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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 07:29 AM
Maharashtra CM Raps BMC Over Unnecessary Expenditure on Official Vehicles

Maharashtra CM Raps BMC Over Unnecessary Expenditure on Official Vehicles

Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) proposal to spend nearly Rs 1.5 crore on replacing the official vehicles of six senior political office-bearers is likely to be withdrawn after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed strong displeasure over the move. Fadnavis Raps BMC Over Unnecessary Expenditure Reacting to the proposal, Fadnavis directed the civic body to prioritise public welfare over unnecessary expenditure. "Public money should be spent only on development works. Stop wasteful expenditure and focus on the needs of the people," the Chief Minister said, as quoted by Zee24 Taas , leading the BMC to think of rolling back the proposal amid mounting criticism. The controversy erupted after the proposal to provide six new Toyota Innova Crysta vehicles for the Deputy Mayor, Leader of the House, Leader of the Opposition and three key committee chairpersons came up during the Standing Committee meeting on July 30. Congress group leader Ashraf Azmi opposed the move, questioning the need to replace the existing Mahindra Scorpio-N SUVs at a time when the civic body is facing financial constraints. He termed the proposal an unnecessary expense and urged the BMC to exercise fiscal discipline. The issue soon snowballed into a political slugfest, with BJP leaders accusing the Opposition of hypocrisy. BJP group leader Ganesh Khankar claimed the proposal had been discussed and approved with the consent of leaders from all political parties before they publicly opposed it. "Going forward, I will ensure that every such proposal carries the signatures of all party leaders before it is approved so that such controversies do not arise," Khankar said. Standing Committee Chairman Prabhakar Shinde also defended the proposal, alleging that Opposition members were fully aware of the decision and had agreed to it during discussions. Responding to criticism, Khankar clarified that the BMC had not proposed purchasing the vehicles outright but intended to hire them on a wet lease basis, under which the civic body would bear only the fuel and driver costs. He also called for a uniform vehicle policy, suggesting that all senior elected representatives and officials, except the Mayor and the Municipal Commissioner, should be provided vehicles of the same category. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 07:19 AM
Farhan Akhtar Exits Aamir Khan's Lalkaara, Sidhant Gupta Steps In as Replacement

Farhan Akhtar Exits Aamir Khan's Lalkaara, Sidhant Gupta Steps In as Replacement

Aamir Khan and Ashutosh Gowariker's much-awaited sports drama Lalkaara has reportedly undergone a casting change. Farhan Akhtar is no longer a part of the film, with actor Sidhant Gupta stepping in to replace him. According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, Farhan Akhtar decided to exit the project due to scheduling conflicts with his upcoming film on the life of legendary music composer RD Burman, directed by Neeraj Pandey. The report states that Farhan will need to devote several months to preparing for the demanding biopic, making it difficult to balance both projects. At the same time, Lalkaara also required extensive cricket training and a long shooting schedule. As a result, the actor reportedly chose to prioritise the RD Burman film and amicably stepped away from the sports drama. A post shared by Farhan Akhtar (@faroutakhtar) Despite exiting the cast, Farhan continues to be associated with Lalkaara as a producer. The film is being backed by Excel Entertainment, led by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, in collaboration with Rajkumar Hirani Films. The casting change is not expected to affect the production timeline, as the makers have already finalised Farhan's replacement. Sidhant Gupta, known for his performances in Inside Edge, Jubilee, Black Warrant and Freedom at Midnight, has reportedly joined the project and will play one of Aamir Khan's close friends in the film. A post shared by SIDHANT GUPTA (@sidhant) Lalkaara marks Aamir Khan and Ashutosh Gowariker's reunion after their critically acclaimed 2001 film Lagaan. The sports drama is inspired by the historic 1952 India-Pakistan Test series and explores themes of friendship, sporting rivalry and national pride. Aamir will essay the role of cricket legend Lala Amarnath, independent India's first Test captain, who led the national team during the inaugural India-Pakistan Test series after Partition. Penned by Piyush Gupta (Dangal, Chhichhore) and Neeraj Singh (Nil Battey Sannata), Lalkaara is scheduled to go on floors on October 1 in Mumbai.
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Wisden News✓
Aug 3, 2026, 07:16 AM
The Rise of Left-Arm Wrist-Spin in T20 Cricket: A New Era for a Rare Bowling Style

The Rise of Left-Arm Wrist-Spin in T20 Cricket: A New Era for a Rare Bowling Style

For decades, left-arm wrist-spin had remained an obscure, even mysterious craft. The advent of T20 has led to its first great era. There was no left-arm wrist-spin in the early days of Test cricket. “Buck” Llewellyn, the first South African Test cricketer of colour, played Tests from 1896 to 1912. He was the only prominent bowler to bowl left-arm wrist-spin before the Wars. It was so unusual that databases still classify him as a left-arm seamer. Yorkshire teammates Roy Kilner and bowled it in the 1920s, as did Ellis Achong of the West Indies. But all three were classified as “slow left-arm” bowlers who used wrist-spin as a variation. It baffled many. Even . There were nearly 5,700 overs of left-arm spin in first-class cricket in the 1930s, but only two bowled it at Test level. Chuck Fleetwood-Smith, the Victorian who played 11 Tests between 1935 and 1938, was the specialist. , the other, was primarily a batter. It did not take off after the Second World War, either. took 235 wickets between 1955 and 1975, but wrist-spin was one of three brands he practised, and a troubling shoulder forced him to give it up in the second half of his career. Johnny Wardle played Tests from 1948 to 1957. He bowled finger-spin at home in England, but switched to wrist-spin in Australia and South Africa, finishing his career with 102 Test wickets across his two styles. Australia’s Lindsay Kline had 34 Test wickets at 23 and even a hat-trick. George Tribe and Jack Walsh played domestic cricket in both Australia and England and took over a thousand first-class wickets each, but Tribe played three Tests and Walsh none. Sobers and Wardle remained the only ones who bowled a reasonable amount of wrist-spin and had 50 Test wickets. But no trendsetter. The early days of one-day cricket did not change this. Until 1994, ODIs had seen only 10 balls of left-arm wrist spin, from Roy Fredericks in 1976 – another batter who rolled his arm over. It was probably expected. For a long time, spin was perceived as a defensive option in the format. Of course, this does not include Pradeep Matthew, the greatest left-arm wrist spinner – or perhaps any spinner – of all time, who played for Sri Lanka from the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s. The enigmatic protagonist of the , was unfortunately a beautiful work of fiction. Michael Bevan – again, an ODI batting legend – ended this drought. Bevan’s rare style influenced Australia to sometimes pick him as one of four bowlers in a Test. He even had a ten-wicket haul. But he took only 19 other Test wickets, and remained primarily a batter. The first bowler to truly buck the trend was Paul Adams. Bowling with a bizarre action, Adams became the first, and till now, only bona-fide left-arm wrist-spinner to take 100 Test wickets. is the only other one with more than 50. Source: CricViz. Cut-off: July 26, 2026. Paul Adams South Africa 1995-2004 45 33 134 Kuldeep Yadav India 2017-active 18 28 79 Chuck Fleetwood-Smith Australia 1935-1938 10 52 42 Lakshan Sandakan Sri Lanka 2016-2018 11 31 37 Lindsay Kline Australia 1957-1961 13 30 34 Inshan Ali West Indies 1971-1977 12 52 34 Michael Bevan Australia 1994-1998 18 12 29 Denis Compton England 1937-1957 78 6 25 It is not much different in ODIs either. There, Brad Hogg took 156 wickets and Kuldeep has gone past him, but the tally drops sharply thereafter. Source: CricViz. Cut-off: July 26, 2026. Kuldeep Yadav India 2017-active 121 9 194 Brad Hogg Australia 1996-2008 123 8 156 Tabraiz Shamsi South Africa 2016-active 55 8 73 Michael Bevan Australia 1994-2004 232 1 36 Paul Adams South Africa 1996-2003 24 8 29 Lakshan Sandakan Sri Lanka 2016-2021 31 8 27 Why did left-arm wrist-spinners rarely thrive at the highest level? Batting largely used to be a right-hander’s game. Of the 3,272 men to have batted in Test cricket, only 20 per cent have been left-handers. Restrict it to the top seven positions, and it is 21 per cent. Right-handers outnumber left-handers significantly, and they find it easier to bat against the ball coming into them, which is what left-arm wrist-spinners bowl. It makes their rise to the top more difficult, and consequently, only the best used to make it. T20 is intrinsically quicker than the Tests or ODIs, which makes match-ups more important. In the middle overs, batters are promoted depending on which spinner is bowling, while bowlers can bowl one-over spells to counter that. That makes it important for teams to have variety in both batting and bowling. This is one reason why T20 cricket has a higher percentage of left-handed batters. About 22 per cent of T20 batters in the top seven positions are left-handed. If one restricts it to the top three, that rises to 24. And if one goes by the balls faced, left-handers in the top three positions amount to 31 per cent, or nearly one-third. Spinners who turn the ball away from the right-hander thus hardly have a monopoly in T20. This somewhat levelled the ground for left-arm wrist-spinners. And since teams realised this, they have been on the lookout for one. After all, these bowlers come with a natural advantage: not many batters face that kind of bowling in the nets. Since the inception of T20, there has been a steady rise in the percentage of balls bowled by left-arm wrist-spinners out of all balls bowled by spinners. Over the current decade, that influence has spilled over to ODIs as well, but not in Test cricket. The percentages reflect the ratio between balls bowled by left-arm wrist-spin to balls bowled by all spinners. Source: CricViz. Cut-off: July 26, 2026. One might think that this should have led to a rise in off-spinners, the most common form of spin bowling. Yet, though they turn the ball in the same direction, the rise of left-arm wrist spin in T20 has coincided with a decline of off-spin. It can be because the wrist-spinners find sharper turn or steeper bounce, or perhaps because of their googlies. The percentages reflect the ratio between balls bowled by off-spin to balls bowled by all spinners. Source: CricViz. Cut-off: July 26, 2026. Largely due to the two-ball rule, off-spinners had started to fade in ODIs in the 2020s. It is never easy to bowl off-breaks with a semi-new Kookaburra. The new change to the conditions will address this – but that is for another day. T20 cricket came too late for Adams, but it helped Hogg become the first left-arm wrist-spinner with a reasonably long career. His uniqueness helped him play T20 until a few days before his 47th birthday. Every prolific left-arm wrist-spinner since Hogg is still active in the format. Tabraiz Shamsi has the second-most T20 wickets among South Africans, and has been playing for well over a decade. As have left-arm wristspinners like Kuldeep (who played alongside Hogg for the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2016), Michael Rippon, Lakshan Sandakan, and Thomas Kaber. Since the best T20 bowlers do not have to be from the “legacy nations”, left-arm wrist-spinners are being scouted from around the world. Of the 13 left-arm wrist-spinners with 50 T20 wickets, three are from Afghanistan. Two of them debuted before Afghanistan became a Full Member. Similarly, Rippon played for the Netherlands before switching to New Zealand. Jake Lintott is not in the England selection radar but has played in several leagues around the world. Source: CricViz. Cut-off: July 26, 2026. Tabraiz Shamsi South Africa 2011-active 319 21 363 Kuldeep Yadav India 2014-active 201 21 251 Noor Ahmad Afghanistan 2019-active 218 21 250 Zahir Khan Afghanistan 2017-active 146 21 160 Brad Hogg Australia 2004-2018 141 21 140 Waqar Salamkheil Afghanistan 2018-active 101 21 133 Jake Lintott England 2017-active 116 20 124 Lakshan Sandakan Sri Lanka 2014-active 90 20 97 Sufyan Moqim Pakistan 2023-active 65 22 96 Michael Rippon Netherlands/New Zealand 2011-active 112 17 87 D’Arcy Short Australia 2016-active 194 9 78 Thomas Kaber South Africa 2013-active 60 17 63 For decades, left-arm wrist spin was considered a novelty. Even now, no practitioner of the artform makes it to a discussion on the all-time great bowlers in Test cricket or ODIs. But T20 has ushered in its first ever great era, a format where left-arm wrist spinners have truly found their mojo. Throughout the history of cricket, batters have found ways to combat bowling innovations. To what extent they dominate left-arm wrist-spin will define the future of bowling’s rarest genre. .
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 07:15 AM
Supreme Court Forms Committee to Address Concerns Over Last-Minute Changes to Daily Cause List

