bengal's condition would deteriorate further. We have a new Chief Minister now, and we are fully hopeful that the UCC will be implemented and West Bengal will advance significantly in terms of development," she said.

This comes after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday announced in the Assembly that the draft of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) will be placed before the state cabinet on July 2, following which the proposed legislation will be introduced in the state Assembly during its August session.

TMC hits back, alleges rise in crime under BJP rule

Meanwhile, TMC leader Baiswanor Chatterjee slammed the West Bengal government, alleging that there has been an increase in the number of rape incidents since the BJP came to power. "Mamata Banerjee was ready to leave, but they aren't letting us go. They have set up police barricades. This system does not operate on democratic principles. During the BJP's two-month tenure, there have been so many incidents of rape. We will certainly protest against such things. BJP's dictatorship will not be tolerated," he told ANI. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mumbai: 6 dead after shanties collapse in Mankhurd amid heavy rain

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 03:00:24 +0530

Six died after two to three shanties within a "ground-plus-three" structure collapsed in Janata Nagar, Mankhurd, on Sunday evening, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said.

The tragedy comes amid relentless heavy rainfall that has battered Mumbai and its suburbs over the past few days.

According to the Mumbai Police, the incident occurred at around 8:30 pm when a neighbouring building collapsed onto a hut in the jurisdiction of Mandala, Mankhurd Police Station, trapping several people under the debris.

NDRF Leads Rescue Amidst Challenging Conditions

Rescue operations are underway. Speaking on the incident, NDRF Assistant Commandant Sarang Kurve said, "We received information from the BMC control room at 9:30 PM; our Andheri team arrived within about 35 minutes, and our Kurla team reached the site in roughly 20 to 25 minutes. There is no one injured here right now. All six victims have been extradited and have been admitted to the nearby hospital. Around 45 of our rescuers are present here, and they are continuously carrying out the rescue operation. The structure is complex, and the weather conditions were working against us; however, our rescuers are well-trained to handle such situations, and we are continuously working to complete the operation."

Political Backlash Over Illegal Constructions

Maharashtra Samajwadi Party President Abu Azmi slammed the government over the construction of shanties here, questioning its legitimacy. "How did shanties continue to spring up? The year 2000 arrived, and those built by then were legalised; later, those built up to 2011 were also legalised. This implies that illegal shanties kept coming up after 1995. These are poor people; when they feel their family has grown and they lack the funds for proper housing, they build illegally. However, had the government been strict, not even an inch of unauthorised construction would have been possible. The government itself had declared that no shanties would be built after 1995. So, whose responsibility is it that they were built? How many officials have you suspended? I am urging the House to put a stop to these illegal activities," he said.

Maharashtra AIMIM General Secretary, Ateeque Ahmad Khan, said, "The incident occurred around 8 or 8:30 PM. A three-story building--which had been constructed just last year--collapsed onto three adjacent houses. Five children and one woman from the same family were trapped underneath; they have been rescued. A search is currently underway for one more girl. In total, six people have been pulled out, though their condition is critical. There are reports suggesting that some individuals may have already lost their lives. A search is ongoing for one remaining child believed to be trapped inside. Additionally, it is suspected that the building's owner is also buried under the debris. A total of six people have been taken away, and a search for a seventh person is in progress."

Mayor Ritu Tawde visited the hospital to console the bereaved families after the incident. (ANI)

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Ramdas Athawale: My poems, jokes keep Parliament atmosphere pleasant

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 02:30:27 +0530

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, known for his signature brand of wit and rhyming couplets, has defended his unique style of political discourse, asserting that his penchant for poetry and humour serves a vital role in maintaining a pleasant atmosphere within the halls of Parliament.

Speaking during a visit to Leh, Ladakh, on Sunday, the Union Minister explained that his interventions are not merely for entertainment but are a deliberate tool for engagement. "I have a habit of reciting poems and cracking jokes in Parliament," Athawale stated. "That is why I often say things like: 'As long as the Narendra Modi wave sweeps the land, how can Rahul Gandhi become Prime Minister?' and 'Grandmothers in every village ask me: When will Rahul Gandhi get married?' I keep sharing such things. It's all about keeping the atmosphere pleasant."

Republican Party of India (Athawale) founder noted that his unconventional approach has been well-received by the public. "I receive a very positive response from people regarding my poems," he added, suggesting that his lighthearted style helps connect with the common man and keeps the parliamentary proceedings engaging.

Lok Sabha Ambitions

Looking toward the future, Athawale expressed clear political ambitions beyond his current tenure. While acknowledging that his Rajya Sabha term runs until 2032, he signalled his intent to shift to the Lower House in the next general elections. "I will definitely make it to the Lok Sabha in 2029," he declared.

For the Minister, the move to the Lok Sabha is not just about legislative duties but also about bringing his characteristic energy to the House of the People. He believes that his presence in the Lok Sabha would provide an even greater platform to "really liven up the atmosphere there."

(ANI)

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London's Kashmir Million March protests against PoJK rights abuses

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 02:00:28 +0530

Thousands March in London Against Pakistani 'Oppression' in PoJK

Thousands of Kashmiris living in the United Kingdom participated in the London Kashmir Million March on Sunday, marching from Parliament Square to the Pakistani High Commission to protest alleged human rights violations in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and demand the release of detained political activists.

The march, which sources revealed had an estimated 50,000 people, was also joined by members of the Baloch and Pashtun communities, who highlighted human rights violations by the Pakistan Army in their respective regions and expressed solidarity with the people of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

During the march, protesters chanted pro-freedom slogans and condemned the arrest of Shaukat Nawaz Mir, head of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) and other political leaders. They described the detention of Kashmiri activists as an attack on the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and called for their immediate release.

Activist Alleges Violence, Demands Rights for PoJK

Speaking to ANI outside the Pakistan High Commission, Mahmood Kashmiri, a political activist from PoJK, alleged that Pakistani forces had carried out violence against civilians in areas including Tattapani, Sehnsa and Kotli, and said Kashmiris across the world were uniting to oppose what he described as oppression in the region. "Today, outside the Pakistan High Commission, British Kashmiris are gathering in large numbers to raise their voices across the world against the oppression of Pakistani forces. Today, in Azad Kashmir, the Pakistani army has martyred our Kashmiri brothers in places like Tattapani, Sehnsa, and Kotla. Kashmiris worldwide are protesting against this tyranny and oppression by Pakistani forces," he said.

Mahmood urged Pakistan to "honour its agreements" and grant the people of PoJK their rights. "There is still an opportunity for Pakistan to honour its agreements and grant the people their rights. If the Pakistani forces and ruling class intend to massacre Kashmiris, let it be known that people across the globe and within Azad Kashmir stand firm like a rock against this oppressive system. The people will reclaim the rights that the rulers of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir have snatched away," he said.

He also demanded the return of the bodies of Kashmiri youths allegedly taken into custody by Pakistani authorities and sought the release of detained youth. "We will never surrender to Pakistan's oppression. We will continue our peaceful struggle against this tyranny and injustice," he said.

Protest Follows Deadly Unrest in PoJK

The demonstration comes amid continuing unrest in PoJK following protests that began on June 5. According to the organisers, the agitation intensified after several local protesters were killed in firing by Pakistani security forces. Since then, multiple leaders and activists associated with the Joint Awami Action Committee have been arrested, with demonstrators alleging that the crackdown on political dissent continues.

Organisers said the London Kashmir Million March was held to express solidarity with the victims of the unrest in PoJK and to hold Pakistan accountable for alleged human rights abuses in the region. They also urged the international community to take note of what they described as the continued repression of Kashmiris in the territory.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Wimbledon 2026: Naomi Osaka stuns World No. 1 Sabalenka in upset

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 02:00:25 +0530

Naomi Osaka produced one of the biggest upsets of Wimbledon 2026, defeating World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-2, 7-6(2) on Centre Court on Sunday to reach the quarter-finals at the All England Club for the first time in her career. The four-time Grand Slam champion delivered an outstanding display of power and precision to end Sabalenka's dominance in their recent rivalry, having lost to the Belarusian three times already this season, including in the fourth round of the French Open. The victory also marked Osaka's first win over Sabalenka since the 2018 US Open, according to the WTA.

Osaka Ends Remarkable Streaks

Osaka's triumph ended several remarkable streaks. It handed Sabalenka her first straight-sets defeat at a Grand Slam since the 2020 US Open, snapped the top seed's run of 14 consecutive Grand Slam quarter-final appearances, and gave the Japanese star her first victory over a World No. 1 since defeating Ash Barty in Beijing in 2019.

Dominant Display on Centre Court

Playing on the warmest day of the tournament, Osaka dictated play from the outset with her trademark flat groundstrokes and booming serve. She secured an early break for a 2-1 lead in the opening set before racing through it 6-2, consistently overpowering Sabalenka from the baseline.

The second set proved far more competitive, but Osaka maintained her composure under pressure. She saved both break points she faced during the match and forced a tie-break after neither player could find the decisive breakthrough. Once the tie-break began, Sabalenka's uncharacteristic errors allowed Osaka to seize control. The Japanese star closed it out 7-2 to complete victory in one hour and 28 minutes, celebrating with a series of fist pumps before raising her racket above her head in delight after securing her maiden Centre Court win.

Match by the Numbers

The statistics reflected Osaka's dominance. She landed 87 per cent of her first serves compared to Sabalenka's 69 per cent, struck eight aces to her opponent's five, and finished with 21 winners while limiting the World No. 1's opportunities throughout the contest.

Path to the Quarter-finals

Fresh off reaching the first grass-court final of her career in Bad Homburg before retiring with a foot injury, Osaka has now carried that momentum into Wimbledon. She will face Karolina Muchova in the quarter-finals after the Czech defeated defending champion Barbora Krejcikova 7-5, 5-7, 6-3. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA World Cup 2026 will be my last, confirms Cristiano Ronaldo

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 02:00:25 +0530

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the final World Cup of his illustrious career, saying he wants to enjoy every moment of the tournament as his side prepares for a blockbuster Round of 16 clash against Spain, reported OneFootball.

Ronaldo Confirms Final World Cup Appearance

Addressing the media ahead of Monday's knockout fixture, the 41-year-old ended speculation surrounding his World Cup future while expressing hope that Portugal's campaign would continue beyond the last 16. "I want to enjoy it as much as possible, because it will be my last World Cup, yes. But I hope that tomorrow won't be my last game in the World Cup," Ronaldo said, as per OneFootball.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, who has started all four of Portugal's matches at the tournament and scored three goals, also dismissed repeated questions about retirement, insisting his focus remains solely on helping the national team.

'I'll Retire When I Want To'

"I'm always committed, body and soul, to helping the National Team. Whether I'm playing or not, I'll always have an important role," he continued. "I'll finish [retire] when I want to, not when you want me to. It's a waste of time to keep asking that question. But I don't want to draw attention to that. The most important thing is tomorrow," he added.

Portugal's Trophy Ambitions

Despite acknowledging that this will be his final World Cup, Ronaldo made it clear Portugal have arrived with ambitions of lifting the trophy. "If we didn't have the idea that we could win the World Cup, we wouldn't be here. It's been a beautiful experience. We've improved game by game," he said, according to OneFootball.

"We know it's a competition where it's impossible to play well in every game, and it's not easy for anyone; just look at who's already been eliminated. I see the team as calm; we've trained well, we've prepared well," said Ronaldo.

On Personal Form

Asked about his own form, Ronaldo added, "I don't think I've been doing that badly... I've scored three goals. Others have scored more, but because they are doing very well. They feel very good. But let's see if I can score tomorrow".

Blockbuster Round of 16 Clash Against Spain

Portugal head into the clash after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in the Round of 32, with Goncalo Ramos scoring a stoppage-time winner to keep their title hopes alive. Roberto Martinez's side are chasing back-to-back FIFA World Cup quarter-final appearances for the first time in the nation's history, although they have not won successive World Cup knockout matches since 2006.

Standing in their way is a Spain side that has impressed throughout the tournament. Luis de la Fuente's men stormed into the Round of 16 with a commanding 3-0 win over Austria and became the first team since Germany in the 2014 World Cup final to prevent their opponents from registering a single shot on target in a knockout match.

The Iberian rivals last met at the World Cup in 2018, when Ronaldo scored a memorable hat-trick in a thrilling 3-3 draw. Portugal will now hope their captain can produce another decisive performance and extend his farewell World Cup journey by at least one more match. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Collective effort, calm approach key to our T20 WC win: Molineux

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 01:00:27 +0530

Australia skipper Sophie Molineux credited her side's ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 triumph to collective effort, preparation and a calm, disciplined approach under pressure. She said the team's success was built on hard work, unity and a willingness to "do anything for each other", adding that staying composed and trusting their skills proved decisive in winning the title. Molineux praised the squad's consistent mindset throughout the tournament, noting that maintaining the same mentality in every game helped Australia execute their plans effectively. She also expressed satisfaction with how the campaign unfolded, highlighting the team's ability to deliver in key moments. She reserved special praise for teammate Ellyse Perry, calling her the "heartbeat" of the team and applauding her all-round impact and leadership, both on and off the field. Molineux also congratulated England for their strong campaign and attractive brand of cricket, while thanking the fans for their overwhelming support and the electric atmosphere throughout the tournament.

"A lot of thought, a lot of effort, hard work and a group that is ready to do anything for each other. The answer was to stay calm and do it with our skills. It is nice for things to come into fruition. In tournament play, you have to have the same mentality. Very pleased with how the last few weeks have gone. She's incredible. What she brings to the team isn't just on the field. She is the heartbeat of the team. She deserves so much. For her to have another WC in the bag is pretty special. Firstly, a massive congratulations to England. You have played an amazing brand of cricket. Well done for a great tournament. To the fans, this has been an incredible tournament. In every match, there has been a massive crowd. Thank you, everyone. Been an absolute pleasure to be a part of. To the girls, incredibly proud, " Sophie Molineux said after the match.

Australia Clinch Title with Record Chase

Australia added another golden chapter to their illustrious World Cup history by clinching the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 title on Sunday. In front of a record crowd of over 28,000 at Lord's Cricket Ground, they ended England's perfect home World Cup record with a commanding seven-wicket victory in the final. The reigning champions completed an unbeaten campaign emphatically, comfortably chasing down England's 150/4 to register the highest successful run chase in a Women's T20 World Cup final, underlining their continued dominance in world cricket. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA World Cup 2026: Mexico Fans Keep England Awake with Overnight Music and Fireworks (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:58:12 +0530

The desperation of Mexico fans to see the national team qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal has manifested in disruptive pre-match tactics, with supporters gathering outside the England team hotel in Mexico City to disrupt their sleep ahead of the Round of 16 clash on Sunday, July 5.

Mexico and England will lock horns in a much-anticipated Round of 16 clash in front of a huge and partisan crowd at the iconic Estadio Azteca, where the co-host will look to leverage their home advantage to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in their recent tournament history.

Mexico and England defeated Ecuador and the DR Congo, respectively, in the Round of 32 to set up this high-stakes showdown in the heart of Mexico City, where the Mexican supporters are expected to take over with an intense, deafening atmosphere, aiming to pressure the Three Lions from the opening whistle.

Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026: Croatian Fans Hurl Bottles After VAR Rules Out Equaliser vs Portugal (WATCH)

Mexico Fans Resort to Pre-Match Tactics

As England hopes to remain focused and undeterred by the lack of rest, scenes outside their team hotel in Mexico City have already become a significant talking point, with the constant blare of instruments and brass instruments and the flash of pyrotechnics lighting up the night sky well into the early hours of matchday.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), a group of Mexican fans can be seen gathered outside England’s team hotel, Hotel Sante Fe Marriott, chanting loudly, beating drums, and igniting multiple fireworks, undeterred by local security.

This is a pre-match attempt by Mexico fans to ensure that England players have as little rest as possible before tonight's pivotal match. The desperation and eagerness to see the co-host reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 1986 have turned the city’s streets into a high-decibel arena.

Mexico fans are up to their old tricks, playing loud music and setting off fireworks outside the England team's hotel ahead of their World Cup match. They pulled the same trick against Ecuador a few days ago, trying to make sure the players didn't get much sleepAt least…

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) July 5, 2026

It was reported that Mexican fans had used a similar pre-match tactic before the national team’s clash against Ecuador in the Round of 32, a strategy that evidently emboldened them to replicate the disruptive behavior in their bid to give their side every possible advantage against the Three Lions.

Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 to qualify for the round of 16, a victory that seems to have galvanized the fan base and reinforced their belief that these disruptive psychological tactics are a proven method for unsettling opponents on the biggest stage.

Fair Play in Jeopardy? Global Fanbase Reacts to Mexico’s Disruptive Tactics

Mexico fans' disruptive tactics ahead of the round of 16 clash against England have sparked debate on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), with fans and football enthusiasts sharply divided over whether such actions represent ‘passionate’ support or a total disregard for the spirit of fair play.

Taking to their X handles, fans and football enthusiasts were split over Mexico fans’ pre-match tactics, with some condemning the overnight fireworks and music as unsportsmanlike and against the spirit of fair play. In contrast, others defended the passionate support, arguing England would not be affected due to soundproof hotel rooms.

However, some urged people not to generalise all Mexican fans, while others claimed England may not have even been staying at the targeted hotel, casting doubt on whether the late-night disruption had any real impact on the Three Lions.

Millions of Mexicans do NOT agree with this attitude!!! Don't generalize!!!

— Maris Ezirre (@Marismynews) July 5, 2026

That’s how British people behave on holiday… So don’t cry about it.

— Rodina (@3041975_221943) July 5, 2026

England Players are not affected at allReinforced sound proof windows prevent any disturbance for the team in addition to a block perimeter by police to maintain safe distance from fans… and they do the same! pic.twitter.com/pqaGPxRjRu

— Gansito (@MexicanoBien) July 5, 2026

Typical Mexican behavior. I know being Mexico adjacent living in Ca.

— Jay. R (@Jesse_R_805) July 5, 2026

Ecuador filed a formal FIFA complaint and it changed absolutely nothing.Now England gets the same treatment.There's something demoralising about watching fair play mean this little.

— Tobi Akinbo J. (@realTobiAkinbo) July 5, 2026

They really, really want to win that first world cup title. Can't really blame them, honestly.

— Burrito Backed Navy (@Burritobacked) July 5, 2026

This should be illegal and Mexico banned from hosting again

— Taimur Khaliq (@taimur_usa) July 5, 2026

Shameless when they can’t win on the field. May win.

— Elvis Ss (@ElvisSs92014) July 5, 2026

Where is the spirit of the game. If Mexico wins because of their talent but they will be remember as the one who cheated outside the ground

— Pankaj Agrawal (@iampankaj_007) July 5, 2026

Jokes on Mexico. England bought up rooms in 15 different hotels. This is most likely not even the one they are staying in ‍♀️

— Erika (@Erika45676795) July 5, 2026

There’s also a thing called Karma. This kind of unsportsmanlike nonsense from so-called ‘fans’ reflects badly on them. Wishing the Three Lions all the best vs Mexico — may the better team win on the pitch. https://t.co/kYmdH8fAEA

— Andreas Fulda (@AMFChina) July 5, 2026

The fact that Mexican football journalists have leaked the details of the England hotel location to their fans (despite the request not to) shows how football journalism is a bit different to journalism from other sports, especially in Mexico.Bring it on.#FIFAWORLDCUP #Mexico https://t.co/RE1DqKkLNU

— Vijay A (@VAAChandran) July 5, 2026

#Mexico can’t win without incapacitating their opponents the day before. Trash. #WorldCup2026 https://t.co/FhducYpgDF

— Liz Dickinson (@lizdickinson8) July 5, 2026

As Mexico aims for its first quarterfinal qualification since the 1986 FIFA World Cup, England is determined to maintain their composure and silence the hostile atmosphere, viewing the external noise as a final psychological hurdle in their quest to progress to the last eight for the third successive time.

Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026: Who’s Facing Whom in the Round of 16? Check the Full Schedule

Mooney, Litchfield guide Australia to 7th T20 World Cup title

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:34 +0530

Australia's Composed Chase

A classy half-century from Beth Mooney and a fluent innings from Phoebe Litchfield guided Australia past England to clinch the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 title in London on Sunday. Australia have clinched their seventh Women's T20 World Cup title.

Australia Women produced a composed batting display chasing a target of 151 with control and depth in their batting order.

Despite losing opener Georgia Voll early to Lauren Bell in the 2nd over, Australia quickly settled through the experienced pair of Beth Mooney and Phoebe Litchfield. Mooney anchored the innings, rotating strike efficiently while punishing loose deliveries, while Litchfield played the more aggressive role, taking on the England bowlers with clean strokeplay through the off side and over midwicket.

The duo guided Australia to 62/1 at the end of the powerplay. 62/1 by Australia is the second-highest powerplay score in a Women's T20 WC knockout, behind their own 63/2 against the West Indies at The Oval earlier this week.

Mooney-Litchfield Partnership

The duo built a steady partnership that took Australia past the 100-run mark in the 11th over. England finally had a breakthrough in the 13th over as Charlie Dean got the better of Litchfield for 48, bringing Ellyse Perry to the crease.

Mooney achieved a personal milestone, bringing up her half-century in 38 balls to continue Australia's charge. It is the ninth T20 World Cup fifty for the Australian icon, and draws her level with Nat Sciver-Brunt.

Mooney carried on to attack the England bowlers as she scored 12 runs from Freya Kemp's over. However, Sophie Ecclestone finally, in the 16th over, removed Mooney for 64, bringing Ashleigh Gardner to the crease.

In the 18th over, Perry and Gardner sealed the match for the visitors with 17 balls to spare.

Sciver-Brunt, Kemp Lead England's Fightback

Earlier in the match, a clinical and disciplined bowling effort from Australia limited England to 150/4 in the Women's T20 World Cup final at Lord's on Sunday. England skipper Sciver-Brunt stood tall for her side once again with back-to-back half-centuries.

Early Wobble

England's top order never managed to settle. Wicketkeeper Amy Jones fell for 7, while opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge departed for 8 during the powerplay. Young batter Alice Capsey attempted to counterattack and struck a brisk 23, but her dismissal reduced the hosts to 67-3.

The pressure mounted further when Heather Knight was dismissed for just 2, leaving England reeling at 70/4.

Sciver-Brunt once again showcased her batting skills and absorbed the pressure before gradually increasing the tempo, anchoring the innings with a measured half-century. At the other end, Freya Kemp provided the much-needed momentum, playing positively against both pace and spin and ensuring England did not lose further wickets during the crucial middle overs. Their partnership steadied the innings after the early collapse and lifted England beyond the 100-run mark, giving the home side hope of posting a defendable total.

Freya Kemp and Nat Sciver-Brunt have given England a fighting total with a partnership of 80 off 55 balls. England scored 13 runs off the last over to give some impetus to the innings. Sciver Brunt finished at 58 not out, off 53 balls, while Kemp chipped in with 44 off just 28 balls. Australia's disciplined bowling effort was led by Annabel Sutherland, Sophie Molineux, Lucy Hamilton and Kim Garth, who claimed a wicket apiece to restrict England to a decent total. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Major drug bust in Tripura: DRI seizes 55,626 Codeine syrup bottles

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:30 +0530

In continuation of its sustained efforts to curb drug trafficking and dismantle narcotics supply networks, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized huge quantities of Codeine-based cough syrup bottles in two separate operations conducted in Tripura and West Bengal under the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985.

Operation in Tripura

According to the Ministry of Finance release, on July 2, the officers of DRI intercepted a consignment being transported in the parcel van of a train bound for Agartala. The contraband was found ingeniously concealed inside 80 metallic drums beneath a layer of powdery substance used as cover cargo. A total of 55,626 bottles of Codeine-based cough syrup were recovered and seized. The operation was carried out with the assistance of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Assam Rifles. One person, who had arrived to take delivery of the consignment, was arrested, the release added.

Warehouse Raid in West Bengal

Around the same period, in another operation, DRI officers searched a warehouse at Dankuni, West Bengal, where 56,225 bottles of Codeine-based cough syrup were recovered from 104 sealed iron drums. The bottles had been concealed beneath a layer of china clay powder inside the drums to evade detection. The entire quantity was seized under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985.

According to the release, overall, the two operations resulted in the seizure of around 1.11 lakhs of Codeine-based cough syrup bottles and the arrest of 1 person.

Targeting Illicit Drug Networks

Codeine, a derivative of opium, has legitimate therapeutic use in regulated pharmaceutical preparations. However, Codeine-based cough syrups are often targeted by drug trafficking networks owing to their abuse potential when diverted for illicit consumption, a release added.

According to the release, these seizures highlight the continued attempts by organised smuggling syndicates to divert pharmaceutical preparations containing narcotic substances for illicit trafficking through innovative concealment methods. Through coordinated intelligence-driven operations, DRI remains committed to dismantling such networks. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Baruipur rape-murder: Security high at Mamata Banerjee's residence

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:28 +0530

Security tightened outside the residence of former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as central forces took positions ahead of her scheduled visit to Baruipur, following the alleged rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl.

A 12-year-old girl was allegedly raped and murdered in the Baruipur region of South 24 Parganas.

Jadavpur MP Saayoni Ghosh, in an X post, said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the case, and she held a conversation with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

TMC Criticises Central Force Deployment

Meanwhile, TMC has criticised the deployment of central forces outside Mamata Banerjee's residence. TMC MP Dola Sen asked if the deployment was an attempt to house arrest the former CM. She termed the incident a "super emergency."

Dola Sen told reporters, "What is going on in Bengal and Kolkata? Everyone knows what happened in Baruipur. Didi (Mamata Banerjee) is a mass leader. She wanted to go there after such a heinous incident had happened. But have they house arrested her? By doing this, will they be able to stop Didi? I had to come here because of this. So many police administration deployed here without any reason. This is not right, whatever the police administration is doing. This is a super emergency."

Abhishek Banerjee Slams BJP Government

In an X post, Abhishek Banerjee wrote, "@BJP4India doesn't just fail women; it fosters a climate where those accused of heinous crimes appear to believe they enjoy political protection. Where political connections seem to influence justice. Where influence appears to speak louder than the rule of law. Where disturbing questions arise over whether political pressure is overshadowing the pursuit of justice. That is the real tragedy behind the Baruipur horror!"

"BJP came to Bengal promising women's safety and security. Instead, every such incident raises fresh questions about its HOLLOW PROMISES. The silence is equally telling. No protests. No outrage. No demands for accountability. No demands for resignations. No sudden awakening of conscience. When justice becomes selective, and outrage becomes political, it is not only the victim who suffers; it is society that pays the price. Extremely shameful state of affairs," the X post read.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

London Kashmir March: Baloch activist urges unity against Pakistan

Asianet News Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:24 +0530

Baloch political and human rights activist Aomar Karim joined the London Kashmir Million March on Sunday, calling for greater unity among Baloch, Kashmiri and Pashtun communities to raise their voices against human rights violations in Pakistan.

According to a release, the march, which proceeded from UK Parliament Square to the Pakistani High Commission in London, saw hundreds of protesters calling for an end to the human rights violations in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and demanding the release of political activists.

Condemnation of Activist Arrests

During the demonstration, Karim condemned the arrest of Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir, describing the detention of Kashmiri activists as an attack on the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

Karim also highlighted the human rights situation in Balochistan by carrying a banner demanding the release of leaders and members of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC). The banner featured Dr Mahrang Baloch and Sibghatullah Shah Jee, who have been sentenced to life imprisonment, as well as Bebow Baloch, Bebarg Zehri and Gulzadi Baloch, who remain in detention.

'Our Pain is the Same': A Call for Unity

Addressing the gathering, Karim said the struggles of the Baloch and Kashmiri people were interconnected. "Our pain is the same, and our enemy is the same. We must stand together and raise our voices against Pakistan's human rights violations in both Balochistan and Kashmir," he said.

He urged Baloch, Kashmiri and Pashtun communities to strengthen cooperation and continue highlighting their concerns on international platforms, saying a united voice would help build greater pressure for justice and accountability. The march was also attended by members of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), alongside Kashmiri activists. Protesters called for the release of political prisoners, respect for fundamental freedoms and an end to alleged human rights abuses.

Karim said such demonstrations provide an important platform for communities affected by conflict and repression to express solidarity. "Whether it is Balochistan, PoJK or the Pashtun regions, our demand is the same - respect for human rights, justice and freedom. We should support one another and ensure the international community hears our voices," he added.

Appeal to the International Community

The march concluded outside the Pakistani High Commission in London, where demonstrators called on the international community to increase pressure on Pakistan over alleged human rights violations and the detention of political activists. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Women's T20 World Cup Final: Australia Clinches Record-Extending 7th Triumph With a Win over England

Asianet Newsable English — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:59:19 +0530

Australia thrashed England by seven wickets to win a record-extending seventh women's T20 World Cup title in a sold-out final at Lord's on Sunday.

Beth Mooney (64) and Phoebe Litchfield (48) did the damage in a second-wicket partnership of exactly 100 runs as Australia reached a target of 151 with 17 balls to spare.

Victory meant Australia had now won all seven of their world finals, across both one-day international and T20 cricket, against arch-rivals England.

. . . . . Australia complete an unbeaten #T20WorldCup campaign, defeating England to lift a record seventh title. ICC Women's #T20WorldCup 2026 | Final | #ENGvAUS | LIVE NOW! pic.twitter.com/fIWUhh6NkZ

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) July 5, 2026

Tight Australia bowling backed up by typically impressive fielding restricted England to 150-4, with the hosts indebted to skipper Nat-Sciver Brunt (58 not out) and Freya Kemp (44 not out) for an unbroken stand of 80 that revived the innings from 70-4.

The new-ball duo of Kim Garth (1-20 in four overs) and Lucy Hamilton (1-19 in three) were the pick of the attack in what was Australia's first global final at Lord's.

Also Read: Maninder Singh on 'champion players' Rohit, Virat for 2027 World Cup

Australia's Batters Make Light Work of the Target

England, bidding for a first major title since winning the 2017 50-over World Cup final at Lord's and with the memory of a 16-0 rout by Australia in the last multi-format Ashes still fresh in the memory, looked at least 20 runs shy of a challenging total.

Australia, after all, had chased down 171 to knock India out in a group-stage game at Lord's last weekend.

Georgia Voll charged down the pitch to loft the first ball of the chase, from off-spinner Charlie Dean, for four at a sun-drenched Lord's before playing on to Lauren Bell to leave Australia 17-1.

Mooney and Litchfield Crush England's Hopes

But the runs kept coming, with Mooney - who had already had a fine game behind the stumps -- steering Bell through backward point for one of seven fours in her 38-ball fifty.

Litchfield swept Dean for four and lofted the spinner for six over extra-cover.

Sciver-Brunt had promised her side would go "toe-to-toe" against Australia, with both sides unbeaten at the tournament before the final.

But the gulf in class was clear, with Australia having one hand on the trophy at 68-1 come the end of the six-over powerplay.

And by the time Dean bowled Litchfield to end a stand of 100 in 67 balls, Australia were 117-2.

Mooney was eventually lbw on review to left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone, with Australia in sight of victory at 140-3.

And England's day was summed up when Australia's winning runs came via five wides from Ecclestone, whose legside delivery sped to the boundary.

Australia Strike Early to Dent England's Innings

Earlier, Australia soon had a breakthrough after captain Sophie Molineux won the toss, with Amy Jones edging Hamilton to gully for her fifth single-figure score in six innings.

It was the economical left-arm quick's first wicket of the tournament.

But new batter Sciver-Brunt, who had taken son Theo onto the outfield with her for the pre-match anthem, stylishly cover-drove Hamilton for a first-ball four.

Veteran opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge fell for just eight when she gloved Annabel Sutherland down the legside and was well caught at the second attempt by a diving Mooney.

Alice Capsey briefly turned the tide with 23 before she was bowled by Molineux after missing a reverse sweep.

Also Read: Sooryavanshi should've debuted in Ireland: Maninder Singh on prodigy

Kemp's Cameo Lifts England After Top-Order Collapse

Former captain Heather Knight made 58 and shared a partnership of 133 with Sciver-Brunt in a 40-run semi-final thrashing of South Africa.

But on Sunday, England's victorious 2017 captain was plumb lbw for just two to Garth's leg-cutter to leave her side 70-4.

Big-hitting left-hander Kemp struck several boundaries, including smashing Molineux for six in the last over of the innings.

But England's total was soon made to look inadequate as they surrendered their record of having won every major global tournament they had hosted -- a run dating back to the inaugural 1973 Women's ODI World Cup.

Sanskritik Sandhya in Delhi marks 12 years of PM Modi's leadership

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:30:42 +0530

Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta addressed a 'Sanskritik Sandhya' in Rohini's Sector-10 today to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 12 years of leadership. Speaking at the event, Gupta lauded the PM's vision of 'Vishwas, Vikas and Jan Kalyan.' In the event, Gupta said, "Over the past twelve years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership has redefined the scale and pace of India's development while placing public welfare at the centre of governance."

The programme was attended by Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu, Delhi Mayor Pravesh Wahi and Yogender Chandolia, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha). The event witnessed the participation of public representatives, social organisations and a large number of citizens from across the Rohini Assembly Constituency.

Decisive Governance and Inclusive Growth

Speaking on the occasion, Gupta said that the past 12 years have been marked by decisive governance, rapid infrastructure development, digital transformation, expanded social welfare initiatives and a renewed emphasis on inclusive growth. He observed that the Government's commitment to transparency, efficient service delivery and citizen-centric policymaking has strengthened public trust while accelerating India's journey towards becoming a developed nation.

Vision for a 'Viksit Bharat'

Describing the occasion as a celebration of both cultural heritage and national progress, Speaker Vijender Gupta said that public participation remains the foundation of democratic governance and nation-building. He expressed confidence that, under the continued leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India would advance with greater resolve towards the vision of Viksit Bharat, guided by the principles of trust, development and public welfare.

Cultural Celebration and Harmony

The Sanskritik Sandhya featured devotional bhajans celebrating India's rich civilisational heritage and artistic traditions. The programme brought together people from diverse sections of society in a vibrant atmosphere of devotion and cultural harmony, reflecting the spirit of public participation that has accompanied the country's developmental journey over the past twelve years. (ANI)

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Rita Ora's 'mesmeric' performance captivates T20 World Cup final

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:30:38 +0530

British singer-songwriter Rita Ora lit up the stage with her performance at the Women's T20 World Cup final at Lord's on Sunday. Dressed in a striking stage outfit, Ora captivated the crowd. Her performance added a touch of glamour with fans inside the stadium and on social media applauding the singer's appearance

The ICC official Instagram handle shared glimpses of Ora's performance on its official Instagram handle, celebrating her stage presence with the caption, "Mesmeric. Majestic. Rita Ora set the stage alight for the #T20WorldCup Final." View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc)

Known for chart-topping hits such as 'Anywhere', 'Your Song', 'Let You Love Me, Ora has established herself as one of Britain's most successful pop artists. Apart from music, Ora has also appeared in films and television projects while serving as a judge and mentor on multiple talent shows.

England post 150/4 in T20 World Cup final

Meanwhile, a clinical and disciplined bowling effort from Australia limited England to 150/4 in the Women's T20 World Cup final at Lord's on Sunday. England skipper Sciver-Brunt stood tall for her side once again with back-to-back half-centuries. Australia will require 151 in their 20 overs to seal their seventh T20 WC title.

England had a shaky start to their innings after being asked to bat first by Australia, recovering from an early collapse through a composed captain's knock from Nat Sciver-Brunt and a decent partnership with Freya Kemp. England's top order never managed to settle. Wicketkeeper Amy Jones fell for 7, while opener Danni Wyatt-Hodge departed for 8 during the powerplay. Young batter Alice Capsey attempted to counterattack and struck a brisk 23, but her dismissal reduced the hosts to 67-3. The pressure mounted further when Heather Knight was dismissed for just 2, leaving England reeling at 70/4.

Sciver-Brunt, Kemp lead fightback

Australia's disciplined bowling effort was led by Annabel Sutherland, Sophie Molineux, Lucy Hamilton and Kim Garth, who claimed a wicket apiece to restrict England to a decent total. Australia eye their seventh women's T20 World Cup, while England their second. (ANI)

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Japan PM's visit a major step for India ties in defence: Shringla

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:30:34 +0530

Rajya Sabha MP and former Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Sunday described Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent official visit to India as a major step forward in bilateral ties, particularly in the strategic and defence sectors. Speaking to ANI following her visit, Shringla said the visit marked significant progress in India-Japan strategic cooperation, highlighting the agreement on co-development in the defence industry. "When you talk about her visit in strategic terms, I think it is very important because we have been able to take that one step forward. What we have done is that we have also signed an agreement that provides for the co-development of defence industries. We will be working with Japan on naval hardware and technology. Japan has a lot of expertise in stealth naval radar antennas," he said.

'Very Significant Development'

Shringla further stated that the decision to institutionalise a 2+2 dialogue between the foreign and defence ministers of the two countries is a "very significant development", noting that India and Japan already conduct joint military exercises. "They have a lot of expertise in metallurgy and electronics and advanced manufacturing systems, and I think this joint co-development will be a very mutually beneficial initiative. We also have taken a decision to have, for the first time, a 2+2 dialogue of the foreign and defence ministers," he said.

"This is a very significant development. We already have joint exercises with Japan," Shringla added.

Economic and Business Highlights

Highlighting the economic outcomes of the visit, he said both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Takaichi attended the India-Japan Joint Business Forum, where major investment commitments and agreements were announced. "Economically also, her visit was significant. Both the Prime Ministers attended the India-Japan Joint Business Forum. There was an announcement of a USD 12.5 billion investment. I believe 129 MoUs were signed, including one which calls for a resilient economic partnership and the supply chains that have to be more resilient between India and Japan in the context of over-dependency on certain sources of our equipment and technology. At the same time, both have a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific," Shringla said.

Takaichi was on a three-day official visit to India from July 1 to July 3 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi, during which she participated in the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, where both leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest. (ANI)

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KTR threatens siege of pump house over farmers' water crisis

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:30:21 +0530

Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President K T Rama Rao (KTR) on Sunday warned that the party would lay siege to the Kannepalli Pump House with "50,000 to 60,000 people" if the Telangana government continued to ignore the interests of farmers and failed to utilise the available Godavari waters.

Leading a BRS delegation to the Kannepalli Pump House in Bhupalpally district to inspect the alleged wastage of water, KTR accused the state government of failing to operate the pumping infrastructure to provide irrigation benefits to farmers.

KTR Warns Government During Inspection

Addressing a press conference during the visit, KTR said, "The party would lay siege to the Kannepalli Pump House with 50,000 to 60,000 people if the government continued to ignore the interests of Telangana's farmers and refused to utilise the available Godavari waters."

He further warned the government to immediately operationalise the pumps. "Switch on the Bahubali pumps and provide water to farmers. If the government fails to act, we will march to Kannepalli, lay siege to the Pump House and ensure that the pumps are switched on," KTR said.

Earlier in the day, KTR, along with senior BRS leaders, headed to the Kannepalli Pump House as part of the party's inspection visit. The BRS alleged that police attempted to stop vehicles carrying party leaders, workers and farmers travelling to the site. According to the party, police also blocked KTR's convoy at Pembarthi by placing barricades on the highway, resulting in a heated argument between BRS leaders and police personnel.

Drought Crisis and Government Inaction

He demanded that the Congress government immediately operate the Kannepalli Pump House and lift Godavari waters to protect Telangana from an impending drought, warning that the State could face a severe water crisis due to the combined impact of El Nino, deficient rainfall and government inaction.

After inspecting the Kannepalli Pump House, KTR said 26 out of Telangana's 33 districts are already facing drought-like conditions, while lakhs of cusecs of Godavari water continue to flow wastefully into the sea because the government has failed to utilise the existing Kaleshwaram infrastructure.

He accused the Congress government of displaying complete apathy towards farmers despite repeated warnings from weather experts about El Nino and below-normal rainfall. "Instead of preparing for a drought and protecting agriculture, the government is allowing precious water to go to waste while farmers suffer," he said.

Allegations of Deliberate Neglect

KTR urged the government to immediately restart the Kannepalli pumps and fill reservoirs to provide irrigation and drinking water across Telangana. He alleged that the government was deliberately withholding water as it feared the financial responsibility of procuring larger harvests, supplying fertilisers and paying bonuses to farmers.

Defense of Kaleshwaram Project

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BRO upgrades Kailash Mansarovar route, now a vehicle-based journey

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:01:19 +0530

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on Sunday said the route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass has been upgraded into a largely vehicle-based corridor following extensive road infrastructure work, improving accessibility for pilgrims and enhancing connectivity in the border region.

In a post on X, BRO said Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 on July 5, marking the beginning of this year's pilgrimage. #BROIndia#DevBhoomi Tourism #KailashMansarovarYatra2026 ️#UttarakhandConnectivity *From Trek to Triumph ️* A new chapter in the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 begins as Hon'ble Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, flags off the Yatra on 05 Jul… pic.twitter.com/l6nvjxCaAv — (@BROindia) July 5, 2026

Route Transformed for Safer Pilgrimage

"Through relentless efforts in one of the world's most challenging terrains, 765 BRTF under Project Hirak @BRO has transformed the pilgrimage route via Lipulekh Pass," the BRO said.

"What was once a demanding trek has now become a vehicle-based journey largely, making the Yatra safer, faster and more accessible while enhancing strategic border connectivity and improving the lives of remote border communities," it added.

According to the organisation, the improved road infrastructure also strengthens strategic border connectivity and contributes to the development of remote border villages by improving access and mobility.

CM Dhami Flags Off First Batch of Pilgrims

Earlier, Dhami on Sunday flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 from Tanakpur.

Addressing the pilgrims, the Chief Minister said he prayed to Lord Shiva for their safe, smooth and peaceful journey, adding that the yatra is a matter of divine blessing and devotion.

He noted that in a country of 1.4 billion people, only 49 pilgrims have been selected for this rare spiritual journey, calling it a reflection of Lord Shiva's grace.

"I offer my prayers to Lord Shiva for your pleasant, smooth, and safe Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. May Mahadev bless you all. As I said at the beginning, his grace is truly upon you; otherwise, in a nation of 1.4 billion, only 49 people have received this rare opportunity. From the sacred land of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, flagging off the first group of pilgrims is not just an administrative duty for me, but a chance to bow at the feet of Lord Shiva and remember him through you. It is a moment of great devotion," CM Dhami said. (ANI)

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Chikkaballapur outbreak linked to E. coli in illegal drinking water

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:01:04 +0530

Illegal Water Cans Suspected in Outbreak

An outbreak of vomiting and diarrhoea in Chikkatekahalli village, Shidlaghatta taluk, is suspected to have been caused by E. coli bacteria found in illegally sold 20-litre drinking water cans, the district administration said. An inquiry revealed that the water was being sold without authorisation. It had been procured from a private water purification unit whose operating licence had expired.

Following the findings, the purification unit and its water storage tanks have been sealed, and the supply of water from the source has been stopped.

JJM Water Supply Declared Safe

Laboratory tests conducted on water supplied under the government's Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) confirmed that it was free from any chemical or biological contamination. Officials clarified that the outbreak was not linked to the JJM supply.

Authorities Take Action

Police cases have been registered against the illegal water supplier and the owner of the purification unit. The district administration said a temporary health camp has been set up in Chikkatekahalli village and the situation is now under control. Medical teams are monitoring residents for symptoms.

Authorities have urged villagers to purchase drinking water only from authorised sources and to report any unlicensed water suppliers.

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Kishor's bypoll bid to usher 'new politics'; BJP says 'true face' exposed

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:01:02 +0530

Jan Suraaj Founder and candidate for Bankipur assembly by-election, Prashant Kishor, on Sunday said that the bypoll is about establishing a "new political order" in Bihar and ushering in a "new kind of politics".

Speaking to reporters, Kishor further expressed confidence in Bihar voters in making the "right decision".

"This election is not merely about electing an MLA from Bankipur; it is not about forming or toppling a government. It is an election to establish a new political order in Bihar--to usher in a new kind of politics in the state. It is both significant and challenging. However, I am confident that the most enlightened voters of Bihar will make the right decision and cast their votes in a way that initiates a new political order in the state," said Prashant Kishor.

