Politics News in English

Deccan Herald

Feb 24, 2026, 04:53 PM

Trump's State of the Union Address to Feature Diverse Guest List

Washington: Over the past four decades, it has become a ritual for presidents, and more recently lawmakers, to invite guests to the presidential State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. Here are some of those invited to sit in special galleries above the House of ⁠Representatives floor during President Donald Trump 's speech at 9 pm ET on Tuesday (0200 GMT on Wednesday): Epstein accusers Haley ⁠Robson, who has accused late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein of abuse, will ‌be a guest of Democratic Representative Ro Khanna of California, the lawmaker announced. Dani Bensky, another Epstein accuser, will be the guest of Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. Democratic Representatives Jamie Raskin of Maryland and Suhas Subramanyam of Virginia have invited Sky and Amanda Roberts, the brother and sister-in-law of Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre, who died by suicide in 2025. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Olympians The White House said it was trying to ⁠bring the US Olympic men's hockey team to Washington in time for the speech. The team won the gold medal in Italy on Sunday against Canada. House Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters he expected the US women's hockey team, which also won the gold medal by defeating Canada, to ⁠be invited. However, ‌media reports said they declined because of previous commitments. NASA Astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen, the crew of NASA's planned lunar spaceflight mission Artemis ‌II, will be guests of Johnson. NASA is aiming to launch the four astronauts for a journey around the moon and ⁠back on March 6 in what would be the first crewed moon mission in more than 50 years. Also Read:Trump administration is working to increase temporary tariff rate to 15% from 10%, official says Also Read:Trump administration is working to increase temporary tariff rate to 15% from 10%, official says ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Worried farmers Farmer Doug Rebout, president of the ‌Wisconsin Soybean Association, is an invited guest of Democratic Representative Mark Pocan. Many US soybean producers ‌worry Trump's tariffs on foreign goods have hurt American farmers, resulting in retaliation from China ‌that has at times interrupted soybean trade and has contributed to higher prices for many ‌consumer goods. Ice detainee Raiza Contreras, the mother of Dylan Lopez Contreras, a Venezuelan school student allegedly detained by immigration agents, will be another guest of Schumer. The Senate Democratic leader said Dylan entered the United States legally and was detained by ⁠Immigration and Customs ⁠Enforcement agents after he attended a mandatory court hearing. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Daughter of imprisoned China critic Claire Lai, daughter of imprisoned China critic and former media tycoon Jimmy Lai, will be the joint guest of Johnson and Representative Chris Smith. Lai's 20-year imprisonment in a landmark foreign-collusion case has drawn criticism from the United States and other nations. Brother of slain Israele diplomat Hanan Lischinsky, brother of slain Israeli diplomat Yaron Lischinsky, will be the guest of Johnson. Yaron and fellow diplomat Sara Milgrim were killed by a gunman last May while leaving an event at the Israeli Embassy in Washington. Also Read:Trump’s attacks are worsening; why is he becoming even more vengeful? Also Read:Trump’s attacks are worsening; why is he becoming even more vengeful? ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Family of fallen Louisiana police officer Relatives of slain Louisiana police officer Marc Tyler Brock are invited by Johnson, who represents a district in and around Shreveport. Brock was shot while serving a search warrant, according to local media reports. ADVERTISEMENT Published 24 February 2026, 22:23 IST World news US Donald Trump Follow us on : Follow Us Read More

67 shares

😢

The Indian Express

Feb 24, 2026, 04:30 PM

Rahul Gandhi Accuses PM Narendra Modi of 'Selling the Country' to US Under Pressure

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of “selling the country” by conceding to the United States on agriculture, data and textiles under “pressure” linked to unreleased convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein files and a criminal case in the US allegedly involving the Adani Group. Speaking at the Kisan Mahachaupal in Bhopal, Gandhi claimed these factors forced the Prime Minister to rush through the India–US trade agreement without Cabinet approval. Gandhi alleged that negotiations with the US had remained stalled for four months over agriculture, as the government had resisted opening Indian markets to American soy, cotton, maize and pulses. “No Indian farmer wants this, no politician wants this, and the Government of India also did not want this,” he said, adding that talks were “at a standstill” until the Prime Minister abruptly reversed course. Gandhi claimed Modi “ran out of the Lok Sabha” during the impasse and later phoned then US president Donald Trump directly to conclude the deal. “The truth is that the Prime Minister could not stand in Parliament,” Gandhi said, alleging that no Cabinet consultation took place. “Ask Shivraj Chauhan ji… ask Rajnath Singh ji, ask Gadkari ji, nothing was asked of the Cabinet. The Prime Minister directly called and said, ‘I am ready to do the deal.’” According to Gandhi, the agreement amounted to a betrayal of multiple sectors. “He sold India’s farmers. Sold India’s garment industry. Gave all of our data to America,” he said, describing the deal as “an arrow in the heart of the farmer.” The Congress leader attributed the government’s decision to what he described as two sources of pressure from the US. The first, he claimed, related to unreleased Epstein files. “In America, lakhs of Epstein files are lying closed… emails, messages, videos, everything,” Gandhi said, alleging that selective disclosures were being used to exert leverage. He went on to claim: “Anil Ambani is not my friend. Narendra Modi ji, you tell the country, what is your relationship with Anil Ambani? Anil Ambani is in the Epstein file. Hardeep Puri is in the Epstein file. And there are more names in the Epstein file that are still hidden. That is the first reason”. Gandhi also alleged that a criminal case in the US against industrialist Gautam Adani constituted a second, more serious threat. “Adani ji cannot go to America… he is afraid that if I go outside India… they will arrest me,” Gandhi said, before asserting that “the target of that case is not Adani… that arrow is being fired towards Narendra Modi ji.” He further accused the Prime Minister of conceding India’s strategic data advantage. “The 21st century is the century of data,” Gandhi said, arguing that India generates more data than any other country. “In this deal, in a small script at the back, Narendra Modi handed over all of India’s data to America,” he said. Gandhi also questioned why India did not withdraw from the agreement after the US Supreme Court struck down global tariffs imposed by Trump. “Other countries said, ‘We are also cancelling our deals’. But not a single word came out of Narendra Modi’s mouth,” he said, daring the Prime Minister to scrap the pact. “If you have the courage, do it. He cannot do this.” Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge echoed the attack, warning that the deal would devastate small and marginal farmers and cripple domestic industries. Drawing a contrast between American and Indian agriculture, Kharge said, “In our country, 65 percent of people depend on agriculture… here we have two acres, four acres—small and marginal farmers. And this small farmer of ours… Modi is destroying that today.” Kharge alleged that cheap American produce would be dumped in India, forcing farmers out of the market. “What will our farmers do? Where will they go?” he asked, accusing Modi of siding with Trump “not with the farmers.” He also criticised the government’s foreign policy posture, alleging capitulation on energy security. Referring to oil purchases from Russia and Iran, Kharge said Trump had threatened India, and “Modi said: ‘Yes sir”.” Calling the agreement unacceptable, Kharge said: “Any trade agreement by mortgaging national interest is not acceptable to us. An attack on the farmer’s bread is not acceptable… Compromising with India’s prosperity and self-reliance is not acceptable.” In response to these remarks, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav asked Gandhi whether he can “explain the difference between a Rabi and Kharif crop”. “Rahul Gandhi should apologise to the people of the state…The Congress committed injustice against farmers. During its 55 years of rule, the area under irrigation in the state was only 7.50 lakh hectares,” he alleged.

65 shares

😢

NorthEast Now

Feb 24, 2026, 03:42 PM

Manipur Chief Minister Meets PM Modi, Seeks Special Attention for State Development

Imphal:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met a three-member delegation from the Manipur government led byChief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singhat the Prime Minister’s Office in New Delhi.The delegation included Deputy Chief Ministers Nemcha Kipgen of the BJP and Losii Dikho of the Naga People’s Front (NPF). Kipgen, who represents Kangpokpi district, is Manipur’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister.According to an official statement issued by theManipur Chief Minister’s Secretariatin Imphal, this was Khemchand Singh’s first meeting with the Prime Minister since assuming office on February 4.During the meeting, the Chief Minister briefed Modi on steps taken by the new government to restore peace and harmony in the state.He urged the Prime Minister to extend special attention to the all-round development of Manipur and the wider northeastern region, with particular emphasis on women’s empowerment in both hill and valley districts.Khemchand Singh and his two deputies also invited the Prime Minister to visit Manipur.Earlier, on Monday, the Chief Minister met Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya M. Scindia in New Delhi — his first meeting with the Union Minister since taking office.During the discussion, Scindia informed the Chief Minister that the DoNER Ministry is funding a polo project in Manipur, the birthplace of the modern game of polo.He also assured Khemchand Singh that the Ministry would coordinate with other central ministries to address issues concerning the state.The DoNER Minister reiterated that the Ministry is actively pursuing development initiatives across the entire northeastern region.Related

79 shares

😐

Business Standard

Feb 24, 2026, 03:38 PM

Indian Cement Firms Post Profit Growth Amid Demand Disruptions

Strong sales volumes and operating leverage drove profits of India’s top cement firms in the third quarter of the current financial year (Q3 FY26).Profits improved even as prices and realisations remained under pressure due to rationalisation of goods and services tax (GST) rates and the absence of fresh price hikes.On the demand front, extended monsoon, festive and election-related disruptions weighed on sales in the first half of the quarter.

32 shares

😐

Financial Express

Feb 24, 2026, 03:36 PM

Tata Sons Board Defers Decision on Chairman N Chandrasekaran's Tenure Extension Amid Concerns Over Group's Newer Ventures

In an unexpected development, the Tata Sons board on Tuesday deferred a decision on extending Chairman N Chandrasekaran’s tenure for a third term beyond February 2027, after differences surfaced during a four-hour meeting. Chandrasekaran told reporters that the proposal to defer the matter was his. “Nothing changes in the Tata Group,” he said. Sources said he was keen to avoid a vote, believing Tata Sons and its principal shareholder, Tata Trusts, should remain aligned to ensure stability at the conglomerate. The divergence emerged after Tata Trusts Chairman Noel Tata raised concerns over mounting losses in some of the group’s newer ventures. Tata Trusts owns 66% of Tata Sons. Anita George, who heads the board’s reappointment committee and other directors supported Chandrasekaran, arguing that large greenfield bets — from electronics to aviation — take time to mature. A third term would require a special resolution, as it would exceed Tata Sons’ retirement norm of 65. Chandrasekaran turns 63 in June. Tata is believed to have outlined a few conditions that he wants addressed before any extension of Chandrasekaran’s tenure is considered The first is that Tata Sons should remain unlisted, in line with the Reserve Bank of India’s requirements applicable to upper layer non-banking financial entities, a category that includes large conglomerates such as Tata Sons. The second condition is that the company should operate without debt. The third stipulation is aimed at preventing excessive capital expenditure on high-risk ventures that could deplete the company’s financial reserves. The fourth condition relates to limiting losses arising from some acquisitions. The episode comes as Tata consolidates influence at Tata Trusts. His son Neville was appointed trustee late last year, while Mehli Mistry — seen as a rival voice — stepped down. Former Citibank India CEO Pramit Jhaveri also chose not to seek reappointment as trustee earlier this month. The timing is sensitive. In the latest annual report, Chandrasekaran highlighted that over five years the group nearly doubled revenue and more than tripled net profit and market capitalisation, while investing Rs 5.5 lakh crore to make the conglomerate “future fit”. Revenues of listed Tata companies rose from Rs 6.13 lakh crore in FY17 to Rs 11.65 lakh crore in FY25, a CAGR of 8.36%. Net profit grew at 14.33% CAGR, while market capitalisation stood at Rs 27.77 lakh crore as of February 23. Yet challenges persist — including pricing pressure at Tata Consultancy Services and a cyberattack at Jaguar Land Rover that disrupted production. More than a year after the death of Ratan Tata, renewed tensions within Tata Trusts have revived memories of the 2016 public clash between Tata Sons and its shareholder trusts — a battle that bruised the group’s reputation. The eventual decision on Chandrasekaran’s tenure will now signal not just leadership continuity, but the evolving balance of power between Tata Sons and Tata Trusts.