Supreme Court Forms Committee to Address Concerns Over Last-Minute Changes to Daily Cause List

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Monday said a committee has been constituted to examine concerns over the sequencing of cases listed for hearing in the Supreme Court, following repeated complaints from members of the Bar about last-minute changes to the daily cause list. According to Live Law, the issue was raised before the Bench by Senior Advocate Gaurav Bhatia, who highlighted the practical difficulties lawyers face when the order of hearings is altered shortly before court proceedings begin. Gaurav Bhatia Flags Difficulties Faced By Lawyers Bhatia said there was broad consensus among advocates that the existing system creates uncertainty and disrupts effective representation. He pointed out that the hearing sequence is sometimes released only around 10:30 a.m., leaving lawyers scrambling between courtrooms after discovering that their matters have been reordered. While acknowledging that administrative measures may be introduced in the institution's interest, Bhatia submitted that such unpredictability makes it difficult for advocates to plan their appearances and adequately represent their clients, Live Law reported. CJI Says Full Court Discussed Matter Responding to the concerns, CJI Surya Kant said the issue had already been deliberated during a Full Court meeting of Supreme Court judges. He informed the Bench that a committee has since been constituted to examine the matter and that its recommendations would be considered once submitted. Why The Existing System Has Drawn Criticism At present, different Supreme Court benches often determine their own hearing sequence, which may not necessarily follow the numerical order of cases published in the cause list. In several instances, benches choose to hear fresh admission matters first, even if they appear towards the end of the supplementary list, with the revised sequence announced only on the morning of the hearing. According to Live Law, this practice has drawn criticism from lawyers, who say it creates uncertainty and complicates scheduling, particularly for advocates appearing before multiple benches. SCBA Earlier Sought Greater Transparency The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has previously raised similar concerns at a public event, urging the court either to discontinue the current sequencing practice or publish the final hearing sequence along with the supplementary cause list to provide greater clarity to litigants and lawyers. The move to constitute a committee is seen as part of the Supreme Court's broader administrative efforts under CJI Surya Kant to improve transparency, predictability and efficiency in the listing and hearing of cases. The committee's recommendations are now awaited.
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Wisden News✓
Aug 3, 2026, 07:13 AM
India Names Auqib Nabi as Replacement for Jasprit Bumrah in Sri Lanka Test Series

India Names Auqib Nabi as Replacement for Jasprit Bumrah in Sri Lanka Test Series

India have named Auqib Nabi as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Nabi has finally been rewarded for his stellar Ranji Trophy form over the last two seasons with a maiden India call-up. The Jammu & Kashmir speedster took 44 wickets in the 2024-25 season of India’s premier first-class tournament, before picking up another 60 in the latest season to lead his side to their first-ever Ranji title. Nabi’s non-selection for the one-off Test against Afghanistan had earlier attracted criticism. He was part of the India A red-ball squad on their tour of Sri Lanka, where he picked up six wickets in two matches. Bumrah, meanwhile, sustained an injury to his left knee during the second ODI against England in Cardiff and didn't play the third game of the series. As per a Cricinfo report, earlier this year, and the BCCI are eager not to rush him back into action, and have thus ruled him out of the Sri Lanka series. Bumrah’s unavailability is a big setback for Shubman Gill and Co, with the team , and only having an outside chance to qualify for the WTC final. The first Test of the series is scheduled to start on August 15 in Galle, while the second game will be played in Colombo from August 23. Shubman Gill (c), KL Rahul (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sai Sudharsan*, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi. *subject to fitness clearance
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Wisden News✓
Aug 3, 2026, 07:13 AM
Top 25 Bowlers in ICC Men's ODI Rankings on March 12, 2007: A Pre-World Cup Challenge

Top 25 Bowlers in ICC Men's ODI Rankings on March 12, 2007: A Pre-World Cup Challenge

In this , you have to name the top 25 bowlers in the ICC men’s ODI rankings on the day before the started. The 2007 ODI World Cup was hosted in the West Indies from March 13 to April 28, featuring 16 teams in 51 matches. You need to name the top 25 bowlers in the ICC ODI rankings on March 12, 2007 – the day before the World Cup began. Notably, the top six features three players from the eventual champion squad of Australia, including the highest wicket-taker (26) who retired after that edition. The two other Australians are also fast bowlers. The list is headed by a South African fast bowler, while another South African is at third place. The top-ranked spinner is from New Zealand, at fifth, while a Sri Lankan legend is at seventh place. The list is diverse, and includes a bowler from Zimbabwe – not among the strongest teams at that point – and two from Bangladesh, who had become an ICC Full Member less than a decade ago. To work with the names, the rankings (with ratings) and teams of each player on the day before the World Cup are provided as hints. You have five minutes to name all of them. Good luck! Please refresh the page if the quiz does not load properly. .
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The Financial Express
Aug 3, 2026, 07:13 AM
US and Iran to Resume Talks After Planned Attack is Called Off

