India

Alex Pereira Slams UFC Over Michel Pereira's Release After Magomedov Loss

The UFC has released Brazilian middleweight Michel Pereira following his defeat to Shara Magomedov at UFC Baku, ending his seven-year stint with the organisation. The move came after Michel's contract expired and was not renewed by the promotion. Former UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira has publicly criticised the UFC over the decision. The release has drawn strong reactions from within the fighter community, with Alex voicing his displeasure on behalf of his compatriot.

Delhi HC Hears Plea Seeking Force-Feeding of Hunger-Striking Activist Sonam Wangchuk

A petition has been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking intervention to force-feed activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on a prolonged hunger strike. The plea warns that Wangchuk's life is in critical danger and he may not survive beyond two days without medical intervention. The petitioner contended that while peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right, the state has a duty to protect the life of the activist. The case highlights ongoing tensions surrounding Wangchuk's demonstration at a public place in Delhi.

Concrete Roads Over Asphalt: India's Long-Term Fix for Pothole Problem

Indian cities spend heavily on repeated pothole repairs due to the limited durability of asphalt roads. Concrete roads are emerging as a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative, despite higher initial construction costs. Mumbai is at the forefront of this shift, undertaking large-scale cement concrete road projects across the city. Over time, concrete roads are expected to significantly reduce maintenance expenses and minimize economic losses caused by poor road conditions. The move is part of a broader push toward building durable infrastructure and achieving pothole-free roads nationwide.

Bengaluru Sub-Inspector Arrested After Wife Alleges Extortion and Harassment

A police sub-inspector in Bengaluru has been arrested following a complaint filed by his own wife. The officer, who was previously suspended for accepting bribes, allegedly demanded Rs 50 lakh from his wife's family. According to the complaint, he subjected her to prolonged physical and mental harassment. The case highlights a continued pattern of misconduct by the officer even after his earlier suspension.

Capgemini Daycare Accuses Ex-Staff of Fabricating Security Footage for Blackmail

Little Scholars, the daycare facility operating within IT company Capgemini's premises, has accused former employees of staging video footage. The daycare claims the clip was deliberately fabricated rather than being an authentic recording. According to Little Scholars, the alleged motive behind creating the footage was to blackmail the organization. The ex-staff members are said to have used the staged clip as leverage to pressure the daycare into reinstating them.

AI-Powered Simulators Reshape Military Training, Cutting Costs and Risks

Armed forces around the world are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence-enhanced simulators to train soldiers and pilots. These systems help reduce the financial burden and physical dangers associated with traditional live-fire exercises. They also limit wear and tear on costly military equipment that would otherwise be used during drills. A key advantage is their ability to deliver personalized training scenarios that adapt and evolve based on individual performance. The shift toward AI-driven simulation is widely seen as making military preparedness more efficient and better suited to modern warfare demands.

CJP Calls 1-Day Hunger Strike on July 16 in Support of Sonam Wangchuk

The Cockroach Janata Party has announced a one-day mass hunger strike on July 16 in solidarity with climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. Wangchuk is currently on his eighteenth day of fasting, during which his health has significantly deteriorated. He has suffered notable muscle loss and is reported to be in severe pain. A court petition has been filed seeking to have Wangchuk force-fed and transferred to a hospital. The legal intervention aims to prevent further decline and preserve his life.

Sinner charms Wimbledon Champions' Ball with candid, humorous remarks

World number one Jannik Sinner won over guests at the Wimbledon Champions' Ball with candid and lighthearted comments. The Italian star openly admitted to feeling slightly tipsy during the event, while also speaking about his mother's anxiety. He drew laughs by recounting his repeated failures at a motorcycle license test. Sinner had just successfully defended his Wimbledon title, claiming his fifth Grand Slam crown. The victory also marked his hundredth match win on the professional circuit.

The 3-2-1 Morning Method That Can Help You Stay Focused and Productive

A productivity strategy called the 3-2-1 morning method aims to help people manage their daily schedules more effectively. The approach involves identifying three work-related priorities, two health-focused tasks, and one enjoyable activity each day. Completing these six structured tasks is said to reduce feelings of overwhelm and provide a sense of accomplishment. By incorporating health and leisure into the daily plan, the method is designed to improve overall well-being throughout the day. Proponents say it helps individuals stay on track and minimise distractions.

Watch: US strikes hit watchtower at Iran's Chabahar as Middle East conflict escalates

Tamil Nadu Man Attacks Ex-Fiancée After Called-Off Engagement, Killing Her Mother

A Tamil Nadu man attacked his former fiancée after she broke off their engagement, and her mother died in the assault. The couple had been engaged a few months prior, but the woman reportedly ended the relationship citing a significant age gap between them. The mother was fatally injured while intervening to protect her daughter from the attack. The incident has drawn attention to the dangers faced by women and their families following broken engagements.