45 shares

😢

Deccan Herald

Feb 24, 2026, 03:32 PM

BJP Considers Union Minister George Kurian as Candidate for Kerala Assembly Polls

Thiruvananthapuram: As the discussions on BJP's candidates for the assembly polls are progressing, the party is reportedly considering Union Minister of state for minority affairs George Kurian as a candidate. ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Experience a more refined e-paper today READ TODAY'S EPAPER ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Kurian is reportedly being considered from Kanjirapally in his home district of Kottayam, which is a Christian dominated region. By fielding Kurian, who is now a Rajya Sabha member from Madhya Pradesh, the BJP could be aiming at making inroads into the Christian vote banks. Also Read:Pinarayi Vijayan's personal messages to employees ahead of Kerala Assembly polls spark data misuse charge Also Read:Pinarayi Vijayan's personal messages to employees ahead of Kerala Assembly polls spark data misuse charge Former leader of regional party Kerala Congress P C George and his son Shaun George, who are now with the BJP, as well as Kitex Group managing director Sabu M George, who heads the Twenty20 political organisation that recently joined the NDA, are also being considered by the BJP as part of its Christian outreach moves. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links Stories You May Like 'Prolonged neglect in filling vacancies led to stir': H D Kumaraswamy slams Karn... CM Siddaramaiah assures of justice in Shivamogga teen's murder case; 7 minors held... 'A white elephant that beats all white elephants': Promine nt citizens slam Bengaluru... Party state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar had already stated that he would like to contest from Nemom in Thiruvananthapuram. Nemom was the seat won by BJP in Kerala assembly for the first time in 2016. But the party lost the seat in 2021. Firebrand leader and party state general secretary Sobha Surendran is likely to contest from Palakkad, one of the seats where the party has high hopes of winning. BJP is also likely to field former chief minister and Congress leader K Karunakarn's daughter Padmaja Venugopal in Thrissur. Padmaja, who joined the BJP in 2024, had contested as Congress candidate at Thrissur. But she came second only. Also Read:Kerala’s electorate draws a line between welfare and governance Also Read:Kerala’s electorate draws a line between welfare and governance The party is yet to decide whether the party's lone Lok Sabha MP from Kerala union minister of state for petroleum Suresh Gopi should contest or not. He contested from Thrissur in the last assembly election, but finished only in third place. In the 2024 Lok Sabha election he won from Thrissur. Meanwhile, the Congress flayed Gopi for keeping on changing his constituency in the electoral rolls. Gopi, who was earlier a voter in Thiruvananthapuram, shifted his vote to Thrissur during the Lok Sabha election. In the local body election held last year he was a voter in Thiruvanathapuram. Now he has shifted his vote to Guruvayur. Sources close to him said that he vacated a rented house in Thrissur and moved to his flat in Guruvayur in the district. Hence his vote was shifted to Guruvayur. ADVERTISEMENT Published 24 February 2026, 21:02 IST India News BJP Indian Polittics Kerala Assembly Elections 2026 Follow us on : Follow Us Read More

3 shares

😢

Financial Express

Feb 24, 2026, 03:30 PM

Australian PM Evacuated from Official Residence Due to Bomb Threat

Australian PM Anthony Albanese was evacuated from his official residence in Canberra on Tuesday evening after police responded to a bomb threat. The prime minister was moved from The Lodge at around 6pm while authorities carried out a security check. He returned to the residence after 9pm once the search was completed. An Australian Federal Police spokesperson said officers were alerted to an alleged security incident at the property, which is located near Parliament House. Guardian Australia reported that the incident involved a threat of an explosive device. “A thorough search of a protection establishment was undertaken and nothing suspicious was located,” a statement said. “There is no current threat to the community or public safety. “Further information will be provided at an appropriate time.” Earlier on Tuesday, Albanese recorded an hour-long interview at The Lodge with Nine journalist Karl Stefanovic. Albanese and other federal MPs have faced several security threats in recent months. The prime minister has had tighter security at public events. In October last year, AFP commissioner Krissy Barrett announced the creation of new national security investigation teams to handle threats, including those aimed at federal politicians. Earlier this month, she told a Senate committee that politicians, other public officials and members of Australia’s Jewish community were being targeted by violent offenders. Barrett said more than 20 people have been charged since late last year over these threats. “We are witnessing the continued rise of individual grievance, including those who are willing to make threats in the online world and then carry them out in the real world,” Barrett told a Senate estimates committee.

76 shares

😢

Financial Express

Feb 24, 2026, 03:29 PM

India Approves Name Change for Kerala State to Keralam

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday approved a proposal of Kerala government to change the name of the state to Keralam. The decision was taken at the Cabinet’s first meeting at Seva Teerth, the new PMO complex. With the approval, the demand, previously endorsed twice by the Kerala Assembly, is finally set to be fulfilled. “After approval of the Union Cabinet, the President of India will refer a Bill, namely the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, to the State Legislative Assembly of Kerala for expressing its views under the proviso to Article 3 of the Constitution of India,” Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told reporters today. The decision of the Union Cabinet on alteration of the name of Kerala to Keralam reflects the will of the people of the state. It is in line with our efforts to strengthen the connect with our glorious culture. https://t.co/pdzsgiU1l2 The decision comes ahead of the assembly polls in the state, slated for the first half of this year. In 2023 and 2024, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had passed resolutions in the Kerala Assembly urging the Union government to amend the Constitution and change the name of the state to Keralam. Last month, state BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar wrote to Vijayan extending the party’s support to the move. The resolution passed in 2024 stated that the name of the state in Malayalam is Keralam and that states were reorganised on linguistic lines on November 1, 1956, which is observed as Kerala Piravi (Kerala Formation Day), reported The Indian Express. The resolution noted that while the state is referred to as Keralam in Malayalam, its name in the First Schedule of the Constitution is Kerala. The Assembly unanimously urged the Union government to take immediate steps under Article 3 of the Constitution to change the name from Kerala to Keralam. The resolution was reintroduced because the 2023 version failed to apply the name change from “Kerala” to “Keralam” across all Eighth Schedule languages as intended. Since the correction only appeared in the First Schedule, a fresh resolution was necessary to ensure consistency. From epigraphic reference in Rock Edict II of Ashoka to German scholar Herman Gundert, who compiled the first Malayalam-English dictionary, there are multiple theories about the origin of the name “Kerala”. As per the Indian Express report, Rock Edict II (dated to 257 BCE) mentions “Keralaputra” (Sanskrit for “son of Kerala”). German scholar Herman Gundert noted that keram is the Kannada form of cheram and described Keralam as Cheram, the region between Gokarnam and Kanyakumari. The root “cher” is understood to mean “to join”, and appears in the compound “Cheralam”, with “alam” meaning land or region. A 7-decade-long wait is over. 🥥🙏 The people of Kerala are thankful to Modi Government for officially changing the name of state to KERALAM. This is a Proud & Historic Day for Keralites. This is more than a name change; it’s an act of decolonization that honors every… pic.twitter.com/AOImDZbndn The Aikya (unified) Kerala movement gathered momentum long before India gained Independence from British rule. In the 1920s, Malayalam-speaking regions – ruled by various kings and princely states at the time – demanded a separate state for Malayalam-speaking people by integrating Malabar, Kochi and Travancore. Following Independence, Travancore and Kochi merged to form the Travancore-Cochin state on July 1, 1949. Later, the State Reorganisation Commission, headed by Syed Fazl Ali, recommended the creation of Kerala by including the Malabar district and the Kasargod taluk. The proposal came following the Union government’s decision to reorganise states on linguistic lines. The southern taluks of Travancore – that now form part of Tamil Nadu – were excluded. Changing the name of a state is much more complex than renaming of cities. Renaming a state can be initiated with a Constitutional amendment, for which a proposal must originate from the state government. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) examines the request and seeks No Objection Certificates (NOCs)from agencies such as the Ministry of Railways, the Intelligence Bureau, the Department of Posts, Survey of India, and the Registrar General of India. Once cleared, the proposal is introduced in Parliament as a Bill. Once passed and notified, the new name comes into effect. In a previous instance, a 2018 proposal to rechristen West Bengal as Bangla was not cleared after the Ministry of External Affairs raised concerns about its similarity with Bangladesh.

98 shares

😐

The Daily Guardian

Feb 24, 2026, 03:27 PM

Congress Leaders Criticize Modi Over US-India Trade Agreement

Bhopal:Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the US India trade agreement saying how Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed the deal under pressure from President Donald Trump and asked him to cancel the deal. Kharge also took a sharp dig at the BJP saying that the grand old party does not have a Godse but have a Gandhi as both of them defended the Youth Congress for staging protest at aI Impact Summit at Bharata Mandapam in Delhi and said that the Congress won’t fear from such tactics. Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, both had arrived in Bhopal to address the party’s Kisan Mahachaupal here against the US India trade agreement. Several senior leaders from the party were also present along with hundreds of party workers who had come from different parts of the state. Addressing party workers and farmers, Kharge stated, “On the day you mortgaged our self-respect to Trump, our dignity was lost that very day.” While emphasising that those accusing the Youth Congress of insulting the nation were instead responsible for undermining it. Taking a swipe at the BJP, he said, “When the Commonwealth Games were held in the country, BJP people stopped vehicles and waved black flags. Today the same people are accusing the Congress of insulting the nation.” “While the Congress party has saved the nation’s honour and sacrificed lives for the country,” he said. “Congress never takes anyone’s life. We don’t have a ‘Godse’ like the BJP does, we have ‘Gandhi’. And today, to fight the youth’s battle, we have Rahul Gandhi,” the Congress leader said. I congratulate the Youth Congress companions who went before Narendra Modi and made it clear Hailing the youth Congress workers, Kharge said, “The poor do not have food, they are going hungry. The youth of the country are on the streets due to lack of jobs. Our farmers are extremely distressed, do not make trade deals. But the Modi government called it an insult to the country. The real insult to the country happened when Modi pledged our pride before Trump.” Taking a sharp dig at PM Modi, he said, “I have been in politics for 60 years, but I have never seen such a Prime Minister.. who cannot even make eye contact with the opposition, who cannot put forth his point in the House, who cannot even hold a single press conference. He speaks his mind on Sundays through his ‘Mann ki Baat’ but doesn’t come to Parliament on Mondays…”” He said that Narendra Modi is trying to scare the Congress, but we are not the ones to be scared. “The Congress party drove the British away and attained independence. While the ancestors of BJP were surrendering and writing apologies,” he said. “Our workers fought the British, while yours surrendered to them… If you were patriots, you wouldn’t bow down to Trump, you wouldn’t rub your nose in front of him,” Kharge thundered at the Jawahar Chowk. Targeting the Prime Minister, Kharge said, “PM Modi is selling the country and pushing the farmers into slavery… I have never seen a Prime Minister so timid that he can’t even look another person in the eye in Parliament. Kharge, who is also the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha said, “Narendra Modi has always called the US President Trump his friend. He used to boast about their friendship saying ‘we even talk over tea’.” Firing salvos at the Prime Minister, the Congress leader asked, “But what exactly did Modi talk about with Trump? Were they discussing selling the country? Were they discussing selling the farmers? Were they discussing putting us into slavery? And in my entire life, I have never seen such a cowardly Prime Minister.” Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi alleged that Prime Minister Modi has sold India to America to “save his image and political future”. “But… now Narendra Modi cannot be saved. No power can save him anymore,” the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said. Rahul Gandhi also challenged the Prime Minister to cancel the US India trade deal in the wake of Supreme Court dubbing Trump tariff as illegal. He said, “I challenge PM Modi from this platform: Since the US Supreme Court has given its decision on the deal, cancel the deal with America.” He said that in the deal, PM Modi handed over the country’s data to America. While coming out in support of youth Congress leaders, Rahul Gandhi said, “I want to tell our Youth Congress workers that you are lions; you won’t be afraid of Modi. You have the blood of Congress, you have the blood of patriotism.” He then went to say that when Narendra Modi gives a speech, look into his eyes and “you will see fear in his eyes.” He also alleged that the Prime Minister was scared as millions of Epstein files are held up in the US; there are videos and messages which have not been released. He said that Hardeep Puri’s name was released to threaten him. “PM Modi must clear his relationship with Anil Ambani?… Adani is not a small company; it is the BJP’s financial structure. Adani faces criminal charges in the US. He cannot go to the US or Europe. The target of the case in the US is Modi, not Adani… These were the two reasons why Modi withdrew from Parliament. He left and called Trump, saying, ‘Sir, I’m ready to do whatever you say’, and he sold the country… Narendra Modi is compromised; he was trapped and forced to sign the US-India trade deal…” He also pointed out that the trade agreement with the United States was stalled for four months because it involved agriculture and agricultural products. “India’s farmers, farm workers, and even the government didn’t want this. After leaving Parliament in the evening, Modi called Trump… He lied, pretended that Congress women MPs were about to attack, but instead called directly and said he was ready to do the deal,” he claimed. He also pointed out that he was not allowed to speak in Lok Sabha during the motion of thanks to the President’s address. “For the first time in the history this year, the Leader of Opposition was not allowed to speak in Lok Sabha. As soon as I started the speech, I was interrupted,” he said

53 shares

😢

The Free Press Journal

Feb 24, 2026, 03:25 PM

Pune Ring Road Named After Ajit Pawar Demanded by Maharashtra Navnirman Vidyarthi Sena

Pune: A demand has been submitted to the Pune District Collector to name the proposed ring road around Pune city after former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. The suggestion was given by the Maharashtra Navnirman Vidyarthi Sena (MNVS) under the guidance of its founder Raj Thackeray and state leadership. State Chief Organizer Prashant Kanojia submitted the memorandum at the Collector’s Office on February 24. According to the memorandum, the proposed circular ring road encircling Pune city is considered a crucial infrastructure project for the district’s development. It is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion to boost industrial and commercial growth, and to accelerate the development of suburban areas. The memorandum further stated that Ajit Pawar’s vision, consistent follow-up, and administrative decisions played a key role in giving momentum to the ambitious Ring Road project. Citing his contribution to strengthening infrastructure in Pune district, the organization has urged the administration to name the project “ Ajitdada Pawar Ring Road,” keeping in mind the sentiments of citizens. The organization is expecting to hope that the district administration will consider the demand sympathetically and take appropriate action.

2 shares

😐

The Daily Guardian

Feb 24, 2026, 03:24 PM

Congress's Last-Minute Outreach to Allies in Tamil Nadu: A Bargaining Power Conundrum

Given that the next round of assembly polls are not too far away where does the Congress stand via a vis its allies? If the negotiations in Tamil Nadu are to go by then the Congress seems torn between its desire to resurrect the party in the state versus doing what is best to defeat the BJP. The demand for a power share in the Tamil Nad government has not gone down well with its Dravidian ally nor has the frantic flirting with DMK’s rival the actor turned politician Vijay. If the Congress thought that this could be a bargaining tactic, it left the decision to the very last minute. Election are but six weeks away. The reach out to the TVK has confused the party allies who do not know whether they are to applaud the DMK or criticise it. Which side are they finally going to be on? The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’ recent push for the women voters where he deposited Rs5000 in each one’s account has been welcomed by the public. But should the Congress partake in the goodwill or should it join DMK’s detractors in scoffing this as a last minute push ? Finally given the rounds of talks between KC Venugopal, Congress General Secretary Organisation and MK Stalin, it does seem that the Congress has decided to go with the DMK. But has it eroded its bargaining power? The DMK has not been sitting idle while the Congress has been shopping around. It has enlisted other allies thereby shrinking the number of seats it can give away to the Congress. The DMK also remains firm on its power sharing decision, ie it will not share power with a national party in the state. And it has not outright agreed to accommodate the Congress party’s recent demand to give a Rajya Sabha seat to Pawan KHera. (The Congress 17 votes and will need another 17 from the DMK to get its candidate through). Hence what has the Congress gained with its last minute reach out to the TVK? It did the same `bargaining’ with the RJD in Bihar. And though the RJD gave it a larger number of seats than the previous assembly polls they were not winning seats. The Congress fared miserably in the Bihar polls leading other INDIA bloc allies to wonder whether giving seats to the Congress was akin to wasting them. No doubt SP Chief and former CM Akhilesh Yadav is making the same calculations in Uttar Pradesh. In West Bengal Mamata Banerjee has refused any tie up with the Congress.