US and Iran to Resume Talks After Planned Attack is Called Off

The negotiations are not expected to involve a direct face-to-face meeting between US and Iranian officials. Instead, intermediaries are likely to carry messages between the two sides. Sources said Pakistan’s interior minister and Qatari officials are expected to send emissaries to help get the talks moving as quickly as possible. Qatar is expected to play a particularly important role in facilitating the discussions, while Pakistan is also stepping up its diplomatic efforts. What makes this round of diplomacy different is that it comes just a day after US President Donald Trump announced plans for a massive strike on Iran. His decision was followed by a flurry of calls between Trump and regional leaders. One of the most important calls was with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who, according to sources, presented a united position from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and warned about the possible unintended consequences of expanding the war. The sequence of events is also significant. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke with Pakistan’s army chief, the Saudi foreign minister and the Iraqi foreign minister before Trump announced that talks with Iran would take place on Monday. Iran, meanwhile, is increasing its diplomatic efforts across the region while continuing to use the Strait of Hormuz as a key source of leverage. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told the government that talks with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz were in their final stages. Araghchi also held phone calls with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan and Pakistani Army chief Asim Munir. Iran's Foreign Ministry said the discussions focused on efforts to protect regional security and stability. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the talks with Oman were aimed at creating a system for managing passage through the Strait of Hormuz while protecting the interests of both Iran and Oman. But he made clear that these discussions are separate from any talks with the United States. He also warned that the talks with Oman do not guarantee that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen. Meanwhile, OPEC+ has agreed to increase oil production by around 188,000 barrels per day from September. Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria and Oman announced the decision in a joint statement, saying it showed their commitment to keeping the global oil market stable. The September increase completes the gradual rollback of a 1.65 million-barrel-per-day production cut agreed in 2023. At the time, the United Arab Emirates was also part of the group, but it left OPEC in May. Jorge Leon, an analyst at Rystad Energy, said OPEC+ had now finished unwinding its voluntary cuts. "OPEC+ has finished unwinding its voluntary cuts. The next challenge is managing the surplus that could emerge as export flows normalise," he said. However, Leon said the latest increase would have little immediate effect because the Strait of Hormuz remains restricted. He said the bigger impact on the oil market would come once normal exports through the region resume. Even as Trump prepares to return to negotiations, the US military has made clear that it remains prepared for further action. US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth repeated Trump's claim that the Pentagon had been ready to launch an attack on Iran at "levels not seen since World War 2". In a post on X, Hegseth said the US military "remains ready" and is "locked and loaded". His comments underline the uncertainty surrounding the talks, with Washington keeping the threat of military action on the table even as it pursues diplomacy. Iran has warned that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz will not simply return to how it was before the war. Baghaei accused the US of attacking Iran before an agreed timeline had expired, while Tehran continues to use control over the strategic waterway as leverage in the wider conflict. Iran is stepping up diplomatic contacts across the region while continuing to use the Strait of Hormuz as a major source of strategic leverage. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said talks with Oman on the strait were in their final stages. He also held calls with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan and Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir on regional security and stability. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said discussions with Oman are focused on creating a maritime framework for passage through the Strait of Hormuz while protecting the interests of both countries. However, he stressed that the talks are bilateral and separate from any negotiations with the US. He also said an agreement with Oman would not automatically mean the strait would reopen. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has repeated Trump’s warning that the Pentagon was prepared for an attack on Iran on a scale not seen since World War II. In a post on X, Hegseth said the US military remains ready and “locked and loaded”, even as Washington prepares to return to negotiations with Tehran. The UK economy could contract in 2027 if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed into next year, according to EY forecasts. The firm said UK growth could slow to 0.5% this year and the economy could shrink 0.2% in 2027 if the strait remains shut until early or mid-2027. If it reopens by September, UK growth could rise to 0.9% this year and 1.2% in 2027. US President Donald Trump has said negotiations with Iran will begin Monday afternoon, but he has not explained what exactly Washington and Tehran would discuss or what terms are being considered. Trump has spoken about a possible agreement linked to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but details of the proposal remain unclear. It is also not yet known who will take part in the talks or what issues will be formally placed on the table. The average price of gasoline in the US stood at $4.09 a gallon on Sunday, according to AAA. That was two cents lower than a week earlier but remained about 34% higher than before the war began, showing the continued impact of disruptions to oil supplies and shipping. US stock futures moved higher following Trump’s decision to hold off on the planned attack and resume talks with Iran. Dow Jones futures were up around 0.5%, S&P 500 futures gained about 0.5%, while Nasdaq futures rose roughly 0.8%. OPEC+ has agreed to increase oil production by another 188,000 barrels per day in September. The move marks the sixth consecutive production increase by the group and completes its plan to gradually unwind a 1.65 million-barrel-per-day production cut introduced in 2023. The Strait of Hormuz has remained effectively impassable to normal maritime traffic since fighting between the US and Iran resumed on July 8. Before the war, around 20 million barrels of oil moved through the waterway every day, accounting for roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption. The limited number of alternative routes means prolonged disruption could continue to put pressure on energy markets. Oil prices dropped after Trump announced that the planned strikes had been called off and negotiations would resume. Brent crude, the international benchmark, fell around 5.6% to about $83 a barrel, while US crude dropped about 5.5% to around $80 a barrel as markets reacted to hopes of a diplomatic breakthrough. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said an understanding with Oman over a new shipping route does not mean the Strait of Hormuz will reopen. Baqaei said discussions with Oman were continuing on a mechanism to manage the waterway. He argued that the reopening of the strait was a separate issue and blamed its closure on what Tehran called the US naval blockade and Washington’s breach of commitments. Despite Trump’s claims of progress, Tehran has not publicly indicated that it has agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or changed its position on control of the waterway. Iranian state media also denied that Tehran had asked Trump to cancel the planned US strikes. The semi-official Fars news agency mocked the US president’s decision, saying: “Trump the fool has run out of steam!” Trump said countries including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, along with Iran, urged him to hold off on the planned attack. He said the allies believed there was a chance of reaching a deal. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also spoke to Trump and pushed for de-escalation, according to Saudi state media. US President Donald Trump said negotiations with Iran will begin again on Monday, a day after he said he had called off a planned “massive attack” on the country. Trump said the two sides had made progress and that talks would focus on reaching a deal quickly, including an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He said the negotiations would also cover Iran’s nuclear programme. Israeli forces are burning houses in the al-Mashaa area between the towns of al-Mansouri and Majdal Zoun in southern Lebanon, Lebanon's National News Agency reported. The development comes after the NNA said earlier that five Lebanese army soldiers sustained minor injuries in an Israeli attack on Bint Jbeil in the Nabatieh governorate. The reported death toll from Israeli attacks across Gaza has risen to 14, according to local sources. The latest casualties include two Palestinians, one of them a child, who were killed in an Israeli drone strike on a tent sheltering displaced people in the Remal neighbourhood west of Gaza City. Two Lebanese soldiers sustained minor injuries in an Israeli strike on Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon, according to a statement carried by the state-run National News Agency. The NNA said the attack targeted a civilian vehicle that was being escorted by a Lebanese army vehicle in the Nabatieh governorate. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen said Israel should take "full control" of Gaza, despite saying Israeli forces already control about 70% of the enclave. Cohen also said there was "no deal" to halt attacks on Gaza, becoming the latest senior Israeli official to oppose the US-brokered proposal under which Hamas would disarm. Iran's acting Defence Minister Majid Ibn al-Reza said Tehran treats every threat from its adversaries as "real and credible", even if it is part of psychological warfare. According to Iranian state media, he said Iran would neither be "caught off guard" nor remain "passive", adding that the country would use such threats to strengthen its military readiness, deterrence and defence capabilities. Loud explosions have rocked the town of Kunin in Nabatieh governorate’s Bint Jbeil district, according to the National News Agency (NNA). Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told U.S. President Donald Trump that dialogue and de-escalation should be prioritised to reduce regional tensions, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The crown prince stressed the need for a truce that could pave the way for diplomatic solutions and help prevent the Middle East from being drawn into a wider conflict. The two leaders also discussed bilateral cooperation, SPA said. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called on the government to approve the construction of three settlements along the northern edge of the Gaza Strip. In a post on X, the far-right minister also said Israelis would return to settlements evacuated in 2005 and establish additional settlements in the occupied West Bank. Tehran views every threat from its adversaries as "real and credible" ⁠even ​if made as part of psychological ​warfare, Iran's ​acting defence ⁠minister, Majid Ibn al-Reza, said ‌on Sunday according to state media. "We will neither ⁠be ⁠caught off guard nor ⁠remain ‌passive," ​he said, adding ‌that Iran would use ‌threats ​as ​a ​basis to increase its ​military readiness, strengthen ⁠deterrence and enhance its military ‌capabilities.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 07:09 AM
Zodiac Signs' Weekly Horoscope: Embracing Clarity, Confidence, and New Beginnings

Zodiac Signs' Weekly Horoscope: Embracing Clarity, Confidence, and New Beginnings

Aries Dear Aries, this week your thoughts may seem a little muddled initially, or the ideas coming to your mind may not feel fully aligned. However, this is a period to slow down, reflect, and invite greater clarity into your life. Use data, technology, and practical thinking to your advantage. Some of you may have to create stronger boundaries and speak your truth without fear. Do not hesitate to create a clear long-term vision for yourself. As the week progresses, the energy will begin to gain momentum, allowing you to pick up the pace. Your ambition is likely to rise, motivating you to work hard and lay the foundation for something. Some of you may travel to meet friends or loved ones or participate in a celebration or social gathering. Taurus Dear Taurus, this week is about recognising your worth and truly valuing yourself. Have confidence in your inner dialogue, intuition, and judgement. It is time to face the truth, see situations for what they really are, and make decisions with confidence instead of second-guessing yourself. This is your time to take action, step into the spotlight, and communicate with conviction. Some of you may feel called to speak your mind more openly or reach out to a new audience with greater confidence. Take charge, be bold, and trust in your abilities. Do what needs to be done unapologetically, while remaining true to yourself and your values. Gemini Dear Gemini, this week is about reconnecting with your passions, emotions, and the things that truly inspire you. Some of you may need to look at situations from a fresh perspective, allowing change and transformation into your life. This is also a favourable period to welcome new ideas, exchange valuable information, and remain open to different viewpoints. The answers you have been seeking are likely to reveal themselves gradually. Some of you may begin thinking about settling down, taking your relationship to the next level, discussing marriage, or speaking to your family about your plans. Do not neglect your health during this phase. Pay attention to any aches, pains, or physical discomfort that may be limiting your movement. Cancer Dear Cancerians, this week is about exploring new horizons, connecting with new people, and stepping into unfamiliar spaces. It is time to expand your reach, test the waters, and remain open to fresh possibilities. Some of you may begin exploring the potential for a new job, project, or work opportunity. This is also a favourable period for travel or planning a journey. Your confidence is likely to grow during this phase. Some of you may notice improvements in your appearance, receive appreciation for your efforts, or simply feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin. Spending time with your children, or children in general, is also indicated. You may be faced with a difficult or unexpected truth during this period. Handle the situation without letting your emotions get the better of you or revealing too many details. Leo Dear Leo, this week is about creating a long-term financial vision that helps you build lasting abundance and wealth. It is important to create greater structure and discipline in your life, as these will be the foundation of your material success. This is an excellent time to capitalise on work and financial opportunities, as well as review your investments. Some of you may explore new avenues for investing or find yourself strategically moving your money to maximise growth. If you have been feeling dissatisfied with your current job, this may be the right time to explore other opportunities or consider a role that genuinely interests and fulfils you. Overall, this period encourages patience, consistent effort, and smart financial planning, knowing that the seeds you plant now will bring rewards in the future. Virgo Dear Virgo, this week brings creative inspiration, intuitive guidance, and news that helps you break free and move forward. If you have been waiting for something that felt stuck or delayed, this is the period when you are likely to receive the clarity or answers you have been seeking. You may finally be able to set aside a mental burden or emotional discomfort that has been weighing on you. For some of you, this could even signify the fulfilment of a wish. Those dealing with bureaucratic processes may receive news or progress. Others may take a leap of faith towards higher education or learning. Overall, you are advised to trust your creative spirit, listen to your intuition, and release the weight you have been carrying. Libra Dear Libra, this week you are likely to embody a loving, compassionate, and emotionally understanding energy. There is a strong focus on your relationships, family ties, and the people who matter most to you. Some of you may meet a new love interest, while others may decide to enter into a long-term commitment or take the next step towards settling down. This period also brings tremendous potential and new opportunities, with the possibility of forming alliances and partnerships. You are advised to exercise patience when making financial decisions. Some of you, especially entrepreneurs, may choose to invest in a business or explore ways to expand an existing venture through investments. Avoid taking shortcuts. Scorpio Dear Scorpio, this week is about breaking free from confusion and moving away from a chaotic phase. You are advised to choose the path that brings you greater clarity rather than one that keeps you caught in indecision or uncertainty. Take the time to investigate, dig deeper, and uncover the answers you seek. This is also a good period to plan ahead and reflect on how you can progress from your current position. Instead of avoiding difficult situations, try to address them with honesty and acceptance. There is likely to be a great deal of communication and information flowing your way, making this a particularly busy phase. While it is important to stay informed, do not allow the constant noise around you to cloud your judgement. Give yourself the space you need to move forward. Sagittarius Dear Sagittarius, this week is about moving on from what did not work out as you had anticipated and turning your focus towards new horizons. It is time for an energy reset, a chance to embrace a rebirth and begin dreaming again. While this period is full of fresh inspiration and possibilities, it will also require practical planning and a clear vision. Some of you may have to build something from the ground up or develop new skills. When it comes to finances, you are advised to be prudent with your money. Some of you may explore alternative sources of income or adopt a new approach to managing your finances. Matters involving your community or a larger group of people may occasionally feel challenging to navigate. Capricorn Dear Capricorn, this week brings creative inspiration, passion, leadership, and the desire to explore new possibilities. In many ways, this is your invitation to step outside your comfort zone and think on your feet. Some of you may form a partnership in your personal or professional life to build something meaningful together. Your finances may feel a little challenging to manage or remain an area that requires extra attention. Take the time to understand your emotions and observe how they may be influencing your decisions. Keep a check on your temper and become more aware of your emotional patterns, especially in challenging situations. This is a powerful opportunity to break old patterns, and emerge stronger, and more resilient. Aquarius Dear Aquarius, you may have been in thinking mode or contemplating your next few steps. It is now time to gradually move away from indecision and old, stagnant patterns. Although this period may have appeared quiet on the surface, a great deal has been unfolding behind the scenes. You are now entering a phase where you can begin planning with greater clarity, creating a long-term vision for yourself, and taking the lead in finding new ways to progress. Travel or making travel plans is strongly indicated during this phase. There is also fresh energy surrounding your social circle and friendships, with a celebration, gathering, or happy occasion likely for some of you. Overall, your financial situation appears stable and favourable, allowing you peace of mind. Pisces Dear Pisces, this period is about using your intelligence and wisdom to cut through confusion and allow clarity to emerge. Challenge the doubts that creep into your mind and rise above uncertainty with objectivity. You may have to deal with some strong personalities during this phase. Trust your judgement, have faith in your ability to lead, and make decisions with conviction. Try not to overcomplicate situations. Use data, facts, and technology to your advantage wherever possible. At the same time, remain open to the creative inspiration that is likely to flow your way, as it may help you discover innovative solutions. Amidst all the activity, make sure to find time to rest, heal, and recharge your mind and body.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 07:07 AM
Unidentified Woman's Body Found in Ambe-Ghosale Lake in Thane

