India

Shubman Gill calls for compassion toward students protesting exam paper leaks

Cricketer Shubman Gill has publicly urged compassion and mutual respect in response to student protests over alleged exam paper leaks in India. Gill stressed that the country's youth deserve fair opportunities to learn and contribute to the nation's future. Several other prominent Indian athletes have also expressed solidarity with the protesting students. The athletes collectively highlighted the need for honesty and merit-based standards within the education system. They called for a fair resolution that safeguards students' hard work and academic aspirations.

Trump says he is 'close' to decision on 'massive attack' on Iran, bigger than Epic Fury

Florida inland community draws buyers with 15-acre Crystal Lagoon, largest in US

A residential community near Tampa, Florida, is home to the largest man-made swimming lagoon in the United States, spanning 15 acres. Known as Crystal Lagoon, the attraction is fueling strong demand for properties in the inland development. Homebuyers are increasingly drawn to the community as it offers a tropical, coastal-style lifestyle while reducing exposure to storm risks associated with beachfront living. The developer behind the project plans to expand further by launching new communities built around similar large-scale lagoon amenities.

Russian Influencer Suffers Severe Burns After Power Bank Explodes While Charging

Russian influencer Anna Otavina sustained serious burns when her power bank exploded while charging near her bed. The device overheated on soft bedding, setting her hair and the surrounding area on fire. Otavina managed to put out the flames herself before emergency responders arrived on the scene. Doctors confirmed she had second-degree burns across a large part of her back. She is now urging people to charge devices only on hard surfaces and to avoid doing so during sleep.

Mossad foils Iranian plot to send operatives into Israel for assassination: Report

CJP delegation to meet government ministers on Friday as Centre renews outreach: Report

Centre changes Education Secretary amid student protests, anger over exam paper leaks

Delhi HC sets up fast-track court at Rouse Avenue for NEET paper leak cases

The Delhi High Court has designated a special fast-track court at Rouse Avenue to exclusively handle cases related to paper leaks and malpractices under the Public Examinations Act, 2024. The development comes in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to establish fast-track courts to address the NEET controversy. The move is a direct response to widespread protests over the alleged leak of the NEET examination paper. The dedicated court is intended to expedite legal proceedings connected to the high-profile exam integrity scandal.

Bangladesh Appoints India-Critical Journalists to Diplomatic Press Roles

Bangladesh has selected journalists known for their critical stance toward India to serve as press officers at its Indian missions. The appointments have drawn attention amid ongoing efforts by both nations to reset bilateral ties. Relations between the two countries have been strained since the political upheaval that ousted Sheikh Hasina from power in August 2024. The choice of press officers with a visible track record of India-critical posts is seen as counterproductive to the diplomatic reconciliation both sides have been signaling. Observers note the appointments are unlikely to help project the goodwill needed to rebuild the relationship.

Oil Hits $100 a Barrel as Houthi Attacks and US Threats Rattle Markets

Crude oil prices climbed to $100 per barrel on Thursday amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Iran-backed Houthi rebels carried out attacks targeting shipping vessels in the Red Sea, disrupting a critical global trade route. In response, US President Donald Trump issued threats to strike the Houthi group. The combination of active attacks and the prospect of a broader military confrontation drove the sharp rise in oil prices.

Govt reshuffles top bureaucrats in ministries: Education secretary shifted out

Sonam Wangchuk Urges Protesters to Remain Peaceful From Hospital Bed

Climate activist and innovator Sonam Wangchuk issued a message from hospital urging students to maintain peaceful methods of protest. He expressed distress over reports of violence attributed to antisocial elements at certain locations in Delhi. Wangchuk emphasized that non-violence remains the only path he endorses. His appeal came amid ongoing student demonstrations, calling on protesters to not let their movement be derailed by disruptive actors.

Uttarakhand Technical University cancels 2 BTech exams after paper leak, professor arrested

Veer Madho Singh Bhandari Uttarakhand Technical University has cancelled two BTech examinations following allegations of a paper leak. An assistant professor was arrested and dismissed from service after the university filed a complaint against him. Students staged protests on campus, demanding that the administration be held accountable for the breach. University officials stated the decision was taken to protect institutional credibility and safeguard student interests. The incident is the latest in a series of examination paper leak scandals to have surfaced in Uttarakhand.

UP girl, 10, dies by suicide after teachers accused her of theft, beat her

A 10-year-old girl in Uttar Pradesh died by suicide after two teachers at her school accused her of stealing Rs 10. The teachers allegedly beat her and publicly humiliated her over the accusation. Her father subsequently filed a complaint with the police, who registered an FIR against the two educators. The local education department has launched an internal inquiry into the incident. Further legal action is expected to follow once the investigation and post-mortem report are completed.

Passengers Rescued After Climbing Atop Bus Submerged in Gujarat Floods

A bus was submerged in floodwaters in Gujarat, forcing passengers to climb onto its roof to stay above water. The incident prompted an emergency response after authorities were alerted to the situation. Nanapodha Police arrived at the scene and coordinated a rescue operation. Working alongside local residents, officers successfully saved the stranded passengers.

Ashok Sharma dedicates India debut against Zimbabwe to elder brother

Fast bowler Ashok Sharma made his international debut for India in a match against Zimbabwe, marking a major milestone in his cricket career. He emotionally dedicated the achievement to his elder brother, acknowledging the sacrifices made to support his journey. Sharma's rise to the national side was built on consistent domestic performances and success in the IPL. The young pacer received his maiden India cap from bowling coach Sunil Joshi ahead of the game.

Delhi Metro closes 17 central stations from 7:30am Friday amid CJI protest security

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has shut 17 metro stations in central Delhi starting 7:30am on Friday until further notice. The closures are linked to security concerns surrounding ongoing CJP protests taking place at Jantar Mantar. Despite the shutdowns, interchange facilities at key stations in the affected area will continue to remain operational. Commuters have been advised by DMRC to plan alternative routes in advance due to heightened security restrictions in the region.

Iran flew IRGC commanders, missile gear to Yemen's Houthis: Report

Student Protester Calls on Dharmendra Pradhan to Face Demonstrators at Jantar Mantar

Student activist Abhijeet Dipke has challenged Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to join protesters at Jantar Mantar, speaking directly to NDTV. Dipke questioned why removing a single education minister is considered such a significant issue. He argued that the welfare of hundreds of thousands of students should take priority over retaining one minister. The remarks reflect growing student frustration and demands for accountability from the Education Ministry.

'Committed jihadist': UK-born Pakistani man jailed over military base terror plot