BJP Reacts

Reacting to the development, Union Minister Giriraj Singh said that the "true face" of Jan Suraaj has been exposed.

"They have started hurling abuse at the BJP workers. Their business of falsehoods has come to an end. Their true face has been exposed; that is why their shop has shut down ahead of the general election," he told reporters.

Meanwhile, BJP Bihar chief Sanjay Saraogi exuded confidence in the victory of the NDA candidate in the Bankipur by-election.

"The announcement for the Bankipur by-election has been made. The election there is on July 30. Other parties will also contest the election with their candidates. The people of Bankipur are going to express their gratitude to the top leadership of the BJP in this election. They will ensure victory for the NDA candidate with a massive majority," he told reporters.

By-election Details Announced

Bankipur assembly constituency was declared vacant after Nitin Nabin was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Bihar.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday announced that the bypolls to three Assembly Constituencies in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat will be held on July 30, with counting of votes slated for August 3.

In Madhya Pradesh, the vacancy in the 22-Datia Assembly Constituency arose due to the disqualification of Rajendra Bharti. Meanwhile, in Gujarat, the poll for the 145-Manjalpur Assembly Constituency will be held to fill the seat left vacant following the unfortunate demise of the sitting MLA, Yogeshbhai Narandas Patel.

The last date for filing nominations has been fixed as July 13, with the scrutiny of the nomination papers scheduled to take place on July 14 (Tuesday). Candidates will have until July 16 to withdraw their candidatures.

The Election Commission further stated that the entire election process shall be completed by August 4.

The Commission has decided to use EVMs and VVPATs in the by-election in all the polling stations. Adequate numbers of EVMs and VVPATs have been made available, and all steps have been taken to ensure that the poll is conducted smoothly with the help of these machines. (ANI)

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CPI(M) opposes HP govt's temporary recruitment, warns of privatization

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:01:01 +0530

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Sunday strongly opposed the Himachal Pradesh government's recruitment policies that provide for temporary appointments in government departments, alleging that such measures would undermine job security, increase unemployment and pave the way for privatization of essential public services.

In a statement, CPI(M) Himachal Pradesh State Secretary Sanjay Chauhan urged the state government to immediately stop recruitment through part-time, job trainee, multi-task worker (MTW), casual, outsourced and contractual arrangements and instead fill all vacancies through regular appointments.

The party alleged that the government has been continuously modifying recruitment rules to make temporary employment the norm, offering appointments on fixed honorariums without any assurance of long-term job security. CPI(M) added that these policies would particularly affect educated unemployed youth by creating uncertainty over their future and could lead to growing frustration among young job seekers. The party claimed that the increasing dependence on temporary employment was contributing to rising unemployment and public discontent in the state.

Concerns Over Job Trainee Policy

The CPI(M) said that while such recruitment practices were earlier confined to Group C and Group D posts, the government has now extended them to Group A and Group B positions. As examples, the party cited the state's recent decision to recruit 162 doctors and 335 assistant professors under the newly introduced Job Trainee Policy.

It claimed that doctors appointed under the policy would receive a fixed monthly salary of Rs 34,000, while assistant professors would be paid Rs 35,000 per month.

The party further alleged that appointments under the Job Trainee Policy would be valid for only two years, after which candidates would have to compete again through fresh examinations and interviews for any newly created regular posts. It claimed that the policy contains no provision for automatic regularization, leaving the future of employees uncertain.

CPI(M) also expressed concern that similar recruitment models could be adopted across other government departments in the future.

Neoliberal Policies and Privatization Fears

The party accused both the Central and Himachal Pradesh governments of pursuing neoliberal policies aimed at gradually privatizing essential public services, including education, healthcare, transport, electricity and drinking water. It alleged that changes in government policies were intended to facilitate the transfer of public services to private companies and corporate entities, warning that such privatization would increase the financial burden on citizens, reduce employment opportunities and make essential services more expensive and less accessible for the common people.

Party Demands Immediate Rollback

Demanding an immediate rollback of what it described as "anti-people policies," the CPI(M) called upon the government to halt privatization, implement a policy of regular recruitment across all departments and strengthen public services while ensuring they remain affordable and accessible.

The party also warned that if the government failed to reverse these policies, it would launch a statewide public movement against them. It appealed to all sections of society to unite in opposing what it termed the neoliberal and anti-people policies of both the Central and state governments.

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Shiv Sena protests in Mumbai, demands Ayodhya Ram Temple trust be dissolved

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:00:56 +0530

UBT Sena Protests Alleged Embezzlement at Ram Temple

Shiv Sena (UBT) on Sunday held a "Ram Raksha" protest at the Hanuman Temple in Mumbai's Dadar over the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Speaking to ANI during the protest, Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey demanded that the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra be dissolved. "After a struggle spanning 500 years, we secured a temple for Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. There was immense zeal and enthusiasm among everyone. However, when we heard reports of theft and dacoity at Lord Ram's temple and that anti-social elements had infiltrated the premises, we decided to launch a movement. We resolved to ignite the spirit of protecting Ram," Dubey said. "The entire Trust must be dissolved, and all the guilty parties must be punished," he added.

Sanjay Raut Accuses BJP of Involvement

UBT Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had launched the protest in Mumbai and performed "Ram Raksha Maha Aarti" at the Dadar Hanuman Temple. Ahead of the protest, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut had said the agitation would begin in front of the Hanuman Temple in Dadar and later be expanded across Maharashtra. He said that there were irregularities in Ram Temple donations and claimed that offerings made by devotees had been stolen.

"The lies that have been spread regarding the Ram Mandir include that there has been theft of donations in the temple and theft of offerings. The ornaments of Lord Shri Ram and Mother Sita have been stolen. Mother Sita's mangalsutra has also been stolen. I want to tell you that devotees had offered a gold mangalsutra to Mother Sita. Even the golden Ramcharitmanas has been stolen. Earrings, bangles, and all other ornaments of Lord Shri Ram have also been stolen," he said.

Raut further added that those involved in the theft belong to the Bharatiya Janata Party itself. "Those who committed the theft are also from the Bharatiya Janata Party itself. They are all the BJP's 'Mohammed Ghaznavi'," he said.

Police to Interrogate Jailed Accused

In a development in the probe, on Saturday, police sources said the Ayodhya Police had obtained court permission to interrogate five of the eight accused currently lodged in jail in connection with the Ram Mandir donation theft case. The accused - Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Ram Shankar Yadav, Karunesh Pandey and Manish Yadav - are scheduled to be questioned inside the jail premises, with their statements to be formally recorded. Investigators may later seek their custody for further interrogation based on the findings of the questioning, police sources added. (ANI)

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Diljit Dosanjh's 'Satluj' removed from ZEE5 India until further notice

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:00:51 +0530

Diljit Dosanjh-starrer 'Satluj' has been taken down from ZEE5 India until further notice, with the streaming platform stating that it is exploring options to bring the film back for audiences in the country. The film is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, who disappeared in 1995. Helmed by Honey Trehan, produced by RSVP and MacGuffin Pictures, 'Satluj' also starred Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan.

ZEE5 Issues Statement on Removal

In an official statement, ZEE5 said it appreciated the response to the film and thanked viewers for their support. "The response to Satluj since its release has been truly overwhelming. We are deeply grateful to every viewer who chose to subscribe, watch and champion the film. Your love and support have meant a great deal to us and to everyone who brought this story to life," the platform wrote in the post.

"At ZEE5, we stand firmly by Satluj and the creative vision behind it. We believe powerful storytelling has the ability to inspire, endure and leave a lasting impact. We remain committed to championing authentic and meaningful narratives," it added.

Announcing the removal, the streamer said, "In light of the current developments, Satluj will be unavailable in India until further notice. We remain committed to exploring every appropriate avenue through due process to bring the film back to our audiences at the earliest opportunity."

ZEE5 further reiterated its commitment to filmmakers and creative expression, stating that its support for "stories told with conviction, artistic integrity and purpose remains unwavering."

"Our commitment to creators and to stories told with conviction, artistic integrity and purpose remains unwavering," it concluded.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zee 5 (@zee5)

A History of Title Changes and Controversy

The project has carried three names on its way to release. It was originally titled "Ghallughara," a historic term for the massacres of Sikhs in 1746, 1762 and 1984. When RSVP applied for certification from India's Central Board of Film Certification in late 2022, the six-month process ended with the film cleared for 21 cuts and a mandated title change to 'Punjab '95,' as per Variety. RSVP appealed that ruling in the Bombay High Court. Around the same time, the film was withdrawn from its planned gala premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival; a source told Variety at the time that political factors were involved in that decision. "We could not get the previous title of the film. The title is now 'Satluj,'" Trehan said in a statement to Variety. (ANI)

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Heavy rains lash Mumbai; BMC on alert, 142 tree falls reported

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:00:30 +0530

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Sunday said 142 incidents of trees or branches falling were reported across Mumbai as gusty winds of 72-75 kmph accompanied heavy rainfall, while Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide directed the entire civic administration to remain on high alert on Monday in view of the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) forecast of continued heavy rain.

The civic body said around 150-170 mm of rainfall was recorded across different parts of Greater Mumbai in the last 24 hours. Despite the heavy showers and a high tide of 4.19 metres recorded at 3.22 pm, normal life remained largely unaffected, with no reports of waterlogging in the city or suburbs and suburban railway services continuing without disruption.

Civic Administration on High Alert

As per the BMC statement, the IMD had issued a Red Alert for Greater Mumbai on Sunday, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall. Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide monitored the evolving situation from the BMC's emergency control room and instructed all circle deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners and other concerned officials to remain present either in their offices or in their respective operational areas.

The commissioner also directed deputy commissioners to certify the presence of officers and staff in the field to ensure preparedness for any emergency. "The entire system of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is on alert and officers and staff are working in the field to deal with any emergency situation. All department heads, engineers, pump operators, health workers as well as emergency response teams have been deployed at various locations," the BMC said in a statement.

According to the civic body, nearly 10,000 officials and employees from various departments have been deployed across Mumbai, including during the weekend, to continuously monitor the situation and undertake emergency response measures.

Rainfall Statistics and Preparedness

The BMC said Mumbai city recorded an average rainfall of 153 mm during the 24-hour period between 5 pm on July 4 and 5 pm on July 5, while the eastern suburbs received 121 mm and the western suburbs recorded 93 mm. It said pre-monsoon preparedness measures helped minimise disruptions during the heavy rainfall.

Pre-monsoon Measures

The Parks Department surveyed 1,62,676 trees, pruned more than 1.03 lakh trees and removed 648 trees identified as dangerous before the onset of the monsoon.

Incidents and Casualties

The Emergency Management Department received 276 complaints related to fallen trees or branches on Sunday. Of these, 142 were confirmed cases of tree or branch falls, which were attended to promptly, with priority given to clearing roads and restoring traffic movement.

The civic body said two people died in separate tree-related incidents during the day. Yunus Kundawala (63) was killed after a tree branch fell on his shop near the Gomes Town building in Kurla Kamani, while an 18-year-old youth lost his life after a tree fell in the Unit 13 area of Aarey Colony.

The BMC also said a vacant three-storey structure on Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan Road near Worli Dairy collapsed during the day. However, no casualties were reported in the building collapse, it added. (ANI)

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Washington DC faces dangerous heat, unhealthy air after July 4 storms

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:00:28 +0530

The Washington, DC region is under multiple weather and air quality alerts following storms over the '4th of July' celebration weekend, with officials warning of dangerous heat conditions and unhealthy air quality levels.

Heat Advisory and Extreme Heat Alert

According to the US National Weather Service, a Heat Advisory has been issued for Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm (local time), with heat index values expected to reach up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The District is also under an Extreme Heat Alert through 8 am on Monday, with authorities warning that daytime temperatures could feel at or above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, while nighttime conditions are expected to remain warm, with temperatures hovering around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, offering little relief.

Storms Disrupt Independence Day Celebrations

On Saturday, the United States Secret Service suspended security screening at the National Mall in DC due to dangerous storms ahead of US President Donald Trump's Independence Day address, urging people attending the celebrations to seek shelter immediately. In a post shared on X, the Secret Service said, "CHECKPOINTS CLOSED -- SEEK SHELTER: Security screening on the National Mall has been suspended due to dangerous storms. If you are already on the grounds, follow directions from officers and event staff and move to shelter immediately. Do not shelter under trees."

However, Trump, despite the forecast of the storm on Saturday, stated that the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of American Independence would go unabated. Trump, in a post on Truth Social, brushed off the forecast, saying he would attend "no matter what" and urged supporters to "have some fun" despite possible delays.

Code Purple Air Quality Alert

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service, in addition, has issued a Code Purple Air Quality Alert for Sunday in the District, indicating unhealthy air conditions for the general public after the Fourth of July celebration saw the "best fireworks show, ever!", according to Trump. Trump praised the fireworks show during the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of US Independence in a post on Truth Social, stating, "Best fireworks show, EVER!"

Officials have urged residents to take precautions amid the combined heat and air quality risks following stormy weather over the holiday period. (ANI)

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Anshula Kapoor's pre-wedding celebrations begin with mehendi, chooda

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:00:23 +0530

Bollywood actor Arjun Kapoor's sister Anshula Kapoor offered a glimpse into her pre-wedding celebrations as she shared pictures from her 'chooda' ceremony on Instagram, capturing heartfelt moments with her family and close friends. Sharing the pictures on Instagram, Anshula captioned the post, "Chooda. Kalire. Blessings. The moment it all started to feel real." The pictures from the ceremony show intimate family moments, with Arjun Kapoor, Boney Kapoor, Janhvi Kapoor, Khushi Kapoor and Shanaya Kapoor joining Anshula for the celebrations. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anshula Kapoor (@anshulakapoor)

Anshula's 'Mehendi of dreams'

Earlier today, Anshula shared glimpses from her intimate mehendi ceremony. Bride-to-be Anshula looked radiant in a teal blue lehenga, while fiance Rohan Thakkar complemented her in a powder blue kurta. The ceremony turned into a special family celebration, with Janhvi and Khushi taking charge of the arrangements to make the occasion memorable for their sister.

Sharing pictures from the celebrations on Instagram, Anshula expressed heartfelt gratitude to her sisters for putting together what she described as the wedding celebration of her dreams. Calling the day one filled with "love" and thoughtful details, she wrote, "The colours, the chaos, the love, and a heart completely full. @janhvikapoor and @khushikapoor, thank you for giving me a mehendi beyond what I could have dreamed of! Every thoughtful touch, every beautiful corner, every moment reflected the love and care you poured into making it so special." She went on to say that the biggest gift was being able to simply enjoy the moment while her sisters handled every detail of the event. "The greatest gift was that I could simply be present, soak it all in, and feel completely celebrated because you had taken care of absolutely everything. Thank you for giving me one of the happiest days of my life. I love you both endlessly," she added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anshula Kapoor (@anshulakapoor)

Kapoor clan and friends join celebrations

The celebrations brought together several members of the Kapoor family and close friends from the film industry. Boney Kapoor attended in a blue kurta-pyjama, while Arjun Kapoor opted for a pastel green kurta. Janhvi Kapoor chose a pastel ensemble, and Khushi Kapoor dazzled in a golden lehenga. Several well-known names, including Sonam Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor and Varun Dhawan were also seen joining the festivities. Pictures shared by Anshula and videos circulating online captured candid moments from the family gathering.

Anshula Kapoor and Rohan Thakkar got engaged in July 2025 after Rohan proposed during a romantic getaway. The couple had announced their engagement with a series of pictures from the special moment. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

VanEck's Sigel Says Strategy Is Now ‘A Hedge Fund’ As Company Adopts Framework Allowing Bitcoin Sales

Stocktwits Inc — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:00:06 +0530

VanEck's Matthew Sigel said on Sunday that Strategy now trades like "a hedge fund" and questioned its NAV premium.
Strategy's new framework permits Bitcoin sales for the first time, though no BTC has been sold per its latest 8-K.
Sigel proposed a "living will" provision requiring treasury companies to unwind if they trade below NAV for too long.

VanEck Head of Digital Assets Research Matthew Sigel said Strategy Inc.'s (MSTR) new capital framework, which permits the company to sell Bitcoin for the first time, has changed the nature of what investors own, and questioned whether the stock deserves a premium to its net asset value.

"You're buying a hedge fund that can trade five things: its own capital stack and Bitcoin," Sigel said on Sunday’s episode of Scott Melker's podcast. "What P/E do you pay for such a hedge fund? I pay very low."

Sigel said VanEck concluded internally last week that "the ball is in Saylor's court" and that Chairman Michael Saylor would have to make decisions as pressure mounted on the company. He characterized the decisions Strategy announced over the weekend as amounting to a move "to sell some Bitcoin, basically."

Strategy's last Form 8-K disclosed a Board-authorized "BTC Monetization Program" allowing the company to sell Bitcoin to fund a $2.55 billion USD Reserve, cover preferred dividend and interest payments, and finance up to $2 billion in combined securities repurchases. The filing showed no Bitcoin was actually sold during the June 22–28 reporting period, with holdings unchanged at 847,363 BTC.

MSTR’s price closed up over 8% on Friday. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around MSTR remained in the ‘extremely bullish’ zone, while chatter stayed at ‘normal’ levels over the past day.

"It's funny how leverage works," Sigel said. "Feels really good on the way up," he added, noting companies can become forced sellers in a downturn.

Sigel Pushes 'Living Will' Provision For Bitcoin Treasury Companies

Sigel said VanEck's Node ETF has been underweight digital asset treasury companies, a positioning he attributed to lessons from covering emerging markets, where conglomerates with entrenched management and related-party transactions can trade at 0.3 to 0.4 times net asset value "for a long, long time."

He proposed that Bitcoin treasury companies adopt a "living will" provision in their prospectuses, under which management would unwind the company, sell its coins, and return cash to shareholders if the stock traded below a set multiple of net asset value for a defined period. Such a mechanism, he argued, would give minority shareholders a path to realizing value and could narrow the persistent discounts at which some treasury stocks trade.

Melker, the podcast host, said Saylor's messaging "kick[ed] the can far enough down the road" for the company to step out of the spotlight, and noted that public commentary from Strategy-linked figures had grown less strident in recent days. Sigel agreed with that characterization.

Read also: Coinbase Bitcoin Premium Stuck In Negative Territory For 48 Days, Longest Streak On Record

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

J&K school book row: BJP's Tarun Chugh terms it 'academic jihad'

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:30:48 +0530

Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding a book in Jammu and Kashmir schools that allegedly portrays separatist leaders as "great personalities", BJP MP Tarun Chugh has termed the development a case of "academic jihad".

Speaking to ANI, he described the situation as a deliberate conspiracy to instil anti-India and anti-national sentiments in the minds of children by glorifying villains as heroes. "This is not merely about a book. This is a case of 'academic jihad'--a conspiracy to instil anti-India and anti-national sentiments in the minds of children and to portray villains as heroes. The nation will not tolerate this," Chugh stated.

The BJP leader demanded an apology from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the National Conference, alleging that such incidents are occurring under their patronage. He also commended J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for suspending eight officials in connection with the matter. "Under the patronage of the National Conference government, a book glorifying terrorists has reached government schools. It describes Jammu and Kashmir as 'Indian-occupied territory' and employs anti-national language. The National Conference and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah must apologise to the entire nation. An FIR must be registered against all those responsible. I thank LG Manoj Sinha for suspending the eight officials involved, and I urge that strict action be taken against them," he added.

8 officials suspended, inquiry ordered

The Jammu and Kashmir School Education Department, on the order of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, has placed eight officials under suspension and disengaged a contractual employee after two books procured for government school libraries were found to contain content related to separatism, prompting the administration to order a departmental inquiry.

According to Government Order dated July 4, the action follows the procurement of age-appropriate books under the Samagra Shiksha library grant for 1,832 Government Schools and 394 PM SHRI Schools, for which the Education of India (EOI) was floated.

The order stated that four sub-committees of experts and academicians from both Jammu and Kashmir divisions were constituted to select library books for Primary, Upper Primary, Secondary and Higher Secondary classes. These committees selected 463 books submitted by 364 publishers.

However, the order noted that two books were withdrawn through separate orders issued on July 3. The books are Personalities and Legends of J&K, authored by Dr Hilal Ahmad and Mr Santosh Meena and published by Oberoi Book Service, Jammu, and Great Personalities of Jammu and Kashmir, authored by Sushant Giri and published by Aurora Prakashan, Delhi.

According to the order, 123 copies of the first book had been supplied to schools in Jammu, Ramban and Udhampur districts, while 128 copies of the second book had been supplied to schools in Jammu and Baramulla districts.

'Serious negligence, dereliction of duty'

The order stated, "It has come to the notice of the department that these books have highly inappropriate content, it is quite evident that there was serious negligence, dereliction of duty and lack of proper due diligence was carried out by the members of the Sub Committee Series 4 and Supervisory Officers while recommending such books which contained content related to separatism which has potential for creating law and order situations."

It further said, "Keeping in view the above facts and circumstances of the matter, the members of the Sub Committee Series 4 appear to be responsible for such serious lapses and negligence unbecoming of government servants."

Suspended officials named, inquiry officer appointed

The suspended officials are Fazil Imran Saddiqui, Coordinator Library, Samagra Shiksha; Gurjeet Singh, Assistant Coordinator, Samagra Shiksha; Sanjeev Sharma, Principal, Government Higher Secondary School, Kote Pannu, Kathua; Shazia Kousar, Academic Officer, SCERT Jammu; Imtiyaz Ahmad Mir, Lecturer, BHSS Wathoora, Budgam; Niranjan Sharma, Lecturer, Government Higher Secondary School Badhat, Kishtwar; Renu Mengi, Lecturer, DIET Jammu; and Rajmohini, Lecturer, Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Poonch.

The order said the suspended officials will remain attached to the Administrative Department (School Education Department) during the period of suspension.

It further directed that Sheikh Suheil Ahmad, Computer Assistant (Contractual) attached to the Coordinator Library, Samagra Shiksha, be disengaged from his contractual engagement with immediate effect.

The order also appointed Ashwani Kumar, IAS, Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Power Development Department, as the Inquiry Officer to conduct an inquiry into the matter. Rohit Sharma, JKAS, Additional Secretary to the Government, General Administration Department, has been appointed as the Presenting Officer. The Inquiry Officer has been directed to submit the report to the competent authority within 30 days.

Authors, publishers blacklisted

Further, the order stated that the aforementioned authors and publishers have been banned and blacklisted in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It also directed that all printed material authored and/or published by them be withdrawn from the Union Territory. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Sooryavanshi should've debuted in Ireland: Maninder Singh on prodigy

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:30:32 +0530

Former Indian cricketer Maninder Singh said that 15-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who could make just 14 runs on his historic international cricket debut against England in the second T20I, should have had made his debut during the Ireland series, saying that there was hint of nervousness in youngster's performance on his first-ever international match at senior level.

Sooryavanshi made history during the second T20I against England at Manchester, becoming India's youngest international cricketer ever at the age of 15 years and 99 days, outdoing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who had made his debut in 1989 at the age of 16 years and 238 days. However, his 10-ball stay could only yield 14 runs and two sixes.

Debut Should Have Been in Ireland: Maninder

Speaking to ANI in an interview, while Maninder backed the "brave" Sooryavanshi to prosper in future, he said that making his international debut in Ireland and having a failure or two there would have helped him much better while facing a much more experienced, dominating English bowling attack. He also acknowledged that it is natural to have nerves, as even the biggest of the cricketers have experienced it and hopes that Vaibhav will do well in white-ball cricket, which he called "the game of the brave".

"Look, I am very happy for Vaibhav Suryavanshi. I feel he should have been played in Ireland itself because of the rhythm he was in, the form he was in. If these failures had happened in the Ireland series, by the time he came here, he might have understood and that nervousness would have gone. Because of the way he played his shot, that was not Vaibhav Suryavanshi's shot. That was a shot of nervousness. There will be nerves; even the big players get nervous, and he is just a 15-year-old kid. He is playing with men; he is competing with men. He has hit sixes on the first ball against big names. If we talk about (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Pat) Cummins was hiding when bowling against him in the IPL, and (Josh) Hazlewood did not understand where to bowl to him," he said.

Maninder urged the "true cricket lovers" to have some patience with Sooryavanshi, saying that batting on such pitches in overseas conditions is a "learning opportunity" for the teen prodigy. "All Indian cricket lovers need to have this patience because he is a talented cricketer. He is an impact player. Whenever he plays, he will create such an impact that he'll win the match single-handedly. So I am not too worried. Because he is a brave player and white-ball cricket today is a game of the brave, Vaibhav Suryavanshi is one of them. So my prayers will be with him for the coming times, but I have full hope from him that he will live up to our expectations," he signed off.

A Look at Sooryavanshi's Stellar Record

The 15-year-old cricketer was named in India's T20I squads for the tours of Ireland and England, as well as the Asian Games. He became the youngest-ever player to be picked for the Indian national side, breaking a 36-year-old record held by legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Breakout IPL 2026 Season

Notably, Sooryavanshi earned his maiden national call-up following a sensational IPL 2026 campaign with Rajasthan Royals, where he amassed 776 runs at a staggering strike rate of 237.30, including a century and five fifties. His explosive season saw him finish as the tournament's leading run-scorer while smashing a record 72 sixes. The youngster also swept multiple post-season IPL honours, including the Orange Cap, Most Valuable Player, Emerging Player, Super Striker and Super Sixes awards.

So far in his IPL career, Sooryavanshi has scored 1,028 runs in 23 matches and innings at an average of 44.69 and a strike rate of 228.95, with two centuries and six fifties and a best score of 103. He has smashed 96 sixes.

Dominance in Youth and A-Cricket

In the recent tri-nation in Sri Lanka, featuring SL A and Afghanistan A, Sooryavanshi made 211 runs in five innings at an average of 42.20, with a strike rate of almost 201, with the best score of 94, his solitary fifty coming in the final. He also smacked the fastest List A cricket fifty in 11 balls against Sri Lanka A.

He is India's top run-getter in youth ODIs, with 1,412 runs in 25 matches and innings at an average of 56.48, with a strike rate of 165.72, four centuries and seven fifties and a best score of 175. His first U19 WC appearance this year saw him win the title and top score with 439 runs in seven matches and innings at an average of 62.71 and a strike rate of 169.49, with a century and three fifties, with a best score of 175. He also smashed a whopping 30 sixes, the highest by a batter in the tournament's history. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Kejriwal's 'Who are you?' jibe at BJP chief over 'Hindu deity' remark

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:30:31 +0530

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday took a jibe at BJP chief Nitin Nabin after he accused the Opposition leaders of remaining silent over "insults" of Hindu deities. Hitting out at Nitin Nabin on X, Kejriwal posted, "Aap kaun hain (Who are you)?"

This came as a reply to Nitin Nabin's address at BJP's Shakti Kendra Sanyojak Sammelan in Lucknow, where he said, "Today, I want to tell Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Kejriwal that do not consider the Hindu religion so weak that people will fall for your rhetoric."

Ayodhya Temple Donation Row

This comes in the backdrop of the row over the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Arvind Kejriwal have been outspoken and have cornered the BJP government at the Centre and in the state over the case.

Police Probe Update

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Maninder Singh on 'champion players' Rohit, Virat for 2027 World Cup

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:30:31 +0530

Former Indian cricketer Maninder Singh expressed his thoughts on India's ODI stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, saying that while worries around their form and reflexes will be there as the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup still has a lot of time, they are nonetheless "champions players" who have a lot of mental strength and match-winning ability in them.

The ODI leg of the England tour, starting from July 14 onwards, consisting of three matches, will bring back the festive feel in Indian cricket that Rohit and Virat bring as ODI-exclusive players with very limited time left in their international careers. Each appearance made by these legends post the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy win has been under scrutiny as they will be heading into the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup in October-November next year, aged 40 and 38, respectively.

The 'Ro-Ko' Pair Under Scrutiny

Despite all the scrutiny, rumours and speculations about their future, the iconic 'Ro-Ko' pair continue to display their relentless discipline and hunger in the form of consistent runs and great levels of fitness. However, Rohit's hamstring struggles in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and a brief form dip in ODIs raised some questions about his future, with opener Yashasvi Jaiswal waiting in the wings. Virat, who looks in a much better place form-wise and also secured his second back-to-back title with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), also came under a bit of scrutiny after sustaining a hamstring injury in the IPL finals, which caused him to miss the home ODIs against Afghanistan in June. He has been included in the England ODI squad, and his inclusion in the playing XI is subject to fitness. Virat is reportedly on track to have a prominent role in the series, having undergone a fitness Test in Bengaluru at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence.

Maninder Singh's Take

Speaking to ANI, Maninder said that while he is not really worried about Virat due to his high level of fitness and sky-high intensity levels even during a practice session, but a bit worried about Rohit as his performances "go up and down".

"As far as Virat Kohli is concerned, his fitness level is very high. And Rohit is also working in that direction. But somewhere I feel there's still time for the World Cup, and as you said, we wonder if they will be able to catch form by then, maintain form until then, this is a matter of worry, no doubt about it. Because as your age increases, your reflexes start slowing down. I am not so worried about Virat Kohli because he works so much on his fitness, he is so passionate about the game, his practice sessions... I've seen him doing them, he plays in practice sessions as if he is playing a match," he said.

"There is a bit of worry sometimes for Rohit because his performance goes up and down. So if you think about these two players, worries will be there because there is time for the World Cup. But they are champions, and you only become a champion when you are mentally strong, and mental strength is very important in international cricket. Let's see how they perform in the coming time. But let us hope they perform well because they are both such players who are match-winners, impact players; when they get going, they win matches for their team," he signed off.

Virat Kohli's Recent Form and Stats

Virat was seen struggling while running during the final stages of the Indian Premier League (IPL) final against the Gujarat Titans (GT) at Ahmedabad, but took the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a tricky 156-run chase with a 42-ball 75* last May. Virat finished the IPL as the fourth-highest run-getter and RCB's top-scorer with 675 runs in 16 innings at an average of 56.25 and a strike rate of 165.84, with a century and five fifties, with the best score of 105*. The 37-year-old veteran is one of the greatest ODI batters ever and is the second-highest run-getter in the format with 14,797 runs in 299 innings at an average of 58.71, with 54 centuries, the most by a batter and 77 fifties. His best score is 183.

Dominance as ODI Specialist

Virat is an ODI-exclusive player now, having retired from T20Is after the T20 World Cup title win in 2024 and from Tests last year in May before the start of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Since last year, the veteran has smashed 891 runs in 16 matches at an average of 68.53 and a strike rate of 98.45, with four centuries and five fifties in 16 innings, with a best score of 135. He also played a crucial role in India's ICC Champions Trophy win last year. Since last year's Australia tour, which started his journey as an ODI-exclusive batter, he has cracked 616 runs in nine matches and innings at an average of 88 and a strike rate of 106.39, with three centuries and three fifties. In his most recent ODI outing earlier this year against New Zealand, he was India's top scorer with 240 runs in three matches at an average of 80.00, with a century and a fifty each.

Rohit Sharma's Performance Check

On the other hand, in nine IPL matches this year, Rohit has scored 283 runs at an average of 35.37 and a strike rate of 1576.22, including two fifties and a best score of 84. He missed a chunk of action due to a hamstring injury. His ODI form has been shaky this year, scoring 204 runs in six ODIs at an average of 34.00, with a half-century and best score of 79, with a strike rate of 100. The series against Afghanistan saw him score 16, 48 and 79.

Career Milestones

Rohit is India's third-highest ODI run-getter, with 11,720 runs in 285 matches and 277 innings at an average of 48.83 and a strike rate of 92.97, with 33 centuries and 62 fifties, including a best score of 264. Since last year, Rohit has scored 854 runs in 20 innings at an average of 44.94, with a strike rate of 100.35, with two centuries and five fifties, including a best score of 121* and a match-winning 76 in the ICC Champions Trophy final. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mumbai rains: Schools, colleges shut on Monday after IMD orange alert

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:30:30 +0530

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Sunday announced that all government, private and civic body-run schools and colleges in Mumbai will remain closed on July 6 (Monday) after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an 'orange alert' forecasting heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds.

The BMC said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students in view of the weather forecast. In a statement, the BMC said, "In view of this forecast and keeping the safety of students in mind, a holiday has been declared on Monday, July 6, 2026, for all government, private, and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) schools and colleges in Mumbai." The BMC, however, clarified that government and private offices will function as usual.

Closures in Thane and Navi Mumbai

NMMC Issues Safety Advisory

In a post on X, the NMMC wrote, "Keeping in mind the possibility of heavy rainfall, all schools have been declared closed tomorrow, Monday, July 6, for the safety of students."

"It is observed that the incidence of trees falling due to gusty winds has increased. Accordingly, all Navi Mumbai citizens are requested not to stand under trees and not to park their vehicles under trees. Buildings that have been declared hazardous by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation or are in a hazardous condition should be vacated immediately to avoid potential accidents. Keeping in mind the possibility of heavy rainfall, all schools have been declared closed tomorrow, Monday, July 6, for the safety of students," the NMMC announced.

Heavy Rainfall Recorded

According to the IMD, Mumbai is likely to witness heavy rainfall along with strong winds on Monday, prompting the civic administration to announce the closure of educational institutions across the city. Meanwhile, Mumbai continued to receive intense rainfall throughout the day, with the BMC stating that the city recorded more than 265 mm of rain, while the suburbs received over 227 mm in the 24-hour period ending at 6 pm on July 5.

According to the district administration's daily situation report, Gaganbawda recorded the highest rainfall at 143.1 mm, followed by Bhudargad (85.9 mm), Radhanagari (81 mm), Ajra (67.6 mm), Chandgad (65.3 mm), Kagal (60.2 mm), Panhala (58.3 mm), Shahuwadi (46.9 mm), Gadhinglaj (43.4 mm), Karveer (40.1 mm), Hatkanangale (20.9 mm) and Shirol (16.8 mm).

Impact on Traffic and Transport

The administration said rail traffic was operating normally and no rail services had been disrupted. National Highway traffic also remained unaffected. However, heavy rainfall disrupted traffic on seven roads across the district, including two state highways, two major district roads, two village roads and one other district road. Authorities said the situation was under constant monitoring. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Beyoncé drops surprise single 'Morning Dew' for B'DAY anniversary

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:30:21 +0530

Singer Beyonce has surprised fans with the release of her new single 'Morning Dew (Donk)' recently, marking her first musical release in two years and setting off a 60-day countdown to the 20th anniversary of her 2006 album B'DAY, according to E! News.

The Grammy-winning artist's new track, written by Beyonce, Pharrell Williams, The-Dream and Darius Dixon, has sparked excitement among fans, with the release tied to a special celebration of her iconic era. According to a statement from Parkwood Entertainment, the song marks "a direct nod to her loyal BeyHive to commemorate the upcoming epic celebration of B'DAY." The statement added, "The song, which will be included on the 20th Anniversary edition of B'DAY, arrives accompanied by a lyric video that repurposes old footage, directed by frequent collaborator, Cliff Watts."

The 2006 album B'DAY, which originally debuted globally on September 4, 2006 and was released in the US a day later, sold over 541,196 copies in its first week, according to E! News.

Speculation Mounts Over 'Act III' Trilogy

While the new release has fueled speculation about the singer's long-awaited third act in her musical trilogy, fans continue to await official confirmation regarding the next chapter of her Renaissance and Cowboy Carter-era project. Beyonce's publicist Yvette Noel-Schure recently dismissed online rumours suggesting that "Act III" would be released this summer. Responding to a fan post on X, she wrote, "This is unequivocally false!!"

Fan Theories and Rumours

Despite speculation, fans continue to theorise about the final act of Beyonce's trilogy, which is expected to follow Renaissance and Cowboy Carter, with some suggesting a rock-and-roll influence and multiple high-profile collaborations. "The album is 100% complete, only vinyl pressings remain, expected to be finished before June 2026, showing a summer release," a fan account claimed on X, also suggesting "two big features," according to E! News.

Beyonce, who shares daughter Blue Ivy, 14, and twins Rumi and Sir, 9, with husband Jay-Z, has previously described the trilogy as a deeply personal project created during the pandemic. "This three-act project was recorded over three years during the pandemic," she wrote in 2022. "A time to be still, but also a time I found to be the most creative," according to E! News. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

AUS vs ENG, Women's T20 WC 2026 Final: Nat Sciver-Brunt Shares Emotional Walkout with Son Theo

Hrishikesh Damodar — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:17:53 +0530

England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt walked out with her son Theo for the national anthem ahead of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Final against Australia at the Lord’s Cricket Ground in London on Sunday, July 5.

Australia skipper Sophie Molineux won the toss and opted to bowl first against Nat Sciver-Brunt-led England in the ultimate clash for the prestigious T20 World Cup title, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown at the Home of Cricket. Australia and England defeated the West Indies and South Africa, respectively, in the semifinals to set up a much-anticipated title clash.

Australia are looking to culminate their campaign by not only remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament but also clinching their record-extending seventh Women’s T20 World Cup triumph, while England are aiming to clinch their second title of the tournament.

Also Read: Women's T20 WC Final: Undefeated Aus, Eng clash; Mooney eyes glory

An Emotional Moment for Nat-Sciver Brunt

As England and Australia assembled in line for the national anthem in front of a packed, electric crowd at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground, Nat Sciver-Brunt had an emotional moment ahead of the high-stakes Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Sciver-Brunt led her England side onto the field with her one-year-old son, Theo, who stood by her side as the official match mascot. The heartwarming images quickly went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), as the England captain appeared visibly emotional, sharing one of the biggest moments of her professional career with her family.

As England’s national anthem played, Nat Sciver-Brunt’s eyes were moist with emotion as she held Theo in her arms, a poignant scene that resonated deeply with the spectators and viewers alike.

✨ A special moment for England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt, who leads out her side for a World Cup final carrying her young son ❤️ pic.twitter.com/tRyhJso5wp

— Test Match Special (@bbctms) July 5, 2026

Nat Sciver-Brunt married fellow England cricketer Katherine Sciver-Brunt in May 2022. The couple, who have been pivotal figures in England women’s cricket, became parents to a baby boy, Theodore Michael Sciver-Brunt, in March 2025.

A year after the marriage, Katherine Sciver-Brunt retired from international cricket in May 2023, followed by her retirement from all forms of the game in August 2023, bringing to a close a legendary 19-year career that saw her become England's leading wicket-taker in white-ball formats.

Nat Sciver-Brunt's Walkout With Son Wins Hearts Online

Nat Sciver-Brunt’s heartwarming moment with Theo ahead of England’s Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 final against Australia has triggered an outpouring of admiration on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), with fans hailing the emotional walkout as one of the most memorable moments of the tournament.

Taking to their X handles, fans and cricket enthusiasts described the walkout as ‘bigger than cricket,’ praised Sciver-Brunt for beautifully balancing motherhood and elite sport, and hailed the touching moment with Theo as an iconic symbol of women's cricket.

Others praised the unprecedented nature of the moment at a World Cup final, with some highlighting how rarely elite athletes share such personal scenes on the biggest stage. A section of users also noted that the emotional walkout added a unique human touch to an otherwise high-pressure title clash at Lord’s.

What a powerful statement from the England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt. Not intentional at all (surely she just wanted to share this occassion with her family, with Katherine too by the ropes), but the power of a woman playing cricket, representing one's nation as the captain, with… https://t.co/LPmfCAt8GJ

— Lavanya ️‍ (@lav_narayanan) July 5, 2026

#T20WorldCup Wow, what a truly wonderful moment. Nat Sciver-Brunt, England captain, leads her side out at Lord's for the World Cup final... with her own little mascot, as Nasser Hussain puts it. Her son, Theo. Lovely! pic.twitter.com/oKqs721bZq

— Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) July 5, 2026

Captain Nat Sciver Brunt getting emotional with her son during the national anthem before the final ❤️Motherhood + Cricket = Pure Aura!Respect for this moment pic.twitter.com/vdX25RTSFh

— Dead Guru (@PAPA_JI_4141) July 5, 2026

Captain Nat Sciver Brunt getting emotional with her son during the national anthem before the final ❤️Motherhood + Cricket = Pure Aura!Respect for this moment pic.twitter.com/vdX25RTSFh

— Dead Guru (@PAPA_JI_4141) July 5, 2026

Nat Sciver-Brunt walks out holding her son Theo Sciver-Brunt! What a visual! Women’ Cricket pic.twitter.com/O3bbTVFuAW

— Asli BCCI Women T20 World Cup Mode (@AsliBCCIWomen1) July 5, 2026

Leading on and off the field ❤️ Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt with her son during the national anthem before the final.#AUSvENG #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/0DHTEWafmt

— CREX (@Crex_live) July 5, 2026

What a beautiful moment in the middle at Lord's! ❤️England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt walking out for the #T20WorldCup Final with her son, Theo, as the official match mascot.Absolutely iconic. Some things are just bigger than cricket. ✨#ENGvAUS

— Cricktake (@Cricktake_) July 5, 2026

Meanwhile, England posted a respectable total of 150/4 in 20 overs, with skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt (53) and Freya Kemp (44*) sharing a crucial unbeaten 80-run partnership for the fifth wicket after the 2009 champions were left reeling at 70/4.

For Australia, Kim Grath (1/20), Lucy Hamilton (1/19), skipper Sophie Molineux (1/32), and Annabel Sutherland (1/34) each claimed one wicket to restrict the England batting lineup in a disciplined bowling display at Lord’s.

Also Read: Women's T20 WC Final: Australia wins toss, opts to field vs England

Assam CM inspects Sarusajai projects, new bills to be tabled soon

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:00:46 +0530

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday visited the development project sites near Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati. He told reporters here, "We are discussing developing the Sarusajai Stadium and sports hostel. We are also discussing some projects to develop the land near the Sarusajai Stadium. For this, today I visited the sites."

Key Legislation for Assam Assembly Session

As the Assam Assembly session begins on Monday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday announced that the state government will table several key legislations, including amendments to tourism laws, land revenue regulations and a Bill to establish the Guwahati Satellite City Development Authority. Addressing a press conference after the state Cabinet meeting here, Sarma said, "From tomorrow, the Assam Assembly session will begin, and several new Bills will be tabled in the Assembly."

New Tourism Law

He said the government will introduce the Assam Tourism and Development Registration Act, 2024 (Amendment) to streamline the registration process for hotels and homestays. "Assam Tourism and Development Registration Act, 2024 (Amendment) will be tabled in the Assembly, and through this, the registrations of hotels and homestays will be done. We will repeal the Sarais Act, 1867," Sarma said.

Land Revenue Regulation Amendment

The Chief Minister also announced that the government would introduce a major amendment to the Assam Land Revenue Regulation Act. "We will introduce a powerful amendment Bill to the Assam Land Revenue Regulation Bill, Chapter 12, in the Assembly," he said.

Guwahati Satellite City Authority

Among the Cabinet decisions, the government approved the Guwahati Satellite City Development Authority Bill, 2026, under which the Chief Minister will serve as the Chairperson of the authority. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Sikkim mountaineer Tshering Choden successfully scales Mount Elbrus

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:00:36 +0530

Sikkim mountaineer Tshering Choden has successfully scaled Russia's Mount Elbrus (5,642 metres), the highest peak in Europe, on Sunday. She achieved the feat at around 7:30 am (local time) today, the Sikkim Mountaineering Association (SMA) said in a statement.

The Seven Summits Quest

The successful ascent marks a significant milestone in her mountaineering journey and brings her one step closer to completing the prestigious Seven Summits challenge, which involves climbing the highest mountain on each of the seven continents, the statement said. Mount Elbrus is Tshering Choden's second successful summit in the Seven Summits mission. She had earlier climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, in August 2025.

An Inspiration for Sikkim

Her latest achievement is a proud moment for Sikkim and reflects her determination, endurance, and commitment to high-altitude mountaineering. As she continues her quest to conquer the world's highest continental peaks, her accomplishment is expected to inspire aspiring climbers and adventure enthusiasts across the state and beyond, the statement said.