Unidentified Woman's Body Found in Ambe-Ghosale Lake in Thane

Thane: The body of an unidentified woman, estimated to be between 55 and 60 years old, was recovered from Ambe-Ghosale Lake in the Castle Mill area of Thane (West) on Monday morning. According to official sources, local authorities received information about the body floating in the lake near Castle Mill Circle, Prabhakar Hedge Marg, close to Late Meenatai Thackeray Chowk, around 9:25 AM. Joint Rescue Operation Promptly after receiving the alert, a joint team from multiple emergency services rushed to the scene. The response team included: Rabodi Police Station officers and personnel Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) Disaster Management Cell with a pickup vehicle Thane Fire Brigade deployed with a fire engine and a rescue vehicle. Personnel from the Fire Brigade and Disaster Management Cell launched a joint operation and successfully fished the woman's body out of the water. Police Procedure & Investigation The body was handed over to the Rabodi Police for legal formalities and subsequently transferred to the District Civil Hospital, Thane, for a post-mortem examination to ascertain the exact cause of death. Rabodi Police have registered an incident report and initiated an investigation to establish the deceased woman's identity and determine the circumstances surrounding her death. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
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Newsbytes✓
Aug 3, 2026, 07:00 AM
AstraZeneca and Bristol Myers Squibb in Talks for Possible Merger, Creating Pharmaceutical Giant

AstraZeneca and Bristol Myers Squibb in Talks for Possible Merger, Creating Pharmaceutical Giant

British pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca is said to be in talks with US rival Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) for a possible merger.The Financial Times reported that if the deal goes through, it would create one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies with an estimated combined value of nearly $400 billion.The companies have been discussing this potential tie-up over the past few months.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:58 AM
Battery Smart Aims for IPO in September or October, Targets 70-80% Annual Growth

Battery Smart Aims for IPO in September or October, Targets 70-80% Annual Growth

New Delhi: Battery Smart, a battery-swapping network for electric two- and three-wheelers, is likely to file draft papers with Sebi in September or October as it looks to tap the capital markets through an initial public offering (IPO), people familiar with the matter said. The company has appointed SBI Capital Markets as the lead merchant banker for the proposed public issue, they said. "The filing of draft papers with Sebi is likely to take place around September or October, using FY26 and June quarter financials, which will remain valid till December 2026," one of the people cited above said. According to the people familiar with the development, Battery Smart is targeting annual growth of 70-80 per cent over the next three to five years, driven by deeper penetration in existing cities and expansion into new markets. Backed by investors, including Tiger Global, Blume Ventures, LeapFrog Investments, and Ecosystem Integrity Fund, the company achieved operational break-even in FY26 while continuing to expand its network across the country. Battery Smart currently owns more than 3 lakh lithium-ion batteries and operates over 1,500 swapping stations across more than 75 cities, serving nearly 1 lakh commercial electric vehicle drivers. Founded by Pulkit Khurana and Siddharth Sikka, the company operates a battery-as-a-service model that allows commercial EV drivers to exchange discharged batteries for fully charged ones at its swapping stations, reducing charging downtime. Nearly 90 per cent of its stations are operated by franchise partners, with local entrepreneurs investing in station infrastructure while Battery Smart provides batteries, technology, operating systems, and network intelligence. The franchise-led model has helped the company scale its network without a proportionate increase in station-level operating costs. Ownership of batteries remains with Battery Smart. As of FY26, the company had raised around USD 192 million (over Rs 1,600 crore) from investors, including a USD 65 million Series B round and a USD 29 million extended Series B round, according to an ICRA report. Its operating revenue rose 52 per cent to about Rs 250 crore in FY25 from Rs 164 crore in FY24, the report said. Battery swapping is emerging as an alternative to conventional charging, particularly for high-utilisation commercial vehicles, where upfront battery costs, charging downtime, battery replacement expenses and limited access to charging infrastructure can slow EV adoption. Under the model, battery ownership is separated from vehicle ownership, helping lower the upfront cost of an EV while allowing drivers to replace depleted batteries within minutes instead of waiting for them to recharge. According to a study by IMARC Group, India's battery-swapping market was valued at USD 48.13 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 517.92 million by 2034, registering a compound annual growth rate of 30.21 per cent during 2026-34. The market is expected to benefit from rising EV adoption, demand for faster refuelling alternatives and the government's target of achieving 30 per cent EV penetration by 2030. The government's policy push, including NITI Aayog's battery-swapping framework and regulatory standards around interoperability and safety, is also expected to support the development of the sector. In the broader electric mobility space, Battery Smart operates alongside companies such as Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, PMI Electro Mobility, and Chartered Speed Ltd. (Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
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Kalinga TV
Aug 3, 2026, 06:57 AM
Wrestling Federation of India Chief and Assistant Secretary Acquitted in Sexual Harassment Case

Wrestling Federation of India Chief and Assistant Secretary Acquitted in Sexual Harassment Case

New Delhi: The Rouse Avenue Court on Monday acquitted former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and former WFI assistant secretary Vinod Tomar in the alleged sexual harassment case involving women wrestlers. The case stemmed from allegations made by women wrestlers against Singh during his tenure as WFI chief. The Delhi Police had filed a chargesheet against Singh in 2023, alleging offences including sexual harassment, assault or criminal force against women and criminal intimidation. Tomar was also named as a co-accused in the case. Last month, the court had fixed August 3 as the date for the pronouncement of judgment in the matter linked to allegations raised by women wrestlers. The proceedings were conducted in a closed courtroom. After the completion of the final arguments from both sides, Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Ashwani Panwar reserved the judgment after hearing detailed submissions from the prosecution and defence. The court has also directed the counsels to file their written submissions within two weeks. During the final argument, senior advocate Rebecca John advanced arguments on behalf of the complainants, while the defence team led by advocate Rajiv Mohan, assisted by Rehan Khan and Rishabh Bhati, completed their submissions on June 30. The case is linked to an FIR registered by Delhi Police following a protest by women wrestlers at Jantar Mantar, where allegations of sexual harassment during Singh’s tenure as WFI chief were raised. Earlier, Delhi Police had filed a 1500-page charge sheet on June 15, 2023, after completing its investigation into the allegations. The charge sheet invoked provisions under Sections 354, 354A, 354D and 506(1) of the Indian Penal Code. The court had earlier recorded the statement of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) member on May 12 along with the deposition of the investigating officer during the course of trial proceedings. The accused have been facing trial in connection with allegations made by women wrestlers from India and abroad, who had accused Singh of sexual harassment during his tenure at the helm of the Wrestling Federation of India. (ANI)
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:54 AM
Amitabh Bachchan Begins KBC Filming, Thanks Fans for Love and Support

Amitabh Bachchan Begins KBC Filming, Thanks Fans for Love and Support

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has begun filming for the latest season of Kaun Banega Crorepati after observing August 2, a date he considers his "rebirth day." Ahead of the first day of recording, the veteran actor shared an emotional note thanking fans for their love, prayers and constant support over the years. Taking to his blog, the 83-year-old revealed that he was ready to return to the KBC sets and embrace yet another challenge with the blessings of his admirers. He wrote, "Samay ho gaya hai kal, KBC ke pehle din ki recording ka. To main chala, ek aur chunauti ka saamna karne, aap sab ke aashirvaad aur sneh ke saath (It is now time for the first day of recording for KBC tomorrow. So, I leave to take on another challenge, with all your blessings and affection)." Amitabh Bachchan also acknowledged the countless phone calls, messages and greetings he received from well-wishers. Expressing his gratitude, he wrote, "I must most humbly accept the most gracious and kind words expressed on the phone and through gestures at the GOJ. It shall be very difficult to reply each one personally, so I put it here for all. Your kindness has no bounds and the affection that follows is simply insurmountable!!" August 2 holds a special place in Bachchan's life as it marks the day he survived the near-fatal accident on the sets of Coolie in 1982. Every year, the actor remembers the occasion with gratitude, crediting his survival to the prayers and support of his fans. A post shared by sonytvofficial (@sonytvofficial) Reflecting on the significance of the day, he wrote in Hindi, "2 August ki baatein... bahut kam logon ko iska gyaan hai, par jitnon ne bhi likh kar apni shubhkaamnayein bheji hain, main hriday se apna aabhaar vyakt karta hoon. Kyunki ye aap sab ki prarthnaayein thi, jis se sambhav hua ki aaj main aap sab se is maadhyam ke dwaara, apna aabhaar prakat kar sakoon." The actor also reflected on the value of time, writing, "Samay bada balwaan hota hai. Aur aaj ka samay sada aap sab ki prarthnaon ki wajah se sambhav ho paaya hai (Time is very powerful. And this moment today has been made possible because of all your prayers)." Meanwhile, on Sunday, hundreds of fans gathered outside Bachchan's Mumbai residence, Jalsa, for his traditional weekly greeting. A post shared by FPJ Lifestyle (@fpjlifestyle) Admirers arrived with flower garlands, bouquets, handwritten letters and greeting cards to celebrate the occasion and express their love for the legendary actor as he prepared to return to television with a new season of Kaun Banega Crorepati.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:51 AM
India's IT Industry Has Stopped Creating New Jobs: Zoho Founder