86 shares

😢

Siasat News✓

Feb 24, 2026, 03:23 PM

BJP Leader's Communal Remarks Against Telangana Chief Minister Spark Political Row

Hyderabad:Nizamabad MP and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Dharmapuri Arvind sparked a sharp political row after making communally charged remarks against Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, drawing strong warnings from senior Congress leaders, though they were careful to keep their tone more measured than his. Arvind’s comments came in the backdrop of communal clashes and arson in Telangana’s Banswada last week. Speaking to the media on Sunday, February 22, Arvind claimed that the Cabinet meeting scheduled for Monday would begin with the reading of the Kalma, with all participants wearing skullcaps. He alleged this was in line with what he called Islamic organisations’ goal of turning India into an Islamic country by 2050. Taking a direct swipe at the Chief Minister, he asked, “Yeh Revantuddin kya hai?” — a remark that drew immediate condemnation. He went further, calling Revanth Reddy the “cheapest” CM the country has ever seen and a “chicchhora” who had crossed all limits of decency. In the same breath, he suggested that if the CM was to be called “Revanthuddin,” others in the Cabinet should follow suit, proposing that Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka rename himself “Bhatti Akram” and that Minister Sridhar Babu become “Sridhar Baba.” “If we play bhajans at our house, it is not ok, but if they play on loudspeakers, it is ok?” he asked. Arvind also found fault with Revanth Reddy holding the Home and Municipal Administration portfolios, alleging he lacked the competence to handle them and claimed a “loot” was being perpetrated in the state. He also alleged that the CM was simultaneously courting the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), whose headquarters is at Darussalam, and the family of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) chief K Chandrasekhar Rao. “That guy (Akbaruddin Owaisi) is commenting on his caste, but he is still shamelessly going and licking their office mud,” Arvind said. On the Banswada clashes, Arvind alleged that most cases had been filed against Hindus and demanded that the person who allegedly triggered the incident at a supermarket be dealt with sternly. Reacting sharply, Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) working president T Jayaprakash Reddy, popularly known as Jagga Reddy, warned Arvind that if he uttered another word against the Chief Minister, Congress workers would publicly humiliate him by making him to do sit-ups on the road. “The Congress workers and sympathisers are unhappy, thinking about how they should respond to these comments,” he said. Reddy also reminded Arvind that he was no senior political figure, and advised him to focus on representing his constituents and pursuing development rather than indulging in inflammatory statements to please a section of people. “In politics, there always will be someone unhappy. You have joined such people, it is fine. But just to please them and get their ‘shabbash,’ you need not indulge in such behaviour,” he advised Arvind. “If a group of people comes to you with an issue, represent their issue. If you want any developmental works to be done, go to the Chief Minister and get them done. But this is not the way,” he said. It is worth noting that Arvind is the younger son of former TPCC president D Srinivas, who passed away on June 29, 2024. Srinivas was a three-time MLA, served as an MLC and was a Rajya Sabha MP from 2016 to 2022.

77 shares

😢

Feb 24, 2026, 03:19 PM

Druzhba Pipeline Dispute: Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine at Odds Over Russian Oil Supplies

56 shares

😢

The Indian Express

Feb 24, 2026, 03:13 PM

Right-Wing Students Protest at Lucknow University Over Namaz Incident

Lucknow University saw tense scenes on Tuesday after a group of students claiming to be affiliated with right-wing groups recited the Hanuman Chalisa near Lal Baradari, a Mughal-era structure located within the campus. They also sprinkled Ganga jal (holy water), purportedly at the same spot where a group of students had offered namaz on Monday. A police team deployed on campus stepped in to remove the group even as they raised slogans, alleging that students affiliated with other political groups had created a disturbance on campus the previous day . “We had planned to recite the Hanuman Chalisa five times, but due to police presence we could manage only two recitations. Police forcibly took us away from the spot and released us after detaining us for a few hours,” alleged Ujjawal Singh, one of the protesting students. University authorities declined to comment on the matter when contacted. Additional police force has been deployed in and around Lal Baradari to maintain peace. “The situation is under control and peace has been maintained,” said Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Lucknow , Jitendra Kumar Dubey. The fresh protest comes two days after students, led by members of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) and Samajwadi Chhatra Sabha, protested the administration’s move to fence off the Lal Baradari, claiming it was unauthorised. The student groups also claimed it restricted access for Muslim students and community members who offer prayers there during Ramzan. Videos had also surfaced online showing namaz being offered at the site while seven student wing members formed a human chain. Security was stepped up earlier on Tuesday morning after university authorities received information that a group was planning to assemble near the site and barricades were placed around the structure. In the afternoon, students arrived at Lal Baradari allegedly raising slogans and sprinkling Ganga jal. The students then sat outside the building and began chanting the Hanuman Chalisa. Police immediately intervened and attempted to disperse the students even as heated arguments broke out between university officials and protesters. Additional police teams were eventually called in to remove them. Meanwhile, Chitvan Kumar, Station House Officer of Hasanganj police station, said the magistrate has issued notices to 13 university students to furnish a personal bond of Rs 50,000 each, along with sureties of the same amount, to ensure the maintenance of law and order for a period of one year following the incident that occurred yesterday (Monday). He said the action has been initiated in view of the said incident and on the apprehension that the possibility of a future disturbance to public peace cannot be ruled out. On Monday, university authorities had said the structure is in a dilapidated condition and that the fencing was erected as a safety measure. It also denied claims by students that a hall inside Lal Baradari had been used as a mosque. University Registrar Bhavana Mishra had said the administration was not aware of anyone offering namaz inside the structure and maintained that there is no mosque within the building. She had said the fencing is being put up to prevent people from entering the premises following reports that some students were still accessing the building despite safety concerns. “We are in correspondence with the ASI and other authorities. It is being planned to preserve the building as a heritage structure,” she said.

100 shares

😢

Feb 24, 2026, 03:11 PM

Global Corruption and Political Turmoil: Ugandan Opposition Leader's Health Concerns, South African Whistleblower Risks, and South Sudan's Financial Crisis

Ugandan opposition figure Kizza Besigye back in court as health worsens +++ South African whistleblowers at risk +++ South Sudan's finance minister sacked

54 shares

😢

The Indian Express

Feb 24, 2026, 03:05 PM

Maharashtra BJP Unveils New Team, Emphasizes Generational Change and Representation

Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan on Tuesday announced a new team comprising six general secretaries, 12 vice-presidents, 12 secretaries, a treasurer, and presidents of the youth, women’s, and OBC wings. The list includes a handful of turncoats from other parties. While focussing on the generational change keeping with central BJP’s policy directives, the state unit has ensured adequate representation to women, caste composition and regional balance with special focus on western Maharashtra. A senior BJP functionary said, “ Out of the total 43 member team there are ten women candidates across categories such as general secretary, secretary and vice president.” Similarly, the party has accommodated candidates from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes beyond the specified SC and ST cell to be headed by Vishwajeet Gaikwad and Deorao Holi respectively. The Minorities cell will be headed by Idris Multani. In terms of the regional composition, of the total 43 members, Western Maharashtra accounts for the highest with ten. It is followed by Vidarbha eight, Konkan six, Marathwada seven, North Maharashtra five and Mumbai seven. Addressing the media at the BJP headquarters, Chavan said the new team would work to expand the party in areas where it is weak. The appointment of the new team was delayed because of local body elections. “The selection of candidates for the new team was a task. There were plenty of meritorious candidates. But given the limitations of the team structure, we had to select some. Those who have been left out will be accommodated in the organisational work and given equally important roles,” Chavan said. In a cadre-based party, every worker is important, and his or her contribution is significant for organisational growth, he added. The new team was constituted in consultation with state and central leaders, including BJP national president Nitin Nabin, Amit Shah , B L Santhosh, Shiv Prakash, and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis . The new general secretaries are Niranjan Davkhare, Sanjay Kute, Madhavi Naik, Rajesh Pandey, Sunil Rane, and Yogesh Sagar. The new vice-presidents are Atul Kalsekar, Bharati Pawar, Sanjay Korge, Sanjay Bhende, Ramdas Tadas, Keshav Upadhye, Gopichand Padalkar, Priya Shinde, Sujay Vikhe Patil, Archana Patil Chakurkar, Pravin Pote, and Chaitanya Deshmukh. Prashant Thakur, Mangesh Chavan, Parinay Phuke, Varsha Dahale, Santosh Janate, Sanjay Jagtap, Archana Dehankar, Rohini Naidu, Ram Satpute, Pravin Ghuge, Rekha Kulkarni, and Bhairavi Wagh are the new twelve secretaries. Krishnaraj Mahadik from Kolhapur has been appointed president of the BJYM, MLC Chitra Wagh retained for another term as the president of the Mahila Morcha, and MLC Yogesh Tilekar as president of the OBC Morcha. The Mulund MLA Mihir Kotecha is the new treasurer along with co-treasurer Arun Lakhani. Both office bearers have been continued in the new team. Navnath Ban, a newly elected corporator from Mankhurd, is the state BJP’s new chief spokesperson.

81 shares

😐

Latestly

Feb 24, 2026, 02:59 PM

Xiaomi Watch 5 Global Debut Confirmed: A Premium Smartwatch with Google's WearOS

Barcelona, February 24:Xiaomi has officially confirmed the global debut of the Xiaomi Watch 5, scheduled to take place during a major hardware showcase on 28 February 2026. The announcement, which coincides with the lead-up to the Mobile World Congress (MWC), marks the international transition of the wearable following its initial release in China in December 2025. The launch event, themed "The New Wave of Imagery," will serve as a platform for several high-profile products. Alongside the new smartwatch, the Chinese technology firm is expected to unveil the flagship Xiaomi 17 smartphone series and the Xiaomi Pad 8 tablet line. The event is scheduled to begin at 13:00 UTC in Barcelona.Xiaomi 17 Ultra, Xiaomi 17 Launch on February 28, 2026 in India. A defining feature of the global Xiaomi Watch 5 is the shift to Google’s WearOS platform. Unlike the Chinese variant, which utilises a proprietary operating system, the international model will offer full access to the Google Play Store, Google Maps, and Google Wallet. This software pivot is intended to make the device more competitive in Western markets. The integration of Gemini AI support further distinguishes this model, providing users with advanced virtual assistant capabilities directly on the wrist. While Xiaomi has not yet confirmed specific regional shipping dates, the device is expected to become available for purchase shortly after the official presentation at the end of the month. The Xiaomi Watch 5 features a 1.54-inch AMOLED display, maintaining a focus on high-fidelity visuals. Despite the power demands of a full operating system like WearOS, the company claims the device will deliver multi-day battery life on a single charge. The wearable is expected to launch in at least two colour options to appeal to a broad consumer demographic. Leaked pricing data suggests the Xiaomi Watch 5 will enter the European market at approximately EUR 329. This places the device in direct competition with established WearOS competitors, including the Samsung Galaxy Watch series and the Google Pixel Watch.Nothing Phone 4a With Updated Glyph Bar To Launch on March 5, 2026; Check Expected Specifications and Features. In US currency, the estimated price converts to approximately USD 390. By positioning the Watch 5 at this price point, Xiaomi aims to capture a share of the premium wearable segment, leveraging its ecosystem of connected devices and the global popularity of the Google software suite. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 24, 2026 08:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our websitelatestly.com).

14 shares

😐

First Post

Feb 24, 2026, 02:46 PM

Australian PM Evacuated from Official Residence Due to Bomb Threat

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was temporarily evacuated from his official residence, The Lodge in Canberra, on Tuesday following a bomb threat, authorities said. He was moved at around 6 pm local time while security agencies conducted an investigation, relocated to a secure location for several hours, and returned at about 9 pm after inspections were completed. The Australian Federal Police said a comprehensive search of the protected premises found nothing suspicious and confirmed there was no ongoing threat to public safety. The Prime Minister’s office expressed confidence in the police response and thanked security personnel. A spokesperson said officers had been alerted to a reported security incident at a protected establishment. While details were not disclosed, local media reported the alert involved a threat of an explosive device. Authorities said further information would be shared if necessary. The AFP, which protects federal parliamentarians and key Commonwealth sites including Parliament House, has reported a rise in threats and harassment targeting Australian political figures. The incident follows heightened concerns over the safety of elected representatives. Albanese and several federal lawmakers have faced increased threats in recent months, leading to a more visible security presence at public events. Earlier in the day, Albanese recorded an interview at The Lodge with Australian television journalist Karl Stefanovic, before routine engagements were disrupted by the security scare. In October last year, AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett announced specialised national security investigation teams to address rising threats against politicians and public office holders. She later told a Senate committee that federal politicians, officials and members of Australia’s Jewish community had been targeted by violent offenders, with more than 20 people charged since late last year. Separately, Albanese said his government would communicate with Commonwealth nations regarding Australia’s position on changes to the British royal line of succession, which would require coordination with realms that recognise King Charles III as head of state. China bans exports of dual-use items to 20 Japanese entities, targeting units of major firms like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries over alleged military links. The restrictions cut off access to key rare earths and minerals, impacting Japan's automotive, aerospace, and defense sectors. Japan condemned the move as "completely unacceptable" and demanded withdrawal, while China cited concerns over Japan's remilitarization and nuclear ambitions. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.

46 shares

😢

Newsbytes✓

Feb 24, 2026, 02:45 PM

Supreme Court Raises Doubts Over Efficacy of 'None of the Above' Option in Indian Elections

TheSupreme Courthas raised doubts over the efficacy of the "None of the Above" (NOTA) option in improving the quality of elected representatives in India.The court was hearing a plea to make NOTA mandatory in all elections, even those with a single candidate.The bench, headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, examined NOTA's impact on voter behavior and representation across social strata.