With two of the Seven Summits now completed, Tshering Choden moves closer to joining the elite group of mountaineers who have accomplished one of the world's most challenging climbing feats. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Udhayanidhi Stalin slams TVK's 'reels govt', says people will decide

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:00:31 +0530

Tamil Nadu Opposition Leader Udhayanidhi Stalin on Sunday launched a series of attacks against the ruling TVK, accusing it of focusing on social media optics instead of governance and asserting that the people, not the DMK, would decide the future of the government.

Addressing party workers in Chennai, Udhayanidhi said the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has always prioritised public service regardless of whether it is in power or in the opposition. "Whether we are in power or not, the DMK is a movement that believes in and demonstrates that serving the people is the most important duty. Whether in victory or defeat, those who stand with the people are Kalaignar's comrades. The DMK has seen every kind of victory and has faced every kind of defeat," he said.

'They are running a reels government'

Aiming for the ruling TVK leadership, Udhayanidhi alleged that the government was relying on social media rather than governance. "They came to power by posting reels. They think they can govern through reels as well. From MLAs to the Chief Minister, everyone is making reels. They are running a 'reels government'," he said.

Rejects Destabilisation Allegations

Rejecting allegations that the DMK was attempting to destabilise the government or form an alliance with the AIADMK, Udhayanidhi said the ruling party was repeatedly making such claims without basis. "Every morning, as soon as they wake up, they say the DMK is trying to form a government with the AIADMK. They also say the DMK is trying to topple the government. Why should we topple it? The people themselves will remove it," he said.

Referring to criticism directed at the DMK, he said, "He referred to us as an 'evil force,' a 'corrupt force,' and by many other names. He was even hesitant to mention our name."

'Now we know who the real opponent is'

Looking ahead to the next electoral contest, Udhayanidhi said the party had identified its principal political rival. "In the last election, we did not even know who our real opponent was. Those whom we wanted to defeat--we defeated them. We went street by street and district by district asking for votes, but we forgot to ask for votes at our own homes. Now we know who the real opponent is. Next time, we will not let them go," he said.

Attack on Former Allies and Corruption Stance

He also criticised leaders who were once part of the DMK alliance, alleging that some had remained silent to protect their positions. "Some people became ministers by receiving our votes through our alliance. They are staying silent because they fear that their 'sofa' will be pulled away. The DMK is not a party that will be frightened by your intimidation or threats," he said.

Continuing his attack, Udhayanidhi accused the ruling dispensation of abandoning its earlier stand against corruption. "The person who once said, 'We will not spare those who committed corruption,' is now inviting those very people into his own party. We will take to the people every mistake committed by the 'sofa model'," he added.

The 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections marked a historic shift in state politics as TVK won 108 seats in its debut election, ending the decades-long dominance of the DMK and AIADMK formations. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

"We will create history": Women at PM Modi-inaugurated Sanand OSAT

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:00:27 +0530

Women workers at the CG Semi OSAT facility in Sanand, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shared their journey of working in Gujarat, stating that they will "create history." On July 4, PM Modi inaugurated the commercial production of semiconductor chips at CG Semi's OSAT facility in Sanand. Some of the young women referred to by Prime Minister Modi in his address shared their journeys.

Women Workers Share Their Journeys

According to the Gujarat CMO, machine operator Poonam Kumari hails from Giridih district in Jharkhand. Her father is no longer alive, and she lives with her mother. Sharing her journey, she said, "I had never travelled outside Jharkhand before. When we were sent to Malaysia for training, everything was new to us. Whenever we found it difficult to understand anything, the trainers explained it to us in Hindi and also through practical demonstrations, which made the learning process much easier."

Machine operator Priyanka Dhanwar from West Singhbhum district in Jharkhand said that her success has made her parents proud. She is the first person in her family to travel abroad. As per the press release, Shivani from Madhya Pradesh said, "When our parents saw our success, tears of joy filled their eyes. Together with CG Semi, we are going to create history."

PM Modi Praises 'Extraordinary' Contribution

On Saturday, highlighting the vital contribution of women to the country's semiconductor mission, the Prime Minister said, "The sisters and daughters working here have come from the tribal belts of states such as Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. When these young women took me around the factory, they explained every stage of the manufacturing process with remarkable confidence, enthusiasm and technical knowledge. These daughters, who come from ordinary families, studied in ordinary schools and received their education at ITIs, are today accomplishing extraordinary work."

The Prime Minister further emphasised, "There was a time when parents felt hesitant to say that their children studied at an ITI. But that era has passed. These young women may have received their education at ITIs, but their aspirations are extraordinary. Many of them come from families where no one had ever applied for or even seen a passport. Forget travelling abroad, several had never even visited Delhi or Mumbai. Today, however, these very daughters have travelled to Malaysia for advanced training, mastered cutting-edge semiconductor technology, and are now playing a vital role in manufacturing 'Made in India' semiconductor chips." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

World Cup: Redknapp warns England of altitude ahead of Mexico clash

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:00:24 +0530

Jamie Redknapp has urged that England must quickly adapt to the demanding conditions of the high altitude in Mexico City ahead of their World Cup Round of 16 clash against Mexico. He said that while altitude training can help, the team have had limited preparation and must now focus on starting strongly and coping with the intense, partisan home crowd. The former England midfielder stressed the importance of discipline and substitutes in such a high-pressure environment, adding that the atmosphere in Mexico City is expected to be highly charged. He also noted that England have yet to fully find their rhythm in the tournament, aside from brief flashes, but suggested that a big win in this knockout match could spark momentum for the rest of their campaign.

Redknapp's Warning

"You can try, and you can do all these things, train at the altitude or whatever it takes, but we haven't had that opportunity. Now we've just got to be ready. As I say, the subs are going to be so key in this game, but let's just make sure we're up for it and we start really well and make sure they don't get that impetus because the crowd are going to be partisan," Redknapp said as per Sky Sports. "I've watched a few games in Mexico and they are really up for their games and they get right behind the team and it's going to be an excitable crowd. Let's make sure we keep 11 men on the pitch, all the right things," he said. "But this should be one that we're really excited about because if we get through, I think this will then give us that momentum that we need because we haven't found that yet. The quality hasn't really been there. I haven't seen that real energy apart from that Croatia game, but it only takes one big win like this and everything can change," he concluded.

A Formidable Challenge at the Azteca

England face a tough Mexico side with a dominant home record, and a high altitude disadvantage at the iconic Azteca during the round of 16 clash on July 6. Harry Kane's men will face one of the biggest tests of their careers as a dominating Mexican side, which has been nearly flawless and impossible to beat at home, will pose a tough challenge for the quarterfinal spot, having not conceded even a single goal so far in the competition. Since first playing at the venue in 1966, Mexico have lost just twice in competitive matches at the Estadio Azteca. In 89 matches played there, they have recorded 70 wins and 17 draws.Another challenge for England will be the high-altitude conditions at Estadio Azteca, with the pitch situated at around 7,220 ft above sea level. (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Coinbase Bitcoin Premium Stuck In Negative Territory For 48 Days, Longest Streak On Record

Stocktwits Inc — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:00:06 +0530

The Coinbase Bitcoin Premium Index has been in the red for 48 consecutive days, its longest stretch on record, since May 19.
Since early May, the index has recorded just one positive day, with Bitcoin otherwise trading at a disadvantage on Coinbase versus the worldwide average.
The stretch is longer than the previous record of 40 minus days from Jan. 16 to Feb. 24 this year.

The Coinbase Bitcoin Premium Index has been negative for 48 days in a row as of Sunday, its longest streak ever, in a sign of persistent selling pressure from U.S. investors, according to Coinglass data.

The index, which tracks the differential between the price of Bitcoin (BTC) on Coinbase (COIN) and the global average, has been below zero since May 19, and the latest reading is -0.0911%. The index has printed only one day of positive premium since early May – a lone green bar in mid-May – while all other sessions have witnessed Bitcoin trading at a discount on Coinbase relative to the global average.

Coinbase is the main venue for U.S. professional and institutional buyers, so the premium is a popular proxy for U.S. institutional demand, while global retail flows are focused on platforms like Binance (BNB). Continued negative readings mean U.S.-based investors are selling more aggressively than the rest of the market.

The current run is longer than the 40 straight down days from Jan. 16 to Feb. 24 this year, which snapped the roughly 30-day downtrend that followed the October 2025 crash, the liquidity-driven selloff that came shortly after Bitcoin’s all-time high above $125,000.

COIN stock closed up over 3% on Friday. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around COIN improved to the ‘bullish’ zone from the ‘neutral’ zone, while chatter stayed at ‘low’ levels over the past day.

ETF Outflows Tell The Same Story

The Coinglass chart shows the premium has been mostly in the red since Bitcoin flipped over from its October high, save for some positive moments in the first half of 2026. That trend is consistent with the ongoing ETF outflows analysts have noted this year.

Bitcoin ETF has seen around $6 billion in net outflows year-to-date, noted Alex Thorn, head of firmwide research at Galaxy (GLXY), recently. Total net assets in spot Bitcoin ETFs stand at $74.37 billion, down from peaks above $150 billion, and June was one of the heaviest months for outflows on record, according to SoSoValue.

Historically, a long stretch of negative premiums has been accompanied by U.S. institutional money leaving the market, analysts say, a trend that calls for caution about near-term pullback pressure. Bitcoin’s price traded near $62,000 on Sunday, down more than 30% on the year and about 50% from its October high.

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around BTC remained in the ‘bullish’ zone, while chatter dropped to ‘low’ from ‘normal’ levels over the past day.

Read also: Could The US Ever Bail Out Bitcoin? Some Say Strategy Makes The Idea Harder To Dismiss

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Transgenders Clash With Family Over Train Seats at Old Delhi Railway Station, Video Goes Viral

Divya Danu — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:59:45 +0530

A dispute over seats in a general coach at Old Delhi Railway Station between a family and a group of transgender persons has gone viral on social media. RPF personnel intervened and calmed the situation before both sides boarded the train.

Hyderabad Positioned to Lead Global South in Sustainable AI Growth

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:31:24 +0530

Global advisors Dilek Ayhan and Rwitwika Bhattacharya argue that the global artificial intelligence boom must be recognised as a massive industrial and infrastructure transformation, not just a digital one. Emphasising that AI breakthroughs rely heavily on physical resources like data centres, electricity, and water, the authors highlight Hyderabad, Telangana, as uniquely positioned to lead the Global South in modelling sustainable technological growth.

According to the study Report, Artificial intelligence is changing more than technology. It is changing the way we think about infrastructure. For years, the conversation around AI has centred on algorithms, computing power and the race to develop ever more capable models. Those discussions will continue to matter. But they risk overlooking a more fundamental reality: every AI breakthrough depends on physical infrastructure. Data centres need electricity, water, digital connectivity, land, skilled workers and long-term investment. As countries compete to attract AI industries, these resources are becoming just as strategic as the technologies themselves.

This is why the AI transition should not be viewed solely as a digital transformation. It is also an industrial transformation, and increasingly, it is an infrastructure transformation. India is in a particularly strong position to help shape what that future looks like. Over the past decade, it has emerged as one of the world's most dynamic digital economies, while Hyderabad has established itself as a leading destination for technology investment and innovation. That momentum creates enormous opportunities, not only to strengthen India's global competitiveness, but also to demonstrate that rapid technological growth and responsible resource management can go hand in hand.

The Resource Challenge: Water and Sustainability

As AI infrastructure expands around the world, the growing water demand has become an important public concern, particularly in regions already experiencing water stress. These concerns are entirely legitimate. Yet they should not become a debate about choosing between technological progress and environmental stewardship. The more important question is how we design systems that allow both to succeed.

A Call for Interconnected Policymaking

That requires us to broaden our understanding of infrastructure. Too often, industrial policy, energy systems, water management, digital infrastructure, innovation and workforce development are treated as separate policy areas. Artificial intelligence does not recognise those boundaries. Decisions about energy influence water consumption. Skills affect investment decisions. Regulation shapes innovation. Infrastructure has become an interconnected system, and our policymaking increasingly needs to reflect that reality.

Governments cannot predict every technological breakthrough, nor should they try. Their role is to create the conditions in which innovation can flourish: stable institutions, predictable regulation, long-term investment frameworks and incentives that encourage sustainable solutions. Businesses are remarkably effective at innovating when policy provides clarity and sustainability becomes part of the business case rather than simply a compliance obligation.

Building a Collaborative Ecosystem

No single actor can build a sustainable AI ecosystem alone. Researchers generate new knowledge. Entrepreneurs develop new technologies. Investors help successful ideas grow. Industry brings innovation to market. Public institutions create the frameworks that make long-term investment possible. Sustainable growth depends on these actors working together, not in parallel.

Lessons from Norway and the Global South's Opportunity

Norway's experience offers one perspective on this approach. Over many years, sustainability has increasingly become integrated into industrial development and innovation policy rather than being treated solely as an environmental objective. Close collaboration between government, industry and research has helped create predictable conditions for investment while encouraging companies to compete through innovation, efficiency and responsible resource management.

The lesson is not that other countries should replicate Norway's model. Every nation must develop solutions that reflect its own geography, institutions and priorities. But the importance of long-term thinking, trusted partnerships, and policy stability is widely applicable. This is particularly relevant for countries across the Global South that are making major investments in digital infrastructure. They have an opportunity not simply to replicate earlier industrial models, but to develop new approaches where technological progress, economic opportunity and responsible resource management reinforce one another.

Telangana's Role in a Sustainable AI Future

Few places are better positioned than Telangana to demonstrate what this can look like in practice. The state has already established itself as one of India's leading technology centres. The next phase of that success story will not be measured only by the scale of digital investment it attracts, but also by its ability to show that AI infrastructure can be both globally competitive and environmentally responsible. Greater use of treated wastewater, circular water systems, and more resource-efficient cooling technologies are all promising directions. Equally important, however, are the policy frameworks and market incentives that encourage companies to adopt these solutions at scale. Sustainable infrastructure is ultimately not only about better technologies. It is about creating the conditions that allow better technologies to become the norm.

A Global Challenge with Shared Principles

These are challenges that extend far beyond any one country. Around the world, policymakers are asking many of the same questions. How do we attract AI investment while protecting scarce natural resources? How do we strengthen competitiveness without compromising sustainability? How do we create confidence for investors while ensuring long-term public value? No country has all the answers. There is enormous value in sharing experience, learning from one another and building partnerships across governments, businesses, researchers and investors. Countries will pursue different solutions, but they can still learn from common principles: long-term thinking, trusted institutions, responsible resource management and collaboration across sectors.

Artificial intelligence will undoubtedly reshape our economies. The question is whether we allow it to reshape our infrastructure with the same ambition. If we continue treating water, energy, digital networks and industrial policy as separate conversations, we risk missing one of the greatest opportunities of the AI era. If, instead, we recognise that these systems are deeply connected, AI can become more than a technological transformation. It can become a catalyst for building stronger economies, more resilient infrastructure and more sustainable societies. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Hyderabad's TG20 cricket league gets global praise, huge turnout

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:31:19 +0530

TG20 Tournament a Resounding Success

The Hyderabad Cricket Association's TG20 tournament is drawing massive crowds and global attention. TG20 Governing Council Chairman Agam Rao highlighted the league's "IPL-like environment," with over 20,000 fans filling the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Uppal every day. The 32-game tournament, which is being held from June 21 to July 12, features eight franchises and 160 highly skilled players. He emphasised that the event has delivered a high standard of cricket and is being widely appreciated both in India and internationally.

"The tournament started on June 21st, and July 12th is our final. We have eight teams playing 32 games at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium at Uppal... We have an IPL-kind of environment happening here. More than 20,000 people are coming every day to watch these franchises play, and 160 players who are competing are all highly skilled. The game is of a very high standard, and it is being appreciated by the entire country, as well as in the world," Rao told ANI.

Smooth Organisation and Grand Finale Planned

Member of the TG20 Governing Council, Sanjeev Reddy, said the inaugural TG20 tournament has been a major success. He noted strong crowds, smooth organisation, and ideal weather conditions, adding that players have been able to perform freely and no complaints have been received so far. "This tournament has really taken off well for the first year. It's doing an excellent job. Amazing crowd. Players are able to express themselves so well. Fortunately, there's no rain at all for us this season. The whole atmosphere is brilliant... We've not got a single complaint from anybody... We're going to have an amazing final show. We have a few singers coming in. We have Telangana culture being expressed on the stage here. So it's going to be an amazing final. I'm looking forward to the whole stadium being packed that day," Reddy said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Amit Shah to attend 5th Foundation Day of Ministry of Cooperation

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:31:15 +0530

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah will attend the 5th Foundation Day Ceremony of the Ministry of Cooperation on July 6 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Cooperation, the ceremony will be held in line with the vision of "Sahakar Se Samriddhi" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and under the leadership of Amit Shah, who has guided the cooperative sector towards greater transparency, technology adoption, institutional strengthening and grassroots empowerment. In the last five years, the Ministry has undertaken several transformative initiatives for Primary Agricultural Credit Societies, cooperative banks, dairy cooperatives, urban cooperatives, national-level cooperative institutions and multi-state cooperative societies.

Distinguished Guests and Officials

Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj; Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister of Rajasthan; Krishan Pal Gurjar, Minister of State for Cooperation; and Murlidhar Mohol, Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation, will also grace the occasion.

As per the release, senior officers of various Ministries including; Dr Ashish Kumar Bhutani, Secretary, Ministry of Cooperation; Atish Chandra, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; and Naresh Pal Gangwar, Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, will also be present. Representatives of national cooperative institutions, cooperative federations, cooperative banks, dairy cooperatives, Bharat Taxi, PACS and other stakeholders from the cooperative sector will also attend the programme.

Key Launches and Inaugurations

Amit Shah will also lay the Foundation Stone and Inaugurate several major projects and initiatives on this occasion. These include the transfer of 135 godowns, the inauguration of 85 godowns, and the laying of the foundation stone for 47 grain storage godowns; Bhoomi Pujan of Sahakar Van by Amul and NCCF, Bhoomi Pujan of tissue culture facilities of BBSSL at Barabanki in Uttar Pradesh and Jalgaon in Maharashtra, launch of NCD 3.0 and geo-tag mobile application; launch of NDDB's Milk Supply Review Dashboard Portal, initiatives related to productivity of dairy animals under Cooperative Inputs and Services Delivery Multi-State Limited, inauguration of Cooperative Milk Producers Organisation Multi-State Limited, inauguration of Gomay Cooperative Society Multi-State Limited; and unveiling of two major initiatives of NUCFDC -- Sahakar CBS, a centralised core banking platform, and Sahakar Sahyogi, a conversational AI-powered platform for Urban Cooperative Banks.

Digital Empowerment at the Grassroots

Another major highlight of the programme will be the transformation of 50,000 PACS into e-PACS, marking a significant step towards digital empowerment of grassroots cooperative institutions.

Strategic Agreements and Releases

During the programme, a Memorandum of Understanding will also be signed between BBSSL and ICAR for strengthening seed systems. On the occasion, Shah will release model bye-laws for dairy cooperative societies and a book highlighting the achievements of the Ministry of Cooperation during the last five years.

The ceremony will reaffirm the Ministry's commitment to building a cooperative ecosystem that connects farmers, women, youth, small producers, dairy farmers, urban cooperatives and rural institutions with the vision of "Sahakar Se Samriddhi" and of a developed and self-reliant India. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Maren Morris shares glimpse of Taylor-Travis's wedding guest gifts

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:31:03 +0530

A Glimpse into the Wedding Gifts

Country singer Maren Morris offered fans a glimpse inside Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's star-studded wedding, sharing photographs from the ceremony held at Madison Square Garden in New York City recently, according to E! News. In an Instagram post, Morris revealed that the newlyweds had gifted their guests personalised, custom-made handkerchiefs.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by (@marenmorris) The white cloth napkin meant to remind invitees of the special day for years to come featured lace detailing and the quote, "So it's gonna be forever," lyrics from Taylor's hit "Blank Space." In between the couple's wedding date and location was an embroidered monogram "T" representing Taylor and Travis' first names, according to E! News. Maren captioned the social media post with yet another T. Morris captioned her carousel of photographs with another reference to a Swift lyric, this time alluding to a line from "Love Story" about saying yes.

Country Stars Celebrate in Style

Meanwhile, Kelsea shouted out Taylor in a separate Instagram video with Little Big Town as the music stars made their way to the ceremony in a party bus. "Nashville in New York for our girl T," Kelsea captioned the clip, according to E! News. The post also featured glamorous pictures of Morris alongside fellow country artist Kelsea Ballerini, both dressed for the occasion. Morris wore a black dress with a keyhole cutout and a thigh-high slit, while Ballerini opted for a forest green strapless gown.

Star-Studded Guest List

The wedding drew a host of celebrities from music, film and sport, including Gigi Hadid, Bradley Cooper, Dakota Johnson, Tom Hanks, Paul McCartney, Zoe Kravitz, Karlie Kloss, Ed Sheeran, Jack Antonoff, Jimmy Fallon, Jason Sudeikis, Miranda Lambert and Sombr, along with several of Kelce's Kansas City Chiefs teammates, including Patrick Mahomes. The ceremony was officiated by actor-comedian Adam Sandler, while singer Stevie Nicks performed for the newly married couple.

An 'Intimate' Ceremony

Speaking to ABC News, "Good Morning America" anchor George Stephanopoulos described the ceremony as moving, saying "The ceremony was great, moving. Adam Sandler, funny and touching," adding, "Vows, everything you would hope for, real, vulnerable, serious and silly. Deeply loving. Who knew that a wedding in Madison Square Garden could be so intimate?," according to E! News. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir row: BJP warns Rahul, Akhilesh; ready for sacrifice

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:30:55 +0530

BJP vows sacrifice to protect Ram Temple faith

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president Nitin Nabin on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the Opposition amid the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation theft row, accusing it of attempting to gain political mileage from an issue linked to the faith of millions of Hindus.

Addressing the 'Shakti Kendra Sanyojak Sammelan' in Lucknow, Nabin said the BJP would not allow anyone to play with the faith associated with Lord Ram's temple, even if it required the party to make the ultimate sacrifice. "Even if we have to shed our own blood, we will ensure that no one plays with the faith associated with Lord Ram's temple. We are prepared to make whatever sacrifice is required. However, regarding these anti-Hindu forces, if they are trying to score political points today. Let me say this clearly to Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Arvind Kejriwal: do not underestimate Hinduism by thinking we will fall for your ruses or be misled by your deceptions," Nabin said.

The BJP leader alleged that those now questioning the discourse surrounding the Ram Temple were the same people who had earlier questioned the existence of Lord Ram and Ram Setu. "Regarding Lord Shri Ram's temple in Ayodhya, today, some people are raising questions about the discourse surrounding it. These are the same people who questioned the very existence of Lord Ram. They questioned the existence of the Ram Setu. These are the same people who opened fire on 'Kar Sevaks', causing rivers of blood to flow. Those who shed crocodile tears can never truly speak for the faith of Hindus," he said.

Nabin's remarks came amid a political row over the alleged theft of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with Opposition parties demanding a probe into the matter and raising questions over the management of temple funds.

'UP was plagued by corruption, appeasement politics'

Targeting previous governments in Uttar Pradesh, Nabin alleged that the state had once been plagued by corruption, appeasement politics and the influence of regional strongmen. "This was a state that had witnessed nothing but corruption, the politics of appeasement, and the toxic influence of dynastic politics. UP was once ruled by 'chhatraps' (regional strongmen). The Chief Minister in Lucknow ran one government, while the regional strongman ran another," he said.

Ahead of the 2027 state Assembly elections, Nabin highlighted the BJP government's governance model and compared it with previous administrations, saying that the ruling government worked to eradicate the rule of goons and the mafia. "Today, the vision of our government and of PM Modi is the 'One District, One Product' initiative. In contrast, the model under those so-called governments was defined by a local 'don,' a local goon, and a local mafia figure in every district. Yet, I can say with confidence that the BJP government has worked to eradicate that rule of goons and the mafia, not just from every district, but from every village and town as well," he added.

Yogi Adityanath accuses Opposition of attacking India's faith

Speaking at the same event, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also accused the Opposition of "attacking India's faith", alleging that parties such as the Samajwadi Party and the Congress had shifted their focus to religious issues after failing in their politics of social division.

CM Yogi said the BJP's "double-engine" government had ensured that welfare benefits reached every section of society without discrimination, weakening what he described as the "Opposition's politics of caste and class divisions". "The 'double-engine' government is working tirelessly to deliver the benefits of state schemes without discrimination to every section of society. This is precisely what troubles these opposition parties: the Samajwadi Party and the Congress. Their concern is that the very sections of society they used to divide along lines of caste and class have now been brought into the fold by the double-engine government through welfare schemes," the Chief Minister said.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Himachal Pradesh launches new innovation policy for technical education

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:30:52 +0530

Himachal Pradesh government has approved the state innovation policy for technical Education institutions along with the state innovation fund implementation guidelines (2026-2028) to foster innovation, entrepreneurship and startup culture across technical education institutions in the state.

Fostering an Innovation Hub

According to the release, the policy aims to transform the state into an emerging hub of innovation by empowering students, faculty members and startups to convert innovative ideas into practical, technology-driven and market-ready solutions. It provides a comprehensive framework for prototype development, startup incubation, seed funding, intellectual property management, capacity building and industry collaboration, while ensuring transparency, accountability and measurable outcomes, as stated in the release.

State Innovation Fund

To support the implementation of the policy, the Government has created a State Innovation Fund with a total outlay of Rs. 2 crore for the period 2026-2028. The fund would provide micro-grants for prototype development, seed funding for promising startups, financial assistance for strengthening incubation centres, innovation competitions, boot camps, faculty and student training programmes and industry- and CSR-supported co-funding initiatives.

Emphasis on Inclusive Innovation

The policy also lays special emphasis on inclusive innovation by encouraging greater participation of women, scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and rural youth in the technical education and startup ecosystem, as per the release.

Implementation and Oversight

The Director, Technical Education, Vocational and Industrial Training, would serve as the nodal officer for the implementation of the policy. Institutional-level Cluster Innovation Committees and a State Innovation Advisory Group would oversee project selection, fund utilisation, and overall implementation to ensure effective and time-bound execution.

CM on IP Rights and Economic Growth

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the policy would establish a uniform framework for intellectual property ownership and revenue sharing. He said that innovations developed under the programme would remain the property of the innovators, while educational institutions would retain non-exclusive rights for academic use.

He further said that the initiative would accelerate innovation-led economic growth, generate employment opportunities, strengthen the startup ecosystem and encourage greater participation of youth from all sections of society. He said that the government would undertake a comprehensive review of the policy after two years, assessing key outcomes such as prototypes developed, startups established, intellectual property registrations, employment generated and external investment mobilised. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Yogi Adityanath, BJP leaders bond over mangoes, family in Lucknow

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:30:48 +0530

BJP Leaders Bond Over Mangoes

BJP National President Nitin Nabin, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy CM KP Maruya, and State BJP President Pankaj Chaudhary on Sunday joined together to enjoy mangoes in Lucknow. The mango gathering took place at the residence of Brajesh Pathak.

Speaking to ANI, Brajesh Pathak's wife, Namrata Pathak, said the interaction centred around family and not politics. "Our National President came, Yogi-ji, Keshav Prasad Maurya came. There was no political discussion; the conversation focused on the family, based on the belief that if the family is happy, society remains happy, and if society is happy, our country prospers. They asked the children how their father manages to find time for them despite his extremely busy schedule. They asked me how I manage things...I simply said that I walk shoulder-to-shoulder with him--that is where my happiness lies..."

Nabin Highlights Grassroots Engagement on UP Tour

Nitin Nabin is on a two-day organisational tour of Uttar Pradesh. Nitin Nabin on Sunday visited the residence of BJP booth president Shivaji Rawat in Lucknow, highlighting the party's emphasis on maintaining close engagement with its grassroots workers.

Speaking during the visit, Nabin said interacting with booth-level workers has always been a part of the BJP's organisational culture, with leaders across different levels regularly reaching out to the party's grassroots cadre. "This has been the tradition of the BJP's style of functioning. Our state and district presidents actively engage at the grassroots level," Nabin said.

Highlighting the significance of the visit, he said he was pleased to meet the booth president on a special occasion. "I am delighted that the booth president I am visiting today--Rohit--is celebrating his birthday, and he has also received a home under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana today," Nabin said.

The BJP national president said the party's organisational approach is closely linked with the implementation of welfare schemes, ensuring that government benefits reach those at the grassroots. "This is the beauty of the Bharatiya Janata Party: development reaches the last person in line, and the organisation works by connecting with that very individual," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Jaishankar, Qatar PM explore ways to deepen strategic partnership

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:30:27 +0530

Jaishankar on Deepening Strategic Partnership

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Sunday met with his Qatari counterpart and Prime Minister of Qatar Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani as part of his multi-nation visit in Doha during which both sides explored new opportunities for deepening the strategic partnership.

India and Qatar elevated their ties to Strategic Partnership during the state visit of the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, to India in February last year.

Jaishankar also appreciated Qatar's sharing of assessments on the ongoing West Asia conflict and its impact on the region.

"Appreciate his sharing of assessments on the West Asia conflict and its impact," the EAM added.

Qatar Emphasises Economic Cooperation and Dialogue

According to a statement issued by Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on X, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani held talks with Jaishankar during the latter's visit to Doha.

The statement said both sides discussed bilateral relations and ways to further strengthen cooperation, particularly in the economic sector, along with regional developments and their impact on the global economy and energy markets.

It added that both leaders emphasised the importance of resolving disputes and conflicts through dialogue and diplomatic means to enhance regional and international stability.

"During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations and ways to support and develop them, particularly in the economic field. They also discussed regional developments and their impact on the global economy and energy markets, in addition to several other issues of common interest," the statement read.

"Both sides emphasised the importance of resolving disputes and conflicts through dialogue and diplomatic means, which contributes to strengthening security and stability at the regional and international levels," it added.

They also agreed to continue strengthening cooperation through joint working mechanisms and bilateral committees across priority sectors for both countries.

Jaishankar's Multi-Nation Tour

Jaishankar is currently on a multi-nation visit to Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the US and Belgium, during which he will be on an official visit to Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman from July 5 to July 10.

During the visit to these countries, he will be meeting with his counterparts and the leadership. The visit to the Gulf Nations will focus on enhancing our bilateral relations with the four countries and also provide an opportunity to exchange views on regional developments and issues of mutual interest, a press release by the MEA stated. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Himanta Biswa Sarma reviews key skill, urban projects in Guwahati

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:30:24 +0530

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday visited the North East Skill Centre at Gorchuk, the under-construction Integrated Directorate Complex at Betkuchi and the Sarusajai Stadium complex along with its surrounding areas in Guwahati. The visit was aimed at reviewing key initiatives to strengthen skilled human resources, modernise administrative infrastructure and accelerate planned urban development in the State.

CM reviews skill development initiatives

During his visit to the North East Skill Centre, the Chief Minister reviewed the progress of skill development and employment-oriented training programmes being implemented under the Assam Skill Development Mission. He inspected the Centre's infrastructure and training facilities and interacted with trainees and instructors of Japanese language training under the CM Flight Scheme.

Speaking on the occasion, Sarma said preparing Assam's youth for global employment opportunities while building an Atmanirbhar and prosperous Assam through skill development, employment and entrepreneurship remained one of the government's foremost priorities. He said the government was making sustained efforts to connect the state's youth with international employment opportunities, particularly through Japanese language training under the CM Flight Scheme.

According to the Chief Minister, the state government has invested around Rs 1.5 lakh per trainee in four phases towards education and training to facilitate employment in industries and other establishments in Japan. Skill, Employment and Entrepreneurship Minister Biswajit Daimary, Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Kaushik Rai, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister KK Dwivedi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ASEAN One Company Limited Toshiaki Nishikawa and other senior officials were present during the visit to the North East Skill Centre.

Review of Integrated Directorate Complex

Later, Sarma reviewed the progress of the under-construction Integrated Directorate Complex at Betkuchi. He said the complex, which will house 54 directorates under one campus, would make government service delivery more integrated, efficient and citizen-centric.

During the review, the Chief Minister directed the authorities to ensure the inclusion of essential public amenities in the complex, including a Primary Health Centre, a canteen, drinking water facility on every floor, high-quality sanitation facilities for visitors, separate parking spaces for two-wheelers, four-wheelers and bicycles and fully air-conditioned office spaces. He also emphasised the need for a well-planned and smooth relocation of the Directorates and directed that the shifting process be carried out in three phases.

Sarusajai Stadium master plan

The Chief Minister also visited the Sarusajai Stadium complex and adjoining areas to review the master plan for their integrated development. He said the proposed project aims to transform the area into a well-planned urban hub through world-class infrastructure, improved connectivity, modern public amenities and sustainable urban planning, with a focus on ensuring maximum convenience for the public.

Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Kaushik Rai, Health and Family Welfare Minister Ashok Singhal, Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister KK Dwivedi, Managing Director of APDCL and Commissioner & Secretary Rakesh Kumar, along with other senior officials, were present during the visit to the Integrated Directorate Complex and Sarusajai area. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Punjab civic polls: AAP sweeps Hoshiarpur, Jalalabad ahead of 2027

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:30:23 +0530

AAP Dominates Punjab Civic Polls

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has dominated the civic body polls in Hoshiarpur and Jalalabad, in the run-up to the 2027 Legislative Assembly elections. AAP won 35 of 50 seats in the Hoshiarpur Municipal Corporation elections, followed by Congress winning nine seats, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) securing three seats, and the remaining three seats were won by independent candidates. Hoshiarpur witnessed 60.5 per cent voter turnout. Hoshiarpur also has an AAP MLA in Bram Shanker (Jimpa).

AAP also won 12 of 17 seats in Jalalabad Municipal Council, a region once considered to be Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal's stronghold, the party said on X. Badal had defeated Bhagwant Mann in Jalalabad in the 2017 Assembly elections, while AAP leader Jagdeep Kamboj managed to defeat the SAD chief by a margin of 30,930 votes in 2022.

Challenges for the AAP Government

Earlier in May, AAP had swept the elections in eight Municipal Corporations, 75 Municipal Councils and 19 Nagar Panchayats. While the Bhagwant Mann government faces trouble over religious issues, the party maintains a strong grip over local bodies ahead of the Assembly elections next year. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann came under the brunt of the controversy surrounding a purported video insulting the Sikh Gurus. Mann has maintained that the video was generated with artificial intelligence (AI) and that he was not present in the video.

Row Over Anti-Sacrilege Legislation

Meanwhile, in a significant development that could reshape Punjab's anti-sacrilege legislation, Sri Akal Takht Sahib on Monday gave the Punjab government one month to amend the Jagat Jyot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026, in accordance with Sikh sentiments, after summoning Sikh Cabinet ministers and MLAs from across political parties to explain how the law was passed without consulting key Sikh institutions.

Congress Eyes Comeback Amid Internal Rift Rumours

Congress, which has held up a runner-up position in the civic polls, is also looking to make a comeback in power in the Assembly. Amid speculations of an internal rift, Punjab Congress state president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring dismissed reports of conflict with former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, asserting that the party will remain united to "fight together for Punjab" in the upcoming assembly elections.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mobile Torch Becomes Bus Headlight? Viral Karnataka Video Sparks Safety Outrage (WATCH)

Divya Danu — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:03:04 +0530

A viral video from Karnataka's Kalaburagi district has sparked widespread concern after allegedly showing a government bus being driven at night without working headlights. Instead of stopping the vehicle, the driver reportedly continued the journey while the conductor used a mobile phone torch to light the road ahead. The incident is said to have involved a KKRTC bus bearing registration number KA-28 F-1985, which was travelling on the Kalaburagi-Chincholi route.

“Dangerous Khatron Ke Khiladi” Khata Khat ModelKarnataka State Bus on Phone Torch lightBecause for Congress normal headlights are passé ! pic.twitter.com/QlmvuzTGYX

— Shehzad Jai Hind (Chowkidar as per INC ecosystem) (@Shehzad_Ind) July 5, 2026

500 Job Applications, No Offer: Rapido Rider's Story Leaves Internet Heartbroken

Conductor Uses Phone Torch After Headlights Fail

According to reports, the bus's headlights stopped working during the journey. Rather than arranging another vehicle or halting the service, the crew allegedly continued driving.

The viral video appears to show the conductor holding a mobile phone with its flashlight switched on near the front window while the driver carefully navigates the dark road. The unusual scene has left many social media users questioning how a passenger bus was allowed to continue in such unsafe conditions.

Mobile Torch Replaces Bus Headlight.A govt bus with no headlight. Driver navigates in the dark while the conductor uses a mobile torch to light the road.KKRTC bus KA-28 F-1985 on the Kalaburagi–Chincholi route. Karnataka owes 4,573 Cr in Shakti reimbursements to its 4 RTCs pic.twitter.com/deL2mDbzWv

— Harish Upadhya (@harishupadhya) July 5, 2026

Telangana Woman Clings to Life for 21 Hours in a Well. Her Rescue Exposes a Robbery Plot | Viral Video

Video Sparks Public Anger

The footage quickly spread online, with many users expressing disbelief and criticising the condition of public transport.

Some sarcastically described the mobile phone torch as the government's "new headlight technology", while others questioned whether the bus had undergone proper safety checks before being allowed on the road.

Several people also demanded answers on who issued the vehicle's fitness certificate and why such an obvious safety problem was not addressed before the bus began its journey.

A Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC) allegedly operated without functioning headlights, forcing the conductor to use a mobile phone torch to help the driver navigate the road.A video of the incident has now gone viral on social media. The incident reportedly… pic.twitter.com/4w5qGEKHQH

— Hate Detector (@HateDetectors) July 5, 2026

Bright Side Stories: Jaipur's 151-Year-Old Gandhinagar Railway Station Gets Stunning New Look

Maintenance Questions Return

The incident has also renewed discussion about the financial condition of Karnataka's state-run transport corporations.

Reports have claimed that the government is yet to clear around Rs 4,573 crore in reimbursements under the Shakti scheme. Some social media users have suggested that financial pressures may be affecting the maintenance of older buses, although there is no official confirmation linking the alleged dues to this specific incident.

Investigation and Action Expected

Driving a passenger bus at night without functioning headlights poses a serious risk to passengers, pedestrians and other road users. Authorities are expected to examine the viral video and verify the circumstances surrounding the incident. If the allegations are found to be true, action may be taken against those responsible for allowing the bus to continue operating despite the apparent safety failure.

Maharashtra Court Clears Man of Rape Charges, Cites Woman's Continued Relationship

Outrage in Rishikesh: Self-Proclaimed 'Baba' Allegedly Lures Young Girl with Money and Bicycle (WATCH)

Hrishikesh Damodar — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:01:20 +0530

A shocking yet disturbing incident has emerged from Rishikesh, a district in Uttarakhand, where a self-proclaimed ‘baba’ allegedly lured a young girl by offering her money and a bicycle to accompany him, sparking outrage in the pilgrimage town of Dehradun.

In a video that went viral on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), a young girl, alongside other bystanders and residents, can be seen confronting the man after he allegedly tried to coerce her into coming with him. The incident in Rishikesh sparked an immediate reaction from the public, who confronted the self-proclaimed baba and demanded an explanation for his alleged actions.

The baba's attempt to allegedly lure the young girl left onlookers shocked, with several locals stepping forward to question his intentions.

Also Read: Karnataka man freed after 37 years for killing wives, infant daughter

How the Incident Unfolded?

The self-proclaimed baba's alleged attempt to lure the young girl with the promise of money and a new bicycle has drawn widespread outrage. According to local reports, the saffron-clad man approached one of the girls who was playing near a public area and allegedly tried to strike up a conversation with her.

He then allegedly offered her INR 1,000 and a new bicycle if she agreed to accompany him across the river. Sensing that something was wrong, the girl confronted him and alerted nearby locals, who soon gathered at the spot.

"He said, 'I'll give you INR 1,000 or INR 1,200 and a new bicycle if you help me cross the river,'" the young girl said in the viral video.

A few men from the area quickly intervened, intercepting the individual and demanding he explain his actions while documenting the scene. As tensions flared, the confrontation became physical, with onlookers slapping and hitting the man in response to his predatory conduct.

ये वीडियो देव नगरी ऋषिकेश का बताया जा रहा है, भगवा वस्त्र पहने खुद को बाबा बता रहा है।।गंगा रिज़ॉर्ट के पास कुछ बच्चियां खेल रही थी, भगवा पहने बाबा उसके पास गया और कह था है- तू मेरे साथ पल्ली पार चलेगी? तुझे ₹1000 दूंगा और एक साइकिल भी दूंगा..ऐसे लोग को चिन्हित कर कड़ी… pic.twitter.com/XTb2yr4Azg

— Ashish Paswan (@ashishpaswan0) July 5, 2026

It was reported that local police immediately arrived at the scene and took the self-proclaimed baba away from the location to prevent further escalation and to take him into custody for questioning regarding his actions.

According to the reports, the incident took place in Dev Nagari, a locality within the Rishikesh region, prompting local authorities to initiate an investigation into the man's background and intentions.

Recent Cases of Self-Styled Babas Involved in Alleged Criminal Activities

This was not the first time that a self-proclaimed baba was involved in disturbing incidents that have shaken public trust. In June this year, Uttar Pradesh arrested a 29-year-old self-styled spiritual guru, identified as Abhishek Mishra (alias Adikarta Narayan Das), who is an IIT Roorkee graduate, in Mathura district for allegedly drugging, raping, and blackmailing young women.

In April 2026, Pune police arrested ‘Rishikesh Vaidya’, a self-proclaimed spiritual guru from Vasai, following allegations of sexual assault and exploitation. The accused was on the run before the police nabbed him in the Pimpri area of Pune. In September 2024, a 45-year-old proclaimed saint, Rajnish Giri, was accused of sexual abuse of a 14-year-old boy in Rishikesh and was arrested by the Lakshman Jhula police.

Just a year later, Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati (formerly known as Partha Sarathy), the director of the Vasant Kunj-based Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management and Research in Delhi, was arrested after he was accused of harassing 17 female students, alongside charges of financial fraud, forgery, and criminal conspiracy involving misappropriated funds exceeding INR 20 crore.

The historical pattern of self-styled or self-proclaimed reveals a recurring cycle of exploitation that often begins with the accumulation of massive followings and wealth, followed by allegations of heinous crimes, including sexual assault, financial fraud, and land encroachment.

Also Read: Telangana Woman Clings to Life for 21 Hours in a Well. Her Rescue Exposes a Robbery Plot | Viral Video

Maggie Gyllenhaal says directing is 'very similar to being a mother'

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:01:01 +0530

Actor-filmmaker Maggie Gyllenhaal has opened up about her passion for directing, describing the experience as "very similar to being a mother" because of the immense responsibility it carries, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

On Directing and Motherhood

Speaking to the media at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, where she received the festival's President's Award, Gyllenhaal reflected on her transition from acting to directing and what she enjoys most about the creative process. "I feel it is very similar to being a mother. You become a mother -- all of a sudden you are actually responsible for the life of another person. That is both incredibly exciting, powerful, and absolutely terrifying," she said. "In terms of responsibility, it is really major. That's a really interesting thing about directing, way more so than producing, and also way more so than acting."

The Joy of Collaboration

Gyllenhaal also spoke about the collaborative process of preparing a film with her cinematographer, saying it has become one of her favourite aspects of directing. Gyllenhaal also shared the joy she experiences as a director in the prep process with her cinematographer "thinking through the movie in a joined imaginary world," explaining: "It's so cool, it's so intense, and there is the pleasure for me in being on set with a plan with a shared language that we've built together." "That was new to me, and I didn't know how much I would love it. So sometimes when people ask me if I want to act, I think no, I want to prep with my cinematographer, and I want to keep learning this language that I have gotten so much pleasure out of learning," she added.

Challenges for Women Directors

The actor also reflected on the challenges women continue to face behind the camera. "Directing is, historically and still, predominantly a male job," Gyllenhaal said. "I found that when I went to do it, I was treated with a kind of respect that I had never encountered before, just because that's how one treats the director," as per the outlet.