India's IT Industry Has Stopped Creating New Jobs: Zoho Founder

Zoho founder and chief scientist Sridhar Vembu has said that India's IT industry, including Zoho itself, has largely stopped creating new jobs, with funds that would once have gone towards hiring now being redirected towards artificial intelligence and data centre costs. Vembu made the remarks in a post on X, framing the slowdown in IT hiring as part of a larger question about how India can create jobs for its youth in an increasingly uncertain global economy. IT industry has stopped adding jobs, says Vembu Vembu wrote that the real issue facing the country is how to create jobs for its large youth population at a time of global economic uncertainty. He said that the IT industry, including Zoho, has "not created many jobs in recent years," adding that while the company has avoided layoffs, it has also not been hiring at its earlier pace. Let us know! 👂 What type of content would you like to see from us this year? According to Vembu, the money that would previously have gone towards new employees is now being absorbed by AI adoption and rising data centre costs, the latter driven by a steep increase in server and memory prices. He said Zoho is trying to control these costs, though a large part of the increase remains outside the company's control. Software market may not need much more software, Vembu says Vembu argued that while AI allows companies to produce software faster, the global software market is already oversaturated, raising the question of whether it needs significantly more software at all. He compared the software industry to a commodity business, where the focus increasingly shifts to quality, reliability and brand rather than raw output, resulting in slower overall growth. He also pointed out that large and mid-sized enterprise customers have been redirecting their own IT budgets towards AI, further limiting the scope for the software services industry to expand hiring. Vembu noted that even the AI companies growing rapidly are borrowing and spending heavily on capital expenditure, and that it remains unclear whether they will generate the scale of profits needed to justify that spending. Manufacturing automation unlikely to absorb job losses On whether other sectors could offset the slowdown in IT hiring, Vembu said extensive automation means that large scale manufacturing today produces relatively few jobs. He described this as a positive development from a purely economic standpoint, since automation makes goods, including advanced technology products, more affordable as production costs fall. The real challenge, according to Vembu, lies in structuring the economy so that people have enough income to afford those increasingly affordable goods. He said this is a simple question in theory but a difficult one in practice. UBI and political pressure likely to grow, says Vembu Vembu noted that some view Universal Basic Income as a potential answer to this structural challenge, pointing out that elements of this already exist in India in the form of welfare schemes often described as "freebies." He said political pressure to expand such measures is likely to increase in the coming years, while leaving open the question of whether a better alternative exists. Vembu made the remarks in a post on social media platform X on Sunday.
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Amar Ujala
Aug 3, 2026, 06:50 AM
Punjab Assembly Sees Emotional Tribute to NEET Exam Leak Victims, Calls for Accountability

Punjab Assembly Sees Emotional Tribute to NEET Exam Leak Victims, Calls for Accountability

Tributes were paid to the children who lost their lives after the NEET exam leak in the assembly. The speaker said that the central government should further strengthen its system so that the children do not lose their lives like this. To this, BJP MLA Ashwani Sharma said that you should also accept your mistakes. The central government is taking action but what is the Punjab government doing. Congress MLAs demanded the resignation of Education Minister Harjot Bains and Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh in the pharmacy copying case. Leader of Opposition Pratap Bajwa raised slogans alleging paper leak. Congress MLAs reached the house wearing black badges. Advertisement Education Minister Harjot Bains said that the promotion of 5,000 teachers will take place in the month of August. This promotion will take place after a long time. Also, we are making new recruitments.
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:49 AM
Himachal Pradesh Hit by Torrential Rains: Flash Floods and Landslides Wreak Havoc

Himachal Pradesh Hit by Torrential Rains: Flash Floods and Landslides Wreak Havoc

In Himachal Pradesh, torrential rains have wreaked havoc in the Nirmand area of Kullu district. Flash floods and landslides have destroyed a school building. Apart from this, other buildings have also been damaged. The floods have also destroyed more than 500 apple trees. People have fled their homes. Many people spent the night in cars parked on the roadside. The government primary school building built in the year 1993 in Pankwa village of Panchayat Bari collapsed. A huge amount of debris from the hillside fell on the school building, making the building unusable. The relief is that the accident happened at night, so there were no casualties. More than 500 apple trees have been destroyed, while several cowsheds have also been damaged. The affected families are estimated to have suffered losses worth millions of rupees. According to preliminary estimates, many houses in the orchards of Laxman Rathore, Maheshwar Singh Thakur, Himesh Ajay, Sess Ram, and Sohan Lal, including Ram Singh, have been damaged in the landslide. Landslides continue to be a threat to the families.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:48 AM
Indian Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu Returns Home After Commonwealth Games Victory

Indian Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu Returns Home After Commonwealth Games Victory

New Delhi: Indian star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu Saikhom and the chief national weightlifting coach paid a visit to Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju and gifted him a jersey signed by the Indian weightlifting contingent after winning her third gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The Tokyo Olympic silver medallist dominated the 48kg women's field to win gold. She set a Commonwealth Games record in the snatch by lifting 85 kg, then bombed another Games record of 105 kg in the clean & jerk to complete a hat-trick of Commonwealth golds for the Indian. The union minister shared the glimpses of the meeting on X, with a caption, "Welcome home, dear @mirabai_chanu, after a glorious victory in the Commonwealth Games, Glasgow! She made India proud once again by winning the gold medal in weightlifting! Thanks for presenting a T-shirt signed by all the weightlifting players." Let us know! 👂 What type of content would you like to see from us this year? Overall, this was her fourth CWG medal, having won silver in the 48kg category at Glasgow 2014 before striking gold at Gold Coast 2018 and Birmingham 2022. Moreover, she became the first female lifter in the world to win three consecutive gold medals at CWG. Mirabai received a rousing reception on her return from Glasgow on Sunday, as hundreds of supporters gathered at the Indira Gandhi International Airport to celebrate the contingent’s successful campaign. Let us know! 👂 What type of content would you like to see from us this year? Speaking after landing in New Delhi, the Manipuri star expressed pride in representing both her state and the country. “Coming from Manipur, I feel really proud that I have done something good for my country," she told reporters. Among those who arrived were Olympic medallist Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, heavyweight weightlifter Lovepreet Singh and Gyaneshwari Yadav, all of whom were greeted by fans, family members and well-wishers after helping India enjoy another memorable outing at the Commonwealth Games. (Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:45 AM
One Mobikwik Systems Reports Consolidated Net Profit of ₹7.62 Crore in Q1 FY27

One Mobikwik Systems Reports Consolidated Net Profit of ₹7.62 Crore in Q1 FY27

Mumbai: One Mobikwik Systems Ltd announced on Monday a consolidated net profit of ₹7.62 crore for the first quarter of the financial year 2026-27 (Q1 FY27), ending 30 June 2026. This is a turnaround from a consolidated net loss of ₹41.92 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year. Revenue Performance The company's consolidated revenue from operations for Q1 FY27 stood at ₹281.48 crore, up from ₹271.36 crore reported in Q1 FY26. Total consolidated income for the quarter reached ₹289.15 crore, compared to ₹281.62 crore in the same period last year. Expense Overview Consolidated total expenses for Q1 FY27 were ₹273.38 crore, a decrease from ₹312.82 crore in Q1 FY26. This reduction in expenses contributed to the improved profit figures. Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per share (EPS) for Q1 FY27 was ₹0.97, an improvement from a basic loss per share of ₹5.39 in Q1 FY26. Diluted EPS also improved to ₹0.97 from a diluted loss per share of ₹5.39 in the year-ago quarter. IPO Utilisation The company reported that as of 30 June 2026, ₹348.36 crore of its net IPO proceeds had been utilised out of a revised allocation of ₹186.07 crore. A total of ₹182.16 crore remains unutilised from the original IPO proceeds, while the revised unutilised amount is ₹186.07 crore. Stock Options During the quarter ended 30 June 2026, One Mobikwik Systems granted 221,019 stock options under its Employee Stock Option Plan 2014. Additionally, 16,655 stock options were exercised by eligible employees and subsidiaries. Disclaimer: This report is based on the company's filed financial results (standalone or consolidated, as applicable) and is intended solely for informational purposes. It does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any security.
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Siasat News✓
Aug 3, 2026, 06:40 AM
UAE Freezes Assets Linked to Dubai-Based Businessman Satish Sanpal Amid Money Laundering Investigation

UAE Freezes Assets Linked to Dubai-Based Businessman Satish Sanpal Amid Money Laundering Investigation

: The United Arab Emirates’ Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has reportedly directed banks, financial institutions and virtual asset service providers (VASPs) to temporarily freeze assets linked to 41-year-old Dubai-based Indian-origin businessman Satish Sanpal as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation. According to media reports, the FIU directive covers Sanpal’s bank accounts, investments, digital wallets and safe deposit boxes. The temporary freeze also extends to accounts held by his wife, Tabinda, and several companies linked to the couple. Sanpal is widely known for appearing alongside his wife, Tabinda, in the Netflix reality series Desi Bling , which offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of affluent South Asians living in Dubai . The directive instructs banks and VASPs to immediately freeze withdrawals, transfers and access to safe deposit boxes belonging to those named in the notice. Financial institutions are also required to obtain documents establishing the legitimacy of transactions and the lawful origin of funds. Deposits may continue to be accepted during the freeze period, but withdrawals and transfers remain prohibited. The entities named in the directive include ANAX Capital Asset Management Company, ANAX Capital Financial Markets LLC, ANAX Holding FZCO and SSB Bazaar General Trading LLC. The inclusion of VASPs is significant because cryptocurrencies are legally recognised and widely used in the UAE, including for certain property transactions. Under the country’s anti-money laundering framework, banks and VASPs are designated reporting entities and must comply with FIU directives. The temporary freeze is expected to remain in force for up to 30 days unless the FIU issues further instructions. Any extension beyond that period requires authorisation from the UAE Attorney General. Authorities have not disclosed the information that prompted the investigation, and it remains unclear whether the freeze will be extended beyond the initial 30-day period. Sanpal has previously denied allegations relating to his business activities. In May, the Delhi High Court observed that media reports had “prematurely labelled” him a culprit even though the official investigation was still ongoing. He could not be reached for comment, and it was not immediately known whether he was in the UAE when the directive was issued. Originally from Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh , Sanpal left school after Class 8 before moving to the UAE, where he established businesses in real estate, hospitality and finance. He later founded ANAX Holding and became known for hosting high-profile events attended by business leaders and Bollywood celebrities. No criminal charges or convictions have been announced against Sanpal, and the investigation remains ongoing. The temporary asset freeze does not constitute a finding of guilt.
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Newsbytes✓
Aug 3, 2026, 06:37 AM
India Gears Up to Expand Nuclear Energy Capacity Under SHANTI Act