Amitabh Bachchan's real estate portfolio estimated at over Rs 500 crore

Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan has built a substantial real estate empire spanning multiple cities and countries. His property investments in Ayodhya alone are estimated between Rs 90–100 crore, reflecting his interest in the city's booming real estate market. In Mumbai, Bachchan owns several well-known properties including Jalsa, Janak, Prateeksha, and Vatsa. His portfolio covers a diverse mix of residential, commercial, and institutional assets across India. In total, his real estate holdings are valued at over Rs 500 crore.

Director Honey Trehan defends 'Satluj', says Hindus and Sikhs watched it together

'Satluj' director Honey Trehan has rejected allegations that his film is propaganda, asserting instead that it promotes communal harmony. He claimed that Hindu and Sikh audiences in Punjab watched the film together without any tension. Trehan attributed the film's removal from its streaming platform to government pressure rather than any content-related issues. However, authorities stated the film was pulled down because it was released without completing the mandatory certification process. The film draws inspiration from the life and work of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra.

Assam Allows Restaurants to Stay Open Until 3:30 AM for FIFA World Cup Knockouts

The Assam government has extended operating hours for restaurants in Guwahati until 3:30 AM to accommodate fans watching the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and final. The relaxation applies specifically to the last four matches of the tournament. The move is expected to provide a boost to local businesses and the hospitality sector. Authorities have indicated that safety measures will remain in place during the extended hours.

Iran Exploited Data Roaming and Ad Tech to Surveil US Military in Gulf

Iran conducted cyberattacks targeting US military personnel stationed in the Gulf region, according to a report by NDTV. The operations reportedly exploited data roaming networks and advertising technology to track individuals. These activities took place in the lead-up to the US-Israeli military conflict against Iran, which began in late February. The surveillance efforts continued into the early days of the conflict. The techniques used highlight how commercial digital infrastructure can be weaponized for state-level intelligence gathering.

Supriya Sule rules out NDA alliance shift, NCP (SP) stance on Delimitation Bill pending

NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) leader Supriya Sule has firmly denied that her party is considering a switch to the NDA, reaffirming its commitment to the INDIA alliance. She clarified that the party has not yet taken a position on the Delimitation Bill and will deliberate on it within the INDIA bloc once the bill is formally introduced. Speculation about a possible merger with the NDA-aligned faction arose following recent meetings between NCP leaders and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. However, senior NCP (SP) leaders have categorically denied that any merger discussions took place during those meetings.

Bollywood Stars Urge Sonam Wangchuk to End Hunger Strike Over Health Fears

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has been on a prolonged hunger strike to protest alleged NEET examination irregularities and demand a minister's resignation. Growing concern over his deteriorating health has prompted several public figures to speak out. Actors Shabana Azmi and Soni Razdan have personally appealed for his well-being and urged him to continue his leadership. Other celebrities and writers have also joined the chorus calling on Wangchuk to end his fast.

S&P Cuts Oracle Credit Rating to One Notch Above Junk Over AI Exposure

S&P Global Ratings has downgraded Oracle's credit rating from BBB to BBB-, placing it just one level above junk status. The agency flagged significant risks tied to Oracle's rapidly expanding AI infrastructure business. A major concern is Oracle's heavy dependence on OpenAI as a client, which creates concentrated credit risk. If OpenAI were to default, Oracle could face serious financial strain from its large data center lease commitments. S&P also warned that Oracle's rating could be cut further if its debt leverage surpasses 4.5 times earnings.

Anthony Davis sells Bel Air mansion for $32M after Lakers contract ends

NBA star Anthony Davis has sold his Bel Air mansion for $32 million, marking a notable real estate transaction. The sale coincides with his departure from Los Angeles following the end of his Lakers contract. Davis had originally purchased the property in 2021 for $31 million and later carried out extensive renovations. He had initially listed the home at close to $40 million before it sold at the lower price.

UP Speaker Links Ram Temple Donation Theft to Lack of Devotion Amid Probe

Uttar Pradesh Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana commented on the Ram temple donation theft, suggesting that donors who feel their money was stolen may not have offered it with genuine devotion. His remarks came in the wake of an investigation into financial irregularities at the temple. The probe uncovered nine significant procedural and security lapses that allowed the embezzlement of donations to take place. Authorities have so far arrested eight individuals connected to the donation counting process in relation to the case.