Personal Reflections and Family

During the interaction, Gyllenhaal also spoke briefly about the US Independence Day, saying she was choosing not to celebrate it this year. "It is the Fourth of July today, so we're celebrating it here," she said before adding, "I'm abstaining from celebration this year. I'm not celebrating the Fourth of July," according to The Hollywood Reporter. Asked about her daughter Ramona, who was among those arrested during a Columbia University protest against Israel's war in Gaza last year, Gyllenhaal responded, "My daughter is her own woman. I'm sure you're not surprised to hear that."

Upcoming Projects

The filmmaker also shared an update on her next project after The Bride!. Warner Bros. has optioned Rachel Kushner's novel Creation Lake, which Gyllenhaal is set to write, develop and produce. "It's in the very, very beginning of the process. I feel like it's in the part of the creative [process] that is so personal and private and secret. I'm very excited about it. I love the author, Rachel Kushner. I love the book. I have my own unusual take on it, but it's just beginning to simmer," she said, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Receiving the President's Award

Gyllenhaal received the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival's President's Award during the opening ceremony. While accepting the honour, she recalled spending a semester studying in the Czech Republic two decades ago, including a visit to Karlovy Vary, which she said inspired her filmmaking journey. She said the experience was "part of what pushed me to be a director to express my view of the world, however strange and challenging, and however different," according to The Hollywood Reporter. (ANI) (Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Nitin Nabin visits booth president in Lucknow, highlights grassroots connect

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:00:58 +0530

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President Nitin Nabin on Sunday visited the residence of BJP booth president Shivaji Rawat in Lucknow, highlighting the party's emphasis on maintaining close engagement with its grassroots workers.

BJP's Organisational Culture

A Special Occasion

Linking Organisation with Welfare

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

KC Venugopal to visit Uttarakhand to review 2027 election plans

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:00:32 +0530

Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal will be on a two-day visit to Dehradun, Uttarakhand, starting from July 9 and 10, to assess preparations for the 2027 Uttarakhand Assembly elections.

Sharing the information, Uttarakhand Pradesh Congress Committee Media Chairman Rajeev Maharshi said that upon his arrival in Dehradun on July 9, KC Venugopal will hold a meeting with the Pradesh Congress Committee President, Ganesh Godiyal; the Leader of the Opposition, Yadhpal Arya; members of the Central Election Committee (CEC), former state presidents, and Congress Working Committee (CWC) members.

He will subsequently chair a meeting of the Pradesh Congress Political Affairs Committee. Later in the day, the AICC General Secretary (Organisation) will meet the presidents of the District and City Congress Committees, along with the heads of the party's frontal organisations, departments, and various cells.

On July 10, Venugopal will meet senior party leaders in the morning.

Congress Launches Campaign for Uttarakhand Polls

In June, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, addressed a public rally at Simkali Ground in Almora, formally launching the Congress party's campaign for the upcoming Uttarakhand Assembly elections and sounding the poll bugle from the region.

The event was attended by several senior Congress leaders, including Uttarakhand Congress in-charge Kumari Selja, former Chief Minister Harish Rawat, Leader of the Opposition Yashpal Arya, PCC President Ganesh Godiyal, and other party functionaries.

Party Expels Three Members for 'Indiscipline'

Meanwhile, ahead of Venugopal's visit, Uttarakhand Congress expelled Mahendra Lunthi, Bhavana Nagarkoti, and Deepak Lunthi from primary membership of the party for six years for alleged "anti-party activities and gross indiscipline" after indiscipline on stage during the Parivartan Sankalp Conference held in Pithoragarh on June 30.

Congress is looking for a revival in Uttarakhand after losing the last two Assembly elections.(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Rathore accuses Gehlot of misleading public over Pachpadra refinery

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:00:30 +0530

Rajasthan BJP president Madan Rathore on Sunday pushed back against former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's criticism regarding the Pachpadra refinery, accusing the Congress of attempting to "mislead the public". The war of words follows the recent inauguration of the HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Limited (HRRL) project.

BJP Slams Congress Over Delays and Flawed MoU

Rathore characterised Gehlot's allegations as "incorrect" and accused the former Congress government of playing politics with a project that faced significant delays under their tenure. "The allegation made by Ashok Gehlot is incorrect. PM Modi had issued clear instructions that MPs, whether from the BJP or any other party, should be invited to that event," Rathore told ANI, addressing the controversy over invitations.

Rathore further targeted the Congress over the project's history, claiming, "The initiative began in 2007, but between 2008 and 2013, Ashok Gehlot did no work. Right as his term was ending in 2013, he hastily created a drama by inviting Sonia Gandhi without any land acquisition, environmental clearance, or fund allocation."

The BJP leader alleged that the original Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the Congress government was financially unsustainable, placing a heavy burden of ₹3,736 crore annually on the state for 15 years while offering only a 26% share. "Our government scrapped that entire MoU and signed a new one worth ₹16,000 crore. Whatever development has been accomplished, whether related to the refinery or the broader progress of Rajasthan, has been done by the BJP government," he asserted.

Rathore also took a sharp dig at the internal dynamics of the previous Congress administration, remarking, "Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot were locked in an internal feud. One was trying to topple the government, while the other was trying to save it, and the state's development suffered as a result."

PM Modi Inaugurates Refinery and Other Development Projects

Earlier on Saturday, PM Modi inaugurated India's first greenfield integrated refinery-cum-petrochemical complex at Pachpadra in Balotra and dedicated several railway, road and renewable energy projects to the nation.

PM Modi has also dedicated SJVN's 1,000 MW Bikaner Solar Project and NHPC's 300 MW Karnisar Solar Project to the nation.

During the programme, the Prime Minister also distributed appointment letters to around 54,000 newly recruited candidates selected for various departments of the Rajasthan government.

The Jaipur Metro Phase-II project will span 41 kilometres and include 36 stations along the North-South corridor.

About the Pachpadra Refinery Project

The refinery project, developed as a joint venture between Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and the Rajasthan government, has been built with an investment of over Rs 79,450 crore. It has an annual refining capacity of 9 million metric tonnes and a petrochemical production capacity of 2.4 million metric tonnes.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

World Cup: Gavi terms Ronaldo's Portugal 'toughest opponent' so far

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:00:26 +0530

'Portugal are the toughest opponent we have faced so far'

Ahead of his side's FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash against Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal, Spanish midfielder Gavi termed their opponents as the "toughest" they are going to face so far, pointing out their great midfield line-up. He also backed his aggressive gameplay and intensity, saying that "he will never change".

Speaking ahead of the match, Gavi said on his opponents and the match, as quoted by Goal.com, "It is clear that they are the strongest opponent we have faced so far. They are a great national team with good players. I hope the team is focused on what we have to do, on the coach's plan, and that we all go together to win this tie. They have a great midfield, but we also have very good players. I think the best thing we have is such a large squad with good footballers."

'I will never change'

Gavi also faces a lot of debate for his highly aggressive style, which often sees him get into tackles with the opposition, sometimes his own teammates (with Rodri during a training session before the tournament started). The Barcelona star said that while there are many people who do not like the type of player he is, he is not going to change. "Perhaps many people are waiting for me because I am a player who goes into tackles hard, and perhaps many people do not like that type of player. I always consider myself a very complete player, with many facets to my game. My best qualities are my competitiveness, that intensity I have on the field. I will never change. I know there will always be people waiting," he said.

Ready to contribute for the team

Having featured as a substitute during a 3-0 win over Austria during the round of 16, Gavi expressed his willingness to contribute in whatever capacity possible in Spain's bid for a second WC title and feels that the team is more equipped than ever for this moment, citing the unity within the set-up. "I have said a couple of times that I'm here to help the team. I know the confidence the coach has in me, he has always had it. As I tell him, I'm there for him and for the team when he needs me. This is a World Cup, and World Cups are won by those who are together in good times and bad. We have a very large squad, and at any time, any player can come out to contribute that grain of sand," he signed off. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Is Washington Bitcoin's Buyer Of Last Resort? Strategy's New Playbook Has Skeptics Asking

Stocktwits Inc — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 21:00:06 +0530

Chris Irons, in a ZeroHedge opinion piece, wrote that a U.S. government bailout of Bitcoin is "no longer completely absurd."
The pseudonymous author, QTR, said Strategy's new capital plan means "Bitcoin is no longer sacred."
Saylor, meanwhile, hinted at another Bitcoin purchase on Sunday with his signature "orange dots" chart.

According to a widely circulated ZeroHedge opinion post, a US government rescue of Bitcoin (BTC) is "no longer completely absurd" to consider, and Strategy's (MSTR) new capital plan explains why the subject is worth addressing.

The article, published Saturday by Chris Irons, author of the Fringe Finance newsletter, known as QTR, stated that Bitcoin's original selling point was its existence outside of the financial system: no governments, central banks, or bailouts. "Fast forward fifteen years," the author wrote, "and we've somehow reached the point where I'm asking myself whether the last remaining bailout for crypto might actually be...the U.S. government."

The argument revolved around Strategy’s new capital framework, which the author said “buys the company time” with dedicated cash reserves, formal dividend policies, and billions in buyback authorizations, but crossed a line that investors once thought was off-limits. Strategy has now explicitly stated that its Bitcoin holdings can be monetized to fund dividends, replenish reserves, service obligations, or support buybacks.

"Bitcoin is no longer sacred. It's now part of the liquidity toolkit," the author wrote.

Selling these Bitcoin holdings in a bear market will trigger a reflexive cycle of price suppression, asset shrinkage, and intensifying liquidity demands, a process that is exactly like “a dog chasing its own tail.”

Washington As The Last Whale

The question at the core of the issue, asked the author, when equity markets, preferred issuance, and convertible debt are all squeezed dry, who is the buyer of last resort? Banks, money-market funds, automakers and the corporate-bond market all ended up with one, the author said, and once “systemic risk” gets in the vocabulary of Washington, “almost anything becomes possible.”

The author argued that the scenario is less far-fetched given the current administration’s crypto ties, including supportive appointees and support for a national strategic Bitcoin reserve. The piece said a rescue of Bitcoin at a market cap of around $1.2 trillion “wouldn’t even be that expensive” by Washington standards.

But the author said the politics of such a move would be "suicide," probably "one of the most universally despised bailouts in modern American history," and stressed he was not predicting it, only that the conversation is no longer unimaginable. "The asset invented to escape governments...saved by the government," the piece said. “You couldn’t write satire this good.”

Michael Saylor Hints At Another Buy

Source: @saylor/x

This comes at a time when Strategy Executive Chairman Michael Saylor hinted on X at another Bitcoin buy with his classic ‘orange dots’ chart on Sunday.

MSTR’s price closed up over 8% on Friday. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around MSTR remained in the ‘extremely bullish’ zone, while chatter stayed at ‘normal’ levels over the past day.

Read also: ByteTree Warns AI Rally Is A 1999 Rerun, Groups Bitcoin With Inflation-Era Hard Assets

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Kolkata Weather Update: IMD Issues Heavy Rain Warning for West Bengal as Bay of Bengal Depression Intensifies

Amrita Ghosh — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:56:18 +0530

Kolkata Weather Update: A Bay of Bengal depression has intensified monsoon activity across West Bengal, bringing heavy rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds. IMD has issued orange and yellow alerts, with landslide warnings for North Bengal

Women's T20 WC Final: Australia wins toss, opts to field vs England

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:30:57 +0530

Australia Women have won the toss and opted to field in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 Final against England Women at London on Sunday. While the Australian women's cricket team has won the ICC Women's T20 World Cup six times, England is looking for their first title since the inaugural edition in 2009. Both teams are undefeated so far during their run in the tournament.

What the captains said

"We're going to have a bowl. Beautiful day, want to put pressure on them early. Don't think the pitch will change too much. No changes. Pez (Perry) pulled up well after the training yesterday. Special day. The girls got a couple of days off. Started training the last couple of days," Australia skipper Sophie Molineux said during the toss.

"Was going to bowl as well. It's a fresh wicket - runs on the board in the final is no bad thing. We're unchanged. Will be silly of me not to lean on that experience (in her camp). (What wins it for England today?) One more run than the opposition, I suppose," England skipper Nat Sciver-Brunt said.

Playing XIs

Teams: England Women (Playing XI): Amy Jones(w), Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Nat Sciver-Brunt(c), Alice Capsey, Heather Knight, Freya Kemp, Danielle Gibson, Charlotte Dean, Linsey Smith, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Bell. Australia Women (Playing XI): Georgia Voll, Beth Mooney(w), Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, Annabel Sutherland, Nicola Carey, Sophie Molineux(c), Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Gujarat CM inaugurates state's first urban cable-stayed flyover

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:30:45 +0530

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday inaugurated the newly constructed cable-stayed flyover bridge at Bhat Crossroads on the Gandhinagar-Ahmedabad Airport road, making it operational for commuters.

Project Details and Cost

According to a release, the new flyover bridge has been jointly constructed by the State Government's Roads and Buildings Department and the Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA), with each agency contributing 50 per cent of the project cost. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 175 crore, the 1.48-km-long cable-stayed flyover bridge is the first of its kind in an urban area of the state, as per the release.

New Bridge Expansion Project

Along with inaugurating the cable-stayed flyover bridge, the Chief Minister also performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the six-to-twelve-lane expansion of the existing bridge over the Narmada Main Canal between Koba Circle and Bhat Circle on the Gandhinagar-Ahmedabad Corridor.

To eliminate frequent traffic congestion, the State Government has undertaken a Rs 48-crore project to construct new three-lane bridges on either side of the existing bridge between Koba Circle and Bhat Circle. The project will expand the existing six-lane bridge into a twelve-lane facility, ensuring seamless traffic flow across the corridor while accommodating future traffic growth.

Addressing Traffic Congestion

The Gandhinagar-Koba-Airport Road and the SP Ring Road witness an estimated daily traffic volume of over 1.93 lakh vehicles. As Bhat Circle is a major junction on the Gandhinagar-Airport Road, it experiences frequent traffic congestion, leading to delays and increased fuel consumption for commuters.

With the new cable-stayed bridge now operational, SP Ring Road traffic will pass beneath it. In contrast, Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar traffic will cross it, ensuring seamless two-level traffic flow and easing congestion.

Additionally, dedicated service roads with three lanes on each side, totalling six lanes, have been constructed to ensure smoother traffic movement towards the SP Ring Road, Vadodara, and Surat.

On this occasion, MP Hasmukh Patel, Gandhinagar MLAs Rita Patel and Alpesh Thakor, Gandhinagar Mayor Mira Patel, City BJP President Ashish Dave, office-bearers, Roads and Buildings Secretary Prabhat Patelia and other senior officials were also present.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Julia Roberts marks 24th wedding anniversary with husband Danny Moder

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:30:31 +0530

Actor Julia Roberts marked 24 years of marriage with husband Danny Moder by sharing a selfie of the couple and a heartfelt anniversary message on social media, according to People. Taking to Instagram, the Pretty Woman star posted a sunlit selfie in which she is seen resting her head on Moder's shoulder. "TWENTY FOUR," Roberts captioned the post. "MORE MORE MORE ." https://www.instagram.com/p/DaYP3E9xw1w

Several of the couple's celebrity friends joined in celebrating the milestone in the comments section. "Happy happy happy anniversary Moders!!! Love rules! Love wins!!!," actor Rita Wilson wrote, while Ali Wentworth commented, "Happy Anniversary to the ultimate couple!!! Sending you loads of love!," according to People.

A Look Back at Their Relationship

Roberts, 58, and Moder, 57, first met on the set of The Mexican in 2000, where Roberts starred opposite Brad Pitt while Moder worked as a cameraman. The couple began dating in 2002 and tied the knot in a private ceremony in Taos, New Mexico, later that year.

Looking back on their relationship during Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop podcast in 2018, Roberts described marrying Moder as a life-changing moment. "Getting married to Danny. That was the first, like, my life will never be the same in the most incredible, indescribable way," she said. "The best decision I ever made in my entire life was to hitch my wagon to Danny Moder."

The couple have largely kept their relationship and family life away from the spotlight. They are parents to three children, twins Hazel and Phinnaeus, 21, and their younger son Henry, 19, according to People.

Roberts on Family and Happiness

Earlier this year, Roberts and Moder made a rare public appearance together at the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, where they were photographed with actor and singer Teyana Taylor.

In an interview, last September while promoting 'After the Hunt', Roberts also credited her husband as her enduring source of happiness. When co-star Andrew Garfield said his source of joy "changes all the time," Roberts responded, "Mine doesn't," according to People.

In a 2022 interview with CBS News, Roberts said that while acting fulfilled one of her lifelong dreams, her greatest joy lies in the life she has built with her family. "The life that I've built with my husband," she said. "The life that we've built with our children. And that's the best stuff, to come home at the end of the day triumphantly to them," according to People.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Karnataka man freed after 37 years for killing wives, infant daughter

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:30:29 +0530

A man who spent 37 years behind bars for murdering his two wives and infant daughter walked out of Bengaluru's Central Prison on Friday, saying that these mistakes cost him everything, including his job and property. Saibanna Ningappa Natikar, a resident of Kalaburagi district, was among the 24 prisoners released from various jails across Karnataka on the grounds of good conduct under a state initiative aimed at rehabilitating the convicts.

Reflecting on the actions that led to his imprisonment, Natikar said he had lost his family, job, property and decades of his life because of mistakes committed in anger. "No one should make the mistake I made. After going to jail, we lose a lot in life--our people, our job, our property. I lost my job, 10 acres of land, and my entire family because of one mistake made in anger. I have spent 37 years in jail," he told reporters after his release.

A history of crimes born from anger

Originally from Jevargi in Kalaburagi district, Natikar was employed with the Karnataka State Co-operative Marketing Federation before his arrest. According to officials, his first conviction stemmed from the murder of his first wife after he allegedly discovered she was involved in an extramarital relationship. He later got bail. After about a year, his family and relatives convinced him to remarry for the sake of dignity, promising that the new bride would stay with him. He agreed and got married again. However, within 1-2 days of the marriage, he alleged that his second wife started meeting another man. When he went to bring her back after a week, he found her with the other man. In anger, he told her and her family to stay away and not to come to his village.

Natikar said that after 2 years, while he was in jail, his second wife delivered a baby girl. He was later granted parole. He took a jeep and went to bring her home. But that night, he again found her with another man. In a fit of rage, he attacked her with a knife. His infant daughter came in between and was also injured. Both his wife and daughter died. He then tried to stab himself but was admitted to the hospital and survived. He was sent back to jail and has now been released after 37 years.

An opportunity for reform

His release came as part of the Karnataka government's decision to free 24 eligible convicts based on good conduct. Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge visited the Parappana Agrahara Central Prison to hand over the release orders to the convicts. "Based on their good conduct, 24 people have been released. They are now returning to the mainstream of society. Those who committed crimes have been given an opportunity for reform," Kharge said.

The Home Minister said it was his first visit to the Central Prison after assuming office and that he had reviewed the prison's infrastructure and technological facilities.

"There has been discussion in the media about some lapses and shortcomings in the prison. I spoke to some inmates and took their suggestions. I have also given several suggestions to address the problems in the prison," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Gujarat CM inaugurates hostel, school for Nomadic communities

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:30:27 +0530

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel today inaugurated the 'Shanti Niwas' Hostel, managed by the Vicharta Samuday Samarthan Manch (VSSM) and the Dr. K. R. Shroff Foundation, and performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the 'Vallabh Vidya Vihar' School at Pansar in Kalol taluka. Gujarat BJP State President Jagdish Vishwakarma graced the event. During the programme, CM and other dignitaries encouraged the students by distributing books.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, despite growing up in a humble and economically challenged family, never allowed hardships to define his journey. Instead, he chose to transform "adversity into opportunity" by creating lasting solutions. CM added that the Prime Minister has consistently worked to build systems that permanently address the challenges faced by the poor and the deprived.

CM Patel Praises PM Modi's Vision for Uplifting the Deprived

He said that PM Narendra Modi took the first decisive step towards ensuring that people of the Nomadic and Denotified Tribes, who had spent years leading a nomadic life, receive a dignified place in society and a permanent address of their own. As a result of this vision, several welfare-oriented initiatives are now being implemented across Gujarat for these communities.

CM said that a permanent address gives a person a distinct identity, enabling them to access their rights and government benefits more easily. He also lauded the institution's dedicated efforts to bring deprived sections of society into the mainstream of development.

CM said that Indian culture teaches us that extending a helping hand for a noble cause is a great virtue. He urged everyone to empathise with families from the Nomadic and Denotified Tribes who face uncertainty every day about shelter, food, and the future of their children. He said that providing these families with housing, education, food, and other necessities is a noble and virtuous service.

CM said that every person's life is a journey of continuous progress. He noted that, after achieving stability and success, people naturally feel inspired to give back to society. The desire to build a school, a water tank, or contribute to a hospital arises when individuals remember their own struggles and empathise with those who continue to face similar hardships. He said this spirit of compassion and service towards the deprived, while remaining connected to one's roots, is an inspiration that we constantly draw from the life of the Prime Minister.

CM further added that Gujarat marked the launch of its third semiconductor company yesterday, reflecting the country's rapid progress in technology and industry. He added that, despite this advancement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues to give equal importance to the welfare of each citizen and cleanliness. CM remarked that, as prosperity grows, people often tend to overlook smaller responsibilities. However, he said the Prime Minister has remained committed to every aspect of the nation's development. As a result, India today stands with pride on the global stage and has earned worldwide recognition under his leadership.

A Call for Inclusive Development for 'Viksit Bharat'

Speaking about inclusive development, CM said that everyone must work together to realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a 'Viksit Bharat'. He said that a Viksit Bharat can be achieved only through a Viksit Gujarat. However, Gujarat cannot be considered truly developed if progress is confined to a few cities. True development, he said, will be realised only when each person in society and the most deprived citizens become part of the mainstream of development. Only then will Gujarat become truly developed, contributing to the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

CM said that the children present at the event are at the beginning of their educational journey and that education will empower this new generation to transform society. He added that contributing to the mission of bringing an entire generation and community into the mainstream with dignity is a sacred responsibility and a matter of pride for all.

Jagdish Vishwakarma Commends VSSM's Work

On this occasion, Gujarat BJP State President Jagdish Vishwakarma said that the Vicharta Samuday Samarthan Manch (VSSM) has become a strong support system for Nomadic and Denotified Tribes. He commended the organisation for its remarkable work in educating children from marginalised Nomadic and Denotified communities despite the challenges they face. He said that, inspired by the Prime Minister's philosophy of 'Antyodaya', permanent housing has been provided to numerous deprived families across the country by focusing on the welfare of each person in society. He also lauded the Gujarat Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, for extending support to the organisation in developing residential colonies and housing plots for these communities.

Support for Traditional Handicrafts

Jagdish Vishwakarma said that the institution should showcase the handicrafts and traditional products made by the people of the Nomadic and Denotified Tribes who continue to practise their traditional occupations. He added that the Government would provide the necessary training to help them improve the quality of their products and strengthen their livelihoods.

Recalling Narendra Modi's tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, he said that promoting khadi had transformed it into a global fashion industry with a turnover of over ₹1.5 lakh crore. Expressing confidence that products made by Nomadic and Denotified communities would also one day receive GI tags and reach wider markets, he assured them of the Government's continued support.

VSSM Founder Highlights Organisation's Welfare Initiatives

Welcoming the gathering, VSSM Founder Trustee Mittal Patel said that several welfare initiatives for Nomadic Tribes are being implemented with the commitment of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and with the continuous support of the State administration. She added that generous contributions from donors have enabled the organisation to construct more than 2,000 houses, provide loans to help 13,000 families become Atmanirbhar, deepen 470 ponds, and undertake large-scale initiatives such as tree plantation.

Recalling India's tradition of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), Mittalben Patel urged philanthropists to contribute a part of their wealth towards the upliftment of Nomadic and Denotified communities, including the Vadi, Madari, Saraniya, and Kangasiya families. She said that what began nearly 20 years ago as a school under tents has, through the dedicated efforts of many volunteers, grown into a modern educational campus.

She added that the work undertaken in Gujarat for the welfare of Nomadic Tribes is a matter of pride and stands out among similar initiatives across the country.

The event was attended by Kalol MLA Laxmanji Thakor, Gandhinagar Collector Ravindra Khatale, Bhagwandas Panchal, donor Ronak Nayak, land donor of the Aarti Parivar Sankul Chandrakant Gogri, President of Dr. K. R. Shroff Foundation Uday Desai, Pratul Shroff, VSSM President Liladhar Gada, trustees, social leaders, members of the school community, and a large number of families and children from the Nomadic communities. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PoJK: Advocate urges overseas Kashmiris to protest against repression

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:30:23 +0530

Advocate Mehran Khawaja has called on overseas Kashmiris and supporters across the world to intensify peaceful protests against what he described as Pakistan's continued repression in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), over widespread human rights violations, prolonged internet restrictions, arbitrary arrests and excessive use of force by security agencies.

In a video statement, Khawaja said that demonstrations had been organised in several countries, particularly in London, where he claimed that large numbers of members of the Kashmiri diaspora had gathered to express solidarity with people in the region. He said similar programmes were held in various cities and institutions worldwide to convey opposition to the ongoing crackdown.

Allegations of State Repression

Khawaja alleged that authorities had imposed a month-long internet shutdown beginning on June 5 and accused security forces of carrying out violence, shelling, arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances. He claimed these measures reflected the failure of the ruling establishment to address the people's demands through democratic means.

Criticising Pakistan's security institutions, Khawaja alleged that state forces were being used against civilians instead of protecting them. He accused security personnel of using public funds while allegedly targeting unarmed protesters, including young people and women. He further alleged that security operations had resulted in fear and suffering among local communities.

A Call for Unity and Perseverance

Addressing overseas Kashmiris, Khawaja urged them to continue mobilising international support and encouraged residents, particularly in Dadyal and surrounding areas, to participate in peaceful demonstrations despite the prevailing security situation. He said public unity is essential to counter what he described as state oppression.

Khwaja maintained that protesters should remain peaceful while sending a strong message against what he called tyranny. He urged participants not to lose courage, asserting that the movement for fundamental rights would continue despite the government's actions.

His remarks come amid heightened tensions in PoJK, where protests over governance and public grievances have intensified in recent weeks. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Telangana drought: KTR demands action, says operate Kaleshwaram now

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:30:22 +0530

Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President KT Rama Rao on Sunday demanded that the Congress government immediately operate the Kannepalli Pump House and lift Godavari waters to protect Telangana from an impending drought, warning that the State could face a severe water crisis due to the combined impact of El Nino, deficient rainfall and government inaction.

Accusations of Apathy Amid Drought Conditions

Addressing the media after inspecting the Kannepalli Pump House, KTR said 26 out of Telangana's 33 districts are already facing drought-like conditions, while lakhs of cusecs of Godavari water continue to flow wastefully into the sea because the government has failed to utilise the existing Kaleshwaram infrastructure. He accused the Congress government of displaying complete apathy towards farmers despite repeated warnings from weather experts about El Nino and below-normal rainfall. "Instead of preparing for a drought and protecting agriculture, the government is allowing precious water to go to waste while farmers suffer," he said.

Kaleshwaram Project and Political Obstruction

Criticising the government's handling of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, KTR rejected allegations of corruption and demanded that repairs be completed without further delay. He said the project, built under the leadership of former Chief Minister, remained fully capable of supplying water if operated properly. He also condemned the police for repeatedly obstructing the BRS delegation during its journey from Hyderabad to Kannepalli, alleging that what should have been a four-hour journey took nearly seven hours due to barricades and restrictions imposed at multiple locations.

Recalling Telangana's long struggle for water, KTR said Kaleshwaram had transformed the State's irrigation landscape by increasing groundwater levels, expanding irrigation, improving agricultural productivity and ensuring drinking water supply to several districts. Warning that Hyderabad too could face drinking water shortages if timely action was not taken, KTR said the government must stop politicising irrigation and immediately operationalise the Kannepalli Pump House.

BRS Issues Ultimatum to Government

KTR further warned that if the Congress government failed to immediately begin lifting water from the Kannepalli pumps, the BRS would intensify its agitation. He announced that the party would lay siege to the Kannepalli Pump House with 50,000 to 60,000 people if the government continued to ignore the interests of Telangana's farmers and refused to utilise the available Godavari waters.

"Switch on the Bahubali pumps and provide water to farmers. If the government fails to act, we will march to Kannepalli, lay siege to the Pump House and ensure that the pumps are switched on," he asserted. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

500 Job Applications, No Offer: Rapido Rider's Story Leaves Internet Heartbroken

Divya Danu — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:20:55 +0530

A viral post on X has reignited discussions about the difficult job market facing fresh engineering graduates after a user shared the story of a young computer science graduate working as a Rapido rider despite applying for more than 500 jobs. The post claimed the graduate completed his computer science degree with first division earlier this year but failed to receive a single job offer after months of searching.

Savings Ran Out, So He Started Riding

According to the X user, the conversation began after noticing a college sticker on the rider's helmet during a trip. The rider reportedly said he had exhausted his savings while waiting for interview calls and eventually started working as a Rapido rider from 6 am every day to support himself.

The graduate also revealed that his parents still believe he is at home preparing for interviews. He said he never told them about his current work because he did not know how to explain the situation.

meet a guy on rapido last week recognized the college sticker on his helmet and ended up talking to him for like 10 mins while we were stuck in trafficturns out he graduated this year first division CS and now two months later he's doing 6am rides everyday cause savings ran…

— Niraj (@nirajxdev) July 3, 2026

Telangana Woman Clings to Life for 21 Hours in a Well. Her Rescue Exposes a Robbery Plot | Viral Video

Internet Reacts With Concern and Support

The post quickly gained attention, with many users saying it reflected the reality of today's technology job market.

Several people said both freshers and experienced professionals are struggling to find opportunities. Others blamed the growing gap between the large number of engineering graduates and the limited availability of entry-level jobs.

Some users argued that companies now expect stronger technical knowledge instead of only academic degrees. Others encouraged graduates to accept any honest job while continuing to improve their skills and work on personal projects.

One user even offered to help by asking the original poster to share the graduate's contact details for a possible job opportunity.

Bright Side Stories: Jaipur's 151-Year-Old Gandhinagar Railway Station Gets Stunning New Look

Discussion Extends Beyond One Story

While the identity of the graduate has not been independently verified, the viral post has triggered a wider conversation about employment challenges in the IT sector. Many users said the story reflects the pressure young graduates face as they try to begin their careers in an increasingly competitive job market.

Kashmiris protest in London over Pakistan's PoJK crackdown; 1 killed

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:00:26 +0530

Overseas Kashmiris held a "massive gathering" in London on Sunday, protesting against the severe crackdown by the Pakistani government and the sweeping arrests of more than 600 civil rights activists in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) following similar anti-Islamabad protests that erupted in the region. In a post on X by the Awami Action Committee, a large number of overseas Kashmiris participated in the demonstration held in London, captioned "A massive gathering of overseas Kashmiris in London."

Violence Erupts in PoJK

Meanwhile, tensions in the region escalated drastically today as one person was killed and several others were injured after Pakistan Rangers opened fire on protesters, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) PoJK unit said. In a series of posts on X, PTI's PoJK unit said protests were continuing across the region in support of demands for basic rights and in solidarity with an ongoing sit-in in Rawalakot. "Protests continue across the state in solidarity with the provision of basic rights and the Dharna in Dereh (Rawalakot). Hundreds of people, including women, participate in the protest in Charhoi," the party said in one of its posts.

In another post, PTI stated that Pakistan Police and Rangers used force against demonstrators in Amb village in the Dadyal tehsil of Mirpur district in the region. "Police and Rangers' shelling and firing on peaceful protesters at Dadyal Amb's location. One person martyred and multiple individuals injured due to Rangers' firing," the party stated in a separate post.

Widespread Protests and State Suppression

The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), the rights group that called the protest on Sunday, also stated that tensions escalated across the region, noting that one person was killed and several others were injured after Pakistani security forces opened fire and used shelling against protesters in the area.

According to the JAAC, thousands of people, including women, children and the elderly, gathered at Sardar Ghulam Hussain Khan Sports Stadium in Abbaspor as part of a wider protest movement demanding basic rights and the release of detained leaders, including JAAC leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir. The committee stated that Pakistani security forces resorted to firing and shelling to disperse peaceful demonstrators, leaving several people critically injured. The JAAC said large protest caravans continued to reach the sit-in site in Rawalakot, while demonstrations were also held in several other areas of PoJK. It said members of the Kashmiri diaspora staged protests in Auckland, New Zealand, demanding the release of detained activists.

This planned mobilisation answers a series of heavy-handed actions by Pakistani authorities. On June 30, the JAAC sharply criticised Islamabad after a political delegation led by opposition leaders was reportedly stopped from entering PoJK, describing the move as further evidence of the state's suppression of democratic rights and political dissent. Activists state that Pakistani forces are currently using drones for surveillance of the people's sit-in protests, prompting local leaders to call for a complete boycott of the local elections scheduled for July 27. The committee has called for peaceful demonstrations across PoJK, urging participants to carry white flags and demand fundamental rights while maintaining peace.

Mass Arrests and International Condemnation

Separately, PoJK activist Amjad Ayub Mirza claimed that more than 600 JAAC workers and activists had been detained following the arrest of Shaukat Nawaz Mir and said protests against Pakistan's actions were being organised both in PoJK and abroad. "The situation in Pakistani-occupied Jammu and Kashmir is getting worse by the hour. After the arrest of the leader of Joint Awami Action Committee Shaukat Nawaz Mir, so far more than 600 workers and activists of the committee have been arrested," the activist said.

As this happened, global watchdog group Amnesty International strongly condemned Pakistan's heavy-handed tactics ahead of the upcoming regional elections. Amnesty accused authorities of deploying violent measures to suppress peaceful political dissent and violate fundamental human rights, unlawfully designating the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) as a "proscribed organisation". Amnesty fiercely criticised the ban on the civil rights coalition, labelling it a disproportionate attack on freedom of association and peaceful political activism as international pressure continues to mount against Islamabad. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Temple row: Opposition now attacking faith, says Yogi Adityanath

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 20:00:24 +0530

Amid the political row over the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday accused the Opposition of "attacking India's faith," alleging that parties such as the Samajwadi Party and the Congress had shifted their focus to religious issues after failing in their politics of social division.

Welfare Schemes Undermined Divisive Politics: CM

Addressing the 'Shakti Kendra Sanyojak Sammelan' at Rashtra Prerna Sthal in Lucknow, Yogi said the BJP's "double-engine" government had ensured that welfare benefits reached every section of society without discrimination, weakening what he described as the "Opposition's politics of caste and class divisions".

"The 'double-engine' government is working tirelessly to deliver the benefits of state schemes without discrimination to every section of society... this is precisely what troubles these opposition parties: the Samajwadi Party and the Congress. Their concern is that the very sections of society they used to divide along lines of caste and class have now been brought into the fold by the double-engine government through welfare schemes," the Chief Minister said.

Claiming that the Opposition's earlier political strategy had failed, Yogi alleged that it was now targeting matters of faith. "Seeing their divisive efforts fail, they are now resorting to attacking India's faith. That is why I call upon all of you: this is the time for us to be vigilant," he said.

His remarks come amid a political controversy over allegations of embezzlement of donations meant for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with leaders from the ruling BJP and Opposition exchanging sharp accusations over the issue. Earlier, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders had accused the Opposition of attempting to politicise the matter, while Opposition parties demanded an impartial probe into the allegations.

'Will Not Allow Anyone to Play with Faith': BJP

Speaking at the same event, BJP National President Nitin Nabin also criticised Opposition leaders over their remarks on the Ram Temple issue, alleging that those questioning the current discourse had previously questioned the existence of Lord Ram and the Ram Setu.

"Regarding Lord Shri Ram's temple in Ayodhya, today, some people are raising questions about the discourse surrounding it... these are the same people who questioned the very existence of Lord Ram... They questioned the existence of the Ram Setu...," Nabin said.

He further asserted that the BJP would not allow anyone to "play" with the faith associated with the Ram Temple and said the party was prepared to make any sacrifice to protect it. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

New Jersey Grocery: Indians Flock For Desi Goods, US Store Goes Wild!

Indrakshi Samanta — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:57:29 +0530

There's a saying that the grass is always greener on the other side, and for many who dream of living abroad, this often turns out to be a hard lesson. A recent incident in America is a perfect example of this reality.

A brand-new Indian grocery store opened in New Jersey, and what happened next was unbelievable. Huge crowds of people, desperate to get their hands on Indian vegetables and groceries, rushed the store, creating a chaotic scene that almost turned into a stampede. Videos of the incident quickly went viral on social media, showing massive, jam-packed crowds and incredibly long queues.

Near-Stampede for Groceries

The videos show just how intense the situation was. You can see long lines of people and a massive crowd jostling to get inside. This chaos highlights the massive and growing demand for Indian supermarkets in the United States.

Dolphin: 200kg Giant Washes Ashore With 2kg Plastic Net Inside Stomach!

Huge Demand for Indian Supermarkets

As the number of Indian immigrants in America keeps rising, so does the craving for a taste of home. People are missing fresh Indian vegetables and are constantly searching for stores that offer everything under one roof—from regional groceries and spices to our favourite snacks and familiar Indian brands. These shoppers were willing to brave the crowds, and even a potential stampede, just to get these items.

While the grand opening definitely made a splash, the viral videos have sparked a debate online. Many Indians are calling it a sign of India's growing influence, proudly saying, "This is our power!" However, others, including some Americans, were critical, commenting that the crowd showed a lack of manners.

One user on X (formerly Twitter) shared a video with a rather grim take on the situation.

Giethoorn Village: Roadless Wonder In Netherlands Where Boats Are Only Mode Of Transport

Like I said, in the next 10 years, Indians will not get respect in any country.pic.twitter.com/VESutXyJfx

— Kapil (@kapsology) July 3, 2026

Adani to build South Asia's largest missile hub in MP for Rs 2,500 cr

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:31:00 +0530

Adani Defence & Aerospace on Sunday laid the foundation for South Asia's largest private-sector missile ecosystem and announced a Rs 2,500 crore investment to establish this state-of-the-art facility in Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri, with Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Defence & Aerospace, saying it will help replace "foreign dependency with domestic power."

A Leap Towards Self-Reliance

Addressing the ceremony, Adani said, "Shivpuri is the next giant leap in that journey as we bring a full-range, integrated missile ecosystem to manufacture medium- to long-range missile systems, replacing foreign dependency with domestic power."

He added, "But we are going deeper than just assembly. We are establishing composite propellant manufacturing as well as TNT and explosive-grade material production."

Speaking about the scale of the project, he said, "Over the next three years, we will build this state-of-the-art facility with an investment of Rs 2,500 crore, creating 5,000 direct and indirect jobs and drawing over 50 MSMEs into a highly specialized supply chain."

Calling the project a landmark for the company, Adani said, "This facility will bring raw materials and mission-ready missiles under one roof -- a historic first outside the public sector."

Expanding Defence Footprint in Madhya Pradesh

On the company's defence manufacturing plans, he said, "We are promoting indigenisation, working closely with the DRDO and the Armed Forces to systematically reverse India's dependency on imports."

Proven Track Record in Gwalior

Referring to the company's existing defence manufacturing operations in the state, Jeet Adani said, "Gwalior gave Madhya Pradesh its first taste of serious defence manufacturing. Today, that complex manufactures our entire portfolio of Light Machine Guns, Assault Rifles and Carbines."

He added, "Our Light Machine Guns (LMG) programme alone has already delivered 2,000 units to the Armed Forces -- 11 months ahead of schedule!"

He said the Shivpuri project would strengthen the state's role in defence manufacturing, adding, "Together, Gwalior and Shivpuri will stand as twin engines of defence innovation in Madhya Pradesh. They will ensure that the advanced systems protecting our skies are proudly built by Indian hands, on Indian soil."

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Women's T20 WC Final: Undefeated Aus, Eng clash; Mooney eyes glory

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:31:00 +0530

Australia's veteran batter Beth Mooney heads into the Women's T20 World Cup Final clash against England with a reputation built on delivering when the stakes are highest. In 10 semi-final and final appearances so far in her career, she has scored 360 runs at a superb average of 72 and a strike rate of 133.33, including a top score of 78* and four half-centuries.

Undefeated Rivals Clash in T20 World Cup Final

The T20 World Cup 2026 Final is all set to be contested between hosts England and six-time champions Australia at Lord's on Sunday. Both teams are undefeated so far during their run in the tournament. While Australia are the most successful team at the Women's T20 World Cup, with six championships, England are aiming for their first title since the inaugural edition in 2009.

A Storied Rivalry

As the unbeaten finalists prepare to renew hostilities at Lord's in the 2026 Final, they do so having already met seven times in Women's T20 World Cup history. Five of those encounters have come in knockout matches, including three finals, with trophies, heartbreak and unforgettable performances shaping one of cricket's greatest rivalries. Australia have four wins, while England have two victories and one game ended in a tie.

Head-to-Head Record

The T20 head-to-head record between the two sides is closely contested, with England winning 20 matches and Australia edging ahead with 22 victories. The rivalry has remained finely balanced over the years, with two matches ending in ties and one producing no result.

Squads

England Women Squad: Amy Jones(w), Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Nat Sciver-Brunt(c), Alice Capsey, Heather Knight, Freya Kemp, Danielle Gibson, Charlotte Dean, Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith, Lauren Bell, Sophia Dunkley, Issy Wong, Lauren Filer, Tilly Corteen-Coleman.

Australia Women Squad: Georgia Voll, Beth Mooney(w), Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, Annabel Sutherland, Nicola Carey, Sophie Molineux(c), Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton, Megan Schutt, Grace Harris, Tahlia McGrath, Alana King. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Mandir donation theft: Congress demands Supreme Court-led probe

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:30:52 +0530

Congress Demands SC-Led Probe

All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge for Uttar Pradesh, Rajendra Pal Gautam, on Sunday demanded that a Supreme Court-led judge should investigate the allegations of theft of donations received at Ram Mandir.

Gautam told ANI, "This entire incident should be investigated under the supervision of a sitting judge of the Honourable Supreme Court who has no previous affiliation with any political party, and this is not only a question of people's faith but also a question of people's faith in religion. If this trust is broken, it has far-reaching consequences," he said.

'Uncover the Facts and Ensure Accountability': Rajeev Shukla

Meanwhile, Congress MP Rajeev Shukla on Sunday called for an impartial investigation under the supervision of the Supreme Court in the case.

Speaking to ANI, Shukla said that both the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) have acknowledged that irregularities took place and stressed the need to uncover the facts and ensure accountability. "Both the RSS and the VHP have acknowledged that irregularities occurred; no one is denying that. The task now is to uncover the facts and take appropriate measures to prevent this from happening again. It is crucial that a Supreme Court committee conducts an impartial investigation, that those involved receive severe punishment, and that safeguards are put in place to ensure such theft does not recur," Shukla told ANI.

He further said that strong measures must be introduced to ensure such incidents are not repeated in the future. "We must ensure measures are taken to prevent future thefts of this nature, as people's faith has been deeply shaken by this ongoing theft over the years," the Congress MP added.

Case Background

On June 29, an Ayodhya court remanded all the accused to 14-day judicial custody following an intensive investigation into allegations.

The controversy began after an FIR was registered on June 25. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Delhi weather: Heavy rain, 60 kmph winds expected on Sunday, says IMD

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:30:44 +0530

India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted moderate to heavy rain with an intensity of 5-20 mm per hour, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, very likely over several parts of the national capital on Sunday.

Forecast for Delhi and Adjoining States

According to the forecast, wind speeds of 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, are expected over South East Delhi, East Delhi, Shahadra, Central Delhi, North East Delhi, South Delhi, New Delhi, South West Delhi, West Delhi, North West Delhi, and North Delhi.

According to the IMD, the national capital Delhi, along with Haryana, Chandigarh, and Punjab, is expected to witness isolated to scattered rainfall on July 6 and July 10. However, the intensity will increase to "fairly widespread to widespread" rainfall between July 7 and July 9, and again on July 11. The weather department has also warned of isolated heavy rainfall in these regions during July 6-9 and on July 11.