3 shares

😐

The Free Press Journal

Feb 24, 2026, 02:40 PM

Mumbai's Opposition Leader Questions Rajawadi Hospital's Functioning, Demands Transparency and Security

Mumbai, Feb 24:Raising concerns over security lapses and lack of transparency in health expenditure, Municipal Corporation Opposition Leader Kishori Pednekar on Tuesday questioned the functioning of Rajawadi Hospital following her visit to the civic-run facility in Ghatkopar. During her inspection, Pednekar stressed the need to strengthen security arrangements, stating that existing measures were inadequate to ensure the safety of patients and their relatives. “The number of security guards must be increased. Patient and visitor safety cannot be compromised,” she said. Demand for transparency in health spending She also sought greater transparency in the health department’s expenditure, demanding clarity on the allocation and utilisation of funds for municipal healthcare services. “There must be accountability in how public money is spent,” she emphasised. Mayor’s recent inspection Interestingly, newly elected Mumbai Mayor Ritu Rajesh Tawde had conducted a surprise inspection of the same hospital on Saturday to review its functioning, cleanliness and patient services. Expressing dissatisfaction over complaints of medicine shortages, she examined records related to the supply and distribution of medicines and vaccines. Two days after the Mayor’s visit, the Opposition leader visited the hospital. While appreciating the efforts of doctors and nursing staff for working diligently despite operational challenges, Pednekar said the administration must ensure the hospital is better equipped and more efficient to prevent inconvenience or neglect of patients. Opposition to privatisation Reiterating her stand against the possible privatisation of civic hospitals, she said, “Municipal hospitals should not be privatised. While facilities can be upgraded to match private standards, complete privatisation will not be accepted.” Also Watch: She also criticised the ruling authorities over the discontinuation of certain government schemes. “Those who introduced these schemes must explain why they are being shut down. Announcing them with promises and later withdrawing them is not right,” she said. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit:https://budgetproperties.in/

40 shares

😢

First Post

Feb 24, 2026, 02:33 PM

UK Government Considers Removing Prince Andrew from Line of Succession Amid Misconduct Allegations

41 shares

😢

Economic Times

Feb 24, 2026, 02:33 PM

Australian PM Evacuated from Official Residence Amid Security Incident

Synopsis Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was evacuated from his official residence in Canberra on Tuesday. Police responded to an alleged security incident at The Lodge. After a thorough search, nothing suspicious was found. Authorities confirmed there was no current threat to the community or public safety.

33 shares

😢

DD News✓

Feb 24, 2026, 02:29 PM

Israel Warns Lebanon: Targeting Civilian Infrastructure if Hezbollah Involves in US-Iran War

Israel has warned Lebanon that it would strike the country hard, targeting civilian infrastructure including the airport, in the event that Hezbollah gets involved in any U.S.-Iran war, two senior Lebanese officials said on Tuesday. The Lebanese officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Israeli message was delivered indirectly. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Lebanese presidency did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Iran and the U.S. will hold a third round of nuclear talks on Thursday in Geneva, Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said on Sunday, amid growing concerns about the risk of military conflict. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, whose government has sought the disarmament of Iran-backed Hezbollah since taking office a year ago, urged the group not to take Lebanon into “another adventure”, speaking in a newspaper interview published on Tuesday. Israel dealt heavy blows to Hezbollah during a war in 2024, killing its leader Hassan Nasrallah along with thousands of its fighters and destroying much of its arsenal. Shi’ite Muslim Hezbollah was established by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in 1982. Hezbollah’s new leader Naim Qassem said in a televised address last month that the group was “not neutral” in the standoff between Washington and Tehran, and that it was “targeted by the potential aggression”. “We are determined to defend ourselves. We will choose in due course how to act, whether to intervene or not,” Qassem said. Hezbollah’s last war with Israel began after it opened fire in solidarity with its Palestinian ally Hamas at the start of the Gaza conflict in 2023, prompting months of cross-border fighting before Israel mounted its devastating offensive. PM SALAM WARNS HEZBOLLAH AGAINST ‘ANOTHER ADVENTURE’ “The Gaza adventure imposed a big cost on Lebanon. We hope that we will not be dragged into another adventure,” Salam told Nida al-Watan newspaper in the interview published on Tuesday. The U.S. State Department is pulling out non-essential government personnel and their eligible family members from the U.S. embassy in Beirut, a senior State Department official said on Monday. Since a U.S.-backed ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon in 2024, Israel has carried out regular strikes against what it has identified as Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, accusing the group of seeking to rearm. Israeli strikes have killed around 400 people in Lebanon since the ceasefire, according to a Lebanese toll. Hezbollah says it has respected the ceasefire in southern Lebanon. In January, the U.S.-backed Lebanese army said it had established operational control over the south, in line with the objective of establishing a monopoly on arms. Israel said the effort was an encouraging beginning but far from sufficient. (REUTERS)

55 shares

😢

Latestly

Feb 24, 2026, 02:24 PM

Delhi Police Ordered to Supply Copy of FIR in AI Summit Protest Case

New Delhi, February 24:Patiala house court on Tuesday allowed the application seeking the supply of the FIR lodged against the accused persons in the AI Summit protest case. The court has directed the Delhi police to supply a copy of the FIR. Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) passed the order after considering the application moved on behalf of Udai Bhanu Chib and Ajay Kumar Vimal and the reply filed by the Delhi police. The court said that it has passed the order for the supply of a copy of the FIR. For supply of copy of remand application, the accused has to file an application before the Chief Judicial Magistrate as the case has been transferred to Delhi police crime branch.AI Summit Protest: Delhi Police Arrests Fifth Accused in Connection With 'shirtless' IYC Protest at Bharat Mandapam. Advocate Rupesh Singh Bhadauria moved an application on behalf of the accused person seeking the supply of a copy of the FIR and the remand application. He submitted that despite the direction, the copy of the FIR has not been supplied to them. In this situation, they can't defend their client. Delhi Police filed a reply and opposed the application by submitting that the case is of a sensitive nature. Therefore, the copy can't be supplied to the accused persons.‘I Am Proud of My Son’: Mother of IYC Chief Urges Youth to Become Bhagat Singh After Son Uday Bhanu Chib’s Arrest in Connection With Protest During AI Summit. During the hearing, Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) Atul Shrivastav submitted that, as per the decision of the Supreme Court in another case, it is mandatory to provide the information of the FIR. It is not necessary to supply a copy of the FIR. During the day, the court remanded the President of the Indian Youth Congress for 4 days' police remand after his arrest in the AI Summit protest case. (The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY) TruLY Score 4 – Reliable | On a Trust Scale of 0-5 this article has scored 4 on LatestLY. The information comes from reputable news agencies like (ANI). While not an official source, it meets professional journalism standards and can be confidently shared with your friends and family, though some updates may follow.

74 shares

😐

Financial Express

Feb 24, 2026, 02:14 PM

Tata Sons Defers Decision on Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran's Reappointment

The board of Tata Sons has deferred a decision on granting a third term to chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran , according to reports from Bloomberg and CNBC TV-18. The board of directors at the Tata Group ’s holding company discussed Chandrasekaran’s reappointment at a meeting on Tuesday but did not take a final decision as his current term runs until February 2027, sources told Bloomberg and CNBC TV-18. Financialexpress.com could not verify the news independently. We have reached out to the company, and this copy will be updated once we hear from them. The deferment follows differences of opinion among board members regarding financial losses at certain business units, one of the people cited by Bloomberg said. Chandrasekaran, 62, took over as chairman in 2017 after the ouster of Cyrus Mistry. He became the first non-family and non-heir to lead Tata Sons. His appointment followed a bitter boardroom battle in 2016 that saw patriarch Ratan Tata return from retirement to remove Mistry as chairman, triggering one of India’s most high-profile corporate disputes, as per media reports. Furthermore, Noel Tata has sought assurances on three key issues before backing the reappointment of N Chandrasekaran as chairman of Tata Sons for another five-year term, CNBC-TV18 reported, citing sources. According to the CNBC TV-18 report, Noel Tata has opposed any move to list Tata Sons, favoured preserving liquidity at the holding company level by avoiding fresh investments that could strain its balance sheet, and called for a resolution of pending matters with the Shapoorji Pallonji Group. The report added that Tata Sons deferred a decision on extending Chandrasekaran’s tenure at its February 24 board meeting, with the matter pushed to June. Chandrasekaran told CNBC-TV18 that he himself recommended deferring the decision and said there would be no change in the group’s functioning. The reported delay comes after a challenging year for the group. According to Bloomberg, the conglomerate faced multiple crises in 2025, including a fatal crash involving Air India, a cyberattack at Jaguar Land Rover, and renewed tensions at majority shareholder Tata Trusts. Tata Trusts, which holds about two-thirds of Tata Sons’ equity, is now chaired by Noel Tata, Ratan Tata ’s half-brother. Bloomberg reported that the chairmanship decision will also indicate how Noel Tata intends to assert his leadership within the group’s governance structure. Uncertainty has also surrounded succession dynamics within Tata Trusts. Noel Tata ’s son, Neville, was appointed as a trustee last year, while Mehli Mistry stepped down as trustee, Bloomberg reported. Separately, CNBC-TV18 reported that the Tata Sons board met at Bombay House on Tuesday but did not take up the matter of extending Chandrasekaran’s tenure, even as his current term is set to end in February 2027. CNBC-TV18 had earlier reported that the board was scheduled to consider granting Chandrasekaran a third five-year term, which, if approved, would extend his leadership until 2032. Chandrasekaran joined the Tata Group in 1987 and previously served as chief executive officer and managing director of Tata Consultancy Services from 2009. He was appointed to the Tata Sons board in October 2016 before being named chairman in 2017. Under his leadership, Bloomberg reported, the group’s 15 largest listed companies nearly doubled revenue and profits, driven by expansion in areas including semiconductors and digital technologies, while steering core businesses through sectoral headwinds. Apart from the leadership issue, CNBC-TV18 said the board is expected to review key business updates across major Tata Group companies. A decision on Chandrasekaran’s tenure, if approved at a later date, would provide continuity at the top of one of India’s largest and most diversified business groups.

52 shares

😢

First Post

Feb 24, 2026, 02:13 PM

Tropical Cyclone Horacio Intensifies into Category 5 Storm in South Indian Ocean

Tropical Cyclone Horacio has swiftly intensified into the world’s first Category 5 storm of 2026, the highest possible classification for tropical cyclones. The storm has reportedly surged from 65 mph to around 160 mph in the South Indian Ocean in just 24 hours, equivalent to roughly 260 kilometres per hour. Horacio’s wind speed and intensity place it in the most powerful category on the Saffir-Simpson scale. Here’s what to know about India’s vulnerability to storms of this intensity, and more. Horacio is developed over the remote waters of the South Indian Ocean. Such storms are relatively rare worldwide. They form only under specific atmospheric and oceanic conditions. Just like all tropical cyclones, it begins as a low-pressure system over the ocean. What makes Horacio significant is the rapid pace of its intensification. Horacio strengthened quickly under favourable weather conditions, with warm ocean waters fuelling its growth into a major storm. It now ranks as the strongest storm globally this year, according toMoneycontrol. On the widely used Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, a Category 5 cyclone is the most intense and highest type of cyclonic storm. Its sustained wind speeds exceed 250 kilometres per hour,News18reported. Wind at this speed generates extreme rainfall and towering ocean waves. It also has catastrophic, destructive potential. It can tear roofs off buildings, uproot large trees, cripple power infrastructure, and cause extensive damage to coastal communities. Intense rainfall can also lead to flash floods and landslides far beyond the immediate area of the zone. At present, there is no such indication, and Horacio poses no direct threat to India. It is mainly due to its location, which is far from the Indian coastline. It is located in the southern Indian Ocean, far from the two main cyclone-generating regions that typically affect India, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. JUST IN: Indian Ocean Cyclone Horacio has just become the world’s first CATEGORY 5 storm of 2026.He has strengthened from 65 mph to 160 MPH in only 24 hours.pic.twitter.com/c2G6XciZHq Tropical cyclones rarely move between hemispheres. Prevailing wind patterns and temperature contrasts act as natural barriers, keeping them within their own ocean basins. Now this makes it highly unlikely that Horacio will track toward Indian waters. At present, there are no forecasts indicating any indirect weather impact on India’s coastal states, according to media reports. India is keeping a close eye on it, as it’s one of the world’s mostcyclone-vulnerable countries. The nation has witnessed several extremely powerful cyclones in recent years. In 2019,Cyclone Faniintensified to a Category 5–equivalent storm, causing widespread destruction in Odisha. Other states, such as Gujarat, are also exposed to storms that form in the Arabian Sea. Meteorologists are closely studying Horacio’s rapid intensification. They refer to this as “rapid intensification," a process. Scientists are studying sea surface temperatures and wind patterns, with ocean waters recorded at around 27 to 28 degrees Celsius. Such warm conditions supply the energy needed for cyclones to intensify. Satellite data is also used to monitor wind speeds and the storm’s movement. With inputs from agencies President Trump will use the State of the Union to defend his immigration policies, economic record, and military actions, while addressing affordability concerns and urging increased military funding. He is expected to criticize the Supreme Court's ruling against his tariffs and highlight foreign policy moves, including actions in Iran and Venezuela. Several Democrats plan to boycott the speech, attending a protest rally instead, as Trump faces skepticism over his claims of economic success. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.

