India

Eight Charged Over Alleged Plot to Attack White House UFC Event with Drones and Snipers

A federal indictment has charged eight individuals in connection with an alleged conspiracy to attack a UFC event at the White House. The plot is said to have begun in May, when the group started gathering resources to carry out the attack. Prosecutors allege the suspects accumulated firearms, ammunition, explosives, drones, body armor, and communications equipment. The indictment suggests the group was preparing for a coordinated assault involving both drone strikes and sniper fire.

Alia Bhatt's Alpha crosses Rs 79 crore globally after first week in theatres

Action thriller Alpha, starring Alia Bhatt, has collected Rs 79.21 crore worldwide after completing its first week in cinemas. The film earned Rs 56.66 crore at the Indian box office, while international markets contributed Rs 22.55 crore to its total gross. Its net collection in India stood at Rs 47.55 crore, reflecting steady footfall even on weekdays. The film's consistent performance has further cemented Alia Bhatt's standing as a leading figure in Bollywood.

WhatsApp Responds to Indian Government's Concerns Over Username Feature

WhatsApp has submitted a formal reply to the Indian government addressing concerns raised about its username feature. The central government had flagged potential cybercrime risks associated with the newly introduced functionality. Authorities are currently reviewing WhatsApp's response to assess whether the concerns have been adequately addressed. The development highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny of major messaging platforms operating in India.

Wildfire in Southern Spain's Almeria Kills 12 as Death Toll Rises

A deadly wildfire in the Almeria region of southern Spain has claimed at least 12 lives, according to authorities. The death toll rose sharply after six additional victims were discovered. Spanish officials confirmed the updated figures on Friday. The blaze has caused significant loss of life in the affected southern region.

Delhi HC to rule on Rajpal Yadav cheque bounce conviction challenge

The Delhi High Court is set to deliver its verdict on a series of petitions challenging the conviction of Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav in multiple cheque bounce cases. The actor, along with others, had filed the petitions contesting both their conviction and sentencing. The ruling was scheduled to be pronounced on Friday. The cases involve cheque dishonour offences for which Yadav and the co-petitioners were previously found guilty by a lower court.

England beat India in T20I series, ending India's 6-year bilateral dominance

England defeated India in a bilateral T20I series for the first time, with a commanding nine-wicket victory sealing the win. Harry Brook's side chased down the target with an unbeaten 146-run partnership between Brook and Phil Salt. The result handed India their first back-to-back bilateral T20I series defeat since early 2019. England's clinical performance also set a new record in their own cricketing history.

Mbappe Misses First World Cup Penalty but Scores as France Beat Morocco 2-0

Kylian Mbappe missed a penalty for the first time in his World Cup career during France's quarter-final clash against Morocco. The spot kick was awarded following a lengthy VAR review, but Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou pulled off a save to deny the French star. Mbappe became only the second French player ever to miss a penalty in regulation time at the World Cup. Despite the setback, he recovered strongly by netting a goal in the second half. France secured a 2-0 victory to advance to the semi-finals of the tournament.

King Charles favors plant-based meals, mutton, and biscuits with his tea

King Charles follows distinct dietary habits that include plant-based meals and mutton as his preferred meat. He consistently avoids shellfish as a precaution against food poisoning. Biscuits are a regular accompaniment to his tea and coffee, with Bath Oliver biscuits having been a particular favorite. However, Bath Oliver biscuits have since been discontinued and are no longer available. The King also favors a light salad for his midday meal.

Are frozen blueberries unsafe? FDA recalls blueberries sold in 8 states

India Condemns Sexual Violence as Tool of War and Terrorism at UN

India on Thursday delivered a strong statement at the United Nations condemning conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). The Indian delegation described such violence as a deliberate instrument used in war, terrorism, and torture. India further noted that CRSV is employed as a means of political repression to subjugate communities and suppress dissent. The statement underscored India's position that this form of violence is used to inflict widespread human suffering on vulnerable populations.

British teacher dies in Turkey after rare anaesthetic complication during hair transplant

A British teacher died in Turkey following a hair transplant procedure after developing convulsions and cardiac arrest. The complications arose after he was administered a local anaesthetic during the surgery. A coroner identified Local Anaesthetic Systemic Toxicity (LAST) as a possible cause of death. LAST is a rare but serious condition that can critically affect both the brain and the heart. Medical experts are urging patients to carefully weigh the risks before undergoing any medical procedures abroad.

Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Jitu Patwari’s brother named in drug probe, political storm erupts

Row over Rath Yatra abroad: After Puri royal’s latest salvo, ISKCON ‘bows out of discussion’

Ali Khamenei Laid to Rest in Mashhad Amid US-Iran Tensions

Former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was buried on Friday in Mashhad, his hometown, according to state television. The funeral ceremony took place amid ongoing hostilities between the United States and Iran. Notably, Khamenei's son and designated successor was absent from the public proceedings. The burial marks a significant moment in Iran's political landscape as the country navigates a period of heightened conflict.

TCS Q1 Revenue Grows 2.7% to $7.6B; Workforce Expands by Over 9,000

Tata Consultancy Services posted revenue of $7.6 billion in the June quarter, reflecting a 2.7% year-on-year rise. The IT giant added more than 9,000 employees during the period, signalling a notable expansion in headcount. However, consolidated net profit fell sequentially following a one-time legal charge. Operating margins also dipped due to annual wage revisions, with the company targeting a return to 25% margins. TCS further stated that artificial intelligence is expected to transform job roles rather than eliminate them, potentially generating new categories of work.

Think tank CSDS likely to face funding cuts from Centre

Khamenei Buried in Mashhad After 37-Year Rule Ended by US-Israeli Strikes

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was laid to rest in Mashhad following a week-long series of funeral ceremonies. Khamenei, who had led Iran for nearly 37 years, died in airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel. Massive crowds turned out for the funeral processions, effectively bringing normal life across the country to a halt. His eldest son led the burial prayers, though his designated successor was conspicuously absent from the ceremony. The burial took place against a backdrop of ongoing hostilities and escalating military exchanges involving Iran, the US, and Israel.

France reach third straight World Cup semifinal with 2-0 win over Morocco

France defeated Morocco 2-0 to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup semifinals. Goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé powered the French side to victory. With this result, France joined Germany and Brazil as the only nations to reach three consecutive World Cup semifinals. Les Bleus will next face either Spain or Belgium, who meet in their quarterfinal on Tuesday.

India, Australia ink defence pacts, fast-track trade deal

Delhi at 120 among 173 nations in Global Liveability Index