Monsoon Activity in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is set to experience intense monsoon activity. The IMD has predicted "very heavy rainfall" for East Rajasthan from July 6 to July 10, with heavy showers continuing on July 11. West Rajasthan is likely to see heavy rain on July 7 and 8. Both regions remain under a seasonal alert for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-60 kmph throughout the week.

Alert for Himalayan Region

The weather department has sounded an alert for the Himalayan belt. Himachal Pradesh is likely to witness "isolated very heavy rainfall" on July 6 and 7, while Uttarakhand will see similar conditions on July 6. Fairly widespread to widespread rainfall is expected across both states until July 11.

Wet Spell Predicted for Uttar Pradesh

The IMD has forecast a wet spell for Uttar Pradesh as well. East Uttar Pradesh is expected to receive "isolated very heavy rainfall" on July 10 and 11, with heavy rain also likely on July 8 and 9. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

One killed as Pak Rangers fire on protesters in PoJK amid crackdown

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:30:32 +0530

Amid widespread anti-Islamabad protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) following a severe government crackdown and the sweeping arrests of more than 600 civil rights activists, tensions in the region escalated drastically as one person was killed and several others were injured after Pakistan Rangers opened fire on protesters, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) PoJK unit said on Sunday.

PTI Confirms Firing and Casualties

In a series of posts on X, PTI's PoJK unit said protests were continuing across the region in support of demands for basic rights and in solidarity with an ongoing sit-in in Rawalakot. "Protests continue across the state in solidarity with the provision of basic rights and the Dharna in Dereh (Rawalakot). Hundreds of people, including women, participate in the protest in Charhoi," the party said in one of its posts.

Rights Group Details Widespread Demonstrations

The JAAC said large protest caravans continued to reach the sit-in site in Rawalakot, while demonstrations were also held in several other areas of PoJK. It said members of the Kashmiri diaspora staged protests in Auckland, New Zealand, demanding the release of detained activists.

Crackdown Intensifies Ahead of Elections

The committee has called for peaceful demonstrations across PoJK, urging participants to carry white flags and demand fundamental rights while maintaining peace. Separately, PoJK activist Amjad Ayub Mirza claimed that more than 600 JAAC workers and activists had been detained following the arrest of Shaukat Nawaz Mir and said protests against Pakistan's actions were being organised both in PoJK and abroad.

"The situation in Pakistani-occupied Jammu and Kashmir is getting worse by the hour. After the arrest of the leader of Joint Awami Action Committee Shaukat Nawaz Mir, so far more than 600 workers and activists of the committee have been arrested," the activist said.

Amnesty International Condemns Pakistan's Actions

Amnesty fiercely criticised the ban on the civil rights coalition, labelling it a disproportionate attack on freedom of association and peaceful political activism as international pressure continues to mount against Islamabad. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bommai alleges irregularities in Karnataka electoral roll revision

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:30:30 +0530

Former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Sunday alleged large-scale irregularities in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state and urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to intervene immediately, claiming that officials were working under pressure from the state government.

Speaking to reporters here, Bommai claimed that the SIR exercise, which began about a week ago in Karnataka, was not being carried out in accordance with prescribed procedures. "For the last week, the SIR has started in Karnataka. Due to pressure from the state government, state employees are under tremendous pressure, like Anganwadi workers. An officer has committed suicide in Tumkur," Bommai alleged.

Allegations of Procedural Violations

He further claimed that officials were not conducting door-to-door verification as required. "Now they are not going house to house. They are sitting in general places, including the mosque, and trying to fill out the forms, which is illegal. A lot of irregularities are happening," he said.

The former Chief Minister also alleged that district administrations were failing to address complaints regarding the exercise. "Congress is trying to protect its vote bank...they are putting pressure on the officers. Instead of looking into the matter and making complaints, deputy commissioners are shielding this matter," he alleged.

Bommai Demands ECI Intervention

Calling for immediate intervention by the Election Commission of India (ECI), Bommai said the state election machinery had failed to ensure proper implementation of the revision process. "I urge the Central Election Commission to intervene immediately. The State Election Commissioner has to do a lot of work, and he is not doing it," he said.

Bommai further urged the Election Commission to deploy vigilance teams across Karnataka to monitor the exercise. "The State Commission should send vigilance teams to all the districts, and they are not doing it. The Central Election Commission should intervene and ensure that the SIR is done at speed in the given time. The Central Election Commission should send its team. Then only proper work can be done here; this Congress government will deny the rights of the people to vote," he alleged.

ECI's SIR Phase-III Schedule

The ECI has announced the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) Phase-III across 16 States and three Union Territories, covering over 36 crore electors in a phased manner.

For the states of Karnataka, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Delhi, the qualifying date is October 1. The draft roll will be published on August 5, with claims and objections from August 5 to September 4. The notice phase and disposal will conclude on October 3, and the final electoral roll will be published on October 7. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA World Cup: Teen star Yamal set for clash of generations vs Ronaldo

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:30:26 +0530

Spanish teen football sensation Lamine Yamal has captivated football fans since his arrival to international and club scene at the senior level, and amidst all the hype surrounding him at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, it is his fashion choices that are also making a lot of noise.

Yamal, who has scored one goal in four starts so far during the 2026 FIFA campaign, will be facing Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal in a clash of generations on July 7, with the 18-year-old Yamal aiming to blow away the 41-year-old who is fighting for an elusive trophy in the twilight of his illustrious career. Yamal's presence has been very influential in Spain's campaign so far, as they have been unbeaten so far and have overcome the group stage and knockout jitters that had haunted them since their 2010 FIFA World Cup triumph.

The 'Ego Yamal' Headband Explained

During the Spain versus Austria round of 16 clash, which the former won 3-0, Yamal could be seen wearing a headband saying "Ego Yamal". The accessory became a viral moment from the match itself. Many have wondered if the headband was an intentional fashion choice or something random. But as per Spanish radio station COPE, it had a meaning. A report from the station said that it was a direct response to the criticism the 18-year-old attracted on TikTok, where some fans mockingly nicknamed him 'Ego Lamine', alleging that he has developed an inflated ego due to his rise to superstardom at such a young age. The nickname had been circulating in social media for weeks, intending to take a shot at his on-field swagger. Yamal chose to embrace the tag. COPE reported that instead of ignoring or taking the criticism too seriously, the youngster has decided to go ahead with the humour, appreciate it and sport it on his head.

Batman Chain Makes a Statement

In fact, Yamal grabbed attention even before kickoff of his side's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash against Austria, arriving at Los Angeles Stadium wearing a Batman chain and confidently pointing towards it as he greeted supporters. The 18-year-old Barcelona winger, who has recovered from a hamstring injury, walked out with the Spanish squad ahead of the match, acknowledging fans before the players went through their pre-match warm-up. In a moment that quickly caught the eye, Yamal gestured towards his Batman chain, adding a touch of personality before stepping onto the biggest knockout stage of his international career.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Adani's Rs 2,500 Cr missile plant in Shivpuri to generate jobs: CM

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:30:24 +0530

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Sunday said that missiles will be manufactured at the defence manufacturing facility to be established by Adani Defence, with employment generation in Shivpuri. CM Yadav and Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the Missile and Propellant Manufacturing Facility by Adani Defence at Shivpuri, worth Rs 2,500 crore. Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) Director Jeet Adani was also present at the event.

CM Yadav Hails 'New Path for Investment'

Speaking to reporters, CM Mohan Yadav called it a "new path for investment" in Madhya Pradesh. He said, "A new path for investment has opened in Madhya Pradesh. Defence Corridor's first project is worth 2500 to 3000 crore. Missiles will be manufactured in it, and with its help, people here will get employment. Here, the inauguration and groundbreaking of various development works worth Rs 211 crore have taken place. In the future, many other gifts will also be received."

Scindia Highlights Major Private Sector Milestone

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia hailed the project as a significant milestone in private sector investment in Shivpuri. Scindia told reporters, "This auspicious beginning has been made possible today under the leadership of PM Modi and the state's CM Mohan Yadav. Investments ranging from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 crore in the Guna cement plant and an investment of Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,000 crore in Shivpuri are significant milestones. It is not just missile propellant; gunpowder, missile assembly, and some of the world's most modern weaponry will be manufactured here in Shivpuri. This represents the largest investment by a private sector company not just in India, but in all of South Asia."

Boosting Gwalior-Chambal Defence Ecosystem

The state-of-the-art defence manufacturing plant to be established in Shivpuri will position the region as a major defence manufacturing hub of the country. With the existing Small Arms Manufacturing Complex in Gwalior and this new advanced defence plant in Shivpuri, a robust defence ecosystem will develop across the entire Gwalior-Chambal region. The project is expected to give employment to 5,000 people in the region. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Uttarakhand's infra growth rapid under PM Modi's vision: CM Dhami

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:30:22 +0530

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday inaugurated the newly constructed girder bridge over the Dhangarhi drain on National Highway 309 in Ramnagar, Nainital district.

CM Dhami Credits PM Modi for Infrastructure Boom

Addressing the gathering at the event, the Chief Minister emphasised the rapid infrastructure growth in the state, crediting the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for transforming remote and border regions. Highlighting the shift in development since the Modi government took office at the Centre in 2014, CM Dhami said, "Today, unprecedented and historic work has been accomplished in every sector--work that had never been done before. If you were to look at these border areas prior to 2014, you would not have seen any roads, rail networks, hospitals, schools, or power lines in these remote regions."

The Chief Minister further noted that the Prime Minister's directive changed the perception of these remote areas. "All of this was built after 2014, when Modi-ji became the Prime Minister and declared that border areas must be developed. To ensure rapid development, he stated that they would no longer be the country's 'last villages', but rather India's 'first villages,' and development is proceeding rapidly based on that vision," he added.

Uttarakhand on a High Growth Trajectory

Stating that the state is on a high growth trajectory, the Chief Minister said that his government is working with a clear roadmap to ensure public satisfaction. "Today, Uttarakhand is entering a golden era of development. Behind this lies our government's clear policy and firm resolve; our work culture is defined by simplification, resolution, disposal, and satisfaction," the CM added.

Temple Inspection in Ramnagar

Chief Minister Dhami also visited and inspected the Garjiya Devi Temple premises in Ramnagar to review the ongoing development work. Union Minister of State Ajay Tamta also accompanied the Chief Minister during this inspection.

Flood Protection Projects in Champawat

Earlier today, Dhami laid the foundation stone for two flood protection projects worth over Rs 65 crore at Boomghat in Champawat district, including a Rs 60.21 crore embankment along the Sharda River from Boom to Tanakpur and a Rs 5.74 crore flood protection wall on the Huddi River to safeguard Chhinigoth village in Purnagiri tehsil.

The Chief Minister received a traditional welcome upon his arrival, with a ceremonial tilak, angavastram, Kumaoni cap, flower petals, and a vibrant Chholiya dance performance.

CM Directs for Quality and Timely Completion

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Vlogger Arrested: Anti Drug Activist Exposed On Live Stream For Substance Use!

Indrakshi Samanta — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:28:44 +0530

Sharjah: A Malayali vlogger, famous for his 'Ente Cassette' page, has reportedly been arrested in the UAE. Abdul Hakeem was nabbed after a video of him using drugs during a live stream went viral. Hakeem, who had posted several anti-drug campaign videos on social media, was caught in a major slip-up. The incident happened at his residence in the UAE. He accidentally switched on the live stream feature on an app called 'Kick' while he was consuming drugs. Media reports suggest that he even tried to flee the country after the video leaked. However, the Sharjah Police have not yet officially confirmed the arrest.

Kochi Drug Bust: Cops Seize Hybrid Ganja Worth Rs 17 Crore! Read Details

Ironically, Hakeem became a known face after he made a video for his 'Ente Cassette' page about a drug mafia in Bengaluru that was trapping Malayalis. This isn't his first brush with the law. He already has cases against him back in Kerala. A woman from Ernakulam had filed a complaint against him for making lewd comments on social media. There's also a case for attacking a police jeep when he was being taken into custody. He used to present himself as a social activist fighting against drugs and violence against women. But, there have always been allegations that he had close links with drug gangs.

Kerala: Massive Drug Crackdown in Pathanamthitta Sparks Attention! Read Details

Bengaluru Traffic: Infosys Co-founder Kris Gopalakrishnan's 2.5-Hour Ordeal For 31 km Sparks Debate

Richa Barua — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:15:02 +0530

Bengaluru is home to many big shots from the corporate world, including CEOs of multinational companies and the founders of Infosys. But it seems even they aren't spared from the city's traffic nightmare. Infosys co-founder Kris Gopalakrishnan recently posted about his travel experience in Bengaluru, and it has started a huge discussion.

Kris Gopalakrishnan had to travel 31 kilometres for some work. After the journey, he posted on social media, and the three points he made are something every single person in Bengaluru has experienced.

What did Kris Gopalakrishnan's post say?

Kris Gopalakrishnan posted about Bengaluru's terrible traffic problem. "31 km took 2 1/2 hours today," he wrote. He added that the situation in Bengaluru is only getting worse. He blamed three main things: the traffic itself, the poor condition of the roads, and the lack of driving discipline among people.

Traffic debate erupts on social media

As soon as the Infosys co-founder posted this, many people started replying. One user commented, "Last week, it took me 3 hours to travel 28 kilometres." Another person shared, "I spent 1.5 hours just to cover 8 kilometres." Many people expressed their frustration, saying they reach the office completely drained after struggling through traffic on dusty roads, and the same story repeats on the way home. "Half our life's energy is just lost on the road," one user said.

Some people even offered advice. One user suggested, "Give your Infosys employees work-from-home." Others recommended that Infosys should move its employees to its campuses in Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Hubballi. Many felt that to solve Bengaluru's traffic problem, IT companies should be shifted to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. They argued that building IT parks on the city's outskirts and shifting companies there would help both the state's development and reduce Bengaluru's traffic.

31 km took 2 1/2 hours today. It is only becoming worse. Traffic, condition of roads, and poor discipline

— kris gopalakrishnan (@kris_sg) July 4, 2026

Many other business leaders have also expressed their anger about Bengaluru's traffic on social media. They believe a long-term plan is urgently needed. The general opinion is that just building new IT and industrial parks on the city's outskirts is not enough. The real solution, many suggest, is to move companies to smaller cities.

Giethoorn Village: Roadless Wonder In Netherlands Where Boats Are Only Mode Of Transport

Indrakshi Samanta — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:13:52 +0530

If you're looking for a peaceful getaway, look no further than Giethoorn in the Netherlands. This village is a dream come true, with its pretty canals, small boats, lush greenery, and charming wooden bridges.

Telangana Woman Clings to Life for 21 Hours in a Well. Her Rescue Exposes a Robbery Plot | Viral Video

Divya Danu — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:59:16 +0530

A woman survived nearly 21 hours inside an agricultural well in Telangana's Karimnagar district after she was allegedly robbed and pushed into it by a 21-year-old student. Police said the accused targeted her to clear debts from online gambling.

Aamir Khan Marries Gauri Spratt | Enjoy His Top 20 Romantic Songs | Bollywood Music

Asianet Newsable English — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:05:34 +0530

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has begun a new chapter in his life by marrying longtime partner Gauri Spratt in an intimate ceremony at his Mumbai home. The couple, who had known each other for 25 years and dated for over two years, tied the knot in the presence of close family and friends. As fans celebrate Aamir's wedding, it's the perfect time to revisit the unforgettable romantic songs that made him Bollywood's ultimate lover boy. From the innocence of Pehla Nasha to the timeless magic of Chand Sifarish and the emotions of Main Ki Karaan?, Aamir's films have gifted audiences some of Hindi cinema's greatest love songs. Here's a special countdown celebrating both Aamir Khan's new beginning with Gauri Spratt and the romantic musical legacy that continues to win hearts.

Prithvi Shaw's Fiancee Akriti Agarwal's 'Cheating' Allegations Leave Fans Divided Over the Truth

Hrishikesh Damodar — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:03:45 +0530

Out-of-favour India opener and Maharashtra cricketer Prithvi Shaw has once again found himself in the headlines for personal reasons as his fiancée and actress Akriti Agarwal shared a cryptic post on her Instagram that sparked speculation on their relationship.

Prithvi and Akriti got engaged in March this year after dating for a long time. The news of their relationship first surfaced when the two posed together for a picture with Lord Ganesha during the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in August 2025, which they both shared on their respective social media accounts.

After dating for several years, Prithvi and Akriti got engaged, taking their first major step toward a lifetime together. However, things appear to have taken a turn as the couple now finds themselves at the center of intense breakup speculation.

Also Read: 'He's a Dynamic Personality': Murali Vijay's 'Little Weird' Tribute to Dinesh Karthik Goes Viral (WATCH)

What did Akriti Write on Instagram Story?

After four years of engagement, Prithvi Shaw's fiancée, Akriti Agarwal, sparked a social media storm with a cryptic post on her Instagram story, which spread like wildfire.

Akriti alleged that she had been ‘cheated on so many times’ and confirmed that "every rumour is true" regarding the speculation surrounding their relationship. However, the Marathi actress didn't mention Prithvi's name in her Instagram story.

"I was cheated on so many times, and yet I didn't say a word. I still can't believe this is the situation, even after taking one more step forward in life (engagement). All the gossip coming out is true. Everything you see about him on social media is 100% true.” Akriti Agarwal wrote on Instagram.

After Akriti Agarwal's cryptic post on her Instagram story gained massive traction on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), she deleted the story, sparking further speculation and confusion among fans.

Despite ‘cheating’ allegations by Akriti, neither she nor Prithvi Shaw unfollowed each other on Instagram, leaving many fans perplexed and searching for clarity amidst the conflicting reports swirling across social media platforms.

Engagement or Publicity Stunt? Fans Divided on the Truth

The cryptic post by Akriti Agarwal on her Instagram story, alleging she was cheated by an unnamed individual, has left fans and followers deeply divided on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter).

Taking to their X handles, fans and followers shared mixed reactions, with some believing that Akriti Agarwal's cryptic post lent credibility to the rumours surrounding Prithvi Shaw, while others dismissed the screenshots as fake and urged people not to jump to conclusions.

Several users pointed out that the couple still follows each other on Instagram and that their engagement posts remain visible, while another section expressed hope that Shaw overcomes his off-field distractions and revives his cricket career.

cheating accusations always hit social media before the full story does. people love picking sides way too fast.

— Stacey ❤️ (@galpalstacey) July 5, 2026

The news of Prithvi Shaw Cheating Ber girlfriend kriti agarwal is Completely FAKE. She hasn't put any story whose SS were spreading from morning. Those all SS were Fake. And Both are still following each Other. Don't believe on fake news pic.twitter.com/DDtfZhIdGC

— Unique man (@Uniss309) July 5, 2026

One wonders if Prithvi Shaw has problems or problems have him.I hope he sorts his life and comes back to give cricket his best shot.

— Rupesh Kumar (@RupeshK1192) July 5, 2026

I thought this tweet was fake but it true.She even claimed that "every rumour is true about him." pic.twitter.com/PH9jYSMp8c

— KANYE ⚡️ (@Kanye_Afreet) July 5, 2026

i cant see that story on her profile...and why would she still keep her engagement posts on insta if this is true

— Aman (@Aman56906860) July 5, 2026

This is fake news spreading about Prithvi Shaw.

— Hoor Baloch (@hoor_baloch77) July 5, 2026

Fake nothing like this is found on her story nor she has deleted posts with him stop engagement farming

— Arya Chavan (@AryaCha55357828) July 5, 2026

From 'perfect innings' to out for a duck in just 3 months

— BoB Reddy (@BOBReddE14) July 5, 2026

if people put this much effort into communication instead of social media maybe half these stories wouldn't exist.

— Mila (@milabbyxoo) July 5, 2026

Ravi Shastri once quoted for Prithvi Shaw, 'There's a bit of Sachin, a bit of Viru, and when he walks, there's a bit of Lara as well.'One more talent lost due to indiscipline

— Spare Wolf (@Sats_post) July 5, 2026

Prithvi Shaw's career is currently going through a rough patch. Once hailed as the next big thing in Indian cricket after leading the team to an Under-19 World Cup victory, followed up with a maiden Test century on his International debut against West Indies in 2018, his journey has been rocky. Poor form, fitness, and disciplinary issues have been a major setback for him. He was part of the Delhi Capitals squad in the IPL 2026 but didn't get to play in a single match.

Currently, Prithvi is preparing for the upcoming domestic season, which will begin in August this year. After moving from Mumbai to the Maharashtra domestic side ahead of the 2025–26 season, a decision was made to "resurrect his career' after being dropped from the Mumbai red-ball squad. Shaw is aiming to maintain consistency in order to return to the national side.

Also Read: Hilarious! A Young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Fan Goes Viral For His Raw Appreciation (WATCH)

Who Is Rachit Singh? Meet the Man Linked to Huma Qureshi Amid Wedding Reports

Richa Barua — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:03:04 +0530

Bollywood actress Huma Qureshi is currently making headlines for her new film, 'Baby Do Die Do'. But it's not just her work that has everyone talking; her personal life is also in the spotlight. Fans have been eagerly waiting for her to get married, and now, media reports are buzzing with news that she might tie the knot this year. However, there's been no official confirmation yet.

According to reports, Huma Qureshi is likely to marry her long-time boyfriend, Rachit Singh. It's being said that the actress could become a bride in October or November 2026. The two have been dating for a long time and are now reportedly ready to take their relationship to the next level. Some reports even claim that the couple got engaged in a private ceremony in the US back in September 2025.

If everything goes as planned, Huma could be a bride by the end of this year. The man who has won Huma's heart, Rachit Singh, is an acting coach and trainer. He has even trained Bollywood star Ranveer Singh and also works as a model. Huma has always kept her personal life away from the limelight.

Huma Qureshi's Diverse Roles

In her career, Huma has acted in several hit films and web series, including 'Gangs of Wasseypur', 'Badlapur', 'Jolly LLB 2', 'Monica, O My Darling', 'Tarla', and 'Maharani'. She is now set to entertain audiences with her new film 'Baby Do Die Do', which was released on July 3. In this movie, Huma is seen in a completely different role. She is also a part of Yash's upcoming film, 'Toxic'.

Irfan Pathan shares inside video of Aamir Khan-Gauri's wedding dance

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:01:07 +0530

Newlyweds Aamir Khan and Gauri Spratt gave fans a glimpse into their intimate wedding celebrations on Sunday as former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan shared a heartfelt inside video from the couple's registered marriage ceremony on social media.

Irfan Pathan Shares Inside Video

Taking to his Instagram platform, Pathan posted a video capturing some special moments from the private ceremony at the actor's Bandra residence in Mumbai. The clip showed Aamir and Gauri completing the registration formalities before sharing a dance with family and friends gathered around them. Aamir was seen hugging and kissing Gauri during the dance.

Congratulating the couple, Pathan wrote, "Dear Amir Bhai & Gauri, Heartiest congratulations on your wedding! Wishing you both a lifetime of love, happiness, laughter, and togetherness. May Allah bless your beautiful journey with endless joy and countless blessings. So happy for you both, congratulations once again! " View this post on Instagram A post shared by Irfan Pathan (@irfanpathan_official)

Elegant Wedding Attire

For the ceremony, Aamir wore a simple white traditional outfit paired with a bronze brooch, while Gauri chose an elegant beige ensemble with ornate detailing and styled her hair in a neatly braided look.

Official Ceremony and Pictures

Aamir Khan and Gauri Spratt solemnised their wedding under the Special Marriage Act today. Hours after the intimate ceremony, the first official pictures of the newlyweds were shared by Aamir Khan's PR team, Spice, on its Instagram handle. The images showed Aamir, 61, and Gauri, 47, signing the marriage documents and completing the registration formalities in the presence of close family members and friends.

Intimate Ceremony with Star Guests

The private ceremony was attended by close relatives and friends, including family members who had travelled from overseas for the occasion. Aamir's children, Junaid Khan, Ira Khan and Azad Rao Khan were present for the wedding, along with Gauri Spratt's son, making it a close-knit family celebration.

Ahead of the ceremony, Ira Khan and Junaid Khan were also photographed arriving at Aamir's Pali Hill residence. Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, who directed Aamir in 'Lagaan,' was also among the guests. Actors Elli AvrRam and Vir Das, former cricketer Irfan Pathan and politician Raj Thackeray were also spotted arriving for the celebrations.

The actor's Mumbai residence had been transformed for the occasion with decorative lights and festive decor. Preparations had been underway through the weekend, with workers seen setting up seating arrangements and making final touches despite intermittent rain in the city.

A New Chapter for Aamir Khan

The wedding marks a new chapter in Aamir's personal life. The actor was first married to Reena Dutta in 1986, with whom he has two children, Junaid Khan and Ira Khan. The couple parted ways in 2002.

He later married filmmaker Kiran Rao in 2005. After 16 years of marriage, the two announced their separation in 2021. They continue to co-parent their son, Azad Rao Khan. Aamir made his relationship with Gauri Spratt public during his 60th birthday celebrations in March last year, introducing her to the media. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Congress's KC Venugopal meets Goa farmers, reaffirms party support

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:59 +0530

Congress general secretary KC Venugopal on Sunday made an unscheduled stop at the Chicalim Farmers Club, where he interacted with local farmers along with South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes.

Accompanying him during the visit were Goa Congress incharge Manickrao Thakare, AICC co-incharge Anjali Nimbalkar, Goa Congress president Girish Chodankar, state Leader of Opposition (LoP) Yuri Alemao, the party's state unit working president Carlos Alvares Ferreira and other senior Congress leaders.

Engagement with Farming Community

During the interaction, Venugopal listened to farmers' concerns and discussed issues related to agriculture, farming, and rural development in Goa. He appreciated the dedication of the farming community and reaffirmed the Congress party's commitment to protecting farmers' interests and strengthening the agricultural sector.

Venugopal also enjoyed a traditional Goan lunch with the farmers and expressed his gratitude to the members of the Chicalim Farmers Club and Capt. Viriato Fernandes for their warm hospitality. He praised the Club's efforts in promoting agriculture and preserving Goa's rich farming heritage.

Party Strategy for 2027 Polls

On July 4, Venugopal arrived in Goa to lead crucial strategy sessions with senior Congress leaders. The two-day visit is primarily focused on internal organisational reviews and fine-tuning the party's roadmap for the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections.

Addressing the media following the initial round of discussions, Goa Congress president Girish Chodankar dismissed speculation regarding the urgency of the visit, stating that it was a long-planned exercise. "His visit was pre-scheduled, fixed eight days ago. The agenda is strictly organisational review and election preparedness," Chodankar clarified, adding, "He has begun consulting with everyone to ensure we are aligned. Our primary target is to win by bringing everyone together and presenting a united front."

Chodankar further detailed that the current visit involves high-level Political Affairs Committee (PAC) meetings, which will be followed by an extended meeting of the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) to disseminate strategic directives to the grassroots level. The visit comes at a time when the Goa Congress is navigating internal challenges, including reports of growing dissent and the emergence of breakaway political factions. Political analysts suggest that Venugopal's intervention is a calculated move to reconcile party factions and solidify the Congress vote base before the 2027 polls.

Organisational Restructuring

As the Congress party gears up for the upcoming electoral battle, this visit marks a significant step in re-energising the cadre. With the appointment of Girish Chodankar as the new GPCC president in May, the party is looking to restructure its various wings, including district, block, youth, and mahila committees, to create a more robust and responsive organisation. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Heavy rain, strong winds disrupt flights in Delhi, Mumbai airports

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:52 +0530

Heavy rains, strong gusty winds and reduced visibility wreaked havoc on air traffic at India's major metropolitan airports on Sunday, leading to flight diversions, cancellations, and temporary runway suspensions.

Impact on Mumbai Airport

According to Mumbai airport authorities, adverse weather conditions struck at approximately 10:17 hrs, with strong gusty winds reaching up to 42 knots and heavy rain reducing visibility. As a safety precaution, runway operations were temporarily suspended to protect passengers, aircraft, and ground personnel. Normal operations resumed at 11:17 hrs after a 60-minute halt once weather conditions improved. Also, Mumbai Airport sources confirmed that 4 IndiGo flights were cancelled, 13 aircraft of various air operators were diverted, though all diverted aircraft have since landed back safely in Mumbai.

Delhi Airport Faces Diversions

Delhi airport sources reported that a total of 15 flights, 10 domestic and 5 international, were diverted to Jaipur and Lucknow due to the bad weather, heavy rains and strong winds.

Airlines Issue Advisories

Low-cost carrier Akasa Air issued a statement acknowledging the impact that, due to severe weather conditions in Delhi, certain flights across our network have been impacted. "We realise that this may inconvenience your travel plans and seek your patience and understanding. While this situation is completely beyond our control, please rest assured that our teams are always ready to assist you"

IndiGo released a travel advisory & conveyed to passengers that Bad weather over Delhi and Mumbai has impacted flight schedules. "We are closely monitoring the weather and doing our best to get you where you need to be, safely and smoothly."

Air India also cautioned passengers, stating that Adverse weather conditions may impact flight operations to and from Mumbai and Delhi.

Passenger Advisory

The disruptions come amid the monsoon season when such weather events are common but can significantly affect dense air traffic corridors like the Delhi-Mumbai route. Airport and airline teams are working to minimise passenger inconvenience through rebookings and ground support. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight status and updates before heading to the airport. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Karnataka: VAO's death sparks row; Congress slams BJP over SIR drive

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:45 +0530

Congress leader FH Jakkappanavar on Sunday criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) drive in Karnataka, alleging that the exercise was "not required." Speaking to ANI, Jakkappanavar expressed grief over the death of Village Administrative Officer (VAO) Bhuvana, who died in a road accident while travelling for SIR-related work, and urged the Karnataka government to provide compensation to her family. "RSS, BJP imposed SIR in Karnataka. It was not required at all. Bhuvana, a development officer, met with an accident while going on duty, and she died. I request all the BLOs; it is a duty imposed by the Central Government Election Commission of India. We are with the family of Bhuvan, and the government should provide compensation to the family," Jakkappanavar told ANI.

Protests Erupt Over VAO's Death

Meanwhile, village accountants staged a protest outside the Tumakuru Deputy Commissioner's office, condemning Bhuvana's death and demanding the immediate transfer of District Collector Shubha Kalyan. The protest continued late into Saturday night after news of the death spread. Revenue Department employees raised slogans against the District Collector, alleging administrative pressure on officials engaged in the SIR exercise.

Union Alleges 'Administrative Pressure'

Karnataka State Village Administrative Officers Association General Secretary Shivanand Nayak claimed that Bhuvana was travelling from Bengaluru to Tumakuru early in the morning under pressure to complete SIR-related work when she met with the accident. "We have been protesting here since yesterday. VAO Bhuvana, who was working in Tumakuru district, was coming from Bengaluru at 6 am for SIR work under pressure from the DC, Tehsildar and AC. While travelling on her two-wheeler at such an early hour to get to work, she was hit by an unknown vehicle. She passed away in the hospital," Nayak told ANI.

Questioning the circumstances under which officials were allegedly directed to report for duty at 6 am, Nayak demanded accountability and the suspension of the officials responsible. "We need to know who issued the order to begin SIR work as early as 6 am. Was it the Central Election Commission, the State Election Commission, the District Election Officer (DC), or the local Tehsildar of Tumakuru? These officers must take responsibility for Bhuvana's death. We are demanding their suspension," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PM Modi's milestone Indonesia visit to elevate strategic partnership

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:34 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's three-day "milestone" State Visit to Indonesia will lift the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to a "higher level," and deepen cooperation in trade, defence, critical minerals, clean energy, and the digital economy, said the Charge d'Affaires of the country here.

PM Modi will be on a state visit to Indonesia from July 6 to 8. In an interview with ANI ahead of the Prime Minister's visit, Charge d'Affaires of Indonesia Yudho Sasongko said Jakarta sees it as a milestone that builds on Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's visit to India as the Chief Guest at the 76th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi last year.

"We see this State Visit as a milestone that lifts our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to a higher level, building directly on President Prabowo's visit to India as Chief Guest for the 76th Republic Day," Sasongko said.

He said the tentative agenda covers the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation, including trade and investment, critical minerals and resilient supply chains, defence and maritime cooperation, health and pharmaceuticals, the digital economy, and education.

"A shared highlight will be the inauguration of India-supported restoration works at the Prambanan Temple Compounds in Yogyakarta, which speaks to the civilisational depth of our friendship. Above all, we hope the visit delivers durable, business-oriented outcomes for both peoples," he added.

Deep Civilisational Ties

Sasongko said the relationship between India and Indonesia is rooted in centuries-old civilisational ties, which continue to shape the modern partnership.

"Cultural diplomacy is at the very heart of our relationship -- our ties are rooted in centuries of civilisational exchange. Prime Minister Modi's visit to Prambanan, and India's support for its restoration, beautifully symbolise that shared heritage," he said.

Expanding Trade and Investment

On trade, Sasongko said both countries have significant untapped potential, particularly in critical minerals, electric vehicle supply chains, and downstream industries.

"Trade is a key pillar of our relationship, and there is clear room to grow. Critical minerals and rare earths remain a priority, particularly to support resilient and diversified supply chains, and Indonesia, as a major nickel producer, sees strong potential in adding value downstream, including in the electric-vehicle battery ecosystem," he said.

He added that cooperation could also expand in steel, downstream metal industries, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, the digital economy, and food processing.

"Closely linked is cooperation in steel and downstream metal industries, where Indonesia's resource base and India's manufacturing capabilities can be mutually beneficial. Beyond that, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, the digital economy, and food processing are also promising. Our aim is for these mechanisms to deliver concrete, balanced, and business-oriented results," Sasongko said.

Clean Energy and Green Transition

On energy cooperation, the Indonesian diplomat said both countries are well positioned to work together on clean energy and the green transition.

"Clean energy and the green transition are increasingly important to both our economies, and much of this connects naturally to our cooperation on critical minerals, which are essential inputs for clean-energy technologies and manufacturing," he said.

"Indonesia is open to broadening cooperation with India in renewable energy and the electric-vehicle battery ecosystem in ways that support both energy security and sustainable development. As both countries continue to industrialise and diversify, we see this as a space with real long-term potential," Sasongko added.

Cultural Commemoration

Sasongko also announced that both countries would commemorate 2026-2027 as the "Tagore-Dewantara Year", marking the centenary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's 1927 visit to Indonesia.

"We are also proud to commemorate 2026-2027 as the 'Tagore-Dewantara Year,' marking the centenary of Tagore's 1927 visit, through a year-long programme of cultural and educational initiatives. These civilisational links give our modern partnership a depth and warmth that few relationships enjoy," he added.

(ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Goa: Congress suspends Minority Dept head Wasim Khan, dissolves panel

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:30 +0530

The Congress Minority Department on Sunday suspended Wasim Khan from the post of President of the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) Minority Department with immediate effect, citing party indiscipline and anti-party activities. In a statement shared on X, the party said the action takes immediate effect.

"Taking into account party indiscipline and anti-party activities, Shri Wasim Khan, President, Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) Minority Department, is hereby suspended from his position as President with immediate effect, " the Congress Minority Department said.

The party also dissolved the existing Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) Minority Department committee with immediate effect until further orders. As this happened, the Congress appointed Nazir A Khan as the Convener of the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) Minority Department with immediate effect.

Leadership Intervention Ahead of 2027 Polls

Earlier on July 4, as political activity intensifies across the state, AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal arrived in Goa to lead crucial strategy sessions with senior Congress leaders. The two-day visit is primarily focused on internal organisational reviews and fine-tuning the party's roadmap for the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections.

The visit comes at a time when the Goa Congress is navigating internal challenges, including reports of growing dissent and the emergence of breakaway political factions. Political analysts suggest that Venugopal's intervention is a calculated move to reconcile party factions and solidify the Congress vote base before the 2027 polls. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

INS Sudarshini represents India at US Naval Review in New York

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:26 +0530

Indian Naval Sail Training Ship (INS) Sudarshini sailed into New York Harbour on July 4 to represent India at the United States International Naval Review 250 and the Sail 4th 250 celebrations, with the iconic three-masted barque proudly flying the Indian Tricolour during the Parade of Sail along the Hudson River.

Lokayan 2026 Expedition

According to an official release, the visit forms part of INS Sudarshini's 10-month transoceanic expedition, Lokayan 2026, which reflects the Indian Navy's commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation, fostering international goodwill and deepening engagement with partner navies.

The release stated that after successfully participating in the SAIL 250 events at Norfolk and Baltimore in the US, INS Sudarshini berthed at Brooklyn for the Sail 4th 250 celebrations commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence.

Symbol of Maritime Partnership

Describing the significance of the visit, the release said that against the backdrop of the New York skyline, INS Sudarshini stands as a symbol of India's rich maritime heritage and centuries-old seafaring traditions. It added that the port call represents not only a trans-Atlantic voyage but also the enduring friendship, mutual respect and expanding maritime partnership between India and the United States.

"Set against the iconic New York skyline, INS Sudarshini stands as a proud symbol of India's maritime legacy. The port call represents more than a journey across the Atlantic. It reflects the enduring friendship, mutual respect, and expanding maritime partnership between India and the United States," the release read.

The Indian Navy's spokesperson, in a post on X, also highlighted the ship's participation in the celebrations. "Indian Navy's Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini sailed into New York Harbour, proudly flying the Indian Tricolour during the Parade of Sail, representing India at the Sail 250 and US International Naval Review. Having successfully completed engagements at Norfolk and Baltimore, the presence of India's iconic three-masted barque in the USA, on 4th of July, showcases growing India-US naval partnership, maritime goodwill and friendship," the spokesperson said.

The release added that INS Sudarshini continues to strengthen maritime ties and promote friendship and cooperation across the world's oceans while carrying forward India's seafaring traditions as part of the Lokayan 2026 expedition. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Gurnoor Brar's 10-wicket haul seals 1-0 series win for India A

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:24 +0530

Gurnoor Brar delivered a match-defining performance as he ripped through Sri Lanka A, setting up a straightforward 33-run chase for the India A cricket team to complete a 1-0 series win in the unofficial Test series in Galle on Sunday.

Brar claimed six wickets in the second innings after taking four in the first, finishing with exceptional match figures of 10 for 145, comfortably the best of his early first-class career. Sri Lanka A, resuming their second innings 177 runs behind, were bowled out for 209, leaving India A to wrap up the victory without any trouble.

India A's Dominant First Innings

India A resumed the day at 541 for 8 in their first innings, powered by a commanding 168 from B Sai Sudharsan and valuable half-centuries from Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, and Saransh Jain, who was batting alongside Yash Thakur. Their innings ended shortly after when Thakur was dismissed as the fifth wicket of left-arm spinner Keshara Nuwantha, bringing a close to a dominant effort. Ruturaj Gaikwad did not return to bat after retiring hurt on the third day, as India A's commanding total set the tone for the rest of the match.

Brar Rips Through Sri Lanka A

Then Brar took over, although he had support from Aaqib Nabi and Yash Thakur, who picked up a wicket each as Sri Lanka A slipped to 49 for 4 by the start of the 11th over. Captain Sahan Arachchige, the first-innings centurion, was among the early dismissals as the innings unravelled.

Bandara's Counterattack

Sri Lanka A's resistance, however, came almost entirely through Ashen Bandara, who produced a fluent counterattack with 87 off 86 balls, striking 11 fours and two sixes. He added 70 runs for the fifth wicket with Anjala Bandara, who contributed a steady 17, briefly stabilising the innings before India A regained control.

The resistance ended when Gurnoor Brar returned to the attack, removing Anjala Bandara and then Ashen Bandara to leave Sri Lanka A struggling at 141 for 6, still well behind in the contest.

Lower-order contributions from Keshara Nuwantha (26), Dilum Sudeera (21), and Asanka Manoj (12 not out) helped Sri Lanka A eventually wipe out the first-innings deficit and take a narrow lead, but their advantage was short-lived. Brar completed his five-wicket haul by dismissing Sudeera before wrapping up the innings with the wicket of Dulaj Samuditha, sealing a six-wicket effort in the second innings and a 10-wicket match haul. Saransh Jain also chipped in with two wickets as India A stayed firmly in control.

Easy Chase Seals Series Win

Sai Sudharsan and Aman Mokhade knocked off the required runs in just 6.2 overs to complete the win, India A adding to their win in the 50-overs tri-series, with Afghanistan A the third team, earlier on the tour.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Millie Bobby Brown felt 'broken' after failing Wolverine audition

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:23 +0530

Recalling a 'Broken' Audition

Actor Millie Bobby Brown has opened up about one of the auditions she still remembers from her childhood, revealing that she felt "broken" after failing to land a role opposite Hugh Jackman in one of the Wolverine films, according to People. Brown made the revelation while appearing alongside her Enola Holmes 3 co-star Louis Partridge where the actors attempted to determine whether each other's stories were true or false.

Asked to share her best audition story, Brown recalled screen-testing with Hugh Jackman when she was around 11 or 12 years old for what she described as one of "the Wolverine movies." Reflecting on the experience, Brown admitted she was convinced she had not secured the role, according to People. "I felt like I probably didn't get it because I think there was someone else that was better," she said, adding that she felt "broken" after the audition.

Partridge guessed the story was true, noting that Brown could have been auditioning for the role of X-23 in the 2017 film Logan, a part that eventually went to Dafne Keen, who was 11 at the time, according to People. Brown confirmed the story was true, revealing that she had deliberately referred to it as one of the "Wolverine movies" in an attempt to mislead her co-star during the game.

From Rejection to Global Stardom

Although she missed out on the role, Brown went on to achieve global recognition as Eleven in Netflix's hit sci-fi series Stranger Things, portraying the character across five seasons. The actor wrapped filming on the show's final season in December 2024 and marked the occasion with an emotional post on Instagram, sharing photographs from her years on the series along with a video of her farewell speech to the cast and crew.

"Isn't graduation supposed to bring relief? Like you're glad to leave behind the teachers and classmates. Not me. I am nowhere near ready to leave you guys," Brown said in the clip. "I love each and every one of you and I will forever carry the memories and bonds we created together as a family. I love you, thank you," according to People.

Alongside Stranger Things, Brown has headlined several projects, including the Enola Holmes films, Damsel and Godzilla: King of the Monsters.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

ByteTree Warns AI Rally Is A 1999 Rerun, Groups Bitcoin With Inflation-Era Hard Assets

Stocktwits Inc — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:06 +0530

In the second quarter, ByteTree's Whisky portfolio sold its blockchain equities positions and bought Berkshire Hathaway and other value stocks.
Morris noted that it was “a matter of time before the bubble bursts," adding that the semiconductor index gained $10 trillion in market value last year.
Bitcoin's decline is fueled by rising real rates, as shown in 2018 and 2022, when Bitcoin plunged 73.8% and 64.3%, respectively.

ByteTree said its Whisky portfolio sold its blockchain equities investments in the second quarter (Q2), switching to Berkshire Hathaway (BRK-A) and other value names as founder Charlie Morris said the AI-driven semiconductor surge is reminiscent of 1999.

"It is a matter of time before the bubble bursts,” Morris wrote in the firm’s second-quarter investor letter published on Sunday, noting that the semiconductor index added $10 trillion in market cap over the past year to reach $16 trillion, equal to the entire EuroStoxx 600.

The firm’s Money Map concept positions Bitcoin (BTC) alongside gold and value stocks as hard assets that outperform during inflationary periods, whereas shares and bonds perform best when inflation is contained.

Macroeconomic Headwinds

Bitcoin’s slump is being driven by higher real yields, claimed ByteTree, citing a macro environment that corresponded with the cryptocurrency’s two biggest contemporary drawdowns.

Bitcoin’s ByteTrend score is at zero after the price struck a fresh low, the business stated, with “no way to sugarcoat this in the short term.” The price has also fallen below its 200-week moving average, reducing the weekly score to 1, although ByteTree said that circumstance was also the turning point of the 2022 bear market.