97 shares

😐

Latestly

Feb 24, 2026, 02:11 PM

Supreme Court Agrees to Examine Public Interest Litigation Seeking Effective Implementation of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Guidelines

New Delhi, February 24:The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to examine a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking effective implementation of the Centre’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure guidelines and to prevent arbitrary denial of NOCs by housing societies. Issuing notice on a plea filed by a Greater Noida-based resident, a bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi sought responses from the Union of India, the State of Uttar Pradesh, the Nirala Estate housing society in Greater Noida, and its property management agency Cushman & Wakefield Property Management Services India Pvt Ltd. The petition has been filed under Article 32 of the Constitution by Rachit Katyal, who contended that despite clear Central government guidelines promoting EV adoption, housing societies continue to obstruct the installation of private charging infrastructure. According to the plea, the petitioner is the owner and resident of a flat in Greater Noida (West) Nirala Estate Phase-3 and had purchased an electric vehicle in furtherance of "the increasing need for sustainable and eco-friendly transportation and national EV policies". The plea stated that the petitioner planned the installation of a certified private EV charger at his own expense through authorised professionals, and sought a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the housing society and management agency on May 26, 2025.Delhi Govt To Impound And Scrap Overaged Vehicles, Know How to Save Your End-of-Life Vehicle. However, despite repeated reminders and submission of government guidelines, no decision was taken. The petition, filed through advocate Sriram Parakkat, contended that arbitrary refusal by housing societies to grant NOCs for installation of EV chargers in designated parking spaces defeats national policy on clean mobility and violates residents’ fundamental rights under Articles 14 and 21. "The principal obstacle to EV adoption at the residential level is the unreasonable refusal or delay by housing societies in granting permission for installation of EV chargers in allotted parking spaces," it added. The petitioner alleged that although the society has nearly 4,000 flats and around 56 electric vehicles, only two low-capacity charging points of 7 kW and 3 kW exist, which are "grossly insufficient and contrary to national EV policy". Referring to the Union Ministry of Power’s notification dated September 17, 2024, the plea said the consolidated "Guidelines for Installation and Operation of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure-2024" expressly permit residents of group housing societies to install private EV chargers in their designated parking spaces, subject to safety norms. "The said EV Guidelines expressly promote installation of private EV chargers in group housing societies and provide for electricity supply through existing meters or sub-meters, leaving no scope for arbitrary denial by housing societies," the petition stated. "Denial of permission by housing societies frustrates national policy, violates principles of reasonableness and non-arbitrariness, and undermines public interest in sustainable development," it added.JSW MG Motor to Invest USD 440 Million in India for EV and Hybrid Expansion. Relying on policies adopted in states such as Maharashtra, where statutory circulars mandate issuance of NOCs within stipulated timelines, the petitioner argued that the absence of enforceable directions in Uttar Pradesh has resulted in regulatory uncertainty and inconsistent implementation of Central guidelines. Stating that the cause of action is "continuous and subsisting", the petition seeks directions to ensure uniform and effective implementation of the 2024 EV charging infrastructure guidelines and to prevent arbitrary denial of NOCs by housing societies. TruLY Score 4 – Reliable | On a Trust Scale of 0-5 this article has scored 4 on LatestLY. The information comes from reputable news agencies like (IANS). While not an official source, it meets professional journalism standards and can be confidently shared with your friends and family, though some updates may follow. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 24, 2026 07:40 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our websitelatestly.com).

61 shares

😐

Kalinga TV

Feb 24, 2026, 02:04 PM

Odisha Leader Slams Government Over Neglect of Farmers' Issues

Bhubaneswar:“Jai Kisan in Words, ‘Bhago Kisan’ in Reality,” said Leader of Opposition (LoP) Naveen Patnaik while slamming the Odisha government at BJD farmers’ convention in Bhubaneswar today. Addressing the BJD’s “Chasi Surakhya Samabesh,” Patnaik strongly criticized the state government for failing farmers despite grand election promises. He accused the government of raising slogans like “Jai Kisan” while neglecting farmers in reality, asserting that governance requires action, not speeches. The former Chief Minister reiterated that Biju Janata Dal will continue to stand firmly with farmers and fight for their rights. The state government is nearing two years in office but has failed to take or implement meaningful decisions, he alleged adding that during elections, tall promises were made but nothing substantial has been delivered. “The government’s slogan is “Jai Kisan” but in reality it is “Bhago Kisan” and governments run on work, not stories. People want service, not sermons,” Patnaik said. While raising the farmers’ issues, the LoP said that fertilizers are not available on time while paddy procurement is delayed. Besides, illegal deductions and cuts are increasing, farmers are not receiving payments on time and the complaints from farmers are being dismissed, he claimed. Naveen also gave several proposals to the government including form a special squad to stop illegal deductions, break the nexus between millers and officials, remove the 150-quintal ceiling on input subsidy, ensure Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) within 48 hours and procure paddy lying in the open within 72 hours. This apart, Patnaik also raised broader governance concerns such as deteriorating law and order situation, lack of security for women, rising unemployment among youth, repeated exam paper leaks, government unable to conduct exams efficiently and despite spending heavily on publicity, farmers’ concerns remain unaddressed.

16 shares

😢

Deccan Herald

Feb 24, 2026, 02:00 PM

West Bengal Chief Minister Renews Demand for State Name Change Amid Alleged Alliance with CPI(M)

New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday renewed the demand for renaming West Bengal as 'Bangla' as the union government gave its green signal for changing Kerala's name to 'Keralam', a decision which she attributed to an "alliance growing" between the BJP and CPI(M). ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Experience a more refined e-paper today READ TODAY'S EPAPER ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Soon after a meeting of the union cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi cleared the proposal of Kerala Assembly, she "congratulated the brothers and sisters" in the south Indian state even as she accused the BJP government of not approving West Bengal's proposal because of it being "anti-Bengali". Mamata’s quick response is seen as Trinamool’s attempt to raise the decibel levels against the BJP in poll-bound West Bengal where her party has been accusing the saffron camp of insulting Bengal icons. She has also used it to target CPI(M) by alleging a relationship between the Left party and the BJP. Also Read:Kerala to become 'Keralam' as Union Cabinet approves name change Also Read:Union Cabinet approves renaming Kerala as 'Keralam' "Kerala has been renamed since there is an alliance growing between the BJP and the CPIM. The alliance is not unwritten anymore after today. Why will Bengal face deprivation always? One day, you [BJP] will not be in power. We will get the name changed," she said. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links Stories You May Like CM Siddaramaiah assures of justice in Shivamogga teen's murder case; 7 minors held... 'Prolonged neglect in filling vacancies led to stir': H D Kumaraswamy slams Karn... Shivamogga student death: SSLC boy killed stopping clas smates' fight She said the names of several states are changed once such proposals are endorsed by the respective state governments but that has not been the case with West Bengal. "When our students go for exams or interviews, they are called at the end since the name of the state begins with ‘W’, which comes at the end alphabetically. I too face the same problem. I get the chance to speak at the end as I am the Chief Minister of West Bengal," she said. "Based on the culture of the state, we wanted to rename West Bengal as Bangla. In this regard, we have passed resolutions twice in the Legislative Assembly. After we were told that the name of the state should be the same in Hindi, Bengali and English, we passed a resolution again to rename the state as Bangla in all three languages," she said. She said she has raised the demand whenever she met Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah but "much to my surprise, nothing has happened". Also Read:TMC seeks West Bengal be renamed 'Bangla' Also Read:TMC seeks West Bengal be renamed 'Bangla' "I think they are not approving it because they are anti-Bengali. They disrespect the icons and visionaries of Bengal. They only use the word ‘Bangla’ during polls to get electoral benefit. That is why they have not given the approval to rename the state," she alleged. The union government's approval for change in name, which will be followed by the President referring a Bill for change in name to Kerala Assembly for comments and then Parliament passing it, came after a resolution passed by state Assembly in 2024. A similar resolution passed by Kerala in 2023 was rejected owing to procedural problems. Asked why the 2023 resolution was rejected and whether the latest decision was driven by upcoming polls in Kerala, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwani Vaishnaw told reporters that the union cabinet had cleared several development programmes for Kerala when there was no elections. ADVERTISEMENT Published 24 February 2026, 19:30 IST India News BJP Kerala West Bengal Indian Politics Mamata Banerjee Trinamool Congress Follow us on : Follow Us Read More

81 shares

😢

The Indian Express

Feb 24, 2026, 01:58 PM

India's Union Cabinet Approves Name Change for Kerala State to Keralam

The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved the proposal to change the name of Kerala to Keralam . Briefing reporters after the Cabinet meeting, Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, will now be sent to the state Assembly for its approval, following which the Centre will take the next steps. In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who chaired the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, said, “The decision of the Union Cabinet on alteration of the name of Kerala to Keralam reflects the will of the people of the state. It is in line with our efforts to strengthen the connect with our glorious culture.” The decision of the Union Cabinet on alteration of the name of Kerala to Keralam reflects the will of the people of the state. It is in line with our efforts to strengthen the connect with our glorious culture. https://t.co/pdzsgiU1l2 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2026 https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js The decision, which was taken at the first Cabinet meeting held at Seva Teerth – the new PMO complex – comes ahead of the Assembly elections in the state. “After approval of the Union Cabinet, the President of India will refer a Bill, namely the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, to the State Legislative Assembly of Kerala for expressing its views under the proviso to Article 3 of the Constitution of India,” Vaishnaw told reporters. After receipt of the views of the Assembly, the Centre will take further action, and the recommendation of the President will be obtained for the introduction of the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, in Parliament. In June 2024, the Kerala Assembly had passed a resolution to alter the name of the state to “Keralam”. Quoting the resolution, a statement by the Union government on Tuesday said: “The name of our State is ‘Keralam’ in Malayalam Language. States were formed on the basis of language on the 1st day of November, 1956. The Kerala Piravi Day is also on the 1st day of November.” “Since the time of National Independence Struggle, there has been a strong demand for the formation of United Kerala for the people speaking Malayalam language. But in the First Schedule to the Constitution the name of our State is recorded as ‘Kerala’. This Assembly unanimously appeals to the Central Government to take urgent steps as per Article 3 of the Constitution for modifying the name as ‘Keralam’,” the resolution read. Thereafter, the Kerala government requested the Centre to take necessary measures to amend the First Schedule to the Constitution by altering the name of ‘Kerala’ as ‘Keralam’ under Article 3 of the Constitution, said the government statement. Article 3 of the Constitution provides for alteration of names of existing states. The matter regarding alteration of the name Kerala as Keralam was considered in the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, and with the approval of Union Home Minister Amit Shah , the draft note for the Cabinet for the alteration of name of Kerala as Keralam was circulated to the Department of Legal Affairs and Legislative Department, Ministry of Law and Justice for their comments, the government said on Tuesday. “The Department of Legal Affairs and Legislative Department, Ministry of Law and Justice have concurred with the proposal for the alteration of the name of Kerala’ as ‘Keralam’,” the statement said. Meanwhile, at its first meeting at Seva Teerth, the Cabinet also resolved that every decision taken in the premises will be inspired by the sentiment of ‘Nagrik Devo Bhava’ and will be a centre for the empowerment of every Indian, said Vaishnaw. According to the resolution passed at the meeting, termed ‘Seva Sankalp Resolution’, every decision taken in the new building will be inspired by a spirit of service toward 1.4 billion citizens and will be connected to the broader goal of nation-building. “We reaffirm that, in line with our vision, we will further strengthen the governance model that is transparent, aware, and sensitive to the emotions of citizens,” it said.

5 shares

😐

DD News✓

Feb 24, 2026, 01:52 PM

EU Plans Permanent Ban on Russian Oil Imports Amid Ukraine War

The European Commission will submit a legal proposal to permanently ban Russian oil imports on April 15, three days after Hungary’s parliamentary election, according to EU officials and a document seen by Reuters. Two EU officials told Reuters the timing was designed to prevent the oil ban becoming a major factor in Hungary’s election campaign. Hungary and Slovakia, still reliant on Russian oil imports, are strongly opposed to any ban. In the April 12 election, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and his nationalist Fidesz party are facing the biggest challenge to their hold on power in 16 years. The EU has already imposed sanctions on imports of seaborne Russian oil. But it wants to enshrine a full phase-out of Russian oil in legislation that would remain in place, even if a peace deal in the Ukraine war led to the EU lifting sanctions. The Commission plans to propose the Russian oil ban on April 15, according to a draft agenda seen by Reuters. EU agendas are provisional, and the date could still change. A Commission spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the plan. Shipments of Russian oil to Hungary and Slovakia via the Druzhba pipeline have been severed since January 27, when Kyiv said a Russian drone strike hit pipeline equipment in Western Ukraine. Slovakia and Hungary say Ukraine is to blame for the prolonged outage. Kyiv says it is trying to repair the pipeline. HUNGARIAN VETO Orban’s government, which has maintained cordial ties with Moscow since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, has vetoed new EU sanctions on Russia as well as a huge loan for Kyiv because of the Druzhba pipeline dispute. The European Union is expected to circumvent any attempt by Hungary and Slovakia to block the planned permanent ban on Russian oil imports by using a law that can be approved by a qualified majority of member states. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen has said the proposal will phase out Russian oil imports by no later than end-2027. By the final quarter of last year, the EU was importing just 1% of its oil from Russia, largely as a result of the bloc’s sanctions on seaborne Russian crude. The EU last month fixed into law a full phase-out of Russian gas by late 2027. Hungary and Slovakia have vowed to challenge that law in court. Orban has cast Hungary’s April election as a stark choice between “war or peace”, saying his opponents would drag the country into the war raging next door in Ukraine, something they strongly deny. (REUTERS)

53 shares

😢

The Free Press Journal

Feb 24, 2026, 01:48 PM

AI Minister Controversy: Albanian Actor Sues Government Over Unauthorized Use of Her Likeness

On September 11, 2025, Albanian actor Anila Bisha was at home watching Prime Minister Edi Rama unveil Albania’s new cabinet when she witnessed something astonishing, a virtual minister bearing her exact face and voice. The avatar, named “Diella,” was introduced as the world’s first AI-powered minister for artificial intelligence. But for Bisha, the moment was shocking. Months earlier, in December 2024, she had signed a contract allowing her likeness and voice to be used for a year as a digital assistant on e-Albania, the government’s online public services portal. She says she never agreed to her image being elevated to a ministerial role. Let us know! 👂What type of content would you like to see from us this year? What began as a chatbot guiding citizens through administrative procedures had suddenly become a political figure, addressing parliament and appearing at official events. While the government framed it as a bold step toward digital governance, Bisha saw it as a breach of trust. Legal battle over image and personal data Bisha has taken the matter to the Administrative Court, seeking suspension of the avatar’s use and €1 million in moral damages. She has named the Council of Ministers, the National Agency for Information Society (AKSHI), the private tech firm behind the avatar, and Prime Minister Edi Rama as defendants. Legal scholars in Albania argue the dispute centers on personal data protection rather than copyright. Under laws aligned with EU GDPR standards, a person’s biometric data, including facial image and voice, is protected. Any use beyond agreed contractual terms could constitute a violation. Let us know! 👂What type of content would you like to see from us this year? The government has rejected the claims, maintaining that the case lacks legal foundation. Innovation, ethics and public perception Internationally, Diella has been praised as a symbol of forward-looking governance, even receiving recognition at the World Governments Summit in Dubai in 2026. However, experts note that the system functions as a chatbot within Albania’s broader e-governance infrastructure rather than as an autonomous AI decision-maker. Let us know! 👂What type of content would you like to see from us this year? Complicating matters, Albania’s Special Anti-Corruption Prosecution has launched a separate investigation into alleged procurement irregularities within AKSHI, the agency overseeing state digital systems. For Bisha, the issue is deeply personal. Strangers now call her “Minister Diella.” What was presented as technological progress has evolved into a courtroom debate over identity, consent and the ethical limits of artificial intelligence in public office.