India Gears Up to Expand Nuclear Energy Capacity Under SHANTI Act

India is gearing up to expand its nuclear energy capacity with the SHANTI Act, 2025 (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Act).The first draft of the rules and regulations under this landmark legislation has been prepared and is currently being discussed with key stakeholder ministries and departments, according to The Economic Times .The government is also seeking industry inputs on the proposed framework under the SHANTI Act.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:35 AM
India's Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme: Next Instalment Expected in October 2026

India's Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme: Next Instalment Expected in October 2026

New Delhi: The 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme is expected to be released in October 2026. However, the government has not announced the exact payment date yet. The previous, 23rd instalment was transferred to eligible farmers on June 20, 2026. Annual Support PM-Kisan is fully funded by the central government. Eligible landholding farmer families receive ₹6,000 every year in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000 each. The money is transferred directly to beneficiaries’ Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. Check Status Farmers can check their beneficiary and payment status through the official PM-Kisan website. Visit the portal and select the ‘Beneficiary Status’ or ‘Know Your Status’ option. Enter the required registration, Aadhaar or bank account details and click on ‘Get Data’. The screen will show the beneficiary’s eligibility, e-KYC status and payment details. Farmers can also use the PM-Kisan mobile app or Kisan eMitra chatbot. Complete e-KYC Completing e-KYC is mandatory for receiving PM-Kisan payments. It helps the government ensure that money reaches the correct farmer without middlemen. Beneficiaries can complete e-KYC in three ways. OTP-based e-KYC is available on the PM-Kisan portal and mobile app. Biometric e-KYC can be completed at Common Service Centres or State Seva Kendras. Face authentication is available through the mobile app. For face authentication, download the PM-Kisan app and Aadhaar Face RD app. Log in using the registered mobile number, open the beneficiary status page and select e-KYC if the status shows ‘No’. Enter the Aadhaar number, provide consent and complete the face scan. Who May Be Excluded? Payments may be temporarily stopped in suspected cases until physical verification is completed. These cases may include farmers who acquired land after February 1, 2019, or families where multiple members, such as both husband and wife, are receiving the benefit. Farmers should check their eligibility and correct any errors before the next instalment is released. They should also ensure that their Aadhaar is linked with the bank account and that land records are properly verified.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:33 AM
Amazon Teases Great Freedom Sale 2026: Discounts on Smartphones, Laptops, and More

Amazon Teases Great Freedom Sale 2026: Discounts on Smartphones, Laptops, and More

Amazon has begun teasing top deals ahead of its Great Freedom Sale 2026, with discounts lined up across smartphones, laptops, TWS earphones, projectors, smart TVs, tablets and home appliances. The sale, timed to commemorate 79 years of India's independence, will run from August 7, and the company has confirmed that flagship devices including the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra will be available at discounted prices during the event. Top smartphone deals revealed Amazon has updated its Great Freedom Sale microsite to highlight the smartphone deals customers can expect during the sale. The recently launched Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, the company's flagship book-style foldable, will be available at Rs. 1,90,999 instead of its listed price of Rs. 1,99,999, allowing buyers to save up to Rs. 9,000. The OnePlus 15, powered by an octa-core Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and featuring a triple rear camera system, will be listed at Rs. 81,999 during the sale against its usual retail price of Rs. 89,999. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy M47 5G will also be offered at reduced prices during the sale event, the company has confirmed. Discounts extend to budget and mid-range handsets Beyond the flagship lineup, Amazon has confirmed discounts on several recently launched handsets, including the OnePlus 13s, Redmi A7 Pro 5G, iQoo Z11 Lite, Realme Narzo 100x 5G, iQoo 15R and OnePlus Nord CE 6. The Great Freedom Sale is scheduled to begin on August 7, and Amazon will offer an instant discount of 10 percent on HDFC Bank credit cards and EMI transactions during the event. Amazon Pay UPI users will receive an additional cashback of Rs. 150, while Amazon Pay ICICI Bank credit card users will be eligible for 5 percent unlimited cashback. The company has noted that the sale prices being teased include applicable bank discounts, and buyers will be able to avail further cashback and exchange bonuses on top of these offers.
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Aug 3, 2026, 06:28 AM
Delhi Court Acquits Former WFI Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and Co-Accused in Sexual Harassment Case

Delhi Court Acquits Former WFI Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and Co-Accused in Sexual Harassment Case

A Delhi court on Monday, August 3, acquitted former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and co-accused Vinod Tomar in a sexual harassment case filed by women wrestlers. Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Ashwini Panwar acquitted ex-BJP MP Singh and Tomar, former WFI assistant secretary, in the case. Speaking to reporters outside the court, Singh said the court had “honourably” acquitted him and Tomar. “On the first day, I had said that if any allegation against me was proved, I would hang myself. The court has now honourably acquitted me. I am happy and grateful to my lawyers,” he said. “For now, this is all I can say. I will comment further after going through the court’s reasoned order,” the ex-BJP MP added. Public prosecutor Manish Rawat, however, said that after examining the detailed order, “appropriate action” would be taken before the higher courts. The prosecution can challenge the magisterial court’s verdict before the Delhi High Court. The court on July 2 had reserved the order for August 3 after completion of the final arguments in the case lodged by six women wrestlers. In May 2024, a court had ordered the framing of a charge of criminal intimidation against Singh. It had, however, discharged him in a complaint filed by one of the six women wrestlers. The Delhi Police had filed a chargesheet against Singh, a six-time MP, on June 15 under sections 354 (assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354A (sexual harassment), 354D (stalking) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the then Indian Penal Code. A detailed order is awaited.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:24 AM
Psychiatrist Dies by Suicide in Ghaziabad Amid Mental Health Struggles Following Divorce

Psychiatrist Dies by Suicide in Ghaziabad Amid Mental Health Struggles Following Divorce

Ghaziabad : A shocking and disturbing incident has come to light from Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad. A 40-year-old psychiatrist died by suicide, with her family claiming that she had been battling depression and emotional distress since her divorce nearly one-and-a-half years ago. She died after falling from the fifth floor of her apartment in a high-rise residential society in Raj Nagar Extension on Sunday evening at around 7.30 pm. Residents rushed her to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared her dead. Let us know! 👂 What type of content would you like to see from us this year? Police probe underway The police are probing all possible angles of the death, including mental health concerns. The deceased has been identified as Dr Hemika Agrawal. Investigators said no suicide note has been officially recovered so far. Family cites mental health struggles According to her family, her divorce had taken a severe toll on her mental health. Her father, Dr R Chandra, a noted psychiatrist in the city, said his daughter had been struggling with mental stress and depression after ending her marriage around 18 months ago. Forensic examination continues A forensic team inspected the scene and collected evidence. Police said statements of family members and others connected to the case are being recorded to establish the sequence of events, India Today reported. A collection of suicide prevention helpline numbers are available here. Please reach out if you or anyone you know is in need of support. |
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Aug 3, 2026, 06:20 AM
IndiGo's New CEO Willie Walsh Faces Global Ambitions and Market Challenges

IndiGo's New CEO Willie Walsh Faces Global Ambitions and Market Challenges

Willie Walsh, the former chief of International Airlines Group (IAG), is taking over as the chief executive officer of IndiGo today.His predecessor, Pieter Elbers, leaves behind a strong domestic player with a huge aircraft order book and plans for long-haul operations with Airbus A350s.However, Walsh's biggest challenge will be to transform IndiGo into a global airline while defending its market leadership against an aggressive Air India .
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Aug 3, 2026, 06:19 AM
Gujarat Manjalpur By-Election Counting Begins

Gujarat Manjalpur By-Election Counting Begins

The counting of votes for the Manjalpur Assembly by-election in Gujarat has begun. Tight security arrangements have been made at the counting centre. In the by-election to the Manjalpur seat in Vadodara district, BJP candidate Satish Govindbhai Patel, who is a former corporator of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation. Congress candidate Bhikhabhai Rabari, who is the party's Gujarat vice-president and a former state minister. There is a direct contest between the two. Polling in the seat was held on 30 July after the death of senior BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister Yogesh Patel. Voting in the Manjalpur seat was peaceful. The voter turnout was 37.50 percent, which is significantly lower than the 60.15 percent recorded in the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections. According to the Election Commission, a total of 2,19,494 voters were eligible to vote in the Manjalpur seat, including 1,634 persons with disabilities, 1,406 voters aged 85 and above, and 12 centenarians. Before polling day, 107 voters, including 90 senior citizens, had cast their votes through the ECI facility.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:19 AM
Businessman Who Fled After Cheating Client Arrested After 21 Years

Businessman Who Fled After Cheating Client Arrested After 21 Years

Mumbai: A Nashik-based businessman, who was allegedly on the run for 21 years in a fraud case, was finally caught when he arrived in Mumbai to complete his special intensive revision (SIR) process. A court had issued an arrest warrant against him. Avadhut Chafekar, 65, who allegedly cheated a client of Rs9 lakh and fled Mumbai in 2005, was in for a rude shock when BKC police knocked on his hotel room door on July 31. He had checked in for an overnight stay after completing his SIR process. Chafekar managed to remain untraceable for over two decades by never purchasing a SIM card in his own name, police said, adding that he used documents belonging to others. According to officials, he was taken completely by surprise when officers arrived with the arrest warrant. After fleeing Mumbai, Chafekar allegedly built a new life in Nashik, where he started an electrical manufacturing business. Police coordinated with the SIR electoral team, asking them to alert them if anyone named Chafekar arrived to update their records. Accordingly, the officials promptly shared the contact number mentioned by the accused in his SIR form. Police found that the number was registered using someone else’s documents, but they managed to zero in on Chafekar. The action was initiated following DCP Nimit Goyal’s directive to clear backlog cases, after which a special team led by ACP Sanjay Gaikwad was formed. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
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Aug 3, 2026, 06:15 AM
Oracle Warns of Difficult Times Ahead: Heavy Rains, Floods, and Calamities Predicted

Oracle Warns of Difficult Times Ahead: Heavy Rains, Floods, and Calamities Predicted