Bitcoin’s price rose over 0.1% to $62,730 in the last 24 hours. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around it improved to ‘bullish’ from the ‘neutral’ zone, while chatter dropped to ‘low’ levels from ‘normal’ levels over the past day.

Even with the fall, the research firm claimed Bitcoin had provided a 42% internal rate of return on a trend basis from the high in 2017, considerably above the 27% delivered by the Magnificent Seven tech equities. Now, the price is 1.5 standard deviations below that trend, which might just be a pause after a powerful cycle, the firm noted.

"The current Bitcoin bear is long in the tooth, and the best news I can deliver is that real rates won't rise forever," ByteTree founder Charlie Morris wrote in the note, co-authored with analyst Shehriyar Ali. "Sooner or later, they'll turn. If they don't, it won't just be Bitcoin that feels the pinch."

The pressure appears to be coming from flows rather than fundamentals. ByteTree claimed the network was in good order. On-chain transaction value surpassed $13.5 billion a week, five times 2022 levels, while daily trade volumes of over $35 billion compete with Nvidia (NVDA) and surpass Tesla (TSLA).

Read also: Bitcoin's Entire Return Hinges On Just 10 Days A Year, Says BitMine’s Tom Lee

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

WWE Rumor Roundup | Original SummerSlam Plans LEAKED | CM Punk, Roman and Oba Updates

Asianet Newsable English — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 19:00:01 +0530

Major backstage WWE rumors have revealed the original plans for SummerSlam, including CM Punk's planned title match, Roman Reigns' blockbuster showdown, Rhea Ripley's injury impact and Oba Femi's surprising direction. While plans have changed, several dream matches are still expected to headline WWE's biggest event of the summer.

Crash Test: What Happens to Cars Worth Lakhs After Safety test? We've Got the Answer!

Indrakshi Samanta — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:57:27 +0530

Whenever a new car hits the market, everyone's first question is about its safety rating. To get this rating, cars go through a crash test. But have you ever thought about what happens to these cars, worth lakhs, after the test is over?

Cleanest Village: You Won't Find Any Scrap of Paper Here, But Don't Visit on Sundays!

Indrakshi Samanta — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:49:34 +0530

Ever wanted to see a village that's completely green and spotless, with zero garbage in sight? Well, you just have to visit India's cleanest village, located right here in our country.

Old Trains: What Happens After They Retire? Inside Their Final Journey!

Indrakshi Samanta — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:38:49 +0530

Ever wondered if the trains we travel in also have a retirement age? After serving us for years and taking us to our destinations, what really happens to them once they get old?

NEET row: MDMK chief Vaiko demands Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:31:10 +0530

MDMK chief Vaiko on Sunday demanded that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resign over the alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) examination. Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore, Vaiko briefly said, "I fully support that demand. Dharmendra Pradhan should immediately submit his resignation..."

Vaiko made the remarks after arriving in Coimbatore to attend a programme on the removal of Karuvelam trees scheduled to be held in neighbouring Tiruppur district. He was welcomed by party workers on his arrival.

Opposition to Raise NEET, Inflation in Parliament

Meanwhile, the Opposition will seek a discussion on the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) controversy and rising inflation during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, Congress Lok Sabha MP Imran Masood said.

Masood said NEET and inflation would be among the Opposition's primary concerns during the session, which is scheduled to begin on July 20. "The biggest issue is NEET. The second issue is inflation in the country. These are major issues. We would want the government to discuss them, but we know the government will run away from discussion. The government does not want to hold discussions... The government is weak," Masood told ANI on Saturday.

His remarks came a day after Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced that the Monsoon Session of Parliament will be held from July 20 to August 13.

Re-NEET Results by July 20

Meanwhile, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has said the results of the re-NEET-UG examination, conducted on June 21 following the cancellation of the earlier test over the alleged paper leak, will be declared by July 20, ahead of the commencement of the Monsoon Session. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Mumbai Rains: Two dead in separate incidents amid heavy downpour

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:30:26 +0530

Fatalities Amid Heavy Rains in Mumbai

A 63-year-old man died on Sunday after a tree fell on a shop in Mumbai's Kurla as heavy rains continued to batter the Konkan region. This is yet another death in Mumbai amid heavy rainfall that has raised concerns among citizens. The deceased, identified as Yunus Kundawala (63), was rushed to Fauzia Hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. According to civic authorities, the incident was reported at 12:40 pm near Hindi BMC School at Gomes Gown Building in Kamani, Kurla (West), where a tree collapsed onto a shop. The Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB), police, BEST and ward staff were mobilised to the spot for rescue and clearance operations.

Earlier, a man fell into an open manhole amid heavy rainfall in the Sakinaka area of Andheri East. The authorities identified the deceased victim as Aslam Isak Shaikh, a resident of Yadav Nagar in Sakinaka. Police have registered a case against a contractor and workers engaged in drainage repair work after the 55-year-old man died, officials said on Friday.

According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the incident occurred while repair work on a water drainage grill was being carried out. The victim was a pedestrian who accidentally fell into the drainage through an open manhole while the maintenance work was in progress. The BMC further stated that although his body has been located, efforts are currently underway to recover it.

Widespread Disruption and Damage

Heavy rains lashed Mumbai throughout the day, with high tides witnessed along Marine Drive and the Gateway of India. Visuals from different parts of the city showed rough sea conditions as incessant rainfall continued to affect normal life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Mumbai and the adjoining Raigad district.

Further, in another incident in Mumbai, a tree uprooted by strong winds fell on three parked cars in the Bandra area. No injuries were reported. An eyewitness, who works as a security guard at the premises where the incident occurred, told ANI, "There were four cars here in total. One of them has already left. The tree, which was located inside the premises, fell after strong winds blew. I work as the security guard here. It is a very old tree; it has been here for about 10 years. People park their cars here. One car managed to leave, but the others are trapped. Fortunately, there was no one around or inside the vehicles."

In Pune's Wakdewadi area, a huge tree collapsed on vehicles, causing extensive damage. Local residents rushed to rescue people trapped inside the affected vehicles. Recalling the incident, one of the rescued persons told ANI, "When we stopped here because of the traffic, the tree soon fell. I was with my whole family. Everyone is wounded a bit, but not that much."

According to the weather department, some parts of Mumbai have recorded more than 250-300 mm of rainfall over the last 23 hours, and moderate to intense spells of rain are expected to continue.

Kolhapur on Alert as Rains Continue

Elsewhere in Maharashtra, Kolhapur district recorded an average rainfall of 52.8 mm during the last 24 hours, although authorities said there was no immediate flood threat as river levels remained below warning marks and transport services continued to function normally. According to the district administration's daily situation report, Gaganbawda recorded the highest rainfall at 143.1 mm, followed by Bhudargad (85.9 mm), Radhanagari (81 mm), Ajra (67.6 mm), Chandgad (65.3 mm), Kagal (60.2 mm), Panhala (58.3 mm), Shahuwadi (46.9 mm), Gadhinglaj (43.4 mm), Karveer (40.1 mm), Hatkanangale (20.9 mm) and Shirol (16.8 mm).

The Panchganga River was flowing at 28 feet 3 inches at Rajaram Bandhara, 36 feet at Shirol Bandhara and 31 feet at Nrusinhwadi. Officials said water levels at all three locations remained below the warning mark, indicating there was no immediate threat of flooding in riverside areas. According to the report, 31 of Kolhapur's 299 dams are submerged. The Radhanagari Dam is at 32 per cent storage capacity with all its automatic gates closed. Water storage stands at 38 per cent in Tulshi Dam, 24 per cent in Warna Dam and 8 per cent in Dudhganga Dam. Authorities said 100 cusecs of water is currently being released from both the Warna and Dudhganga dams. No families have been relocated as there has been no need for evacuation. The district administration, Disaster Management Authority, Revenue Department, police and other concerned agencies remain on alert and are continuously monitoring the situation while implementing necessary safety measures.

Other Incidents Across MMR

Earlier, a balcony of a dilapidated building in Belapur village in Navi Mumbai collapsed amid continuous rainfall. The building was reported to be in a severely dilapidated condition.

Several parts of Thane city also witnessed waterlogging. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

FIFA WC: Ronaldo's Portugal set for clash of generations vs Spain

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:30:24 +0530

Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo reached Dallas with the national side ahead of their FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash against Spain.

Spain versus Portugal, scheduled for July 7, 12:30 AM, is set to be a clash of generations, with the 41-year-old Portugal icon, club football giant Cristiano Ronaldo, set to encounter the next generation of Spanish football, spearheaded by 18-year-old Lamine Yamal. The 2010 champions, Spain, who have not conceded in any of their FIFA WC 2026 games so far, will face a tough test against Cristiano's men, who are still searching for that perfect all-round game, especially against big sides. The match against Spain takes place on July 7, 12:30 AM IST. Posting an Instagram story, Cristiano greeted fans in Dallas with a caption, "Hello Dallas"

Ronaldo's Record-Breaking Run

Against Croatia in the round of 32, Ronaldo became the first player in history to feature in a FIFA World Cup knockout match at the age of 41 or older. The match also marked a unique milestone, as it was the first in World Cup history to feature two outfield players aged 40 or above, with Ronaldo facing former Real Madrid teammate Luka Modric.

The appearance also saw Ronaldo extend another record, as he became the oldest goalscorer in World Cup knockout history at 41 years and 147 days, further underlining his longevity and enduring impact at the highest level. This was also his first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout goal, removing a massive stain from his illustrious career.

Portugal's Path to the Knockouts

Portugal started off with a dull 1-1 draw against DR Congo in the group stage, with Cristiano failing to make an impact and inviting a lot of criticism with his poor performance.

Ronaldo's brace saw him become Portugal's all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history, taking his tally to 10 goals, surpassing Eusebio's record of nine. Eusebio, a Portuguese legend and 1965 Ballon d'Or winner, famously guided the team to third place at the 1966 World Cup. Behind Ronaldo and Eusebio, Pauleta is third on Portugal's World Cup scoring list with four goals.

Ronaldo also became the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cup tournaments, ending his 10-match goalless streak across major competitions (the FIFA World Cup and the Euro Championship).

After this, they made it to round of 32 with a goalless draw against Colombia. Against Croatia, they managed to survive the lead taken by the 2018 runners-up, with Cristiano and Goncalos Ramos firing goals to lead them to 2-1 win.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Alpha Controversy: Alia Bhatt, Sharvari Wagh's Bikini Scene Sparks Online Debate

Richa Barua — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:11:18 +0530

Soon after 'Alpha' was released, a bikini scene featuring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh went viral on social media. Some people are criticising the scene, calling it unnecessary for a spy movie, while others are defending the filmmakers. The movie, starring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh, came out on July 3 and has been getting a mixed response from the audience.

Amidst this, certain scenes from the film have gone viral, sparking a whole new debate. In the clip doing the rounds, both actresses are seen in swimwear, which has caused a major stir online. Some argue that a spy thriller has no place for such glamorous scenes. Others feel it's just a part of modern filmmaking. So far, the film's team has not released any official statement on the matter.

So, what's all the fuss about?

A clip showing Alia Bhatt and Sharvari walking out of the sea in swimwear is what's gone viral. Netizens are having a field day with it, and reactions are pouring in. However, it's important to note that these viral videos and clips might not be from the film's official promotions. We could not independently verify the authenticity of this content.

What is social media saying about the 'Alpha' scene?

Many users have shared their opinions about the film. For example, one user wrote, "For all the bikini lovers on the internet, YRF's 'Alpha' has a big attraction!" Another commented, "YRF has done what it always does. It's made it seem like a bikini scene is compulsory in a spy film."

Another user posted, "Is this a spy thriller or a swimsuit calendar? A good script doesn't need forced bikini shots for publicity. Female spies should be tough and dangerous, but YRF is still stuck on glamour. The focus should have been on the action." One post said, "The YRF Spy Universe's bikini tradition continues with 'Alpha'."

Someone else criticised the filmmaking, saying, "It seems the focus was only on close-up shots of the bikini. The storytelling itself is weak." While many users slammed these scenes, some came out in support of the film. They argued that glamorous and stylish scenes are a standard part of big-budget, modern spy movies. According to them, it's unfair to judge an entire film based on just one scene.

About the movie 'Alpha'

'Alpha' is the first female-led film in Yash Raj Films' Spy Universe. It's directed by Shiv Rawail and also stars Bobby Deol and Anil Kapoor in key roles. The film's budget is reportedly between ₹100 and ₹125 crore. However, it has received terrible reviews from critics, with many calling it the weakest film in the YRF Spy Universe so far.

Canada Vs Morocco Highlights: Atlas Lions Crush Canada 0-3 | FIFA World Cup 2026 | Football

Asianet Newsable English — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:02:57 +0530

Morocco produced a clinical display to defeat Canada 3-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. Azzedine Ounahi scored twice before Soufiane Rahimi sealed the victory in stoppage time. The Atlas Lions booked a blockbuster quarterfinal clash with France, while Canada's memorable home World Cup campaign came to an end. In this video 0:00 Canada Start Bright But Morocco Hold Firm 1:16 Ounahi's Brilliant Brace Turns The Match 2:42 Rahimi Seals 3-0 Win & Morocco Reach Quarterfinals

Jesse Eisenberg on staying in US despite Polish citizenship: It's silly

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:00:55 +0530

Actor-director Jesse Eisenberg said he has no plans to leave the United States despite recently becoming a Polish citizen, calling it "silly" to move away because of political differences under President Donald Trump's administration, according to Variety.

Speaking at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival, where he received the festival's President's Award, Eisenberg said he instead feels a responsibility to remain in New York and support people facing difficult circumstances. "I am a very lucky American," Eisenberg said. "I have a nice life. My wife is a teacher, and she teaches a lot of students who are not as lucky as we are. I think we feel, if anything, a responsibility to stay in New York and help those who are struggling through a tougher period in American history. No, I'm not going to leave because I don't like the politics of America. That seems a little silly, because my life is very good," according to Variety.

Jesse Eisenberg on 'The Debut' and A24's AI partnership

The actor is gearing up for the release of his next directorial venture, 'The Debut', a musical comedy starring Julianne Moore and Paul Giamatti. The film is scheduled to release in the US on December 3 through A24. His comments come days after A24 announced an AI research partnership with Google's DeepMind division to develop AI-powered filmmaking technologies, a move that drew criticism from many independent film fans online, according to Variety.

"The movie takes place in the 1990s, with two stars who have been working forever and who are just brilliant in the movie. We shot on film, which is very rare, so the movie felt like a movie from the 90s, which was my era growing up and starting to watch independent movies. Our movie could not have been more analog." Eisenberg said A24 supported every creative request he made, from casting Moore and Giamatti to shooting on film and setting the story in the 1990s.

"Our movie is the opposite of AI," he said. "It really doesn't affect our movie at all. A24 is a really smart studio. All I could say is that my interactions with them over the last five years have been the most artist-friendly. I've never worked with a studio so closely, where every decision they make is about what would make the thing better. I'm sure they're worried about economics, but never to me. It feels like winning the lottery to work at a company like that, where the only thing they seem to care about, and the only thing they ask from you, is to make the best possible version of your movie," according to Variety.

Reflecting on his growth as a filmmaker

Reflecting on his growth as a filmmaker, Eisenberg said he felt much more confident directing The Debut after the success of A Real Pain, which followed the mixed response to his directorial debut, When You Finished Saving the World. "I didn't feel like there was any opposition," he said. "With my second movie, 'A Real Pain,' I did feel a little bit like I had to prove myself even further. I noticed this thing that when actors are making their first films, there's this feeling that this person might be a genius. If that movie doesn't work, you're starting way below genius because now you're an actor who can't direct. When I was doing 'A Real Pain,' I was like: Now I'm an actor who lost money for a studio. That was worse than starting out. The last movie I did feel a little more comfortable."

He also highlighted the advantage of writing his own films. "Because I write scripts, it allows me to be the first person to get the job as a director. I feel if I write a good enough script, I can always direct it. For directors who don't write, it's tougher. If their movie doesn't work, they're not going to be the screenwriter's first choice."

Upcoming charitable work in Ukraine

Beyond filmmaking, Eisenberg revealed that he and his family are preparing to travel to Ukraine for charitable work through The Campfire Project. "My wife teaches in New York City public schools. She teaches art and she's really wonderful with kids. We found a program called The Campfire Project through Jessica Hecht, a wonderful American actress, and she offered us the opportunity to go work with kids in a camp. My wife is going to teach, my kid is going to play with the kids, and I'm going to be the videographer on my phone."

"Our lives are so lucky," he added. "If we ever find an opportunity to help, of course we take it. We're not saving any lives, but it's nice to be able to go and help."

On reprising role as Mark Zuckerberg

During a separate in-conversation session at the festival, Eisenberg also addressed reports that he would not return as Mark Zuckerberg in Aaron Sorkin's upcoming sequel to The Social Network, titled The Social Reckoning. "At the time, the movie seemed like such a strange thing to me because no one really knew who he was," Eisenberg said. "He was interviewed on '60 Minutes,' which is our big news show, but otherwise he wasn't in the public a lot. I thought of it like an interesting character. And then he became famous and now I don't want to do the movie. I don't want to be associated with him anymore because I don't really like the comparison," according to Variety.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

UP STF busts illegal tea factory in Barabanki, seizes 763 kg leaves

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:00:52 +0530

The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) on Saturday busted an illegal factory manufacturing adulterated tea leaves in the Baddupur area of Barabanki district and arrested one person in connection with the racket, officials said.

Major Seizure from Illegal Factory

During the raid at the factory located in Shahpur village, the STF team recovered over 763.75 kg of adulterated tea leaves laced with harmful chemicals along with 3.9 kg of colouring agents. The officials also seized a packing machine and nearly 149.5 kg of empty plastic wrappers of various brands.

According to the STF, the market value of the seized adulterated tea is estimated to be approximately Rs 1.50 lakh. The arrested accused has been identified as Mohammad Shakeel, a resident of Shahpur village.

Gang's Modus Operandi Revealed

During interrogation, the accused revealed that they operated as an organised gang that procured cheap and waste tea leaves from Assam. These leaves were then mixed with various chemicals to provide a strong colour and flavour before being packed under fake brand names like 'Fast-Tea' and 'Garden Fresh'.

The adulterated product was supplied to several districts, including Lucknow, Barabanki, Sitapur, Shahjahanpur, and Bahraich, to earn significant profits.

Police Action and Investigation

The operation was carried out by a team led by Sub-Inspector Rajesh Singh under the supervision of Additional Superintendent of Police Avanishwar Chandra Srivastava following a tip-off from a reliable source.

A case has been registered against the accused at the Baddupur police station under sections 318(2), 318(4), 274, and 275 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Further legal proceedings are being carried out by the local police. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Why is everyone leaving TMC? Dutta questions Mamata's competence

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:00:47 +0530

A day after Chandrima Bhattacharya resigned from all party posts, suspended Trinamool Congress (TMC) spokesperson Riju Dutta on Sunday questioned, "Why is everyone leaving the party" and the competence of Mamata Banerjee to keep "everyone together". He also took a veiled attack at TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, without mentioning his name.

"The fact is that someone or the other is leaving 'Didi' every day, while her entire team is busy labelling everyone else as traitors, dishonest, and so on... Why is everyone leaving? That is the question that arises. Everyone has allegations against one specific individual. Why isn't that person being sidelined?... If everyone is a traitor or dishonest, then questions inevitably arise about your own competence, whether you are incapable of running the party or unable to keep everyone together..." he told ANI.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, in a major setback to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) amid an escalating internal feud, the party's State President and former Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya resigned from all party posts.

Saugata Roy slams Bhattacharya for 'betrayal'

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Saugata Roy on Sunday said that Chandrima Bhattacharya betrayed party chief Mamata Banerjee's trust and failed her responsibilities by not opposing "outsiders" who tried to take over the party office, adding that no one attempted to stop her departure due to internal anger over her actions.

He told ANI, "Chandrima Bhattacharya was the TMC president of the state. Outsiders came and tried to take over the office. At that time, Chandrima Bhattacharya was in the office, but she did not object to it. She did wrong by not doing so. She did not fulfil her responsibility. Therefore, there was anger among the people inside the party".

"She left the party herself. We did not try to stop her. Mamata Banerjee had given her many positions. Even after losing one election, she was brought back by winning from another seat, but she betrayed the trust," he added.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India well-positioned for Indonesia's defence modernisation: Envoy

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:00:39 +0530

India is well positioned to play a larger role in Indonesia's defence modernisation, the Charge d'Affaires of the world's largest archipelagic state said here, stressing that Jakarta is looking for long-term partnerships based on technology transfer, co-production, and joint capability development rather than simple procurement.

In an interview with ANI ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Indonesia, Yudho Sasongko, Charge d'Affaires of Indonesia in Delhi, said India's growing defence-industrial base makes it a natural partner, as Indonesia is modernising its armed forces.

'Genuine Cooperation' Sought Over Transactions

He also said that Indonesia sees India not merely as a partner to ASEAN, but as a partner in "shaping the wider Indo-Pacific." "Indonesia is modernising its armed forces, and we welcome partners who can contribute through genuine cooperation, technology transfer, and co-production rather than transactions alone. India, with its growing and capable defence-industrial base, is well placed to be such a partner across a range of domains," Sasongko said.

He added, "Both sides have committed to expanding defence-industrial collaboration and joint capability development, and we see room to broaden that cooperation over time. The specifics, of course, will be determined by our respective defence establishments."

Focus on Deeper Cooperation Amid BrahMos Speculation

On reports that the proposed BrahMos missile deal could be a key agenda item during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, Sasongko declined to comment on specific procurement discussions but highlighted the broader trajectory of bilateral defence ties.

"Defence is one of the strongest and fastest-maturing pillars of our partnership, spanning naval exercises, staff talks, training, joint research, and co-production of defence technologies," he said.

"On the specific procurement matters you mention, I would note that the relevant defence authorities are best placed to address them through their own channels. What I can say clearly is that the overall direction of our defence relationship is toward deeper industrial and technological cooperation," he added.

Shaping the Indo-Pacific and ASEAN Centrality

On the broader strategic relationship, Sasongko reaffirmed Indonesia's support for ASEAN centrality and said India has an important role to play in the Indo-Pacific.

"Indonesia deeply appreciates India's consistent support for ASEAN unity and ASEAN centrality, which we consider indispensable to regional stability. We want to see the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership deepened through concrete initiatives and greater synergy between the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative," he said.

He added, "As two of the region's largest democracies, Indonesia sees India not merely as a partner to ASEAN, but as a partner in shaping the wider Indo-Pacific. The guiding principle for us is that any regional architecture must reinforce, not dilute, ASEAN's central role."

PM Modi's Visit to Bolster Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on the Indonesia visit from July 6 to 8. This will be the Prime Minister's fourth visit to Indonesia and his first bilateral visit since the elevation ofthe mutual ties to the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018, an MEA release said ahead of the visit.

During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold bilateral discussions with President Prabowo and review the progress made in the partnership.

In Jakarta, the Prime Minister will address a large gathering of the Indian diaspora.

India and Indonesia share historical and warm people-to-people ties. In keeping with these special bonds, the Prime Minister will visit the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta, a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site in Indonesia. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ahmedabad's Sola Hospital joins 'Namo Swachhta Abhiyan' for hygiene

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:00:26 +0530

Ahmedabad's Sola Civil Hospital has launched a comprehensive cleanliness drive as part of the state-wide 'Namo Swachhta Abhiyan', focusing on a holistic approach to hygiene and patient safety. The campaign, inspired by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and spearheaded under the guidance of Minister Praful Pansheriya, has been gaining significant momentum across Gujarat.

At Sola Civil Hospital, the initiative aims to enhance the sanitisation of medical wards and public areas, ensuring a sterile and safe environment for patients and healthcare providers alike. According to officials, the drive is a key component of the broader mission to upgrade the quality of public healthcare infrastructure through rigorous cleanliness standards.

Intensive Cleaning and Waste Management

As part of the State Government's 'Namo Swachhta Abhiyan', Ahmedabad's Sola Civil Hospital has undertaken a comprehensive cleanliness drive focused on hygiene and patient safety. Around 79 kg of solid waste has been cleared from various departments, and the process of scrapping 159 obsolete medical equipment items and 1,365 condemned items has been initiated as per prescribed procedures. Resident Medical Officer Dr. Hemangini Patel said that, to prevent hospital-acquired (nosocomial) infections, the hospital is carrying out intensive cleaning, sanitisation, removal of unnecessary materials, and maintenance work on a war footing. Continuous monitoring is also being undertaken to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for patients.

Infrastructure Upgrades and Safety Measures

As part of the campaign, all indoor and outdoor areas, including the hospital compound and toilets, have been thoroughly cleaned, while 508 fire extinguishers have been installed or refilled. Maintenance work has also been undertaken, with 56 of the 319 inspected water taps repaired or replaced, 63 bulbs and 22 fans repaired, and 103 out of 575 furniture items, medical equipment, and IT assets restored for reuse, improving facilities for patients and their attendants.

Dr. Patel stated that the phased replacement of around 300 old bedsheets, pillow covers, and mattresses has commenced. In addition, all medical and paramedical staff have been provided specialised training on the scientific disposal of biomedical waste through the prescribed colour-coding system.

Besides the regular cleaning of floors, walls, windows, glass panels, and fans, civil repair works, including the maintenance of toilets, bathrooms, and damaged tiles, are also being carried out on a priority basis. Emphasising that cleanliness is a continuous year-round process rather than a one-day campaign, she said the hospital administration remains fully committed to preventing hospital-acquired infections.

Public Applauds Improved Hospital Environment

Meanwhile, attendants of patients undergoing treatment at the hospital lauded the improved cleanliness and services. Prakashkumar Meniya from Sanand said that the entire hospital staff, from doctors to sanitation workers, provided prompt and cooperative service. He also urged citizens to actively support efforts to maintain cleanliness within the hospital premises.

Ami Patel from Bodakdev stated that her visit to Sola Civil Hospital had completely dispelled the misconception that government hospitals are unclean. She noted that the hospital's high standards of cleanliness, safe drinking water, and well-maintained environment make it comparable to any corporate hospital.

A Worker's Perspective

Ramila Makwana, a sanitation worker who has been serving at the hospital since the COVID-19 pandemic, said that sensitive equipment, including patients' beds, lockers, ventilators, and monitors, is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected every day. She added that patients' bedsheets are changed whenever required, including up to twice a day.

The initiatives undertaken at Sola Civil Hospital reflect the State Government's commitment to ensuring that its hospitals provide not only quality healthcare but also a clean, safe, and healthy environment for patients and visitors.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

World Cup: England face tough Mexico test at high-altitude Azteca

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:00:21 +0530

Raul Jimenez heads into Mexico's 2026 FIFA World Cup clash with England carrying a significant psychological edge over Jordan Pickford. The veteran striker has scored six career goals against the England goalkeeper in Premier League meetings more than he has against any other goalkeeper in the competition, as per Opta Analyst.

England's Azteca Challenge

England face a tough Mexico side with a dominant home record and a high-altitude disadvantage at the iconic Azteca during the round of 16 clash on July 6. Harry Kane's men will face one of the biggest tests of their careers as a dominating Mexican side, which has been nearly flawless and impossible to beat at home, will pose a tough challenge for the quarterfinal spot, having not conceded even a single goal so far in the competition. Since first playing at the venue in 1966, Mexico have lost just twice in competitive matches at the Estadio Azteca. In 89 matches played there, they have recorded 70 wins and 17 draws.

Another challenge for England will be the high-altitude conditions at Estadio Azteca, with the pitch situated at around 7,220 ft above sea level. The thinner air at this height reduces oxygen levels for players and also allows the ball to travel faster and farther compared to lower-altitude venues such as Atlanta Stadium (312 m above sea level), where England faced DR Congo in the Round of 32 clash.

Road to the Knockouts

England's Round of 32 encounter against DR Congo required a dramatic comeback, with captain Harry Kane scoring twice late on to seal a 2-1 victory and book a place in the last 16. On the other hand, Mexico secured their knockout berth with a convincing 2-0 win over Ecuador, setting up a fascinating Round of 16 contest in one of world football's most demanding venues.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bitcoin's Entire Return Hinges On Just 10 Days A Year, Says BitMine’s Tom Lee

Stocktwits Inc — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 18:00:05 +0530

Tom Lee claimed Bitcoin (BTC) has the greatest compounded annual return over 10-15 years, but excluding the 10 best days would leave investors down 27% per year.
Lee stated the biggest argument against timing the market is the concentration of profits.
Long-term purchasers may wait for the four-year cycle's "early window" between August and October, when Bitcoin may reach $50,000–$60,000.

Bitcoin’s (BTC) whole return profile comes down to a few trading days a year, Fundstrat strategist and BitMine (BMNR) chairman Tom Lee said in an interview this week.

Lee said in an interview on All Things Markets that while Bitcoin has had the best compounded annual return of any asset class over the last 10 to 15 years, if you take away the 10 best days each year, you would be “down 27% per year.” "Crypto makes most of its gains in 10 days," Lee said, arguing the concentration of returns is the core case against trying to time the market.

The same dynamic, he said, plays out in equities. Fundstrat research shows that missing the best days in the S&P 500 (SPX) makes long-term returns negative, something he said explains why the average investor fails to beat the market. The 10 best days in the past three years have accounted for more than 24 percentage points of returns, he said.

Long-term crypto buyers riding the four-year cycle might wait for its “early window” between August and October, with bitcoin potentially in the $50,000 to $60,000 range, Lee said. It’s a very volatile, decentralized asset, so it has no earnings reports or scheduled catalysts to trade around, and any rallies in crypto are typically short-lived, he argued.

Bitcoin is down 31.63% in 2026, compared with the S&P 500's 9.11% gain. | Source: Anushka Basu/Stocktwits via TradingView

Bitcoin’s price trend this year stands in stark contrast to that of the S&P 500 Index. The former has fallen 31.63% since the start of the year, while the latter has risen 9.11%, pushing their return gap to over 40 percentage points. The two assets moved largely in tandem during the first quarter, but began to diverge starting in April. U.S. stocks continued to climb steadily, while Bitcoin’s spring recovery rally collapsed. The cryptocurrency experienced a massive sell-off in June, dropping nearly 35% before rebounding in early July.

BitMine's Position Amid Crypto Winter

Lee has publicly disclosed that, during the downturn in cryptocurrency prices, the company has adopted a prudent, conservative operational approach. It holds approximately $600 million in cash, has staked 80% of its ETH holdings, generates annual "over 250 million a year in staking rewards", and has an annual free cash flow of hundreds of millions of US dollars.

Lee said BitMine has made selective investments, including a disclosed stake tied to YouTube creator MrBeast, and is working with spinoffs from the Ethereum Foundation as well as SharpLink (SBET) and Consensys founder Joe Lubin to fund public goods and help drive enterprise adoption of Ethereum (ETH), with more to come. "There's going to be several more entities announcing funding soon," he said.

Lee acknowledged the stretch has been painful for shareholders, saying the company is positioned for when "crypto winter" ends. "We are in a period where prices are really disappointing, and it's very frustrating," he said.

Ethereum’s price was trading at $1,762, flat over the last 24 hours. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around ETH improved to ‘bullish’ from the ‘neutral’ zone over the past day. Chatter around it, however, stayed at ‘normal’ levels.

Source: @CryptoMichNL/x

The second-largest cryptocurrency has been down over 40% so far this year. However, Ethereum’s chart may also be turning. “ETH is clearly starting up a strong uptrend” versus Bitcoin after breaking above key daily moving averages, analyst Michaël van de Poppe said in a Sunday X post, adding he is willing to buy any pullback that happens and expects the pair to run towards the 0.032–0.0325 BTC range — from around 0.028 BTC at the time of his post.

Read also: Bitcoin Just Survived A 'Hostile Takeover' Attempt, Say Michael Saylor And David Bailey — Here's What Happened

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Bright Side Stories: Jaipur's 151-Year-Old Gandhinagar Railway Station Gets Stunning New Look

Divya Danu — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:58:55 +0530

Jaipur's historic Gandhinagar Railway Station is preparing for a new beginning as its major redevelopment project nears completion. The 151-year-old station in Rajasthan's pink city has been undergoing a complete makeover under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, with work now in its final stage after nearly three years. The redevelopment, costing around Rs 211 crore, aims to give passengers a modern travel experience while preserving the station's historic charm. The station will also continue to hold its unique identity as one of India's few all-women-operated railway stations.

जयपुरको गान्धी नगर रेलवे स्टेशनलाई #AmritBharatStation योजना अन्तर्गत विश्वस्तरीय ट्रान्जिट हब बनाउन व्यापक पुनर्विकास भइरहेको छ। pic.twitter.com/hgCRmskbyX

— Akashvani News Kurseong (@airnewskurseong) July 2, 2026

Jaipur, Rajasthan: The redeveloped Gandhinagar Jaipur Railway Station blends Rajasthan's architectural heritage with world-class facilities. It features separate entry and exit zones, an air concourse, modern elevators and escalators for seamless platform access, accessible… pic.twitter.com/qdZrUZf0qg

— IANS (@ians_india) July 3, 2026

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Modern Facilities for a Better Journey

The upgraded station has been designed to make travel easier and more comfortable. New main and secondary entrance buildings are almost ready, while finishing work is underway.

A large 72-metre-wide air concourse will connect both buildings, creating a spacious central area for passengers. The concourse will include air-conditioned seating spaces, a paid lounge and a free waiting hall.

Travellers will also have access to a shopping area, cafeteria and other commercial facilities, making the station more convenient for people waiting for trains.

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Focus on Safety and Accessibility

Passenger safety and easy movement have been given special attention in the redevelopment.

The station has been equipped with eight lifts and four escalators, along with facilities that make travel easier for people with disabilities.

Security has also been strengthened with 217 high-resolution CCTV cameras installed across the station. A modern fire safety system, including sprinklers, fire alarms and fire hoses, has also been put in place to improve emergency response.

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Eco-Friendly Features Added

The project includes several measures to reduce its environmental impact.

A two-level basement parking area has been built for both two-wheelers and cars, while new platform shelters will provide better protection from the weather.

The station will also use a 1,376-kilowatt solar power plant to meet part of its electricity needs. Rainwater harvesting, scientific waste management and energy-efficient systems have also been introduced. These efforts have helped the project receive a Platinum Green Building rating.

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Inspired by Jaipur's Pink City Heritage

The station's biggest attraction will be its architecture, which reflects Jaipur's famous Pink City identity.

The design includes features inspired by Rajasthan's traditional art and heritage, giving visitors a warm welcome as soon as they arrive. By combining local architecture with modern facilities, the redeveloped Gandhinagar Railway Station aims to offer passengers both comfort and a strong sense of Jaipur's cultural identity.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bihar Assembly Monsoon Session to begin on July 20 under new govt

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:31:48 +0530

Bihar Assembly's Monsoon Session Set to Begin Amid Political Heat

The Monsoon Session of the Bihar Legislative Assembly will begin on July 20, as per the Assembly Secretariat. Choudhary faced a floor test in the Assembly in a one-day session earlier on April 24. This will be the first time the Choudhary-led government will take up the legislative business after Nitish Kumar resigned from the top post.

Legislative Agenda Outlined

According to the schedule, certified copies of ordinances promulgated by the Governor during the period when the Bihar Legislature was not in session will be laid on the table on July 20. The First Supplementary Statement of Expenditure for the financial year 2026-2027 will be presented before the House on July 20. The government will table the Bills on July 21 and 22. The Appropriation Bill regarding the Statement of First Supplementary Expenditure for the financial year 2026-2027 will be debated and voted on July 23. July 24 has been dedicated to the business of Private Members.

Police Encounter Controversy to Dominate Proceedings

Meanwhile, the Opposition is expected to corner the NDA government over Bharat Bhushan Tiwari's police encounter. The incident has sparked controversy after a Facebook Live video, recorded shortly before the shooting, appeared to show Tiwari throwing away his pistol toward police personnel. While the family claims he had surrendered and was shot despite being unarmed, Bhojpur Police have maintained that he fired multiple rounds at the police team, prompting retaliatory firing in self-defence. Following complaints by Tiwari's family, Bihar Police registered an FIR against the Jagdishpur DSP, Shahpur SHO and other police personnel in connection with the alleged wrongful killing. The investigation into the case is underway.

Upcoming Bypoll Adds to Political Significance

Meanwhile, the Assembly Session also comes ahead of the high-profile bypolls for the Bankipur Assembly constituency in Bihar. The seat fell vacant after BJP president Nitin Nabin resigned as an MLA, going for the Rajya Sabha seat. Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishore has thrown his hat into the ring to contest the bypolls in the BJP stronghold. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

CM Dhami lays foundation for flood protection projects worth Rs 65 cr

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:31:47 +0530

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday laid the foundation stone for two flood protection projects worth over Rs 65 crore at Boomghat in Champawat district, including a Rs 60.21 crore embankment along the Sharda River from Boom to Tanakpur and a Rs 5.74 crore flood protection wall on the Huddi River to safeguard Chhinigoth village in Purnagiri tehsil.

The Chief Minister received a traditional welcome upon his arrival, with a ceremonial tilak, angavastram, Kumaoni cap, flower petals, and a vibrant Chholiya dance performance. Before the ceremony, the Chief Minister inspected the ongoing flood protection works along the Sharda River. He directed officials to maintain high construction quality and ensure timely completion of the projects.

A Vision for Champawat's Development

Addressing the gathering, Dhami said the Sharda embankment was not merely an infrastructure project but "a strong foundation for the safety of future generations and the region's overall development." Referring to the river, he said, "Where there is water, there is life." He said the Sharda River was the lifeline and source of livelihood for thousands of families. The Chief Minister also described the trust of the people of Champawat as his greatest strength.

Dhami said the state government was committed to giving the region a new identity as a spiritual, cultural and tourism destination through the Sharda Corridor Project, being developed at an estimated cost of around Rs 3,300 crore. The project includes development of the Sharda Riverfront from Tanakpur to Banbasa, along with several religious and tourist destinations.

He said a Women's Sports College was being established at a cost of nearly Rs 257 crore, while a modern Science Centre was being developed at a cost of Rs 58.52 crore. He added that the government was also working to strengthen agriculture through an Agriculture College, development of gaushalas and promotion of modern farming techniques to enhance farmers' incomes.

'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi': Developing Religious Corridors

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi" (Development as well as Heritage), the Chief Minister said major religious destinations, including Maa Purnagiri Dham, the Sharda Corridor, Goljyu Corridor and Maa Varahi Dham were being developed under the Manaskhand Mandir Mala Mission. He said the initiative would promote religious tourism and create employment and self-employment opportunities for local youth.

Connecting with the Community

During the programme, Dhami interacted with representatives of temple management committees, ex-servicemen, traders, farmers, the Khirdwari tribal community, voluntary organisations and other social groups. He also reviewed departmental stalls set up under the Seva Pakhwada initiative and directed officials to ensure that welfare schemes reached the last beneficiary.

At a women's self-help group stall, the Chief Minister joined local women in preparing traditional rotis and grinding chutney. Residents and women appreciated the gesture, saying his approachable demeanour helped him connect with ordinary people and reflected respect for the work and contributions of women.

Residents also welcomed the foundation stone laying of the Sharda embankment project. They said the embankment would provide long-term relief from recurring floods and riverbank erosion in the area.

During the visit, the Chief Minister also distributed nutrition kits to five beneficiaries under the Nikshay Scheme at a health camp and reviewed the progress of welfare programmes being implemented by various departments. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Gujarat develops region-specific anti-snake venom to cut fatalities

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:31:34 +0530

Gujarat has taken a major step towards developing its own region-specific anti-snake venom, with the state's Dharampur-based Snake Research Institute (SRI) handing over lyophilised (freeze-dried) venom of the four major venomous snake species found in Gujarat to a licensed anti-venom manufacturer.

According to a press release issued by the Gujarat CMO, the development is expected to significantly strengthen snakebite treatment in the state and contribute to India's national goal of reducing snakebite deaths by 50 per cent by 2030.

A Major Step in Public Health

"Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat is committed to developing its own region-specific anti-venom to reduce snakebite-related deaths in the state. The Snake Research Institute (SRI) follows the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for snake handling and venom extraction, ensuring the production of high-quality venom for the development of anti-venom," said Arjun Modhwadia, Minister for Forest and Environment, Gujarat.

Venom Consignment and Manufacturing

Last week, the Snake Research Institute, which functions under the Gujarat Forestry Research Foundation (GFRF), handed over the venom purchased through an e-auction to Telangana-based M/s Vins Bioproducts Limited, which is engaged in developing life-saving antisera for snake and scorpion bites, as well as tetanus, diphtheria, and gangrene antitoxins.

The consignment comprised 33.37 grams of Indian Cobra venom, 2.67 grams of Common Krait venom, 30.82 grams of Russell's Viper venom, and 1.71 grams of Saw-scaled Viper venom. The company will now begin the process of manufacturing Gujarat's region-specific anti-snake venom. Officials expect the first batch to be available within a year.

The milestone comes shortly after the institute received higher-than-expected prices during its first e-auction of lyophilised snake venom, reflecting the high quality of the venom produced under internationally accepted standards.

Why Region-Specific Anti-Venom is Crucial

According to forest officials, the development of a region-specific anti-venom is of immense public health significance, as snakebites account for the highest number of fatalities arising from human-wildlife conflict in India. More importantly, a large proportion of these deaths are preventable with timely access to effective anti-venom.

"As per the available official statistics, 550 people died in wildlife attacks across the country in 2022, whereas nearly 65,000 people lost their lives to snakebites during the same period. This stark contrast underscores the urgent need for region-specific anti-venom. Since it is developed using venom from snakes found in a particular geographical region, it is expected to be more effective, requires a lower dosage, and significantly reduces the risk of severe complications such as organ failure, thereby improving patient outcomes and saving lives," said SK Srivastava, Director, Gujarat Forestry Research Foundation, Gandhinagar.

Medical experts say the initiative could transform snakebite treatment in Gujarat because snake venom varies geographically, even within the same species. Anti-venom manufactured using venom collected from snakes in other parts of the country may not always provide optimum protection against bites from snakes native to Gujarat.

About the Snake Research Institute (SRI)

Recognising this scientific challenge, the Gujarat government established the Snake Research Institute in Dharampur, Valsad district, to collect venom from venomous snakes found across Gujarat and support the development of anti-venom specifically suited to the state's snake population.

According to DC Patel, Vice-Chairman of SRI, one of the key challenges in treating snakebites is that snake venom varies from one region to another. Anti-snake venom prepared using venom from distant regions often proves less effective. The institute focuses on collecting venom from venomous snake species found across Gujarat so that region-specific anti-venom can be developed.

The Snake Research Institute currently houses around 471 venomous snakes representing the major medically important species found in Gujarat. The venom is extracted in accordance with WHO guidelines, scientifically processed, and converted into a lyophilised form before being supplied to licensed manufacturers. The institute functions under the Gujarat Forestry Research Foundation (GFRF), an autonomous body under the Forest and Environment Department, Government of Gujarat.

"With its scientific infrastructure, serpentarium, and venom processing facilities, SRI has emerged as one of India's leading institutions dedicated to snakebite management, venom research, and public awareness. It is only the second institution in the country, after the Irula Snake Catchers' Industrial Co-operative Society in Tamil Nadu, to extract venom for anti-venom manufacturing," said SK Srivastava, Director, GFRF, Gandhinagar.

Future Plans and National Contribution

"To support its expansion, the Gujarat government has allotted 2.25 hectares of land in Valsad district for establishing a permanent world-class campus. A proposal worth ₹11.68 crore has also been submitted for developing advanced research and training infrastructure," SK Srivastava added.

The initiative complements the Government of India's National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming (NAP-SE), launched in 2024 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India became the first country in the world to adopt a comprehensive national action plan aimed at reducing snakebite deaths and disabilities by 50 per cent by 2030, in line with the World Health Organisation's global strategy. Officials believe Gujarat's region-specific anti-venom programme will make an important contribution towards achieving this national target.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Tripura CM Manik Saha reviews preparations for Business Conclave 2026

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:31:33 +0530

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Sunday reviewed the preparations for the upcoming Destination Tripura Business Conclave 2026, scheduled to be held on July 9 and 10 at the Hapania International Fair Ground. The two-day business conclave is expected to witness the participation of nearly 500 delegates, including investors, entrepreneurs, industry representatives, and government officials from across the country.