77 shares

😢

Odisha TV

Feb 24, 2026, 01:25 PM

Odisha Panchayat Elections Postponed Until at Least February 2027

Odisha Government Panchayat electionsinOdishawill not be held before February 2027,Panchayati Raj MinisterRabi Narayan Naik informed theState Assemblyon Tuesday. In a written reply in the House, the Minister clarified that there is no decision to conduct Panchayat elections prior to February 2027. He stated that the elections will be held as per the scheduled timeline.

19 shares

😐

Feb 24, 2026, 01:24 PM

Senegalese Prime Minister Proposes Tougher Penalties for Same-Sex Relations

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko on Tuesday unveiled legislation to double the maximum penalty for same-sex relations . People are regularly arrested on such charges in traditionalist, Muslim-majority Senegal , where they currently face a prison sentence of up to five years. How might Senegal change its law on same-sex relations? "Anyone committing an act against nature will be punished by five to 10 years' imprisonment," compared with one to five years under the current law, Sonko told parliament. "Anyone who commits an unnatural act will be punished by five to ten years' imprisonment," compared with one to five years currently, Sonko said in a question-and-answer session in the National Assembly, referring to the proposed bill. The legislation would have to be submitted to a vote by lawmakers, although no date has yet been set. The issue has come to the fore in recent weeks by a series of arrests of people — including celebrities — for alleged same-sex acts. Senegal students feel betrayed, fear for future To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video 03:58 What did Sonko say about the law change proposal? State-owned daily newspaper Le Soleil cited Sonko, who has been in power since 2024 , as saying that the the offense would remain a mid-level one rather than a felony. The bill relates to both same-sex relations and child sex abuse, which are often conflated by the Senegalese media. "If the act is committed with a minor, the maximum sentence will be imposed," Sonko told lawmakers. He said the bill changed the penal code to stipulate that "any sexual act or act of a sexual nature between two people of the same sex constitutes an act against nature." In recent years, religious associations have staged demonstrations to demand tougher penalties. Edited by: Saim Dušan Inayatullah

72 shares

😢

Latestly

Feb 24, 2026, 01:15 PM

Thalapathy Vijay's 'Jana Nayagan' Release Faces Uncertainty as CBFC Review Process Remains Ongoing

The release of Thalapathy Vijay’s highly anticipated final filmJana Nayagan, faces further uncertainty as the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has yet to begin its review process. Originally scheduled for a January 9 debut, the H. Vinoth directorial remains in a state of "limbo" following a protracted legal and regulatory battle. New industry reports now suggest the makers are targeting a strategic release in June 2026 to coincide with the actor’s birthday festivities.‘Jana Nayagan’: Director H Vinoth Expresses Disappointment Over Lack of Support Amid Thalapathy Vijay’s Film Release Delay. Despite the production house, KVN Productions, withdrawing its legal petition to expedite the process, the newly appointed CBFC revising committee has reportedly not commenced the re-censoring proceedings. Sources indicate that the makers have not received any official acknowledgment or communication regarding a timeline for the review. Without the necessary certification paperwork, the team is unable to lock a definitive theatrical window. This lack of movement from the board has pushed the film’s release well beyond its initial Pongal targets and past the April Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.‘Jana Nayagan’ Postponed Again; Vijay Film’s New Release Date Under Wraps (View Post) According to a recent report from the industry-tracking channel Valai Pechu, the production team is now pivoting toward a mid-year launch. If certification hurdles are cleared in the coming weeks, the film is tentatively eyeing Thursday, June 18, 2026. The proposed date is being viewed as a major tactical move for two key reasons: Jana Nayagancarries immense weight in the Tamil film industry as it marks Vijay’s final cinematic appearance before he transitions into full-time politics with his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). The film, which also stars Pooja Hegde and Bobby Deol, is rumoured to be a high-stakes political drama. International distributors, including York Cinemas, have already informed patrons that the film will not be released before April 30 and have begun offering refunds for pending tickets. While the June date remains the current favourite among trade analysts, KVN Productions has yet to issue a formal confirmation. TruLY Score 3 – Believable; Needs Further Research | On a Trust Scale of 0-5 this article has scored 3 on LatestLY, this article appears believable but may need additional verification. It is based on reporting from news websites or verified journalists (Moneycontrol), but lacks supporting official confirmation. Readers are advised to treat the information as credible but continue to follow up for updates or confirmations (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 24, 2026 06:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our websitelatestly.com).

82 shares

😢

First Post

Feb 24, 2026, 01:06 PM

UK Unveils Largest Package of Sanctions on Russia Since Ukraine War Began

Britain on Tuesday unveiled its largest package of sanctions against Russia since the early phase of the Ukraine war, marking four years since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to aPoliticoreport, the UK government announced sweeping measures targeting dozens of companies and individuals across Russia’s military, energy and financial sectors, as Western allies intensify efforts to squeeze President Vladimir Putin’s war economy. Those sanctioned include firms linked to Russia’s nuclear and gas industries, as well as banks involved in processing cross-border payments that help Moscow circumvent existing UK restrictions, added the report. London has also expanded its crackdown on Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” — oil tankers used to evade sanctions. The new measures cover 48 vessels and 175 entities associated with what officials described as the “2Rivers” illicit oil network. The UK Foreign Office said the action sends a clear message that Russian oil transported outside sanctions compliance “is off the market.” UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, who is in Kyiv to mark the invasion anniversary, said the measures are designed to disrupt the financial flows and supply chains underpinning Russia’s war effort. “The UK has today taken decisive action to disrupt the critical financing, military equipment and revenue streams that sustain Russia’s aggression, in our largest raft of measures since the early months of the invasion,”Politicoquoted Cooper as saying. With inputs from agencies The Indian Embassy in Seoul issued an advisory clarifying that Jeju's visa-free entry is only for short-term tourism and does not allow travel to mainland South Korea. The advisory follows influencer Sachin Awasthi's claims that he and his wife were detained and denied entry, facing harsh conditions and limited support. The embassy warned that overstaying or unauthorized travel from Jeju to the mainland is illegal and may result in travel bans or detention. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.

65 shares

😢

The Free Press Journal

Feb 24, 2026, 01:05 PM

Mumbra Residents Foil Illegal Chemical Dumping Attempt, Spark Outrage Over Administrative Oversight

Thane:A potentially catastrophic environmental and public health crisis was narrowly avoided in Mumbra on Friday, the swift intervention of local youth who intercepted a tanker attempting to illegally discharge hazardous chemicals. Incident Overview The incident occurred near the Retibunder creek area, where a tanker carrying approximately 22,000 liters of toxic chemicals was caught in the act of dumping its contents into the water. Local residents, observing suspicious activity in the late hours, acted quickly to stop the vehicle and notify the authorities. According to preliminary reports, the tanker had traveled from the Wada area in Bhiwandi to Mumbra. Investigators noted that the transport cost for this distance estimated at roughly ₹7,000 in fuel alone suggests a calculated effort to dispose of the waste, leading to suspicions of an organized conspiracy behind the illegal dumping. Potential Impact Local activists and residents alleged that the intention was to release the toxic substances into the sea. Such an action would have had devastating consequences, including: Marine Life Depletion: Irreparable damage to the local aquatic ecosystem. Public Health Crisis: Potential health risks to hundreds of thousands of residents living in the vicinity of the creek. Police Action and Investigation Upon receiving the alert, the Mumbra Police arrived at the scene and seized the vehicle. An First Information Report (FIR) has been registered under relevant sections of the law. The primary suspects identified in the case include: Ravindra Giri Sandeep Giri (Driver) Saddam Shah While the suspects have been served notices, the police have officially taken custody of the tanker. Under the guidance of Senior Police Inspector Anil Shinde and Inspector Tejas Sawant, experts have been summoned to analyze the nature and toxicity of the chemicals to determine the full extent of the potential hazard. Community and Political Response The incident has sparked outrage regarding administrative vigilance. Waseem Sayyed, President of the Thane District Minority Congress, raised concerns over the recurring lack of basic security and administrative oversight in Mumbra. He emphasized that while issues regarding local infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and grounds are frequently raised, serious security lapses like this chemical disposal attempt put the entire city at risk. Local social workers and youth leaders are now demanding a high-level inquiry to ensure that the perpetrators face strict legal action and to establish a permanent system to prevent such environmental crimes in the future. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit:https://budgetproperties.in/

73 shares

😢

The Free Press Journal

Feb 24, 2026, 12:58 PM

India's Parliamentary Diplomacy Gets Boost as MP Shinde Leads Delegation to Indonesia

Kalyan:Reinforcing his growing stature in parliamentary diplomacy, Shiv Sena Member of Parliament from Kalyan, Dr. Shrikant Eknath Shinde, has once again been entrusted with a key international responsibility. The young MP has been appointed to the Parliamentary Friendship Group constituted at the initiative of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and will lead the Indian delegation to Indonesia. Second Major Assignment After Four-Nation Africa-Middle East Tour Dr. Shinde’s appointment comes close on the heels of his active participation in the multi-party parliamentary outreach under Operation Sindoor, during which he led a delegation to the UAE, Sierra Leone, Liberia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. During the tour, he articulated India’s position firmly on global platforms, reflecting a united political consensus on national interests. The newly formed Parliamentary Friendship Groups aim to deepen India’s parliamentary engagement with countries across the world. As part of this ambitious diplomatic initiative, delegations comprising Members of Parliament from diverse political backgrounds will visit over 60 nations to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance people-to-people connect. Focus on Trade, Tech, Culture and Parliamentary Exchange The programme is designed to facilitate structured dialogue on trade, technology, education, cultural exchange and strategic cooperation. It also seeks to promote the exchange of best parliamentary practices while reinforcing Parliament-to-Parliament engagement alongside traditional diplomatic channels. The initiative features participation from senior leaders across party lines, including Ravi Shankar Prasad, P. Chidambaram, Ram Gopal Yadav, T.R. Baalu, Supriya Sule, Shashi Tharoor, Anurag Thakur, Asaduddin Owaisi, Akhilesh Yadav, Derek O’Brien, Manish Tewari, Abhishek Banerjee, Kanimozhi and Gaurav Gogoi, along with emerging leaders such as Dr. Shinde. Countries identified for structured engagement include Sri Lanka, Germany, New Zealand, Switzerland, South Africa, Bhutan, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Maldives, the United States, Russia, member states of the European Parliament, South Korea, Nepal, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, Italy, Australia, Greece, Singapore, Brazil, Vietnam, Mexico, Iran and the UAE. MP's Selection Seen as Nod to Growing Diplomatic Role Described as a diligent and academically inclined parliamentarian, Dr. Shinde’s selection is being viewed as a recognition of his growing role in India’s international outreach efforts. Political observers believe his leadership of the Indonesia delegation will further amplify India’s voice on the global stage and add fresh momentum to parliamentary diplomacy. Speaking about the initiative, Speaker Om Birla emphasised that the platform will enable Indian MPs to directly engage with lawmakers worldwide, exchange legislative best practices and strengthen democratic dialogue at multiple levels. The formation of the Parliamentary Friendship Groups marks a significant step in expanding India’s global parliamentary footprint and underscores New Delhi’s commitment to proactive diplomatic engagement through elected representatives. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit:https://budgetproperties.in/

23 shares

😐

The Indian Express

Feb 24, 2026, 12:48 PM

Misal Demands Clarification from PMC Over Withdrawal of Civic Work Proposal

Pulling up the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for withdrawing her proposal to allocate funds for civic work in her Parvati Assembly constituency, Maharashtra Urban Development Minister Madhuri Misal on Tuesday sought a written clarification on the decision, which she said tarnished her image. “After the recommendation of the standing committee, the general body of the municipal corporation had the full right to approve the proposal, and it was not appropriate for you to withdraw the proposal without discussing it with me when I am the MLA of the Parvati Assembly constituency and the minister of state for the Urban development department. It had led to my image being tarnished… without giving me any prior information about this,” Misal said in a letter to the municipal commissioner. “You had informed the municipal secretary in writing to withdraw the proposal saying some technical and administrative corrections need to be made in it. However, it should be clarified as to what such technical and administrative corrections were required,” she wrote. “I am of the clear opinion that this action of the municipal chief is illegal as per the rules of procedure. However, a factual report in accordance with the matter should be submitted for my perusal immediately.” On May 9 last year, Misal asked the PMC to undertake works in Parvati by committing funds in the civic body’s budget . There was a meeting with the civic administration on the issue on September 16 last year. The PMC administration and standing committee later approved taking up 21 civic works by budgeting Rs 32.83 crore for the purpose. However, the proposal was withdrawn on February 18. “I learnt through the media about the withdrawal of the proposal to commit funds for civic works in Parvati Assembly constituency. I am very disturbed by the media reports, and I feel it has dented my image,” Misal said. Last week, Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram said he was unaware of how the proposal got the standing committee’s approval. He was responding to a question about why the civic body’s funds were being used for local area development in an Assembly constituency when the MLA gets government funds for it.