Oracle Mathangi Swarnalatha, delivering the traditional Rangam prophecy during the annual Ujjaini Mahankali Bonalu celebrations, cautioned devotees about the possibility of heavy rains, floods, and other natural calamities in the coming months while assuring divine protection to those who follow the path of righteousness. In her prophecy, Swarnalatha expressed anguish that devotees were repeatedly questioning the goddess while failing to honour the promises they had made. “Why do you question me? Why should I answer every question? I respect your words, but are you following mine? Are you doing what I asked of you?” she said. The oracle said the goddess had always stood by her devotees in times of distress, removed their hardships, and continued to protect them from danger. However, she lamented that devotees had failed to fulfil their pledge to install her idol despite making repeated promises. Warning of difficult times ahead, Swarnalatha said the year could witness heavy rainfall, leading to floods and related disasters. She urged people to remain vigilant, stating that there was a possibility of loss of life if adequate precautions were not taken. She also cautioned that fire accidents could occur and indicated that the year might witness severe natural calamities. People should not be complacent and must take all necessary safety measures, she said. Concluding the prophecy, Swarnalatha assured devotees that the goddess would continue to protect her followers but urged them to honour their commitments, uphold dharma, and remain steadfast in their devotion to receive her blessings.
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Aug 3, 2026, 06:14 AM
Delhi Court Acquits Former WFI Chief and Assistant Secretary in Sexual Harassment Case

Delhi Court Acquits Former WFI Chief and Assistant Secretary in Sexual Harassment Case

On Monday, the Rouse Avenue Court acquitted former WFI chief Brijbhushan Sharan Singh and former WFI assistant secretary Vinod Tomar in the case of alleged sexual harassment of women wrestlers. The case was related to allegations made by women wrestlers during Brijbhushan Sharan Singh's tenure as WFI chief. The Delhi Police had filed a chargesheet against Brijbhushan Sharan Singh in 2023, charging him with offences such as sexual harassment, assault or criminal force against women, and criminal intimidation. Tomar was also made a co-accused in the case. Last month, the court had fixed August 3 for pronouncement of verdict in the case involving allegations of women wrestlers. The proceedings were held in-camera. After the final arguments of both sides were completed, Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Panwar heard the detailed arguments of the prosecution and defence counsel within two weeks.
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Free Press Journal
Aug 3, 2026, 06:14 AM
Mumbai's Water Reserves Cross 90% Mark Following Steady Monsoon Rainfall

Mumbai's Water Reserves Cross 90% Mark Following Steady Monsoon Rainfall

Mumbai: Mumbai's water reserves continued to improve following steady monsoon rainfall across the catchment areas, with the combined stock in the seven lakes supplying drinking water to the city crossing the 90 per cent mark. According to the Hydraulic Engineer's Department's report released at 6 am on Monday, August 3, the total useful water stock now stands at 13,03,500 million litres, which is 90.06 per cent of the total live storage capacity of 14,47,363 million litres. Let us know! 👂 What type of content would you like to see from us this year? Marginal Rise Seen In Last 24 Hours The latest figures show a rise of 0.98 percentage points in the city's water reserves over the past 24 hours. On Sunday, August 2, the combined water stock in the seven reservoirs stood at 89.08 per cent, indicating a steady improvement due to continued rainfall in the lake catchment areas. The highest rainfall during the last 24 hours was recorded at Tansa (124 mm), followed by Tulsi (118 mm), Upper Vaitarna (100 mm), Middle Vaitarna (97 mm), Modak Sagar (91 mm), Bhatsa (76 mm) and Vihar (46 mm). Details On Lake Levels Among the reservoirs, Modak Sagar, Tulsi and Vihar remain at 100 per cent capacity, while Tansa is nearly full at 99.58 per cent. Middle Vaitarna has reached 92.15 per cent, Bhatsa, the city's largest reservoir, is at 88.43 per cent and Upper Vaitarna has touched 80.14 per cent. Four reservoirs have already started overflowing this monsoon. Vihar and Tulsi lakes began overflowing on July 7, while Tansa Dam overflowed on July 22 and Modak Sagar Dam on July 23. With reservoir levels now exceeding 90 per cent, Mumbai's water supply remains in a comfortable position as the monsoon continues across the region. Moderate Rains For City This Week Meanwhile, the IMD has predicted moderate rainfall and thundershowers across Mumbai this week, although no rain alert has been issued. Gusty winds of up to 60 kmph are likely during intense spells, while the city's Air Quality Index stood at 32, remaining in the 'Good' category. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in
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Aug 3, 2026, 06:11 AM
Rakhi Sawant Opens Up About Her Spiritual Journey and Faith

Rakhi Sawant Opens Up About Her Spiritual Journey and Faith

: Love her or hate her, Rakhi Sawant is impossible to ignore. From grabbing headlines with her bold statements and public feuds to surprising everyone with deeply personal revelations, the actress and reality TV star has always remained one of the most talked-about celebrities in the country. Often referred to as the “Queen of Controversies,” Rakhi has, over the past few years, also been making headlines for her spiritual journey and her faith. As many know, Rakhi Sawant embraced Islam in May 2022 when she married her former husband, Adil Khan Durrani, in a private nikah ceremony. She later made her conversion public in January 2023 and revealed that she had adopted the name Fatima. Now, in a recent interview with BBC News Hindi, Rakhi opened up about her religious beliefs, personal transformation, and responded strongly to those who continue to question her faith because of her profession and lifestyle. Speaking about her spiritual journey, Rakhi Sawant revealed that she has performed Umrah eight times and follows Islamic practices with sincerity. She said she offers all five daily prayers, reads the Quran, and believes that her faith keeps her protected. She also clarified that although she accepted Islam while marrying Adil Khan Durrani, and the marriage lasted only six months, her faith has remained unchanged. “I offer all five daily prayers. I pray Fajr (2 rakats), Zuhr (4 rakats), Asr (4 rakats), Maghrib (3 rakats), Isha (4 rakats), and I also offer Tahajjud prayers. That is why I feel protected today and I am safe. I also read the Quran,” Rakhi said. Rakhi also addressed the criticism she receives from people who refuse to accept her as a Muslim because she works in the entertainment industry and wears glamorous outfits. She said that faith is a personal relationship between an individual and God. While she works in Bollywood to earn a livelihood and clear her debts, that does not define her connection with Islam. When asked whether society had accepted her after embracing Islam, Rakhi responded: “No, they still don’t consider me a Muslim. Let them go to hell. Why should I care? They think I’m not a Muslim because I work in Bollywood and wear short clothes. Who are you to decide whether I belong to Islam or not?” She further took a dig at her critics by saying: “You may be a millionaire, but God hasn’t even invited you for Umrah once. I am a good person, and I have been blessed to perform Umrah eight times.” The interview has sparked mixed reactions online, with many social media users praising Rakhi for openly talking about her faith and religious practices. One user commented, “At least she is trying and is open about her faith, unlike others.” Another wrote, “She’s still better than most of us. Some of us wear a burqa and still don’t pray.” A third fan simply wrote, “She is a queen.”
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:11 AM
Security Guard's Mysterious Death Under Investigation

Security Guard's Mysterious Death Under Investigation

The body of Balendra, a 55-year-old security guard, was found with a bullet injury on his forehead inside his house in Neelkanth Colony on Bhola Road on Monday. Balendra lived alone in Dhar. His licensed pistol was also found near the body, raising several questions about his death. Police reached the spot and sent the body for post-mortem. SP City and CO also inspected the spot and gave instructions for investigation. Police are trying to find out in the initial investigation whether Balendra committed suicide with a licensed pistol or he was murdered and tried to give the incident a form of suicide. Investigation is currently underway on both aspects. Police say that the real cause of death can be revealed only after the post-mortem report and forensic investigation. School holiday: DM orders in Meerut due to all schools-colleges closed till August 12, Kanwar Yatra: Police take action on 12-foot-high DJ Dak Kanwar, Aligarh-Haridwar truck box.
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:11 AM
Mirzapur: India's Best Crime Thriller Web Series Reigns Supreme on OTT

Mirzapur: India's Best Crime Thriller Web Series Reigns Supreme on OTT

The trend of watching movies and web series on OTT is increasing rapidly in India. The credit for this goes to the content of OTT, which has been entertaining the audience for years. In this case, the name of an 8-year-old web series, which has been a favorite of the audience as a crime thriller. The fourth season of this web series, which has ruled OTT for 3 seasons and 29 episodes in them, is also awaited. Let's know which series is being discussed here. The genre of crime thriller on OTT is considered to be a favorite of cinephiles. The web series that is being talked about in this article is also known as India's best crime thriller web series. 4 seasons 32 episodes, Dala Dera on OTT for 6 years, India's No.1 series series has shown the story of Baahubali and gangster boys from a city in Uttar Pradesh. Now you will understand that Mirzapur web series (Mirzapur) has been the top web series in India for the last 8 years.
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India TV
Aug 3, 2026, 06:09 AM
Parliament Session Marred by Chaos as Opposition Protests Over MP's Attack and Ram Temple Theft

Parliament Session Marred by Chaos as Opposition Protests Over MP's Attack and Ram Temple Theft

Today is the 11th day of the monsoon session of Parliament. Today also the opposition parties created a ruckus, due to which the Lok Sabha was adjourned till 12 o'clock. There was already a possibility of ruckus in the house over the Ram temple theft and the attack on Pappu Yadav. MP Pappu Yadav has surrounded the government over the attack on him. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav has also appealed to the Lok Sabha Speaker to take cognizance of the security of the MP. On Sunday evening, MP Pappu Yadav was attacked when he was giving a press conference on the issue of insult to Sanatan. Let us tell you that a total of 8 bills were listed for the monsoon session, out of which two days have been passed in the house. Vande Mataram and Public Examination Amendment Bill have been passed in both the houses. While senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said in a media interaction after an event in Mamallapuram that the central government's effort to pass the delimitation bill in the parliament should be thwarted by every national and Tamil party and the government will support this bill.
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:09 AM
Organ Donation Awareness Campaign Sees Cornea Transplant Success, But Kidney Transplant Waiting List Remains Unchanged in Jammu and Kashmir

Organ Donation Awareness Campaign Sees Cornea Transplant Success, But Kidney Transplant Waiting List Remains Unchanged in Jammu and Kashmir

The ongoing awareness campaign on organ donation by the State Organ and Transplant Organization Jammu and Kashmir is showing results, but the organ donation of brain dead people is not getting any success. That is why the waiting list for kidney transplants in the state is as usual. Although cornea transplants are continuously taking place. In Jammu and Kashmir, in the year 2022, the Government Medical College Jammu got the approval for kidney transplants. After this, 36 people have got kidney transplants in this institution so far, but all of them have been done in their blood relations. Somewhere mother has donated kidney to son, somewhere father has donated kidney to son. A similar situation exists in Srinagar Medical College. This college has also got nine kidney transplants after the year 2022. Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences Soura has the highest number of kidney transplants after the year 2022. Around 180 people have got kidney transplants, but no brain patient has been transplanted here. These organizations have got more than two names of kidney transplants at this time.
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Siasat News✓
Aug 3, 2026, 06:08 AM
Indian Police Service Officer Uday Krishna Reddy Faces Deeper Trouble After Investigation Reveals Second Relationship