To ensure the successful conduct of the event, the Chief Minister chaired a high-level preparatory meeting and took stock of the arrangements at the venue. He reviewed various aspects, including infrastructure, security, logistics, hospitality, and coordination among different departments. The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary of JK. Sinha, Director General of Police Anurag, local MLA Mina Rani Sarkar, senior government officials, and representatives of the concerned departments. The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of making the conclave a grand success, stating that the event will serve as a major platform to showcase Tripura's investment potential and promote industrial growth, tourism, and economic development in the state.

A Flagship Investment Event

The Destination Tripura Business Conclave 2026 is a flagship investment event organised by the Department of Industries & Commerce, Government of Tripura. The event will bring together investors, industry leaders, policymakers, institutions, and international partners to explore business opportunities across Tripura's priority sectors, according to the official website of Destination Tripura. Destination TRIPURA Business Conclave 2026 will be held on 9-10 July 2026 at the Indoor Exhibition Hall at the International Fair Ground, Hapania, Agartala, positioning the state as an investment destination for Northeast India, as stated on the website.

Spotlighting Key Sectors for Growth

The 'Destination Tripura Business Conclave 2026' is set to spotlight the state's emerging investment potential across a wide range of priority sectors, including Healthcare, Tourism, Education, Information Technology, and Renewable Energy. The conclave aims to foster global collaboration in key industries such as Bamboo, Rubber, Agarwood, and Oil & Gas, alongside Real Estate, Logistics, and Agro-processing. Open to international investors, businesses, institutions, and trade bodies, the event has extended invitations to several prospective partner countries to explore strategic opportunities in technology and food processing, positioning Tripura as a rising industrial hub in the region. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

PoJK Tensions Escalate as JAAC Defies Crackdown with Massive Protest

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:31:19 +0530

Tensions have escalated dramatically across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) following a massive protest call by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) for Sunday, directly defying the heavy-handed state apparatus. The rights group, leading a widespread agitation against administrative failures, has thrown down a direct challenge to Islamabad's severe crackdown, demanding the immediate release of its unlawfully arrested leaders and activists.

In a massive escalation of this ongoing civil uprising against Pakistani rule, a grand public gathering of nearly 40,000 people, comprising children, women, elderly, and youth, has hit the streets at the Sardar Ghulam Hussain Khan Sports Stadium in Abbaspor, according to the JAAC. The peaceful demonstration for fundamental rights has rapidly transformed into a massive public rally, directly challenging the heavy-handed rule of the Pakistani establishment.

State Crackdown and Swelling Resistance

Exposing the violent tactics used by the Pakistani security apparatus to suppress this peaceful dissent, the JAAC reported that forces opened unprovoked fire and intense shelling on a civilian gathering at the AMB location in Dudial. The brutal state response has resulted in several severe injuries, with multiple peaceful demonstrators currently reported to be in critical condition.

Despite these violent crackdowns, the resistance movement continues to swell across the occupied territory. Large caravans of citizens, including children, women, and the elderly, are continuously arriving from various areas at a major protest sit-in in Dera Ismail Khan, where a massive crowd is chanting revolutionary slogans against state oppression.

Further highlighting the expanding demographic reach of the movement, the JAAC noted that the daughters of Rawalakot and Chak are actively leading peaceful street protests for their basic rights, completely defying the intimidation tactics of Pakistani authorities.

JAAC Leadership's Defiance and Urgent Appeals

This anti-Pakistan public outrage has also triggered major international blowback for Islamabad. Responding to the call of the Jammu Kashmir Joint People's Action Committee, the Kashmiri diaspora staged a full-fledged demonstration in Auckland, New Zealand. According to the civil rights coalition, overseas protesters strongly condemned the high-profile arrest of core committee member Shaukat Nawaz Mir, demanding his immediate release alongside all other arbitrarily detained activists, while chanting slogans of "Long Live Kashmir" and "Long Live the People" against the ongoing systemic repression.

The sweeping nature of this regional anger directly follows the high-profile detention of Shaukat Nawaz Mir, which has triggered a major spike in tensions across the occupied territory and drawn a fierce ultimatum from the JAAC. In a post on X, the JAAC expressed deep resentment over the high-profile detention of its leadership, stating, "Ghulam is under their control. Shah is in captivity..." while calling for immediate public action under the hashtag #ReleaseShoukatNawazMir.

Viral Speeches Challenge Pakistani Authorities

Exposing the acute shortages, systemic cruelty, and desperate humanitarian crisis under Pakistani rule that fueled this uprising, video footage of Sardar Aman Khan, a core member of the Jammu Kashmir JAAC, has gone viral on social media. Addressing a charged crowd in a widely shared clip, the timing of which is not mentioned, Khan explicitly pleaded, "To those in Mendhar, Poonch, Rajouri, Doda... we appeal to the people there. On this side, there is a shortage of rations, a shortage of medicines, and we need your help. We need your help."

Exposing the sheer desperation of the local population to escape Pakistani control, the JAAC leader called for an end to the borders and reached out across the divide, stating, "We want the end of the ceasefire line and we need your support. My appeal to the people, to the people on the other side, is that they should come forward. And as I said, the paths... if we have kept the door open for political dialogue..."

Slamming the high-handedness of Pakistani authorities, who have routinely used brute force to suppress civil rights movements in the occupied territory, Khan warned that the local population would no longer succumb to Islamabad's threats. "If we have kept the path open, and if someone thinks that by hearing our 'weak knees', that we are trapped somewhere, then they are mistaken. No one is trapped. We will show you the paths, God willing. After this, you will see all the paths, we will show them to you, God willing. We will show you the way after that, where the paths lie," he told the cheering crowd.

In another viral video, Khan, in a direct challenge to the security apparatus, asked a gathering of protestors, "Should we step towards the ceasefire line or not? Tell me loudly, should we step forward or not?" to which the crowd loudly roared, "Yes!"

Turning to journalists and commentators, Khan shouted, "Writers, write this down! See this! And people, tell me more loudly, should we step towards the ceasefire line or not?" eliciting another thunderous "Yes!" from the public.

Issuing an explicit warning to the Pakistani regime over its violent crackdowns on peaceful dissent, the core JAAC member made it clear that the region is ready to retaliate against state-sponsored tyranny. "That is why we say to them that on this Kashmiri spirit and political stance, if the response is bullets, then we also have options. Don't complain tomorrow, don't express regret tomorrow that you felt bad," Khan asserted.

Concluding his fiery address, Khan exposed the oppressive reality of living under Pakistani governance, declaring that locals would match Pakistan's cruelty measure for measure. "We are not people according to your temperament. If you offer loyalty, we'll offer loyalty; if you offer cruelty, we'll offer cruelty. We are humans just like you. Whatever you do, we will do the same, God willing. There is nothing more to say than that. Well, friends, with that, overseas Kashmiris..."

An Appeal for Cross-Border Solidarity

In a separate video message released yesterday, Khan further detailed the broader regional dimensions of the ongoing civilian movement under the current administrative overreach. In the video message, Khan stated, "Through this message, I am addressing the people of the Kashmir Valley, specifically the people of Srinagar, the people of Baramulla, and all the surrounding districts. To the people of Poonch and the people of Mendhar. We are addressing the people of Rajouri, Jammu, Ladakh, Kargil, Gilgit-Baltistan, and the people across the entire state."

"As you are all aware, it has been nearly a month now that Kashmir (PoJK) has been under such influence and oppression. For demanding their basic rights, the cruelty, injustice, massacre, and military aggression committed against the people here have reached their peak."

"In this extremely difficult phase, our food supply routes are closed, our medicine routes are closed. Even on the act of breathing, the rulers and forces here are in such a rage, questioning why the people here are even breathing."

"In this time of hardship, we appeal to all the people, to those across the border, and especially to the people of Poonch, Mendhar, Rajouri, Jammu, the Valley, Ladakh, and Kargil. We have organised a protest on July 5, and we need the support of all of you. Certainly, you must come out, speak up for our rights, and raise your voice against this cruelty and injustice," he said.

A Strategic Call for a Half-Million Strong Peaceful March

To structurally manage this groundswell of public anger into an unprecedented public turnout against Pakistani rule, the JAAC issued a massive call for peaceful demonstrations across the region, aiming to gather half a million participants to demand fundamental rights.

Using its official handle on X, the committee laid out the demographic logic behind the massive uprising, listing the estimated population by district: "Estimated Population of PoJK by District: Muzaffarabad: 712,839; Neelum: 227,343; Jhelum Valley: 262,602; Bagh: 448,701; Haveli: 175,328; Poonch: 552,997; Sudhanoti: 316,456; Kotli: 809,712; Mirpur: 439,929; Bhimber: 442,968."

The JAAC further noted the collective strength of the heavily policed and disenfranchised local population, stating that the "Total Estimated Population: 4,388,875 (approximately 4.39 million)."

Making a detailed statistical case for a significant show of force, the committee declared, "If, on this day, July 5, 2026, at least 50,000 people come out from each of these 10 districts, the total number could reach 500,000 people." Emphasising a strategic commitment to non-violence in the face of routinely brutal state responses to dissent, the JAAC surged the public, saying, "Come out peacefully for your rights. Hold a white flag, demonstrate discipline, and maintain peace." The civil rights coalition stated that this massive, peaceful show of unity is designed to bypass heavy-handed censorship in PoJK and directly grab the attention of the global community to isolate the Pakistani regime's suppressive tactics. "Send this message to the world that we are only demanding our rights, and our protest is completely peaceful," the JAAC asserted, indicating a concerted effort to create an undeniable international incident.

Escalating Repression and Global Backlash

This planned mobilization answers a series of heavy-handed actions by Pakistani authorities. On June 30, the JAAC sharply criticised Islamabad after a political delegation led by opposition leaders was reportedly stopped from entering PoJK, describing the move as further evidence of the state's suppression of democratic rights and political dissent.

Prominent PoJK activist Amjad Ayub Mirza has raised grave concerns over the aggravating tensions, noting that the day normally used by Islamabad to falsely project regional solidarity has completely turned into a global platform for dissent. "The situation in Pakistani-occupied Jammu and Kashmir is getting worse by the hour. After the arrest of the leader of Joint Awami Action Committee Shaukat Nawaz Mir, so far more than 600 workers and activists of the committee have been arrested..."

"...On 5th of July, that was usually celebrated or observed as Kashmir Solidarity Day, in the name of the people of Kashmir Valley, is now being observed against Pakistan. Not only in PoJK, but also there are thousands of people who are going to turn up in London on July 5 and protest against brutalities committed by Pakistan in Pakistani-occupied J&K," Mirza said. This domestic public outcry coincides with severe global pushback against Islamabad's handling of local dissent. On July 2, the National Anti-Terrorism Front India staged a fierce protest outside the United Nations office, demanding immediate global intervention to address the escalating humanitarian crisis, reported killings, and systemic rights abuses. Concurrently, global watchdog group Amnesty International strongly condemned Pakistan's heavy-handed tactics ahead of the upcoming regional elections.

Amnesty accused authorities of deploying violent measures to suppress peaceful political dissent and violate fundamental human rights, unlawfully designating the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) as a "proscribed organisation." Amnesty fiercely criticised the ban on the civil rights coalition, labelling it a disproportionate attack on freedom of association and peaceful political activism as international pressure continues to mount against Islamabad.

Meanwhile, protests highlighting the state's severe clampdown have also surfaced internationally. In Bradford, UK, during a cultural event attended by the Consul General of Pakistan in Bradford, Zahid Ahmed Khan, political activist from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Mahmood Kashmiri, sharply criticised Pakistan over human rights violations in the region. Interrupting the event, he raised his voice against the Pakistan Army, demanding it leave PoJK and end what he described as repression in the region. (ANI)

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PM Modi mourns demise of former Gujarat Minister Mohansinh Rathava

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:31:16 +0530

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday mourned the demise of the veteran leader and former Gujarat Minister Mohansinh Rathava at the age of 82. In an X post, PM Modi recalled working with Mohansinh Rathava in the Gujarat Assembly and hailed his contributions to the development of the tribal community in the state. The Prime Minister also offered condolences to the family of the deceased BJP leader.

'His contributions will always be remembered': PM Modi

PM Modi wrote, "I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Mohansingh Rathava, former Minister of the Government of Gujarat. I had the opportunity to work with him for years in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly. His dedication and contributions to the all-round development of the tribal community, public service, and the welfare of the people will always be remembered."

"I pray that God grants eternal peace to the departed soul and provides strength to his bereaved family members to bear this sorrow. Om Shanti," the post read.

A Veteran Tribal Leader

Veteran leader Mohansinh Rathava was a multiple-time MLA from Jetpur and Chhota Udaipur constituencies. He was known for working for the development and rights of tribal communities in the state.

His son and MLA from the Chhota Udaipur seat, Rajendrasinh Rathava, informed about his father's demise earlier today. Rajendrasinh Rathava posted on X, "With the sad demise of my revered father, former MLA and the esteemed Mohansinh Rathva Saheb, who made public service the creed of his life, an irreparable loss has befallen our family. His lifelong dedicated work for social service, public welfare, and human values will always continue to inspire us."

Joined BJP Ahead of 2022 Polls

Ahead of the 2022 Assembly elections, Rathava had joined the BJP after quitting Congress. However, he did not contest the election, citing medical reasons. His son Rajendrasinh Rathava contested on a BJP ticket and won the seat, retaining the family's stronghold. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Ram Temple donation case: Rajeev Shukla seeks SC-supervised inquiry

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:31:14 +0530

Congress Demands SC-Supervised Probe

Congress MP Rajeev Shukla on Sunday called for an impartial investigation under the supervision of the Supreme Court in the matter related to the Ayodhya Ram Temple donations embezzlement case.

Investigation into Embezzlement Allegations

The Ram Mandir donation embezzlement controversy began after an FIR was registered on June 25 over the alleged embezzlement of donations received at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. The Trust has maintained that it is committed to a fair investigation and to preserving the faith of devotees.

According to officials, the case has been filed under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 306, 316(5), 317(4), 317(5), 61 and 3(5), on the directions of the Uttar Pradesh Government. Those who have been named in the FIR are: Avinash Shukla, Anukalp Mishra, Lavkush Mishra, Tinnu Yadav, Manish Yadav and others.

Developments in the Case

This comes after allegations were made by former SP MLA from Ayodhya, Pawan Pandey, who claimed that between Rs 7 crore and Rs 7.5 crore in donations were misappropriated from the Ram Mandir. On June 29, an Ayodhya court remanded all the accused in the alleged donation embezzlement case to 14-day judicial custody following an intensive investigation into alleged financial irregularities involving temple donations.

Earlier, former Trust General Secretary Champat Rai and trustee Anil Mishra resigned, taking moral responsibility for the controversy. Police have since recorded Champat Rai's statement, while statements of other senior Trust office-bearers, including Anil Mishra, may be recorded if required during the course of the investigation. The Uttar Pradesh government extended the tenure of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by 15 days to widen the scope of its probe. (ANI)

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Ram Mandir fund case: Sanjay Singh calls VHP letter 'motivated'

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:31:08 +0530

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh on Sunday termed the letter written by Vishwa Hindu Parishad's international president Alok Kumar, regarding the alleged Ram Janmbhoomi donations embezzlement case, as "politically motivated" and questioned why there was "discrimination" even in matters concerning Lord Ram.

'Politically Motivated': Sanjay Singh

Speaking to ANI, Singh said, "I welcome his letter... but my next question is: why is there discrimination even in matters concerning Lord Ram... the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's letter is politically motivated."

The AAP Rajya Sabha MP said he was ready to cooperate with the investigation and would appear before the investigating officer whenever summoned. "Whenever the Investigating Officer summons me, I will appear. I have been waiting for 5 years. I had lodged a formal complaint back in 2021," Singh said.

Questioning the continuation of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra General Secretary Champat Rai in his position, Singh said, "How is Champat Rai still holding his position? How is someone accused of such serious wrongdoing still sitting there?"

Referring to his earlier complaint, Singh reiterated that he had formally raised the matter in 2021 and alleged that no action had been taken despite several years.

VHP Demands Probe into Opposition's Allegations

The AAP leader's remarks came in response to a letter by VHP International President and Senior Advocate Alok Kumar regarding the alleged Ram Janmbhoomi donations embezzlement case.

In a letter to the investigation officer of the Ram Temple embezzlement case, Alok Kumar has demanded a probe into the allegations made by several Opposition leaders.

In the letter to Ayodhya Deputy Superintendent of Police Ashutosh Tiwari, Kumar highlighted the allegations made by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, party leader Sanjay Singh and Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Ram Gopal Yadav, regarding the alleged misappropriation of donations and offerings, seeking a thorough investigation.

Kumar also requested the Ayodhya DSP to "record their statements, seek the factual basis, sources, and supporting documents for their allegations. "

SIT Investigation Continues

The development comes as the investigation into the alleged misappropriation of temple donations continues. On July 3, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) visited the Ram Temple premises in Ayodhya to carry forward its probe.

The Uttar Pradesh government had earlier granted the SIT a 15-day extension on July 1 to widen the scope of its investigation and conduct a comprehensive inquiry into all aspects of the case.

Meanwhile, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust member Mahant Dinendra Das Maharaj welcomed the administration's action and called for stringent punishment for those found guilty. (ANI)

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Nita Ambani's emotional tribute to father at AAPI Humanitarian Award

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:57 +0530

Reliance Foundation Founder and Chairperson Nita Ambani paid an emotional tribute to her late father, Ravindrabhai Dalal, while accepting the AAPI Humanitarian Award in Florida on his 12th remembrance day. On July 3, Nita Ambani was conferred the prestigious AAPI Humanitarian Award by the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) during a ceremony held in Tampa, Florida.

A Daughter's Tribute

In her acceptance speech, Nita Ambani said, "Today is a deeply emotional day for me. It is my father, Shri Ravindrabhai Dalal's 12th remembrance day. Receiving this humanitarian award on this day feels profoundly meaningful because it's through him that I came to understand the true value of care and compassion at a very young age."

Recalling the values instilled in her by her father, she said, "He made me and my sister, who is also here today, believe that daughters are no lesser than sons, and that girls can also write their own destiny."

Nita Ambani went on to speak about her father's final years and how his illness shaped her life's work in healthcare. "In the final years of his life, he was critically ill. I couldn't change my father's suffering in those last years, but it became the foundation of everything I have tried to build in healthcare. For no amount of wealth in the world means anything if in the most vulnerable moments of your life, you cannot provide care for the people you love," she said.

Linking this personal experience to her institutional work, she added, "And that's why at the Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai, our motto is Respect for Life. It is our vision to make world-class healthcare affordable and accessible to every Indian. This new medical building was a daughter's tribute to her father."

Dual Honours and Philanthropic Legacy

The award recognises her exceptional contributions across healthcare, education, sports, culture, and community development, while also acknowledging her steadfast commitment to serving society with compassion, dignity, and purpose.

In a further recognition of her humanitarian efforts, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor presented Nita Ambani with the Key to the City of Tampa, one of the highest civic honours in the United States.

The symbolic honour represents the city's gratitude and its tradition of opening its doors to individuals whose contributions have made a meaningful impact on humanity.

With that said, the dual honours underscore Ambani's enduring philanthropic legacy and her efforts through the Reliance Foundation to advance inclusive development and improve the lives of communities across multiple sectors.

(ANI)

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Maharashtra TET paper leak: SIT to reveal details soon, says minister

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:55 +0530

Maharashtra Minister Pankaj Rajesh Bhoyar on Sunday said that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the alleged Maharashtra Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) paper leak case would soon come up with more details. He also highlighted the developments of the case after the police registered a case.

Investigation and Arrests

"The TET exam in Maharashtra was scheduled for June 28. However, 3 days prior, the police administration received information that someone was attempting to leak and sell the exam paper. The police intervened immediately and initially took 3 individuals into custody. Subsequently, 4 more people were arrested, and just yesterday, 3 additional individuals were arrested in connection with the case. An SIT has also been constituted to investigate the matter, and all the details will soon be revealed through the SIT's findings."

Earlier on July 3, three more accused--identified as Mithun, Sonu and Kapil Dahiya--were produced before a court on Thursday in connection with the case, taking the total number of arrests in the case to seven. The court remanded the three accused to police custody till July 9. Thane Police arrested the three accused.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case uncovered an inter-state network and identified a resident of Bihar as the alleged mastermind behind the scam, sources said.

Exam Postponed

The Maharashtra State Council of Examination (MSCE) had postponed the TET after an alleged question paper leak came to light during a police probe in Bhiwandi, according to an official statement issued by the Council. The examination was scheduled to be conducted at 1,028 centres across Maharashtra. (ANI)

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FIFA WC: Mexico fans try to disrupt England's sleep ahead of clash

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:54 +0530

Mexico fans are going all out to cheer and help their pride, their men's national football side, ahead of the FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash against England as a massive flock of fans gathered outside the hotel where the Three Lions are staying.

As per Goal.com, in the early hours before the match, fans brought everything from drums, trumpets, firecrackers, loud musical instruments, and even started singing, shouting slogans to disrupt the sleep of English players, who are already facing two disadvantages before the clash: One being Mexico's dominant run at the iconic Azteca Stadium and the other being the high-altitude of the venue. Goal.com cited a viral video from a fan page, where fans could be seen celebrating, playing music, shouting and singing while also being kept under the supervision of heavy security.

Tuchel on altitude and Mexico's aggressive start

Tuchel's men are already facing issues due to high altitude, with the coach admitting having faced some of them personally. However, he has warned his side to stay focused and treat first 15-20 minutes of the match against an aggressive Mexico side as an important time period to overcome.

Speaking as quoted by Sky Sports, Tuchel said that he felt a "slight headache" in his hotel room and felt some problems sleeping, but it is nothing that a player cannot handle and adapt to.

"I felt, for example, a slight headache in the hotel room through the day, I did not sleep as well as the days before but nothing that you cannot handle and you cannot adapt. I think the players felt it in the first minutes of the training session and the longer it went they could cope with it better," Tuchel said.

"It is just what it is. We cannot physically adapt. It is just impossible. But we are here one day before to experience it at least, to not have all the first-time experience in the warm-up [for the match]. So we will have the warm-up, especially with [focus on] the flight of the ball, with a bit of shortness of breath," he added.

He also admitted that Mexico start their matches on home turf "very strong, very front-footed" and overcoming it would put them in a "good place". "I think it is not a coincidence that Mexico start their matches normally on home turf very, very strong, very front-footed, very aggressively because I think the first 15-20 minutes will be maybe the toughest for us. Once we overcome that I think we are in a good place," he signed off.

Hostile reception for the Three Lions

England received a hostile welcome upon arriving at their Mexico City hotel ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against hosts Mexico.

The Three Lions had hoped to keep their hotel location undisclosed after Mexico supporters used loudspeakers, horns and motorcycles to disrupt Ecuador's sleep before their Round of 32 encounter earlier this week. Mexico went on to secure a 2-0 victory on Wednesday, as per Sky Sports.

However, as England's team coach pulled up outside the hotel, hundreds of fans had already gathered. Many booed the visitors while others chanted "Mexico" in a noisy reception. At least one supporter in the crowd was seen holding up an England shirt.

Security outside the hotel has been strengthened following the disturbances earlier in the tournament, which prompted complaints from the Ecuadorian Football Federation. Authorities have also tightened security across Mexico City after four people were killed during celebrations following Mexico's victory over Ecuador.

The 'fortress' Azteca and high-altitude challenge

Mexico will carry a formidable home record into their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against England at the Estadio Azteca--a record that underlines the challenge awaiting the Harry Kane-led England side. The clash against England is scheduled for July 6, 5:30 AM IST.

Since first playing at the venue in 1966, Mexico have lost just twice in competitive matches at the Estadio Azteca, underlining its reputation as one of football's most difficult away grounds. In 89 matches played there, they have recorded 70 wins and 17 draws, showcasing a dominant home advantage over decades.' England now face a stern test as they prepare to take on the hosts in front of a home crowd, with Mexico's strong record at the Azteca adding further weight to the knockout encounter.

Another challenge for England will be the high-altitude conditions at Estadio Azteca, with the pitch situated at around 7,220 ft (2,240 metres) above sea level. The thinner air at this height reduces oxygen levels for players and also allows the ball to travel faster and farther compared to lower-altitude venues such as Atlanta Stadium (312 m above sea level), where England faced DR Congo in the Round of 32 clash. (ANI)

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Iran funeral for Khamenei marked by chants of 'revenge', 'resistance'

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:45 +0530

'Revenge for the martyred leader': Mourners chant at Khamenei's funeral

Funeral prayers for Iran's former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei were marked by chants of "Resistance against enemies" and "Revenge for the blood of the martyred leader" as the Islamic Republic mourns the death of the former leader, who was assassinated in the US-Israeli strikes on February 28, leading to widespread regional conflict.

According to Iran's official news agency ISNA, the Secretariat of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, in a message referring to the funeral prayer ceremony, stated that mourners and followers present at the prayers chanted slogans in honour of the former leader, calling out the US and Israeli leadership for the death of Ali Khamenei. The National Security Council further called for revenge for the death of the former leader. "People are shouting two slogans in farewell to their leader: resistance against enemies and revenge for the blood of the martyred leader of Iran," the message read as per ISNA. "Keep your eyes on Iran these past few days; this is the Iranian you thought you could defeat in a few days," the message further stated, underscoring what it described as national unity and resilience during the funeral proceedings.

Millions attend public funeral in Tehran

The Public funeral prayers for Ali Khamenei and four members of his family are being held in Tehran on Sunday, the second day of the farewell ceremony. Millions of people swarmed the streets of central Tehran near the Imam Khomeini Grand Musalla, where Khamenei's body has been lying in state since Saturday for public mourning and official farewell ceremonies.

Succession and Diplomacy Amid Tensions

Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes on February 28, earlier this year, leading to a widespread conflict in the West Asia region. Last month, the US and Iran agreed to a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at ending the hostilities in the region and opening a 60-day dialogue window for technical talks, including discussions over the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme.

Following Ali Khamenei's death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic. As per Al Jazeera, Mojtaba Khamenei will skip the six days of funeral ceremonies for his father now underway in Tehran, citing security concerns amid continued Israeli threats to assassinate him.

Iranian officials hail national unity

Meanwhile, Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, in a post on X today, said the people of Iran had united to pay tribute to the late leader. "Today, the proud and invincible nation of Islamic Iran unanimously testified in favour of their martyred Mujahid Imam: 'O Allah, we know nothing from him except good,'" Ghalibaf wrote in his post. He added that the mourners then chanted in unison, "And he stood up in unison and shouted from the depths of his soul: 'O the martyrs of Al-Hussain (peace be upon him)'!"

The funeral prayers drew large crowds, with authorities describing the gathering as a demonstration of solidarity and commitment to the country's leadership and ideals. (ANI)

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Pune murder: Ketan Agarwal's grandfather dies, family seeks death penalty

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:32 +0530

Victim's Grandfather Dies of Shock, Family Demands Death Penalty

The family of Ketan Agarwal, who died after falling from Lohagad Fort near Pune on June 18, on Sunday sought the strictest punishment for the accused after the victim's grandfather, Devichand Agarwal, passed away, with family members saying he was unable to recover from the shock of his grandson's death.

"My father was so devastated by the passing of my nephew, Ketan Vishal Agarwal, that he didn't tell anyone about it for 13 days, not until all the funeral rites were completed. His health deteriorated rapidly after that, and he passed away last night at 9:45 PM," Kuldeep Agarwal, Ketan's uncle, said.

"The shock of this incident was so profound, beyond anything we could imagine. We lost two family members within a span of 17 days. My only prayer, and it was also my father's wish, is that the government and the Chief Minister ensure the perpetrators receive the strictest punishment, specifically the death penalty by hanging...so that his soul may find peace," he added.

According to the family, Devichand Agarwal was 71 years old and had been unwell since the death of his grandson. They said he died due to cardiac arrest.

Police Investigation Progresses

Meanwhile, Ketan Agarwal died after falling from Lohagad Fort near Pune on June 18, following which a case was registered. Lonavala Rural Police suspect that the prime accused, Siya Goyal, who was engaged to Agarwal, was unwilling to marry at this stage of her life and was allegedly under family pressure to go ahead with the marriage.

On Thursday, Pune Rural Police took accused Siya Goyal to an open ground in the Lullanagar area of Pune City, where she and co-accused Chetan Chaudhary had allegedly rehearsed the plan to push Ketan Agarwal from Lohagad Fort.

The police also recovered from the residence of Siya Goyal her clothes that she had worn on the day of the incident.

Meanwhile, accused Siya Goyal's father, Praveen Goyal, said that the police did not ask him anything when they visited their house today. He added that the officials remained at the residence for 30-45 minutes. "The police had come to the house today, but I did not meet anyone. They did their work and were here for around 30-45 minutes. The doctor has advised me to rest. My health is down. I do not want to speak about this case. I do not have the strength for it. The police did not ask me anything," he said.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Pune Police took accused Chetan Chaudhary to Lohagad Fort near Pune to recreate the crime scene in the Ketan Agarwal murder case, using a dummy matching the victim's weight to reconstruct how the incident allegedly unfolded. (ANI)

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Subhash Bridge dismantling progresses; 5 more spans demolished safely

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:31 +0530

Another significant phase in the dismantling of Subhash Bridge in Ahmedabad has been completed, with five additional spans on the river side and the Shahibaug side of the bridge being safely demolished as part of the ongoing exercise as per the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation.

According to the corporation, the demolition work was carried out by the contractor under the continuous supervision of experts to ensure the operation was executed in a planned and secure manner.

The constant monitoring was maintained throughout the demolition process, while all prescribed safety standards and protocols were strictly adhered to during the operation.

The latest phase marks further progress in the ongoing dismantling of the bridge, with the demolition of five spans completed without any reported safety-related issues. The operation was closely overseen by experts at the site, with continuous monitoring undertaken to ensure compliance with established safety procedures during every stage of the work.

Bridge History and Demolition Decision

Constructed in 1973, the 453-metre-long structure was urgently closed on December 4, 2025, after significant settlement was detected near Pillar No 9. Following extensive inspections by experts from SVNIT, IIT Roorkee, and IIT Bombay, revealing serious cracks within the pillars, the authorities rolled back from an initial Rs 236-crore repair plan to a complete teardown of the 1973 bridge.

The Gujarat State government initially approved a Rs 236-crore project to restore the bridge and construct two parallel two-lane structures.

The first phase of the dismantling of the old Subhash Bridge in Ahmedabad took place on July 1. On that day, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) successfully and safely dismantled three dilapidated spans of the 53-year-old structure into the Sabarmati riverbed under controlled engineering supervision.

The city is aiming to move forward with more planned and modern replacements.

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AI leaders focus on augmentation over replacement of workforce: Report

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:28 +0530

Artificial intelligence (AI) leaders are using the technology to strengthen the capabilities of skilled employees rather than replace them, according to NTT DATA's "2026 Global AI Report: A Playbook for AI Leaders", which says the primary workforce goal among top-performing organisations is "augmentation, not replacement".

Expert-First AI: Augmentation Over Replacement

The report identifies "Expert-first AI" as one of the defining characteristics of AI leaders, saying, "these front-runners use AI to amplify the impact of experienced, highly skilled employees rather than to replace them."

According to the global AI report, "AI leaders' primary workforce goal is augmentation, not replacement. They want skilled, AI-savvy employees with institutional knowledge and a deep understanding of the business to focus on higher-value work, with targeted reskilling where needed."

The report added that the rapid evolution of AI is reshaping the nature of work, particularly with the rise of agentic AI. It said, "Every technology revolution is also a human one. AI is no different in this regard, but it's progressing a lot faster. Where previous transformations have advanced over decades, this one is unfolding in years."

Agentic AI and the Future Workplace

On the changing workplace, the report said, "Agentic AI, in particular, is redefining human work. Instead of job descriptions, organisations will define roles in terms of decision loops: data intake, interpretation, action and evaluation. Some loops will be fully automated; others will remain hybrid, with human oversight."

It further said, "As a result, the workforce of the future will comprise collaborative ecosystems where humans define purpose and parameters while agents execute and optimise."

The Structure of AI-Native Enterprises

The report further said, "One of the most striking features is how AI leaders are structured. They increasingly operate as AI-native enterprises where workflows are redesigned, governance is centralised, infrastructure is secure and scalable, and expert talent is empowered, not displaced." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Henderson jokes about Viagra rumours as England tackle Mexico altitude

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:27 +0530

England's midfielder Jordan Henderson shrugged off the rumours that his side were using Viagra to cope with the high altitude in Mexico City ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup clash against Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca stadium here.

England Focused on Acclimatisation

England have been focused on acclimatising to the demanding conditions at nearly 2,000 metres above sea level ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup clash with Mexico. While the midfielder dismissed the speculation with humour, both he and England head coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledged that the altitude in Mexico City has posed a genuine physical challenge for the squad as they prepare for the last-16 encounter.

Tuchel and Henderson Brush Aside Rumours

Tuchel and Henderson brushed aside online rumours that England could use Viagra to counter the effects of the high altitude in Mexico City. "The information to support it (Viagra rumours) didn't reach me, so that's not true," Tuchel told reporters as per Goal.com. "Well, the Viagra helped, I think... I'm joking! It was a joke," Henderson joked.

"You can feel it a little bit, you can feel something. I felt it a little bit, even when you just land and you come to the hotel, and you're just walking around, you can feel something. And then today, in training, for me personally, I felt that maybe in the first 10-15 minutes and then once training got going, I stopped thinking about it so much and just concentrated on training," Henderson added.

WADA Stance and Azteca Challenge

According to Goal.com, the medication is not banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), prompting reports that it could be used as a performance aid. England face a tough Mexico side with a dominant home record, and a high altitude disadvantage at the iconic Azteca during the round of 16 clash on July 6. (ANI)

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FIFA WC 2026: Portugal land in Dallas for R16 clash against Spain

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:30:24 +0530

The Portugal team has touched down in Dallas ahead of their clash against Spain in their round of 16 match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Sunday (local time).

Path to the Round of 16

Spain booked their place in the round of 16 with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Austria, inspired by a brace from Mikel Oyarzabal and a towering header from Pedro Porro.

Portugal, meanwhile, were made to work much harder in their previous outing, edging past Croatia 2-1 in a hard-fought contest.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Portugal (@portugal) Ivan Perisic gave Croatia an early lead before Cristiano Ronaldo converted a penalty to level the scores, with Portugal going on to seal victory and progress to the next round.

Head-to-Head History

Six of the last seven meetings between Portugal and Spain have ended in draws. Their most recent encounter, the 2025 UEFA Nations League Final, also finished 2-2 before Spain triumphed in a dramatic penalty shootout, as per Goal.com.

Clash of Generations

The 2010 champions, Spain, who have not conceded in any of their FIFA WC 2026 games so far, will face a tough test against Cristiano's men, who are still searching for that perfect all-round game, especially against big sides.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Rs 22 Lakh Bill After Teen's Death? Ranchi Hospital Investigation Sparks Anger

Gargi Chaudhry — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:25:08 +0530

The alleged medical negligence case involving the death of an 18 year old patient at a private hospital in Ranchi has taken a new turn after Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren ordered an investigation into the matter. A four-person investigative group conducted a thorough examination of the facility at his request. The investigation was started when the family of Raju Kumar Ranjan, a native of the Latehar region of Jharkhand, claimed that he passed away as a result of carelessness while receiving treatment for a fractured leg. Ranjan was sent to the hospital over a month ago after suffering injuries in a car accident, according to his relatives.

According to the family, they asked the hospital to let him stay longer for post-operative treatment and stitch removal rather than discharge him following surgery. They said that he contracted a dangerous illness at this time, which spread throughout his body and ultimately caused his death on July 1.

Additionally, despite the teen's death, the family has accused the hospital of charging close to Rs 22 lakh for the treatment. Despite not being independently verified, these claims have caused a great deal of uproar on social media.

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यह रांची के राज हॉस्पिटल की वो भयावह तस्वीर है जो देश की लचर स्वास्थ्य व्यवस्था को नंगा करती है।आरोप है कि मामूली फ्रैक्चर के बाद 2-3 दिन तक ड्रेसिंग नहीं की गई, इंफेक्शन पूरे शरीर में फैलाकर मरीज को ICU में मार डाला गया!निजीकरण का मंत्र जपने वाले देखें कि कैसे इलाज के नाम… pic.twitter.com/4iQkKXAsup

— Hemendra Tripathi (@hemendra_tri) July 4, 2026

Chief Minister Hemant Soren took notice of the matter and instructed Ranchi Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri to carry out a comprehensive investigation and take severe measures if any misconduct was discovered.

“Take immediate cognisance and conduct a full investigation of the matter. Upon finding the guilty, ensure strict action against all culprits and inform accordingly,” the chief minister said in a post on X. Dr. Prabhat Kumar, the Ranchi Civil Surgeon, confirmed the inspection and stated that the investigation team had concluded its visit and was compiling its findings.

Meanwhile, Jharkhand Health Minister Irfan Ansari has directed Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Ajoy Kumar to constitute a separate high level inquiry committee to ensure a fair and time bound investigation.

10 Pakistan Captaincy Changes in 20 Months: Babar Azam's Return as Test Skipper Adds Another Twist

Hrishikesh Damodar — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:13:40 +0530

Pakistan star batter Babar Azam has returned to helm as a Test captain for the upcoming away red-ball series against West Indies and England. Pakistan will play a two-match Test series against the West Indies, starting on July 25, before touring England for a three-match series from August 19 to September 13.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) selection committee decided to reinstate Babar Azam as a Test captain after sacking Shan Masood from the role following a period of persistent underperformance. Under Masood’s captaincy, Pakistan lost 12 matches in 16 Test outings, including the 0-2 whitewash at the hands of Bangladesh, resulting in a win percentage of just 25%.

Before the official announcement, it was already reported that Babar Azam would return as Pakistan’s Test captain, given the team’s desperate need for stability and experience following a string of historic defeats. As Pakistan languishes at the bottom of the WTC 2025-27 points table with a PCT of just 8.33%, the PCB has clearly opted for a ‘safe pair of hands’ to salvage their campaign.

Also Read: BCCI's Rajiv Shukla praises youngest debutant Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

What Led to Shan Masood’s Removal as Test Captain?

As the team of selectors announced the squads for the upcoming Test series against England and West Indies, Aaqib Javed, Pakistan’s high-performance director and a key member of the selection committee, addressed the decision to remove Shan Masood. He cited the combination of recurring tactical failures and an inability to close out matches as the primary drivers for the leadership change

“The captain has a responsibility to finish games. Same with the South Africa Tests at home. Some things are the responsibility of the team, some are the responsibility of the selectors, and some are the responsibility of the captain. The captain's responsibility also includes maintaining the team's over rate, taking DRS decisions, and making the right call at the toss." Masood said.

“Shan's own performance during his tenure has been good, but as captain, he has not been able to bring the desired results. We wanted to look for a captain who comes in and leads the team better,” he added.

BREAKING NEWS: Babar Azam is back as Pakistan's Test captain pic.twitter.com/cCM6OL06bK

— Cricinfo (@cricinfo) July 5, 2026

Shan Masood’s Test captaincy tenure began with a challenging tour of Australia in late 2023, where, despite some gritty individual batting displays, the team ultimately failed to secure a win.

Throughout his 16-match leadership stint, Masood struggled to instill a consistent winning culture, and while he was often praised for his communication and tactical intent, the final scoreboards, including the series defeat against Australia, Bangladesh (twice), and England, made his position increasingly untenable as the PCB sought a fresh start under Babar Azam.

10 Pakistan Captaincy Changes in 20 Months

Babar Azam’s reinstatement as Pakistan’s Test captain has marked the 10th major leadership transition for the Pakistan cricket team since November 2023. Over the last 20 months, Pakistan Cricket has witnessed a carousel of leadership shifts across all three formats, moving through Babar, Shan Masood, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha in a frantic effort to restore form.

After Babar Azam stepped down from captaincy duties following Pakistan’s exit from the ODI World Cup 2023, there has been persistent instability. The board has cycled through multiple captains across formats in a series of reactionary moves, leading to significant criticism from fans and experts regarding the lack of long-term vision.

The last time Pakistan made a captaincy change was in October 2025, when the PCB selection committee removed Mohammad Rizwan as ODI captain and reappointed pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi to lead the 50-over side. The decision came ahead of the home ODI series against South Africa and was part of a broader shake-up aimed at resurrecting Pakistan's white-ball setup following a disappointing Champions Trophy 2025 campaign and an ODI series defeat to the West Indies.

Babar Azam returned as captain for the T20 World Cup in 2024, but the campaign ended in disappointment after the team failed to progress beyond the group stage following a shock Super Over defeat to the USA and a loss to arch-rivals India. Following that early exit, Babar stepped back from captaincy duties, and since then, he hasn’t led the side in any format until his reinstatement as Test skipper.

From October 2024, with Babar’s resignation as a white-ball captain, to July 2026, the team has navigated a complex path of leadership appointments including Mohammad Rizwan (ODI/T20I), Salman Ali Agha (T20I), and Shaheen Shah Afridi (ODI), reflecting the board's ongoing, often turbulent search for a stable long-term leader.

Also Read: Viral: Rahmanullah Gurbaz's Cap Stolen Mid-Match by Pitch Invader in Hilarious Security Breach (WATCH)

Backing Mediocrity or Seeking Stability? The Debate Over Babar’s Return as Test Captain

The endless cycle of captaincy changes with the reappointment of Babar Azam as Test captain ahead of the series against West Indies and England has left the fans and cricket enthusiasts on social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), deeply divided.

Taking to their X handles, fans and cricket enthusiasts shared contrasting reactions. While a section welcomed Babar Azam's return, believing Pakistan had no better option to lead the Test side, many mocked the PCB's repeated captaincy reshuffles, likening them to a ‘musical chairs’ game.

Others questioned the board's long-term vision, criticised its handling of leadership changes, and argued that the constant chopping and changing reflected instability rather than a clear roadmap for Pakistan cricket.

Pakistan cricket is not a cricket tea it is captain seat game

— Mayank Rai (@rai_mayank47160) July 5, 2026

Only in Pakistan cricket can history repeat itself this quickly.

— cricket_update (@Abhishek850977) July 5, 2026

What type of country is Pakistan? They just rip of captaincy after loss and give it again. After sometime. Does they have any morals or they just want to make Pakistan cricket a joke,

— Cricket Express (@OwaisMir1321617) July 5, 2026

Looks like Babar’s GPS got fixed, now he’s back on the captain’s road, guess the board finally realized you can’t captain a test without a test of patience.

— Muhammad Noman (@noman74224) July 5, 2026

Pakistan have no better option. Unfortunately Pakistan has to choose from the left overs. Sad

— Irfan Duberia (@irfanduberia) July 5, 2026

That's the only way he can reserve his place in the team

— Prof Nothing (@ProfNothingg) July 5, 2026

The only thing I enjoy about Pakistan cricket is their endless game of musical chairs with captains and coaches. They always come back to Boobzy with the mindset of King kar lega, but their so called King is just as incompetent as everyone else.

— Sarp (@Sarpp89) July 5, 2026

Captaincy is like a Musical Chair in Pakistan Cricket . There are questions over Babar Azam's Place in Test Cricket and he is now the captain. Pakistan cricket backs mediocrity

— Shivansh rajpal (@RajpalShiv46534) July 5, 2026

Pakistan has rotation policy I think, they will keep rotating their captains and that's why babar got her position back

— Shravan Hari (@shravanhari2301) July 5, 2026

Same old Pakistan cricket, not moving on from proven failures is why we are going backwards instead of forward but I could care less, I’ve lost interest in cricket because of this management

— AK (@TheCaptainHalal) July 5, 2026

The @TheRealPCB has a pool of just 20–25 people from which thy keep choosing the coach, players, and captain. These people have no idea how to run cricket, and that's exactly why their cricket is in such poor shape

— Sir Jolly Jargon (@JargonJolly) July 5, 2026

Returning as a Test captain after nearly three years, Babar Azam has an arduous task in hand. With Pakistan currently sitting at the bottom of the World Test Championship table, the upcoming away red-ball series against West Indies and England will serve as a definitive test of whether this leadership change can spark a much-needed revival.