39 shares

😢

Latestly

Feb 24, 2026, 12:44 PM

Pakistan vs England Live Streaming: ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Match Details

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 reaches a fever pitch today, 24 February, as Pakistan take on England in a vital Group 2 Super 8 fixture. With semi-final spots on the line, fans in Pakistan are eager to know how to follow the action live from the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The good news for local fans is that comprehensive broadcast arrangements are in place, ensuring that the match is accessible across both traditional television and digital platforms throughout the country.England vs Pakistan Live Streaming and Free Telecast, T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Match. As the national broadcaster, PTV Sports has confirmed that it will provide a live telecast of the Pakistan vs England match. This ensures that fans across Pakistan can watch the game for free on their television sets. In addition to the standard coverage, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has partnered with PTV to offer a dedicated Urdu commentary feed for all Pakistan matches during the tournament. This specific broadcast will be available on PTV Home, making the high-octane clash more accessible to a wider local audience.England vs Pakistan Live Score Updates T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Match. For viewers who prefer to watch on the go, several digital platforms have secured streaming rights for the 2026 tournament in Pakistan. These services offer both free and subscription-based tiers: Myco:The primary digital partner for the event. Tamasha:Offering high-definition streaming for mobile users. ARY Zapp:Providing live coverage and instant highlights. Tapmad:Known for its ad-free premium sports streaming. The match is scheduled to begin at 18:30 Pakistan Standard Time (PKT), with the toss taking place 30 minutes prior. RegionTV ChannelLive Streaming Tonight’s game is a critical "must-win" for Salman Ali Agha’s side. After a rain-affected opener in Colombo that saw points split with New Zealand, Pakistan currently sit on one point. A victory against England would put them in a strong position to qualify for the semi-finals. England, led by Harry Brook, enters the contest with two points following a clinical 51-run victory over Sri Lanka. A win tonight for the defending champions would virtually guarantee their progression to the knockout stages, leaving Pakistan to fight for the remaining spot in Group 2. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 24, 2026 06:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our websitelatestly.com).

45 shares

😐

Financial Express

Feb 24, 2026, 12:35 PM

India's exporters set to benefit as US tariffs reduced

India products clearing US customs from Tuesday onwards will be subject to 10% duties instead of 50% when the contracts were negotiated, opening doors for some kind of a relief even for cargoes on seas. While immediate windfall will be for the importer who would have to pay 40% less tariffs , some of it may be passed on to Indian sellers. “Many exporters had an understanding with the buyers while negotiating contracts at very thin margin or even loss that benefit from change in duties would be shared with them too,” CEO and Director General of Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) Ajay Sahai said. The transit time for the US ports ranges from 45-60 days. So at any given point of time one-eighth of annual exports to the US of $ 10-12 billion are on seas so the benefit could be considerable if importers share the benefit of lower duties, he added. Tariffs on India remained at 50% from last week of August 2025 to February 6 this year. Both sides issued a joint statement that removed 25% tariffs related to Russian oil purchases and agreed to bring down reciprocal tariffs to 18% from 25%. Before the order of Indian reciprocal tariffs came, the US Supreme Court struck down all country-specific tariffs. The US Customs and Border Protection notified 10% additional duties on imported articles from all countries for a period of 150 days under the Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 just hours before the new rates came into force at 12:01 am eastern standard time on February 24, 2026 or 10:30 am India time Tuesday. Following the Supreme Court judgement the US President Donald Trump announced 10% global tariffs and hours later announced that they will be raised to 15%. The notification, however, operationalised only 10% tariffs. Meanwhile a White House spokesperson quoted by NBC News said that the administration is preparing a separate order to raise additional tariffs to 15%. There is no word from the US administration on the refund of tariffs paid before the Supreme Court struck down country-specific duties. The refunds, if any, will also be collected by importers. Sharing them with Indian suppliers will depend on the understanding reached while negotiating contracts. Exporters are not expecting cash to flow to them if refunds materialise but adjustments in future contracts. Democrats in the US Senate have proposed a bill that would require U.S. Customs and Border Protection to issue refunds over the course of 180 days and pay interest on the refunded amount. Logistics company Federal Express has already on Monday sued the US government for the refund of tariffs it paid.

2 shares

😢

The Indian Express

Feb 24, 2026, 12:33 PM

Rajbanshi Leader's Award Acceptance Sparks Speculation on Political Allegiance in West Bengal Assembly Elections

With the West Bengal Assembly elections barely a month away, political temperatures have risen in north Bengal after Rajbanshi leader and BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ananta Maharaj accepted the Banga Bibhushan award from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee last week and shared the stage with her, setting off fresh speculation. Maharaj, whose real name is Nagendra Roy, has for years spearheaded the demand for a separate Greater Cooch Behar as a Union Territory, which has often put him at odds with both the BJP’s central leadership and the TMC. His presence at a state-sponsored event and Banerjee’s visible outreach come at a time when North Bengal remains a key battleground. At the ceremony, Banerjee felicitated Maharaj, offering him an “uttariya” and a plaque in the presence of senior ministers and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders Aroop Biswas and Indranil Sen. “We offer our deepest respects to Ananta Maharaj and his community. May he stay healthy and continue to work for society. We are proud that he is present here,” she said. Banerjee added, “Today, just as we have Ananta Maharaj from the Rajbanshi community, we also have respected people from the Bauri, Bagdi, Matua and Baul communities.” Yet, it was Maharaj’s remarks that drew sharper attention. “The Centre had only been discriminating and neglecting our community, which had joined the Indian republic with so much hope and expectations. Our region has been subjected to neglect by successive central governments, including the present one, for years,” he said. When reminded that he belongs to the ruling party at the Centre, he shot back: “Can’t I talk about the development of India? Are we not part of the country?” The Rajbanshi factor The Rajbanshis are the single-largest Scheduled Caste (SC) group in West Bengal. According to the 2011 Census, the community accounts for over 18% of the state’s 21.4 million SC population. Concentrated largely in the districts of Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and parts of North Dinajpur, the community plays a decisive role in several Assembly segments in North Bengal. According to a senior state administration official, Maharaj’s attendance at the ceremony was uncertain until the last moment. “If you see the list of names who were to receive the Banga Bibhushan award, only Maharaj’s name was written in pen because he was not confirmed for the ceremony. After getting his confirmation, his name was included in the list,” the official said. In 2023, the BJP had nominated Maharaj to the Rajya Sabha from Bengal, banking on his influence among Rajbanshi voters. The TMC, too, has consistently courted the community. In 2017, the state government set up a Rajbanshi Development Board with Banshibadan Burman as chairman, along with a Rajbanshi language academy. In 2020, the government declared a state holiday on the birth anniversary of Panchanan Barma, a key community icon. The following year, it announced primary school instruction in the Rajbanshi language across five North Bengal districts. These measures have been seen as a part of a broader strategy by the ruling party to blunt the BJP’s inroads into the region since 2019. Despite securing a comfortable majority in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, North Bengal continues to pose a challenge for the TMC. The lone parliamentary seat it won in the region — Cooch Behar — is also where Rajbanshi voters are concentrated. Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia defeated former Union Minister of State Nishith Pramanik of the BJP in that seat. In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the BJP won all seven seats encompassing the region. Maharaj’s importance for TMC According to TMC sources, Maharaj earlier embarrassed the BJP leadership by commenting against the party’s stand on not granting Union Territory status to Cooch Behar Soon after the Lok Sabha results, Banerjee made an “unplanned” stop at Maharaj’s residence in Chakchaka during her return from Siliguri. The 35-minute meeting fuelled speculation that he might switch sides after the BJP’s defeat in Cooch Behar. However, Maharaj did not join the TMC. After its rout in North Bengal in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the TMC recovered ground in the 2021 Assembly elections, winning 23 of the region’s 54 seats, with its ally Gorkhaland Janmukti Morcha (GJM) securing one, against the BJP’s 30. A senior TMC leader said the party remains hopeful that Maharaj’s statements will discomfort the BJP. “Like in the Lok Sabha elections, Maharaj may again embarrass the BJP by giving controversial statements. He has a substantial following at least in Cooch Behar district,” the leader said. The BJP, however, tried to downplay his impact. A senior party leader from North Bengal said, “The TMC failed to expand its footprint in Cooch Behar even after winning the Lok Sabha seat, except in Dinhata and Sitai. We are confident of winning the remaining seats in the district. However, such moves by Maharaj can cause damage, and that needs to be addressed by our central leadership.”

39 shares

😢

NorthEast Now

Feb 24, 2026, 12:28 PM

Assam Chief Minister Faces Setback as Congress MP Appointed to Lead International Parliamentary Forum

New Delhi:In what is being seen as a major political setback for Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma,Congress MP Gaurav Gogoihas been appointed President of the India–Philippines Parliamentary Friendship Group for the 18th Lok Sabha — despite months of allegations levelled against him by the Assam CM.The nomination, made by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, comes at a time when Sarma has been publicly accusing Gogoi of having “links with Pakistan” and raising questions about his wife’s alleged connections with individuals in that country.The Lok Sabha has constituted Parliamentary Friendship Groups with 64 countries, with several senior Opposition leaders heading these forums. Each group comprises 11 members, including MPs from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.Gogoi’s elevation to lead a parliamentary forum tasked with strengthening India’s international ties has triggered sharp reactions in Assam’s political circles, particularly because Sarma has repeatedly suggested that the Congress leader poses a national security concern.The Assam government had constituted aSpecial Investigation Team (SIT)to probe allegations of interference in India’s internal affairs by Pakistani national Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, who the Chief Minister claimed had links with Gogoi’s wife, Elizabeth Colburn.Sarma alleged that Gogoi, Colburn and Sheikh shared a “deeper connection” and claimed that Intelligence Bureau inputs were passed to a neighbouring country. He announced that the SIT report would be referred to the Centre for further investigation.However, Gogoi categorically denied the allegations, stating that the Assam Police report contains no evidence against him. He also questioned why the Chief Minister “sat” on the SIT report for six months if there was any credible proof of wrongdoing.Against this backdrop, Gogoi’s nomination by the Lok Sabha Speaker assumes political significance. Congress leaders argue that the appointment exposes what they describe as a sustained smear campaign by the Assam Chief Minister.According to an official communication dated February 23 from the Conference and Protocol Branch of the Lok Sabha Secretariat, Gogoi has been nominated as President of the India–Philippines Parliamentary Friendship Group for the current Lok Sabha term.Parliamentary Friendship Groups function as informal forums to strengthen bilateral engagement and legislative dialogue. The India–Philippines grouping is seen as particularly important under India’s Act East Policy, with growing cooperation between the two countries in defence, maritime security and trade.The development raises uncomfortable questions for the Assam Chief Minister: if the allegations were as grave as projected, how did the same Parliament deem Gogoi fit to head a key international parliamentary forum?While the SIT report is now being referred to the Centre, Gogoi’s appointment signals that, at least at the parliamentary level, the accusations have not translated into institutional action against him.Related

81 shares

😢

Newsbytes✓

Feb 24, 2026, 12:19 PM

Trump Settles Lawsuit with Isaac Hayes Estate Over Campaign Song Use

US PresidentDonald Trumphas settled a lawsuit with the estate of late singer-songwriter Isaac Hayes.The lawsuit accused Trump of using Hayes's hit recordHold On, I'm Comingwithout permission during his 2020 and 2024 presidential campaigns. The song was reportedly used 133 times in videos and campaign appearances.However, details of the settlement have not been disclosed yet.

90 shares

😢

First Post

Feb 24, 2026, 12:15 PM

Macron Warns of Short-Term Peace Deal in Ukraine as Russia Shows No Willingness to End War

As allies rallied around Ukraine on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday warned he is “very sceptical” about a peace deal in the short term as there is no willingness in Russia to end the war. At a meeting of the ‘Coalition of the Willing’ that he co-chairs, Macron said “there is no willingness on the Russian side to have peace”. In line with his hawkish approach on European security and foreign policy, Macron called for more support for Ukraine and pressured the European Union’s (EU) leaders to make sure the €90 billion loan to Ukraine is approved soon — Hungary’s far-right leader, Viktor Orban, has blocked the loan in the EU. Macron urged partners to ramp up pressures on Russia sanctions on Russia, including on its shadow fleet to “kill its business model”. Eight years after invading and occupying Ukraine’s Crimea province, Russia launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Even as Russian leader Vladimir Putin dubbed it a ‘special military operation’, the war aimed to overthrow Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s government, instal a regime favourable to Russia, and reshape the Ukrainian national identity in line with his vision. Four years later, Russia occupies around 20 per cent of Ukraine and the conflict has become a grinding war of attrition and estimates suggest that casualties are on track to mount to 2 million this year — twice as many Russians killed and injured than Ukrainians. Macron echoed Zelenskyy and British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who chairs the Coalition of the Willing, and called for an all-round defeat of Russia. “I completely agree with you, Keir and Volodymyr. We have to make very clear now about first the recent successes on the ground, but at the same time the fact that militarily, economically, and strategically the Russians are being defeated at this very moment,” said Macron. As for the ongoing peace talks, Macron said it was good to have continuing dialogue but called on the leaders to be “lucid” about Russia’s willingness to agree to a peace agreement. On security guarantees, Macron said these are “being finalised” and they need to be “agreed on in concrete terms”. France and the United Kingdom have taken a lead in mustering a multinational force to enforce any peace deal agreed between Russia and Ukraine. While the specifics are not yet clear, any such force is likely to include ground troops and fighter planes with an American backstop. Iran is close to finalising a deal with China to purchase advanced CM-302 supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles, according to Reuters sources. The missile system would significantly boost Iran's naval targeting capabilities and is difficult to intercept, experts say. The potential deal could deepen military ties between China and Iran and complicate US efforts to limit Iran's missile and nuclear programs amid rising regional tensions. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.