Indian Police Service Officer Uday Krishna Reddy Faces Deeper Trouble After Investigation Reveals Second Relationship

Trainee Indian Police Service (IPS) Officer Uday Krishna Reddy, who was arrested for sexually assaulting a female trainee officer, now finds himself in deeper trouble as the investigation reveals that he was also in a relationship with a woman from Andhra Pradesh. In her complaint, the woman trainee had stated that Reddy was in a relationship with another woman. According to a report by Deccan Chronicle, the police launched an investigation into the matter and seized a laptop, a knife, a mobile phone and two love letters from the accused’s room in Hyderabad’s Ashok Nagar area. The woman from Andhra Pradesh was married in 2014 and was separated in 2023. She was living with her son and came in contact with Reddy when the two became fast friends. The woman reportedly moved to Hyderabad on Reddy’s suggestion and was working with a private company. In January 2026, the woman quit her job and joined an IAS coaching institute after being persuaded by Reddy. The trainee officer had also reportedly proposed a live-in relationship, which the woman refused, stating that her divorce wasn’t finalised. The woman met the complainant in February when the latter revealed that she was subjected to distress by Reddy, who had physical relations with her. Following this, the woman from Andhra reportedly distanced herself from Reddy. The police also verified the complainant’s allegation that Reddy had forcibly entered her room and snatched her phone. So far, the police have questioned 20 people as part of the investigation. The investigation also revealed that several trainee officers were subjected to harassment by Reddy.
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India TV
Aug 3, 2026, 06:08 AM
Jan Suraj Leads in Bankipur By-Election as BJP Trails Behind

Jan Suraj Leads in Bankipur By-Election as BJP Trails Behind

After the by-election in Bankipur, the counting of votes has now started. Early trends show Prashant Kishor of Jan Suraj leading in this seat. Although this seat is considered to be a traditional seat of the BJP, but this time the BJP is far behind. Although it was earlier considered a triangular contest between the BJP, Jan Suraj and the RJD in this seat, but now the equations seem to be changing. Counting of votes has started since 8 am on Monday. In the counting so far, Jan Suraj is showing a major reversal. Security has been deployed outside the counting center in view of the counting. A large number of police forces have been deployed inside and outside the counting center. All the visitors are being searched. In Bankipur, Neeraj Kumar Sinha of the BJP has got a tough fight with Rekha Gupta of the RJD and Prashant Kishor, the leader of Jan Suraj. Although before the results, Prashant Kishor has been accused by the Bihar Police of rigging the elections.
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Amar Ujala
Aug 3, 2026, 06:07 AM
Transport Corporation Cracks Down on Ticketless Travel with New SOP

Transport Corporation Cracks Down on Ticketless Travel with New SOP

Stringent action will be taken against operators for repeated instances of ticketless travel. The SOP directs the operators to issue valid tickets to each passenger as per the prescribed fare. The SOP also includes provision for issue of over-priced tickets, keeping in mind the revenue interests of the corporation, if there is any doubt about the age of a child. Under the new provisions, action will be decided on the basis of fare amount, number of passengers in the bus and the operator's past service record.
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India TV
Aug 3, 2026, 06:07 AM
Congress Leads in Datia Assembly By-Election in Madhya Pradesh

Congress Leads in Datia Assembly By-Election in Madhya Pradesh

The counting of votes for the by-election to Datia Assembly seat in Madhya Pradesh is underway. Congress candidate Ghanshyam Singh has established a comfortable lead after four rounds of counting. BJP's Ashutosh Tiwari has lagged behind after initially leading. The outcome of this election will not have any impact on the formation of the government in the state, but the defeat here will increase the BJP's anxiety. While the Congress's discord has already come out in the open. When the party terminated the membership of former MLA Rajendra Bharti, he accused the current candidate Ghanshyam Singh of contesting elections with the BJP. He also said that he will show his strength in the 2028 elections. The last assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh were held in 2023. During this time, the BJP won a landslide majority and formed the government. However, Mohan Yadav was made the CM instead of Shivraj Singh, who was the state's CA for two decades. Mohan Yadav will be tested in the 2028 elections. Congress came to power for a few months in 2018. Rajendra Bharti, the former home minister, was defeated in the 2023 assembly elections.
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:07 AM
Gang Wars Erupt in Sitapur: Police Crack Down on Violent Clashes

Gang Wars Erupt in Sitapur: Police Crack Down on Violent Clashes

Gang activity is coming to the fore after gang wars between gangs operating under the names AK-47 in Fatehpur and T-20 Gang in Baddupur and 4152 Gang in Mehmoodabad, Sitapur. Police have taken action against 11 arrested accused involved in the struggle for supremacy between Sitapur and Barabanki gangs. Police are on the lookout for other accused in the gang. Some youths run a gang named 4152 in Mehmoodabad, Sitapur, in which more than 100 teenagers and youths are associated. Similarly, a gang of youths named AK-47 is active in Fatehpur. On 1 August, a lathi-charge took place between the two gangs over the Bhagauli regulator in Baddupur. On 1 August, two youths were injured. Police averted a major incident. Some youths were detained from the spot while some youths escaped from the spot. Police registered a case against 60 youths from both sides in the case.
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:05 AM
Sawan Somwar Vrat: A Month of Spiritual Growth and Purification

Sawan Somwar Vrat: A Month of Spiritual Growth and Purification

The holy month of Sawan has begun and 3rd August 2026 is the first Monday of Sawan. Sawan Somwar Vrat has special significance in Sanatan Dharma. It is believed that devotees who observe Somwar Vrat with devotion and worship Bholenath throughout this month, Lord Shiva removes all their sufferings. Sawan Somwar Vrat consists entirely of sattvik and fruitful food: According to religious beliefs, fasting on Sawan Somwar brings immense grace of Lord Shiva and brings happiness, peace and prosperity in life. According to scriptures, the effect of this fast is to remove family troubles and get the desired life partner. Also, performing Rudrabhishek with sugarcane juice or milk on Shivling opens new avenues of progress in business and career. At the same time, fasting in the month of Sawan also strengthens the digestive system and flushes out harmful toxins from the body, which leads to mental and physical purification.
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:05 AM
Amrish Puri's Emotional Connection to Iconic Role in Gadar: Ek Prem Katha

Amrish Puri's Emotional Connection to Iconic Role in Gadar: Ek Prem Katha

Actor Amrish Puri has played many iconic characters on-screen, but a film that came 25 years ago is still people's favourite. He played a villain in this film. Even though on the big screen he remains a doting father and a man with enmity in his heart, off-screen he broke down on hearing the script of the film Gadar: Ek Prem Katha. Anil Sharma directed the film. Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel and Amrish Puri played the lead roles in this film. Amrish Puri played the role of Ashraf Ali in the film Partition time. Tara Singh (Ameesha Patel) could not go to Pakistan at the time of Partition.
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SportsTiger News✓
Aug 3, 2026, 06:05 AM
Bumrah Ruled Out, Auqib Nabi Replaces Him for Sri Lanka Test Series

Bumrah Ruled Out, Auqib Nabi Replaces Him for Sri Lanka Test Series

Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka as he has not yet fully recovered from the left knee injury sustained during the ODI series against England. The Men's Selection Committee has named Auqib Nabi as Bumrah's replacement. The Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler earns his maiden call-up to the senior national team. Nabi claimed 104 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, including 60 wickets in the 2025-26 campaign, playing a pivotal role in Jammu and Kashmir's maiden Ranji Trophy triumph. He was also part of the India A squad that toured Sri Lanka recently, where he claimed six wickets in two first-class matches. India's updated squad for the Test series against Sri Lanka: Shubman Gill (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sai Sudharsan*, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi.
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:04 AM
The Ancient Origins of Chess: From Chaturanga to Global Phenomenon

The Ancient Origins of Chess: From Chaturanga to Global Phenomenon

Chess is a game that tests one's intelligence, strategy, and focus. Today, chess dominates the world, tournaments are held, championships are held, and people watch and play the game with great fun, but do you know how it all began? Actually, chess began many centuries ago and its form was very different from today. Let's find out how chess began to be played and how it changed over time. Chess is believed to have originated in ancient India in the sixth century during the time of the Gupta Empire. The name of the game at that time was chaturanga, not chaturanga. Chaturanga means the four-limbed game of the army. At that time, groups like the army of war were formed. The elephant, which today is called Rukata, the horse is called the knight, the chariot is known as the bishop, and the infantry is called the pawn. Although the names of the armies used at that time were different, the rules of the game and the rules of the game were slightly different. There were also kings and ministers of the game.
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:04 AM
Young Man Accused of Hiding HIV Status in Affair Gone Wrong

Young Man Accused of Hiding HIV Status in Affair Gone Wrong

A young man has been accused of having an affair with a woman on the promise of marriage and hiding his HIV status. The woman says that later his test also confirmed HIV infection. The young man allegedly refused to marry citing caste and family disagreements when pressured to marry. The victim has now approached the district collector demanding justice. The case is from the Tumusinga police station area of Kamakhyanagar area in Dhenkanal district. According to the victim, the young man had assured her that he would marry her. On this trust, the two developed a relationship. The woman alleges that the young man was already infected with HIV, but he hid this information from her. After some time during the health check-up, the woman came to know that the woman was HIV positive. She then demanded to marry the young man and take responsibility in the case, but the young man allegedly refused to marry. The victim alleged that the young man did not tell her about the caste and family differences, but the woman expressed confidence that the marriage could also be confirmed.
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Dainik Jagran
Aug 3, 2026, 06:01 AM
Sawan Month: A Time of Devotion and Self-Reflection in Hindu Calendar

Sawan Month: A Time of Devotion and Self-Reflection in Hindu Calendar

The entire month of Sawan is considered to be the holiest time in the Hindu calendar. This time is especially dedicated to the devotion of Lord Shiva. Worshipping Lord Shiva throughout this month brings peace of mind, happiness and prosperity in the house, good health, and religious progress. According to astrology, the entire month of Sawan is not just a time to fast or worship, but it is also a time to improve your thoughts, deeds, and lifestyle. Chanting Shiva mantras, offering water and belpatra on the Shivling, making donations, and exercising self-restraint during this time yields very auspicious results. During this time, people of every zodiac sign are advised to follow certain rules that bring auspiciousness to life. Not only this, but you should also avoid doing some special things during this time. Let us tell you about it. People of Aries zodiac sign offer red sandal water mixed with red sandal to the Shivling every Monday to strengthen the effect of Prathama Bhava. Read the Hanuman Chalisa every Tuesday without worrying about your personal horoscope.
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