Babar Azam led Pakistan in 20 Tests, out of which it won 10, lost 6, and drew 4, with a win percentage of 50%, making him Pakistan's third-most successful Test captain after Waqar Younis (58.82) and Saleem Malik (58.33).

WATCH: 7-Year-Old Secretly Books Ride At 1 AM For Tea, Driver's Response Melts Hearts; Video Goes Viral

Gargi Chaudhry — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:10:15 +0530

A late-night Rapido pickup resulted in an amusing conversation when the driver realised that he had a passenger who was not an adult, but a seven-year-old child with an unusual appetite. An intriguing development ensued. Social media users have been laughing at the now-viral video and applauding the rider for managing the situation appropriately rather than finishing the journey.

The video begins with the Rapido rider calling the customer after reaching the pickup location near a Union Bank ATM. After arriving at the pickup spot next to a Union Bank ATM, the Rapido rider calls the client at the start of the film. Trying to find the passenger, the rider asks for a nearby landmark. But instead of explaining where he is, the boy says that two dogs are barking close by.

As the chat proceeds, the rider asks whether the passenger is new to the region. He is shocked when the youngster responds, "I am seven years old." The rider is shocked and questions right away why a seven-year-old made such a late-night Rapido trip reservation.

The child's answer leaves the rider speechless. "I just want to go drink tea," the boy says. After the rider asks where the parents are, the child responds coolly and says that they are sleeping and have no idea that he has reserved for the ride.

No matter how many times the youngster pleads him to hurry, the rider refuses to continue on this journey. Rather, he instructs the boy to wake up his parents and informs him that he would not take him up in this circumstance.

Even after calling him “stupid,” the rider keeps calm and reasons out why he can’t do so. He points out that the boy is only seven years old, cannot even explain his location properly and is trying to travel alone at nearly 1 am.

Watch Viral Video

A kid secretly booked a Rapido at night in Lucknow. Rider called him to ask for his location. KID: I don’t know any nearby landmarks. I’m 7 years old.RIDER: 7 years old? Then why did you book a Rapido at night?KID: I wanted to drink tea. My father is sleeping RIDER:… pic.twitter.com/Ohd473VJIP

— Lakshay Mehta (@lakshaymehta08) July 4, 2026

The rider ultimately cancels the booking, saying he would not take responsibility for transporting an unaccompanied child without the knowledge of his parents.

Many people who watched the video expressed gratitude to the rider for prioritising the child's safety over finishing the trip. While numerous people found the exchange humorous, others believed the rider made the only appropriate option by refusing to pick up the youngster in the middle of the night.

BCCI's Rajiv Shukla praises youngest debutant Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:00:37 +0530

BCCI Backs Youngest Debutant Sooryavanshi

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice president Rajiv Shukla on Sunday congratulated Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on becoming India's youngest international cricketer. Shukla said BCCI gives opportunities based on merit, rejecting social media claims that Sooryavanshi was being unfairly overlooked. He also stressed that he had expected Sooryavanshi to get his chance at the right time and expressed confidence that the youngster would perform well and establish himself in the future.

Sooryavanshi became the youngest player to represent India at 15 years and 99 days across formats, as well as the youngest debutant from a Test-playing nation in T20I history after he was included in India's playing 11 for the second T20I against England in Manchester on Saturday.

"Huge congratulations to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on his debut and for receiving this opportunity. The BCCI does not treat anyone unfairly; those who deserve it get their chance. There was a lot of uproar on social media claiming that opportunities weren't being given; people were criticising both the coach and the captain. But that wasn't the case. I had said just the other day that when the right moment arrived, he would certainly get his chance, and yesterday, he did. I believe he will perform well in the future and truly come into his own. It is an excellent decision by the team management, and we should appreciate it," Shukla told ANI.

Sooryavanshi made an entertaining start to his international career, smashing 14 off 10 balls with two sixes before being stumped off Will Jacks. Sooryavanshi also broke the long-standing record held by Sachin Tendulkar (Test debut at 16 years 205 days; ODI at 16 years 238 days) and Piyush Chawla (Test debut at 17 years 75 days).

England Clinch Thriller To Go 1-0 Up

Coming to the second T20, India opted to bat first, and Abhishek Sharma (43 in 24 balls, with eight fours and a six) and Shreyas Iyer (37 in 22 balls, with three fours and a six) played decent knocks. Ishan Kishan (49 in 40 balls, with six fours) put up 65 runs for the third wicket with Iyer. Following that, India collapsed from 130/2 to 165/6. Tilak Varma (24* in 11 balls, with a four and two sixes) played a quickfire cameo to take India to 190/7 in 20 overs. Sam Curran (3/33) was England's best bowler.

In the chase, England lost both their openers, Phil Salt and Jos Buttler, for ducks, their first time ever in T20Is. However, England made a solid enough recovery courtesy of a quickfire knock from skipper Harry Brook (39 in 15 balls, with four boundaries and three sixes), who put on a fifty-run stand with Jacob Bethell.

Bethell put in a 67-run stand for the fourth wicket with Tom Banton (39 in 32 balls, with six fours) before Banton and Will Jacks' wickets reduced England to 133/5 in 15.2 overs. Bethell (76* in 46 balls, with five fours and five sixes) changed the course of the game by upping the gears in slog overs, ending the chase in 19 overs with Jofra Archer (10*). England takes a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, with three matches left for India to make an impact. The first T20I ended in a washout. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Revanth Reddy writes to Union Ministers on Hyderabad Metro Rail plans

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:00:35 +0530

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has written to Union Ministers G Kishan Reddy and Manohar Lal Khattar, following up on discussions held on June 23 and 24 regarding the approval of Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-II and the takeover of Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-I by the Government of Telangana.

Details of Agreed Action Plan

In his letters, the Chief Minister referred to discussions held with the Railway Minister on June 23 and the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister on June 24, in the presence of G Kishan Reddy, on the two inter-linked matters.

In the letter, Reddy said, it was agreed during the discussions that SBI Capital Markets Limited (SBI CAPS), an agency empanelled by the Government of India for such assignments, would be entrusted with the valuation and financial examination of Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-I to facilitate its takeover by the Government of Telangana.

The Chief Minister said SBI CAPS would also examine possible options for refinancing the existing high-cost debt of Phase-I.

He added that since Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-II would involve raising substantial debt, it would be appropriate for the same agency to examine the financing structure for Phase-II, including suitable long-term debt options and funding arrangements.

"As Phase-II will also involve raising substantial debt, it would be appropriate for the same agency to examine the financing structure for Phase-II, including suitable long-term debt options and funding arrangement," the letter stated.

Reddy said the Terms of Reference could be drafted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in a manner that comprehensively covers valuation, refinancing and future debt-raising requirements for both phases.

He also informed the Union Ministers that the Government of Telangana had nominated the Special Chief Secretary, MA&UD Department, as the nodal officer for coordinating the exercise.

Concern Over Delays and Potential Cost Overruns

The Chief Minister further noted that it had been agreed that SBI CAPS would be entrusted with the assignment immediately so that the integrated exercise relating to the Phase-I takeover and Phase-II expansion could commence without delay.

However, expressing concern over the progress made since the discussions, Revanth Reddy said SBI CAPS had not yet been entrusted with the assignment, and the Terms of Reference had not been finalised or communicated to the Government of Telangana.

"The prolonged process for takeover of Phase-I is creating operational uncertainty and day-to-day challenges for the project. At the same time, the delay is also affecting the sanction of the Phase-II DPRs and the tying up of suitable funding arrangements. This is postponing project implementation and is likely to increase the cost of Phase-II due to avoidable time overrun and escalation," the Chief Minister wrote.

CM Urges Ministers' Intervention to Expedite Process

Describing Hyderabad Metro Rail Phase-II as being of "immense importance" to the future growth and mobility needs of Hyderabad, Revanth Reddy requested the Union Ministers to personally intervene with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Ministry of Railways to ensure that the assignment to SBI CAPS is entrusted at the earliest and that the Terms of Reference are finalised and communicated to the Government of Telangana.

"This will enable the decisions taken during the discussions to be implemented expeditiously, bring the Phase-I takeover process to its logical conclusion, and allow the Phase-II expansion to proceed without further delay," the letter added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Chirag Paswan's LJP (Ram Vilas) to contest Uttar Pradesh assembly polls

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:00:22 +0530

LJP (Ram Vilas) to Contest UP Assembly Polls

Union Minister Chirag Paswan on Sunday said that his party - Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) - intends to contest the forthcoming assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh. He said that the party's state unit will take a decision on forming alliances and seat-sharing. "Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) intends to contest elections in Uttar Pradesh. The nature of the alliance, its form, and the number of seats on which we will contest will be decided by the state unit. The final approval will be given by the central parliamentary board," Paswan told reporters.

"In the coming days, the party is moving forward with the vision of expansion. We are working to strengthen the organisation across the country. With the same vision, the party aims to strengthen its organisation in Uttar Pradesh as well," he added.

Ram Vilas Paswan's Birth Anniversary in Lucknow

Moreover, Paswan informed that his party has decided to observe the birth anniversary celebration of the party's founder and his father, Ram Vilas Paswan, this year in Lucknow. Speaking to reporters here, he said, "Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) has taken this decision that the birth anniversary celebration of our party's founder, my father Ram Vilas Paswan, will be observed this year in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh."

Ram Vilas Paswan passed away in October 2020 following an illness, and after undergoing heart surgery in a Delhi hospital. He was the Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution in the Narendra Modi government. He was also a minister in the previous NDA government. Ram Vilas Paswan was first elected to the Lok Sabha in 1977 on a Janata Party ticket from Hajipur in Bihar.

Paswan Pushes for Industry Reforms

Chirag Paswan further invited industry stakeholders to regularly share suggestions to help shape reforms in the food processing sector, saying the government is on a "Reform Express" and is replacing outdated systems with a new framework. "Our government is on the Reform Express. We are replacing the old system with a new system. In such a situation, I want the industry to keep giving suggestions at regular intervals on the reforms that are needed," Paswan said on the sidelines of the Indian Healthy Snacking Summit.

GST Reforms as an Example

The Union Minister said the government has remained responsive to concerns raised by the industry and cited reforms in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime as an example.

"When I became a minister, one of the biggest concerns before me was regarding GST. I am happy that GST reforms have taken place and for most products the GST has been brought down to 5 per cent or even zero," he said.

Addressing Obesity at Healthy Snacking Summit

Paswan said the Summit was organised to create greater awareness about healthy eating habits and address the growing concern of obesity.

"I believe this is an event that our country and society need today. Obesity is a concern, and, at the same time, there should be greater availability of healthy options in the market," he said. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Lower oil prices offer relief to RBI, Asian banks: StanChart report

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:00:21 +0530

Lower crude oil prices are giving the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other Asian central banks greater room to support economic growth as easing energy inflation "reduces balance-of-payments pressures," according to Standard Chartered's latest report. The global bank said the recent decline in oil prices is likely to provide "disinflationary relief" across much of Asia, particularly for economies that rely heavily on imported energy, including India.

"Lower oil prices offer disinflationary relief for monetary policies, but unevenly across Asia. Regional risk assets and local-currency (LCY) bonds are supported," the report said.

Benefits for Net Energy Importers

Explaining the rationale, Standard Chartered said most Asian economies are net energy importers, meaning lower crude prices reduce inflationary pressures and improve policymakers' ability to prioritise economic growth. "Lower oil prices offer disinflationary relief for Asian central banks because most of these economies are net energy importers, " the report said. It added that "in heavy energy import-reliant economies, such as India, Thailand and the Philippines, easing energy inflation reduces balance-of-payments pressures, allowing their central banks to focus on growth."

Uneven Impact Across Asia

However, the report noted that the benefits will not be evenly distributed across the region, as inflation dynamics differ across economies. According to Standard Chartered, "The relief will be uneven across Asia, and we expect regional monetary policies to remain divergent." While energy-importing countries such as India stand to gain from lower oil prices, economies including South Korea and Singapore continue to face demand-driven inflation linked to the artificial intelligence boom, suggesting their central banks may keep interest rates higher for longer.

Support for Financial Markets

The report also said lower energy prices are supportive of regional financial markets. "We view lower energy prices as supportive of Asian risk assets and LCY bonds," it said.

Weather-Related Risks and Inflationary Pressures

Despite the constructive outlook, Standard Chartered cautioned that weather-related risks could reverse some of the gains from lower oil prices. "A growing reflation tail risk for Asia is the potential formation of a 'Super El Nino,'" which it estimates has a 63 per cent probability of occurring in the fourth quarter. It said extreme heat and drought could disrupt agricultural output, while increased demand for air-cooling could push energy prices higher again, reviving inflationary pressures across the region. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Uttarakhand CM Dhami launches second phase of 'Jan Jan Ke Dwar'

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:00:19 +0530

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday said the state government has launched the second phase of the 'Jan Jan Ki Sarkar, Jan Jan Ke Dwar' programme after the first phase was widely appreciated by the public, adding that officials across departments have been directed to work with complete dedication to deliver government services and resolve people's grievances at their doorsteps.

Speaking to reporters about the initiative, Dhami said the first phase of the programme was conducted over a period of 45 days, during which officials from various administrative departments visited citizens in their localities to provide government services and address day-to-day issues.

Success of the First Phase

"The first phase of the 'Jan-Jan ki Sarkar, Jan-Jan ke Dwar' initiative ran for 45 days. During that time, various administrative departments visited people near their homes to address needs such as issuing certificates, handling minor electrical or road-related works, managing hospital-related matters, or facilitating access to beneficiary schemes, including processing pensions or including those who had previously been left out," the Chief Minister said.

Second Phase Launched Amid Public Appreciation

Highlighting the response to the initiative, Dhami said people had welcomed the programme, prompting the government to extend it through a second phase. "The public greatly appreciated this effort. Consequently, we have launched a second phase, running from the 4th to approximately the 19th. Instructions have been issued to all officers and staff to work with complete dedication, assisting the public and resolving their issues..." he said.

The Chief Minister said the programme is aimed at ensuring government services reach people at their doorsteps, reducing the need for them to visit government offices for routine administrative work and welfare-related assistance. CM Dhami added that officials from multiple departments are addressing issues related to certificates, minor infrastructure works, healthcare services, pensions and the inclusion of eligible beneficiaries under various government welfare schemes during the outreach campaign. The second phase of the 'Jan Jan Ki Sarkar, Jan Jan Ke Dwar' programme began on July 4 and will continue till around July 19, with district officials instructed to ensure prompt delivery of services and effective grievance redressal across the state.

CM Dhami Marks Five Years in Office

On Saturday, Governor Lieutenant General Gurmeet Singh and Chief Minister Dhami participated in the inauguration of 'Seva Saptah' under the "Seva, Sushasan evam Samarpan - Jan Jan Ki Sarkar, Jan Jan Ke Dwar Seva Pakhwada" programme at the IDPL Ground in Rishikesh, marking the Chief Minister's completion of five years in office. Dhami was first sworn in as the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand on July 4, 2021. Following the 2022 Assembly elections, he assumed office for a second consecutive term. After former Chief Minister Narayan Dutt Tiwari, Dhami has become the first BJP Chief Minister to complete five years in office in the state. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Out of Control Car Runs Over Two Women in Gujarat's Lunawada, Driver Flees After Crash (WATCH)

Divya Danu — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:14:11 +0530

A disturbing and shocking hit-and-run incident has come to light from Gujarat's Mahisagar district, where a speeding car knocked down two women walking along a residential road before the driver fled the scene. The accident took place in Usmani Nagar Society near Mustafa Masjid in Lunawada town. CCTV footage of the incident has surfaced online, showing the terrifying moment the out-of-control car struck the women from behind without any warning.

Women Thrown Into the Air by Impact

The footage shows the two women walking along the side of the road when the speeding vehicle suddenly approaches from behind. Within seconds, the car crashes into them with such force that both are thrown several feet into the air before landing heavily on the road.

The incident left residents in shock, with many rushing out after hearing the loud impact.

A shocking hit-and-run caught on CCTV in Usmaniya Nagar, Lunawada (Gujarat) shows a speeding car ramming into two women from behind.Both victims sustained severe injuries and are hospitalized. pic.twitter.com/p8ruXRZGxi

— Brief News (@BriefNewsIndia) July 4, 2026

Centre's Stern Notice to Meta Over Alleged Child Abuse Ads on Instagram

Driver Flees, Leaving Victims Behind

Instead of stopping to help the injured women, the driver allegedly abandoned the car at the spot and fled.

Local residents immediately came to the victims' rescue and shifted them to a nearby hospital for treatment. Police said one of the women suffered serious injuries, while the other sustained minor injuries. Both are receiving medical care, according to India Today report.

બે મહિલાને અડફેટેલઈ કારચાલક ફરાર#gstvshorts #mahisagar #RoadAccident #CCTVFootage #HitAndRun #GujaratNews #BreakingNews #RoadSafety #TrafficRules #AccidentNews #gstvnews #trendingtopic pic.twitter.com/kTOE26KYTH

— GSTV (@GSTV_NEWS) July 5, 2026

Maharashtra Court Clears Man of Rape Charges, Cites Woman's Continued Relationship

Police Launch Search for Accused

Police reached the scene soon after being informed about the crash and seized the abandoned vehicle. Officers have started examining CCTV footage and collecting other evidence to identify the driver.

Investigators are also verifying the vehicle's ownership and tracking the movements of the accused after he fled the scene.

Police reportedly said that efforts were ongoing to trace and arrest the absconding driver. Legal action will be taken once he is caught. The incident has once again raised concerns over reckless driving on residential roads, with locals demanding strict action against motorists who speed through populated areas and endanger innocent pedestrians.

Maharashtra Court Clears Man of Rape Charges, Cites Woman's Continued Relationship

Inside Dia Mirza's Eco-Friendly Mumbai Home Bought at Just 20; Check Whopping Price Here

Amrita Ghosh — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:31:55 +0530

Dia Mirza's Mumbai home is more than luxury residence—it's reflection of her journey, independence, love for nature. Bought at the age of 20, the eco-friendly home beautifully combines vintage aesthetics, lush greenery, and cherished family memories

Haryana CM Saini pays tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee's legacy

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:30:27 +0530

CM Saini Hails Mookerjee's Vision for National Integration

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday paid floral tributes to the founder of Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, at 'Ekta Sthal' in Madhopur on the occasion of his birth anniversary. Addressing a programme organised to mark the day, Chief Minister Saini hailed Dr Mookerjee's contribution to national integration, particularly his stance on Jammu and Kashmir. "Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee said that there cannot be two supreme leaders, two legislatures, and two constitutions in the country. This was not merely a slogan but the very foundation of the nation's system. He rejected power and position, placing the nation above all," the Chief Minister said.

Speaking to reporters, CM Saini further emphasised that Dr. Mookerjee's vision was centred around the idea of a "United India." "He was a great personality who envisioned an undivided India. Today marks the 125th birth anniversary of such a great personality, and we are all remembering him and his sacrifices for the unity and integrity of the country," Saini added.

Life and Legacy of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee

Syama Prasad Mookerjee was the founder of Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the ideological parent organisation of the BJP. Born on July 6, 1901, in Calcutta, he was a multifaceted personality, a patriot, an educationist, a parliamentarian, a statesman, and a humanitarian. He inherited a legacy of erudition and nationalism from his father, Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, an esteemed Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and Judge of the Calcutta High Court.

In 1940, he became the acting President of the Hindu Mahasabha and declared complete independence for India as its political goal.

Jan Sangh was the political predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the party marks Mookerjee's death anniversary as 'Balidan Diwas' following his demise in Kashmir on June 23, 1953. He founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh on October 21, 1951.

After independence, former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru inducted him into the Interim Central Government as a Minister for Industry and Supply. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Telangana: Azharuddin hands over 2BHK housing pattas in Hyderabad

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:30:26 +0530

Azharuddin Distributes 2BHK Housing Pattas

Telangana Minister Mohammad Azharuddin on Sunday presided over the distribution of 2BHK housing 'pattas' to beneficiaries in Hyderabad. The event saw the formal handover of allotment documents, reinforcing the government's commitment to providing dignified living conditions for economically disadvantaged sections.

Expressing his satisfaction with the project's rollout, Azharuddin credited the Chief Minister's leadership in driving the welfare scheme forward. He highlighted that the distribution process was designed to be deeply inclusive, ensuring that marginalised citizens were prioritised. "I am delighted that today we have handed over two-bedroom houses," said Minister Azharuddin, adding, "I would like to thank the CM for carrying this work forward. We have provided homes to many people here, including those with special needs and individuals with disabilities. We have recognised and addressed these special cases."

Govt to Construct 100,000 New Housing Units

Meanwhile, in a major push to bolster urban infrastructure and social welfare, Telangana Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar has announced the state government's ambitious roadmap to construct 100,000 housing units for the urban poor across Hyderabad. Speaking on the government's ongoing efforts to streamline the distribution of housing benefits, Minister Prabhakar highlighted the administration's focus on transparency and the resolution of long-standing administrative hurdles.

Speaking to ANI during a recent distribution event, the Minister emphasised that the government is moving beyond merely providing houses; it is focusing on sustainable urban development. "Under the leadership of the Hyderabad District Collector, we have handed over the necessary documents for projects that had been pending for years," stated Prabhakar, adding, "We have decided to construct 100,000 housing units for the poor in Hyderabad, creating homes where employment opportunities exist, and have identified land for this purpose." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Viral Video: Rajasthan Parlour Owner Thrashed With Slippers for 'Spiking' Water!

Indrakshi Samanta — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:13:23 +0530

A beauty parlour owner in Rajasthan's Churu district got beaten up by four of his female employees. They suspected he was spiking their drinking water and hit him 43 times with slippers. The women secretly recorded the owner's actions and handed the video over to the police along with a complaint. The owner, however, claims he only mixed Gangajal and yellow mustard in the water for religious purposes.

He spiked our drinking water

A video showing the women hitting the owner with slippers for 6 minutes has gone viral on social media. The employees filed a complaint with the police last Thursday, along with the video. In their complaint, they alleged that the owner tried to mix an intoxicating substance in their drinking water. The incident took place on June 29 at a beauty parlour in Sadulpur. The video, which recently went viral, shows the parlour owner mixing something in a water container. Immediately after, the women are seen confronting him and beating him with slippers.

Viral Video: Teacher Caught Eating Cucumbers, Student Kicked Out After Complaint!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vikram Solanki (@vikram.solanki.0002)

Not drugs, but Gangajal and mustard seeds

When the police questioned him, the owner said his business was running at a loss. He claimed he was mixing Gangajal and yellow mustard seeds in the water as a religious ritual to improve his fortunes. In their complaint, the women said they have been working at the parlour since March 2026. They said the owner, Bhavani Shankar Khatri, initially came only for accounting work. But later, he started entering the parlour without reason. The employees stated they suspected him of mixing something in their water on June 27 but had no proof. So, on June 29, they secretly recorded a video on a mobile phone. The video clearly shows him adding some substance to the water. When they questioned him, they ended up beating him with slippers. They then went to the police to demand an investigation.

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Investigation Demanded

The viral video shows the women hitting the owner, Bhavani Shankar. Reports say the four women went to the Rajgarh Police Station on Thursday to file their complaint. They have demanded a fair investigation and legal action against the accused. Police Station Officer Rajesh Sihag confirmed that the women have filed a complaint against the beauty parlour owner. He said the matter is being investigated. Meanwhile, the owner is sticking to his story. "My parlour was not doing well for a few days, so I kept yellow mustard seeds in the parlour and mixed Gangajal in the water," he reportedly said.

Kerala Lottery Samrudhi SM-62 Result Today (July 5): Rs 1 Crore Winner is MO 454496, Full Winners List Here, Claim Process

Richa Barua — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 14:53:27 +0530

Kerala State Lotteries Department is all prepared to hold the Samrudhi SM-62 weekly lottery draw today, July 5. The winners will get a chance to win the first prize of ₹1 crore plus some additional cash prizes. The draw will commence at 3 pm at Gorky Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram, and the actual winning numbers are scheduled to be announced later in the afternoon.

1 crore first prize cash and other cash rewards

The first reward of Rs 1 crore goes to the contestant with ticket number MO 454496. The winning bumper prize ticket was sold in Attingal by agent Mini George under Agency Number T 8965.

Ticket number MX 478816 sold at Palakkad has won the second prize of ₹ 25 lakhs. The winner is S Suresh of Agency Number P 2267.

Ticket number MU 817770 sold at Malappuram by Vilasini M, Agency Number M 4618 has won the third prize of ₹5 lakh. Below is the full list of winning numbers and live updates.

Also Read: Kerala Karunya KR-760 Lottery Result Today: Rs 1 Crore Winner Is KF342721, Full Winners List Here

Kerala Lottery Samrudhi SM-62 Prize Structure

The prize distribution for today's Samrudhi SM-62 lottery is as follows:

1st Prize: Rs. 1,00,00,000: MO 454496

Consolation Prize: Rs. 5,000: MN 454496, MP 454496, MR 454496, MS 454496, MT 454496, MU 454496, MV 454496, MW 454496, MX 454496, MY 454496, MZ 454496

2nd Prize: ₹25,00,000: MX 478816

3rd Prize: ₹5,00,000: MU 817770

4th Prize: ₹5,000: 2048, 2104, 2308, 2426, 2955, 6151, 6354, 6669, 6941, 7143, 7340, 7354, 7794, 8102, 8268, 8608, 8633, 9472, 9493

5th Prize: ₹2,000: 3493, 3504, 3922, 4525, 5503, 5775

6th Prize: ₹1,000: 0128, 0297, 0351, 0463, 0502, 0742, 0808, 0913, 0991, 1100, 1156, 1253, 1257, 1402, 1798, 1938, 1982, 2099, 2210, 2373, 2643, 3054, 3254, 3565, 3580, 3594, 3846, 4100, 4157, 4220, 4381, 4460, 4581, 5001, 5498, 5560, 5651, 5708, 5747, 5994, 6190, 6244, 6487, 6539, 6760, 6767, 6780, 6854, 6945, 6995, 7014, 7080, 7146, 7148, 7271, 7335, 7795, 7898, 8125, 8357, 8397, 8547, 8775, 8924, 8961, 8967, 8990, 9274, 9552, 9555, 9570, 9587, 9773, 9869, 9952, 9972

7th Prize: ₹500: 0128, 0297, 0351, 0463, 0502, 0742, 0808, 0913, 0991, 1100, 1156, 1253, 1257, 1402, 1798, 1938, 1982, 2099, 2210, 2373, 2643, 3054, 3254, 3565, 3580, 3594, 3846, 4100, 4157, 4220, 4381, 4460, 4581, 5001, 5498, 5560, 5651, 5708, 5747, 5994, 6190, 6244, 6487, 6539, 6760, 6767, 6780, 6854, 6945, 6995, 7014, 7080, 7146, 7148, 7271, 7335, 7795, 7898, 8125, 8357, 8397, 8547, 8775, 8924, 8961, 8967, 8990, 9274, 9552, 9555, 9570, 9587, 9773, 9869, 9952, 9972

8th Prize: ₹200: 0118, 0436, 0455, 0698, 0806, 0932, 0948, 1143, 1207, 1235, 1264, 1770, 1804, 1921, 2054, 2393, 2549, 2864, 2910, 3043, 3157, 3184, 3196, 3247, 3280, 3779, 3961, 4074, 4138, 4263, 4373, 4781, 4800, 5005, 5050, 5169, 5322, 5336, 5419, 5639, 5734, 5905, 6084, 6118, 6269, 6272, 6362, 6366, 6831, 7105, 7253, 7268, 7942, 8044, 8074, 8206, 8296, 8620, 8622, 8808, 8809, 9000, 9047, 9096, 9114, 9378, 9450, 9688

9th Prize: ₹100: 0255, 0276, 0327, 0446, 0554, 0775, 1040, 1129, 1183, 1290, 1324, 1338, 1350, 1409, 1423, 1435, 1501, 1508, 1513, 1521, 1555, 1652, 1810, 1907, 1926, 1960, 2284, 2353, 2407, 2415, 2456, 2504, 2554, 2571, 2662, 2776, 2906, 2914, 3146, 3170, 3186, 3288, 3309, 3508, 3520, 3628, 3639, 3670, 3675, 3711, 3736, 3792, 3871, 3907, 4079, 4103, 4125, 4364, 4475, 4537, 4565, 4596, 4623, 4676, 4869, 4877, 4894, 4918, 4921, 5127, 5170, 5311, 5319, 5393, 5403, 5408, 5453, 5477, 5579, 5673, 5679, 5700, 5729, 5798, 5858, 6007, 6049, 6137, 6334, 6457, 6482, 6494, 6541, 6634, 6705, 6857, 7078, 7086, 7096, 7111, 7193, 7198, 7209, 7263, 7278, 7486, 7487, 7509, 7759, 7818, 7864, 7922, 7938, 7955, 8005, 8108, 8128, 8158, 8216, 8400, 8441, 8536, 8562, 8625, 8675, 8740, 8748, 8912, 8921, 8923, 9057, 9112, 9131, 9166, 9168, 9218, 9232, 9441, 9467, 9483, 9676, 9706, 9776, 9786, 9794, 9808, 9814, 9909, 9974, 9979

When and Where to Expect Results

The lucky draw begins at 3pm and the list of winning ticket numbers is generally published between 4.30pm and 5pm. After the draw, ticket holders can check their numbers in the official Kerala Lottery result gazette or other approved result websites.

Also Read: Kerala Suvarna Keralam SK-59 Lottery Result Today: Rs 1 Crore Winner Is RL545511, Full Winners List Here

Check Your Winning Ticket.

Kerala Lottery Department has created a facility called Kerala Lottery Barcode Scanner via which participants may verify the authenticity of their lottery ticket. Winners are urged to compare ticket numbers with the official result before starting the prize claim process.

Claiming a Lottery Prize

Carefully check your ticket information against the official results. The prize should be claimed within the time limit given along with the original ticket and proper identity evidence. The claim should be submitted to the official lottery offices or the designated banks, if the prize money exceeds the threshold mentioned. The lottery prizes will be deducted with appropriate taxes as per government laws.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Participants are recommended to take the official Kerala Lottery result as final confirmation. In case of any controversy the result issued by the Department of Kerala State Lotteries shall be conclusive.

Viral Video: Teacher Caught Eating Cucumbers, Student Kicked Out After Complaint!

Indrakshi Samanta — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:06:20 +0530

It's a common complaint that once people get a government job, they think they can just sit back and relax. Many seem to forget that they are public servants, and it's their duty to help people. We hear stories about lazy government employees all the time, and a new viral video shows that teachers are sometimes no different. But this time, the situation got a bit serious. A parent is claiming that their daughter was thrown out of class just for questioning a teacher's negligence.

'They were having a party in the staff room, eating cucumbers'

This whole incident happened in Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh. Last Saturday, a video from a government school in Sheopur showed a teacher scolding a student and throwing her out of the classroom. Reports say this took place at a government primary school in Matasula village. The trouble started when a parent visited the school and saw children sitting idle in the classroom with no teacher around. The parent alleged that instead of teaching the kids, the teacher was having a 'party' in the staff room and eating cucumbers.

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MP School Shocker: When Asked to Teach,Teacher Pushed the Children OutParents visiting a government primary school in Matasula village, Sheopur district, Madhya Pradesh for admissions discovered that children were sitting in the classroom without any teacher.Instead, the… pic.twitter.com/anbzzqsZn8

— Ramesh Tiwari (@rameshofficial0) July 4, 2026

'Action will be taken if the allegation is proven'

The parent claims that when they questioned this, the teacher got angry and said, "I will not teach them anymore. Don't ever bring them to this school again," before kicking the children out of the class. The video, which shows a teacher forcing two small children to leave the classroom, quickly went viral on social media. Following the outrage, the education department was forced to take notice and has ordered an official investigation. Authorities have assured that if the allegations are proven true, strong action will be taken against the teacher.

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'I Don't Feel Unsafe': Woman Shares Her 12:30 AM Mumbai Local Experience, Video Goes Viral (WATCH)

Gargi Chaudhry — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:04:42 +0530

A woman shared the one reason she believes Mumbai feels different from most Indian cities, saying it is one of the few places where she doesn't feel anxious about being out alone late at night. Aditi Thakur posted the video on Instagram, reflecting on her experience exploring Mumbai after midnight and why the city's ambience caught her attention. She included glimpses of Mumbai's roadways, lit streets, and a nearby train station in the video. Standing at Marine Lines station about 12:30 am, she pointed out the presence of police officials nearby and remarked that, despite the late hour, she did not feel worried.

In contrast to many other cities, where women would avoid going out after dark or take extra measures, she continued, women in Mumbai might frequently be seen travelling or strolling around at night without worry.

She closed by stating she finally realised why Mumbai is frequently referred to as the "City of Dreams" and professed her admiration for the city.

Watch Viral Video

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A post shared by Aditi Thakur (@_this_is_aditi._)

Social media users responded to the video in droves, many of them agreeing with her findings. Mumbai is one of the safest cities in India for women, according to a number of persons who claimed to have felt the same level of security when travelling late at night. At the same time, a few people pointed out that, while Mumbai has a reputation for being safer than many other cities, staying vigilant and adopting basic measures is crucial no matter where one is.

Haryana: Two Lawrence Bishnoi gang shooters killed in police encounter

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:00:31 +0530

Two alleged shooters linked to the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi-Hariram (Harry) Boxer gang, wanted for the murder of gym owner, were killed in a police encounter in Bahadurgarh, Haryana.

The Delhi Police Special Cell, in coordination with the Haryana Special Task Force (STF) cornered two wanted criminals, identified as Pravesh and Himanshu, near Balor in Bahadurgarh on Saturday. Both residents of Hisar, the duo carried a reward of Rs 1 lakh each and were wanted for the gruesome murder of a gym trainer, Kapil, in Hansi on June 11- an incident caught on CCTV.

When asked to surrender, the criminals opened fire on the joint police party. In a professional self-defence manoeuvre, the police retaliated, leaving both suspects with gunshot injuries. They were declared dead on arrival at a nearby hospital. During the skirmish, Constable Ankit of the Special Cell sustained a non-fatal gunshot injury to his leg and is currently undergoing treatment.

Background on Related Arrests

The Bahadurgarh operation followed an earlier armed skirmish on June 25, where a Special Cell team laid a trap near Paschim Vihar to apprehend two other members of the same syndicate- Hakikat alias Sahil and Sagar. These two individuals were allegedly involved in an indiscriminate firing incident outside singer The syndicate, which is in a subsidiary alliance with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, has now been booked under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) to ensure long-term deterrence and break its financial and logistical networks. 's gym, '24 HS Fitness,' in Paschim Vihar on June 11. During the June 25 shootout, both Hakikat and Sagar sustained gunshot wounds to the elbow and knee, respectively. They were taken into custody and are currently under police remand.

Investigation and Manhunt

According to the police, the interrogation of Hakikat and Sagar provided critical, developable clues about the separate module involved in the Hansi gym trainer murder committed on the same day. What followed was an assiduous, scientific search, analysis of human, signal and technical intelligence, and professional tail, trail and recon operations, which ultimately led to the surfacing of Pravesh and Himanshu, who unfortunately succumbed to their injuries suffered in defensive counterfire by the joint team of Special Cell and STF, Haryana Police.

MCOCA Invoked to Dismantle Syndicate

Parallel to the field operations and, with the objective of long-term deterrence and to ensure that the absconding criminals who are heading this syndicate, viz., Hariram Jat, Anil Pandit and others, are brought to face justice, a MCOC Act case has also been registered at Special Cell Police Station. The investigation of this case will focus upon breaking the financial and logistical network of the syndicate and in pursuing all lawful means available to get the fugitives extradited/deported from their current safe havens in the earliest possible manner. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

DK Shivakumar unveils Ambedkar statue, urges citizens to protect Constitution

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:00:29 +0530

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar emphasised the fundamental responsibility of every Indian citizen to safeguard the Constitution while inaugurating a 14-foot bronze statue of BR Ambedkar at the Bengaluru rural district administrative building.

Ambedkar's Ideals and Constitutional Values

Speaking at the event, CM DK Shivakumar said that BR Ambedkar drafted the Constitution with the vision of ensuring equality and social justice for every citizen of India. He said that Ambedkar's ideals of education, equality and social justice remain relevant even today, and added that the Karnataka government has introduced a programme to familiarise school children with the Preamble of the Constitution.

Shivakumar stated that protecting the Constitution is the responsibility of every citizen and that the state government is committed to upholding constitutional values. He urged the youth to follow Ambedkar's ideals and play an active role in safeguarding the Constitution.

New Programmes for Public Service and Development

He said the government is committed to the development of the state and plans to establish a new Praja Seva Department to improve public service delivery. He also said that the government has introduced a programme to deliver property documents directly to citizens as another major public welfare initiative.

Referring to infrastructure development, Shivakumar said that water from the Ettinahole project will be supplied to lakes around Bengaluru to provide better-quality water and rejuvenate water bodies. He added that the government will always remember the sacrifices made by farmers who gave up their land for development projects and will formulate a special programme to honour them.

He said that the government's primary objectives are the development of the state, protection of the Constitution and public service, and asserted that the present government is a government of the people. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianetnews Editorial staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

India approves first private Point-in-Space helicopter procedure

Asianet News Central — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:00:21 +0530

India has achieved a major milestone with the approval of the country's first Private Point-in-Space (PinS) instrument approach procedure for helicopter operations at Undavalli Heliport in Andhra Pradesh. PinS procedures use advanced satellite-based navigation technology to enable helicopters to conduct safe and precise instrument approaches to heliports that do not have conventional instrument landing infrastructure.

Developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the PinS procedure has been designed in accordance with DGCA regulations and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices. The Civil Aviation Ministry said PinS is particularly beneficial during adverse weather conditions and in areas where ground-based navigation aids are not available. It was developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Nationwide Benefits and Future Applications

The Civil Aviation Ministry said the approval will pave the way for similar PinS procedures across the country, benefiting emergency medical services, disaster relief, tourism, offshore operations, pilgrimage services, corporate aviation and regional connectivity, while improving the safety and reliability of helicopter operations.

A Milestone for Indian Aviation

The Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has said that the milestone marks a new era in helicopter operations by enhancing flight safety, operational efficiency and all-weather accessibility. He said the government is committed to adopting modern technologies and building a globally benchmarked, technology-driven helicopter ecosystem.

The Minister said, "The introduction of India's first PinS Instrument Approach Procedure marks the beginning of a new era in helicopter operations by significantly enhancing flight safety, operational efficiency and all-weather accessibility. I sincerely appreciate the coordinated efforts of all concerned agencies including the Airports Authority of India, DGCA and the state government of Andhra Pradesh in achieving this historic milestone. Our foremost priority is the adoption of modern technologies to make helicopter operations more reliable and more accessible across the country. We also recently concluded the first phase of this year's Char Dham helicopter operations successfully without any incident supported by upgraded technological infrastructure. Our commitment is to build a technology-driven and globally benchmarked helicopter ecosystem in India." (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Bitcoin Just Survived A 'Hostile Takeover' Attempt, Say Michael Saylor And David Bailey — Here's What Happened

Stocktwits Inc — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:00:06 +0530

The BIP-110 proposal, which sought to ban attaching images and text to Bitcoin transactions, collapsed with under 1% of miner support ahead of activation.
“Hard consensus is Bitcoin’s immune system,” said Strategy’s Michael Saylor, who pointed out that bad ideas have to fail before they can hurt the network.
David Bailey said it was a “hostile takeover attempt,” noting a years-long campaign of pressure that resulted in Bitcoin Core developers leaving the project.

The hotly debated soft fork BIP-110 proposal has failed to garner any major network support ahead of its activation deadline, with Strategy (MSTR) Executive Chairman Michael Saylor and Nakamoto (NAKA) CEO David Bailey posting their support for Bitcoin’s (BTC) governance model over the weekend.

“Hard consensus is Bitcoin’s immune system,” Saylor said in an X post on Saturday, without specifically citing the plan. He said protocol changes “must earn overwhelming alignment,” so bad ideas fail before they become what he dubbed “iatrogenic” – damage caused by the intended cure.

Source: @saylor/x

In the post, Saylor defined the network's division of labor: nodes establish policy, miners construct blocks, holders allocate capital, and fees price block space.

Source: @saylor/x

Adding to Saylor’s criticism of the soft fork, Bailey referred to BIP-110 as a "hostile takeover attempt" in posts on X, stating that the proposal had failed to attract "even 1% of blocks signaling" on the eve of activation, despite its supporters operating their own mining pool.

Source: @DavidFBailey/x

"It was all a lie.” Bailey warned users to exercise caution when instructed to "run my software, or Bitcoin dies," as there is no substantial support from nodes.

What Is The BIP-110 Proposal?

BIP-110 is a proposal that seeks to modify the rules of Bitcoin so that users cannot attach huge amounts of extra data — such as photos or text called inscriptions — to transactions. Supporters argue this data clogs the network, increases costs, and makes the program more expensive to run.

Critics argue the remedy is faulty and might disrupt sections of the ecology that have been developed around inscriptions. But for the shift to happen, miners need to get behind it. Almost none has done it so far. If its proponents try to push it through when the enforcement window opens around Aug. 7, the network might divide into two incompatible versions of Bitcoin.

Bitcoin Core Engineers Departing The Network

Bailey described the proposal as the culmination of a multi-year pressure campaign involving a rival Bitcoin client, a coercive user-activated soft fork with an unprecedented 55% activation threshold, and an effort to manufacture node consensus.

He was also accused of a campaign of harassment against Bitcoin Core engineers, which he said caused at least one to leave and others to step back. The allegations could not be independently confirmed.

The episode showed that Bitcoin governance is not decided by any one faction but by an ‘agglomeration of all users’ — individuals, miners, industry and developers, Bailey added.

AI Slop Angle

Bailey also cited what he called a new attack vector. The BIP-110 campaign, he said, was the first on Bitcoin “widely powered by AI slop.” He said that AI-generated material generates confirmation bias and “a single low-effort prompt can take 100x more effort” to rebut. He calculated that the debate had taken more than a million hours of human time in society.

When BIP-110 splits off, supporters “will have destroyed their credibility” and filtered themselves out of the network, making Bitcoin Core better situated, Bailey added. He urged the sector to become more involved in Bitcoin Improvement Proposals, saying that without stakeholder engagement the network defaults “to ossification.”

Bitcoin’s price rose over 0.6% to $62,476 in the last 24 hours. On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around it improved to ‘bullish’ from the ‘neutral’ zone, while chatter dropped to ‘low’ levels from ‘normal’ levels over the past day.

Read also: Wall Street Veteran Visser Says Bitcoin Break Above 200-Day Average Would Start 'Next Phase' — Flags Micron Sell-Off As AI Warning

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.<

Dolphin: 200kg Giant Washes Ashore With 2kg Plastic Net Inside Stomach!

Indrakshi Samanta — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 15:56:05 +0530

Kozhikode: A huge dolphin, weighing around 200 kg and measuring about four feet in length, has washed ashore dead. The dolphin's body was found on Kozhikode's South Beach, near the Kothiroad Kannamparambu Palli.

A post-mortem was later conducted by a team led by Chief Veterinary Surgeon Dr. K.M. Sajith Lal. During the examination, they made a shocking discovery.

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The team found parts of a plastic fishing net, weighing nearly two kilograms, inside the dolphin's body. According to initial reports, the cause of death is believed to be suffocation after parts of the net got stuck in its lungs.

Corporation Health Officers Shashi and Abdul Aziz, along with Beat Forest Officer K. Rahul, were present to manage the follow-up procedures.

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