15 shares

😢

ANI News✓

Feb 24, 2026, 12:11 PM

Viasat Emphasizes Importance of Assured Spectrum Access and Resilient Satellite Communications in Safeguarding National Security

New Delhi [India], February 24 (ANI): The global technology companyViasaton Tuesday highlighted the strategic importance of assured spectrum access and resilient satellite communications (SATCOM) at the DefSat 2026 conference held at New Delhi's Manekshaw Centre. Addressing the opening plenary session, Ben Palmer, President ofViasatCommercial, underscored the role of these technologies in safeguarding national security and sustaining economic stability.Palmer noted the necessity of assured connectivity across alternate orbits and radio frequency bands. He stated, "We're looking at ways to ensure governments have access to assured connectivity via alternate orbits and alternate radio frequency spectrum. We are innovating to deliver cyber and EW resilience, access to different spectrum and new ways to deliver these key enabling capabilities."The three-day dialogue, which convenes military leadership, policymakers, and industry partners, focused on the future of space-enabled security. Palmer emphasised that societies cannot function without reliable access to space, describing satellite communications as the "dual use oxygen" that supports missions ranging from weather forecasting to early warning systems. "Without assured, resilient, global SATCOM, we would all be in the dark," he said. The discussion also addressed the increasing use of uncrewed systems in modern conflict. Palmer pointed to recent developments in Ukraine as evidence of how such platforms achieve military effects without risking personnel. He explained thatViasatis focused on developing compact terminals, some no larger than a coffee cup, to provide beyond line-of-sight communications for tactical uncrewed platforms. Palmer added, "Our work on satellite Direct to Device (D2D) will increase the capability available to the smallest uncrewed platforms."Regarding India's strategic position, Palmer acknowledged the government's approach to space sovereignty as "long term, strategic and wise." He remarked that India's resistance to market dominance by others in international fora helps maintain freedom of choice. "The grand strategic approach which the Government of India is adopting to assure its space sovereignty is impressive. This isn't just about 'Make in India' and assuring freedom of operation, it's also about the responsible, pragmatic approach that India has adopted," he said.Viasat, which recently integrated Inmarsat, continues to partner with local institutions like BSNL to build domestic capabilities. Palmer highlighted that the company employs hundreds of people in India to develop software-enabled capabilities that secure maritime and aerial transit. He noted that their provision of handheld satellite phone services and Ka-band services via local infrastructure provides the "sovereign communications capability required to underpin operational-to-tactical mission superiority." (ANI)

46 shares

😐

First Post

Feb 24, 2026, 12:05 PM

Iran Nears Deal with China for Advanced Anti-Ship Missiles Amid Rising Tensions

Iran is close to finalising an agreement with China to purchase advanced anti-ship cruise missiles, Reuters reported, citing six sources familiar with the negotiations. The talks come as the United States deploys significant naval forces near Iran’s coast amid rising tensions. The proposed deal centres on Chinese-made CM-302 supersonic anti-ship missiles, which have a reported range of about 290 km and are designed to evade shipborne defences by flying low and at high speed. Two weapons experts cited by Reuters said the system would significantly enhance Iran’s ability to target naval assets in the region. Danny Citrinowicz, a former Israeli intelligence officer and now a senior Iran researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies, said supersonic anti-ship capability would be a major shift and that such missiles are difficult to intercept. According to Reuters, negotiations between Iran and China began at least two years ago but accelerated sharply after the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran in June. As talks reached advanced stages last summer, senior Iranian officials, including deputy defence minister Massoud Oraei, travelled to China, two security officials said. Oraei’s visit had not been previously reported. Reuters said it could not determine the number of missiles involved, the financial terms of the agreement, or whether China would proceed given heightened regional tensions. An Iranian foreign ministry official told Reuters that Iran maintains military and security agreements with its allies and that the present period is an appropriate time to utilise them. China’s delegation to the United Nations referred queries to Beijing’s foreign ministry, which did not respond to requests for comment. The White House also did not directly address the reported negotiations, but a US official said US President Donald Trump has made clear that Washington would either reach a deal or take tougher measures, referring to the current standoff with Iran. The potential transfer would mark one of the most advanced weapons systems supplied by China to Iran and comes against the backdrop of sanctions first imposed under a United Nations arms embargo in 2006, suspended in 2015 as part of the nuclear deal, and reimposed last September. China, Iran and Russia hold annual joint naval exercises. Last year, the US Department of the Treasury sanctioned several Chinese entities for allegedly supplying chemical precursors to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps for use in its ballistic missile programme. China rejected the allegations, saying it strictly enforces export controls on dual-use products. Reuters said the reported missile deal would deepen military ties between Beijing and Tehran and complicate US efforts to curb Iran’s missile and nuclear programmes as American forces gather in the region. A group of 22 Senate Democrats introduced a bill requiring the Trump administration to refund, with interest, all tariff revenue struck down by the Supreme Court, prioritizing small businesses. The Supreme Court invalidated Trump's tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act but left refund decisions to lower courts. Over $175 billion in tariff collections could be subject to refunds, with Customs and Border Protection halting collection of these tariffs starting Tuesday. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.

4 shares

😢

Latestly

Feb 24, 2026, 12:04 PM

Winona Ryder Reunites with Jenna Ortega in Netflix's Wednesday Season 3

Stranger Thingsstar Winona Ryder has found a new spot in Jenna Ortega's supernatural hit show,Wednesday Season 3. According toVariety, Winona Ryder will be seen in a guest star role in the upcoming season of the Netflix show, marking an epic reunion for theBeetlejuice, Beetlejuiceco-stars. Winona Ryder and Jenna Ortega played mother-daughter in the film, which was directed by Tim Burton, who also continues to helmWednesday.‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ Movie Review: Michael Keaton Works His ‘Practical’ Magic on Tim Burton’s Occasionally Fun But Overstuffed Sequel (LatestLY Exclusive). "I am so happy that Winona has joined us, she fits right into this world. I am so happy that Winona has joined us, she fits right into this world," said Tim Burton, in a statement, as quoted byVariety. "When it comes to Outcasts, Winona Ryder is the GOAT. Her legendary partnership with Tim Burton has defined some of cinema's most unforgettable characters. We loved collaborating with her onBeetlejuice Beetlejuiceand couldn't be more thrilled to welcome her to Nevermore," addedWednesdaycreators and showrunners AI Gough and Miles Millar. With this, Winona Ryder is set to make a swift return to Netflix after she was last seen in the fifth and final season ofStranger Things. However, details surrounding her new role inWednesday Season 3have been presently kept under wraps.‘Stranger Things’ Actor Winona Ryder Reveals Being ‘Completely in Love’ With ‘The Godfather’ Star AI Pacino While Working Together. Winona Ryder's casting for the upcoming season comes at a time when Eve Green has been also brought on board to play Morticia Addams' sister Ophelia. Among others in the cast are Emma Myers, Hunter Doohan, Joy Sunday, Moosa Mostafa, Georgie Farmer, Isaac Ordonez, Billie Piper, Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo, Victor Dorobantu, Evie Templeton, with Luis Guzman, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Joanna Lumley, and Fred Armisen, as perVariety. Based on the characters created by Charles Addams, the show has received much love since the first season.Wednesday Season 2came out in two parts in August and September 2025, becoming a big hit on Netflix. (The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY) TruLY Score 4 – Reliable | On a Trust Scale of 0-5 this article has scored 4 on LatestLY. The information comes from reputable news agencies like (ANI). While not an official source, it meets professional journalism standards and can be confidently shared with your friends and family, though some updates may follow.

49 shares

😐

First Post

Feb 24, 2026, 12:03 PM

Trump to Champion Immigration Crackdowns, Tariffs in State of the Union Address

President Donald Trump will use Tuesday’s State of the Union to champion his immigration crackdowns, his slashing of the federal government, his push to preserve widespread tariffs that the Supreme Court just struck down, and his ability to direct quick-hit military actions around the world, including in Iran and Venezuela. The Republican hopes he can convince increasingly wary Americans that his policies have improved their lives while ensuring that the US economy is stronger than many believe — and that they should vote for more of the same in November. The balancing act of celebrating his whirlwind first year back in the White House while making a convincing case for his party in midterm races where he personally won’t be on the ballot is a tall order for any president. But it could prove especially delicate for Trump, given how happy he is to veer off script and ignore carefully crafted messaging. A main theme will be that the country is booming with a rise in domestic manufacturing and new jobs, despite many Americans not feeling that way. “It’s going to be a long speech because we have so much to talk about," said Trump, who promised a heavy dose of talk about the economy. The president is also expected to decry the Supreme Court ruling against his signature tariff policies and talk about his attempts to maneuver around that decision without depending on Congress or spooking financial markets. He’s also likely to urge lawmakers to increase military funding and tighten voter identification requirements, while defending immigration operations that have drawn bipartisan criticism following the shooting deaths of two American citizens. Jeff Shesol, a former speechwriter for Democratic President Bill Clinton, said Trump has typically used State of the Union addresses to offer more conventional tones than his usual bombast — but he’s still apt to exaggerate repeatedly. “His job, for the sake of his party, is to show the silver lining,” Shesol said. “But if he’s going to insist that the silver lining is gold, no one’s buying it. And it will be a very difficult position on the campaign trail for Republicans to defend.” Michael Waldman, Clinton’s former chief speechwriter, said second-term presidents “have a tough job because what they all want to say is, ‘Hey, look what a great job I’ve been doing — why don’t you love me?’” No matter what his prepared remarks say, Trump relishes deviating into personal grievances, meaning Tuesday will probably feature topics like denying that he lost the 2020 presidential election. His lack of messaging discipline has been on display after concerns about the high costs of living helped propel Democratic wins around the country on Election Day last November. The White House subsequently promised that the president would travel the country nearly every week to reassure Americans he was taking affordability seriously. But Trump has spent more time blaming Democrats and scoffing at the notion that kitchen-table issues demand attention. Trump instead boasts of having tamed inflation and says he has the economy humming, given that the Dow Jones Industrial Average recently exceeded 50,000 points for the first time. Such gains don’t feel tangible to those without stock portfolios, however. There are also persistent fears that tariffs stoked higher prices, which could eventually hurt the economy and job creation. Economic growth slowed in the last three months of last year. Waldman, now president of the Brennan Center for Justice, which advocates for democracy, civil liberties, and fair elections, said previous presidents faced similar instances of “economic disquiet.” That created a question of “how much do you sell vs feeling the pain of the electorate,” he said. Shesol noted that Trump has “always believed — going back to his real estate days — that he can sell anyone on anything.” “He’s still doing that. But the problem is, you can’t tell somebody who has lost their job and can’t get a new one that things are going great,” Shesol said. “He can’t sell people on a reality that for them, and frankly for most Americans, does not exist.” It is potentially politically perilous ahead of November elections that could deliver congressional wins to Democrats, just as 2018’s “blue wave” created a strong check to his administration during his first term. Several Democrats in Congress, meanwhile, plan to skip Tuesday’s speech in protest, instead attending a rally known as the “People’s State of the Union” on Washington’s National Mall. Trump’s address comes as two US aircraft carriers have been dispatched to the Middle East amid tensions with Iran. The president will recount how US airstrikes last summer pounded Tehran’s nuclear capabilities, and laud the raid that ousted Venezuelan President Nicolas Nicolás Maduro, as well as his administration’s brokering of a ceasefire in Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza. But he also strained US military alliances with Nato, thanks to his push to seize Greenland from Denmark and his failure to take a harder line with Russian President Vladimir Putin in seeking an end to the war in Ukraine. Making any foreign policy feel relevant to Americans back home is never easy. Jennifer Anju Grossman, a former speechwriter for Republican President George H.W. Bush and current CEO of the Atlas Society, which promotes the ideas of author and philosopher Ayn Rand, said Trump can make clear that Maduro’s socialist policies wrecked Venezuela’s economy to the point where one of the world’s richest oil countries struggled to meet its own energy needs. Now, oil from that country will help lower American gas prices. Still, when it comes to overseas developments, she said, “I think it’s going to be a bit of a challenge to make clear why this is relevant to the domestic situation.” The US Supreme Court struck down Trump's emergency tariffs, but new 15% tariffs on imports have been imposed, lasting 150 days unless extended by Congress. India postponed trade talks with the US after the ruling, gaining leverage as current US tariffs on Indian goods dropped to 10%, below the previously agreed 18%. The court's decision allows India to renegotiate trade terms and seek safeguards in future agreements, while the Commerce Ministry reviews the implications. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.

10 shares

😢

Financial Express

Feb 24, 2026, 12:02 PM

Rapido Seeks Exemption from GST on Zero-Commission Ride-Hailing Models

Ride-hailing platform Rapido has called on the government to exempt zero-commission-based subscription-models from Section 9(5) of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, which mandates all electronic commerce operators facilitating passenger transportation to collect 5% GST on every ride fare. Rapido says it pays 18% GST on the recharge packs it sells to driver-partners as a technology subscription service. Levying an additional 5% on the ride fare, a transaction the platform says it doesn’t intermediate, amounts to the same service being taxed at two points in the value chain, the company argued. “In recharge-based or subscription-led models, the platform functions purely as a technology provider — in other words, a discovery-only ride platform, enabling discovery between riders and driver-partners where fares are negotiated and settled directly without involvement of the platform. In such cases, applying GST on the passenger fare and mandating the platform to collect it creates a structural inconsistency with the intent of the law,” said Vivek Krishna, VP – Finance at Rapido in an interaction with FE. Currently, Section 9(5) applies to all platforms facilitating passenger transportation regardless of whether they collect the fare or merely connect riders with drivers through a subscription or recharge model. Zero-commission driver-side subscription-based models have grown in popularity over the last couple of years. Pioneered by Namma Yatri, all major ride-hailing platforms, including Rapido, Uber, and Ola, now operate subscription or recharge-based models in multiple segments. For autos, all major platforms charge zero commission with daily recharge plans of ~Rs 10-50. For cabs, Uber and Ola have also recently moved to daily/monthly subscription-based models ranging from Rs 100-2000 for majority of its fleet. However, all platforms continue to operate on commission-basis for bike taxis at 30-40% of the ride fare. Therefore, Rapido’s ask is not a blanket one. For bike taxis, where it runs a commission-based model, the company accepts the current GST framework. “In commission-based models, where the platform intermediates the ride and is involved in fare collection, the current GST framework under Section 9(5) has been operationally followed by the industry,” Krishna said. The exemption it seeks is limited to subscription verticals. “Specifically, we seek clarification that discovery-only ride verticals under subscription models are not covered under Section 9(5) of GST,” he said. “Any additional tax applied on the underlying fare can influence overall affordability for users and net earnings for driver-partners, particularly in high-frequency, low-ticket urban commute scenarios,” Krishna added. Rapido’s position aligns with a wider industry effort. The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), which represents Uber, Ola, and Rapido amongst others, in a letter dated January 19 to Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava, had urged the GST Council to re-examine Section 9(5) and exempt SaaS-based models from its ambit. The letter argued the 5% GST has a “direct and disproportionate impact on driver earnings and affordability” and flagged “contradictory rulings” by State Authorities on Advance Ruling on the provision’s applicability to SaaS models, saying the industry “continues to operate under great uncertainty.” The letter had noted the issue extends beyond private aggregators. It had warned the the impact would extend to government-backed Bharat Taxi, India’s first cooperative ride-hailing platform launched by Home Minister Amit Shah earlier this month, which also operates on a flat daily subscription with zero-commission.

20 shares

😐