Times of India

An Indian traveller's heartwarming plan to show his mother snow in Georgia turned sour due to a series of unwelcoming interactions. Despite valid US visa allowing entry, the duo faced subtle disrespect at immigration and their hotel. The experience left them feeling unwelcome, highlighting potential biases faced by travellers from the Global South.

A special POCSO court in Prayagraj has ordered the police to register an FIR against Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and his disciple over sexual exploitation allegations. This directive follows a complaint filed by Ashutosh Brahmachari Maharaj. The move occurs amidst ongoing controversy surrounding Swami Avimukteshwaranand, including a recent protest over being prevented from a ritual dip at Sangam.

Russia's foreign intelligence agency, the SVR, has reportedly taken over Wagner Group's African influence operations post-Prigozhin's death. An investigation reveals the SVR now directs political and information warfare, deploying teams across numerous African nations to spread disinformation and advance Moscow's interests. This strategic shift aims to bolster Russia's presence, particularly in the Sahel region.

Neal Katyal hailed his legal team as the "best in the world" after the US Supreme Court struck down Donald Trump's global tariffs as illegal. The ruling decisively affirmed that only Congress, not the president, possesses the authority to impose taxes on Americans, reinforcing constitutional governance and the separation of powers.

Suryakumar Yadav dismissed rumors of Sanju Samson replacing Abhishek Sharma or Tilak Varma, emphasizing confidence in the current lineup. He addressed concerns about Abhishek's form by highlighting the threat he poses to opponents. Yadav also defended Tilak Varma's cautious approach, stating it aligns with team strategy.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi backed Pakistan hockey players after they accused the PHF of abandoning them during the Australia tour. Players said they had no hotel and had to cook and clean themselves, sparking outrage. Naqvi promised full support, financial aid, and help with training, while captain Ammad Shakeel Butt’s suspension is set to be reversed. The incident exposed serious mismanagement in Pakistan hockey.

India is closely examining the fallout from the US Supreme Court's decision to strike down President Trump's unilateral tariffs. Following the ruling, Trump announced a new 10% global tariff, asserting that existing national security tariffs remain. He also stated that the trade deal with India, where India pays tariffs, is unaffected.

Candace Owens faces backlash after Tracy Martin, a friend of Charlie Kirk’s widow Erika Kirk, rejected Owens’ claim that she had prior knowledge of Kirk’s 2025 assassination. In an interview, Martin called the narrative “manipulative” and criticized conspiracy framing. The exchange has fueled online criticism, with many urging Owens to retract her allegations.

India will start their Super 8 campaign against South Africa in Ahmedabad, with coach Morne Morkel confident batters will soon improve against spin. He believes India can post big totals and defend them with strong bowling. Ahmedabad is expected to be hot and dry, favouring batting-first teams. India lead the T20 head-to-head 18–12. India also face Zimbabwe and West Indies next.

Ram Chandra Agarwal, a polio survivor, transformed adversity into opportunity, starting with a photocopy shop before venturing into the garment business. He revolutionized retail with Vishal Mega Mart, offering affordable essentials to middle-class families. Despite a major setback in 2011, Agarwal made a powerful comeback with V2 Retail, solidifying his status as a retail icon.

Union minister Pralhad Joshi stated the Union government will study the US Supreme Court's ruling on tariffs before issuing an official statement, with the commerce and external affairs ministries handling the response. Joshi also condemned the Indian Youth Congress's shirtless protest at the India AI Summit as shameful and disruptive.

Pakistan's poverty has surged to an 11-year high of 29%, with 70 million people now in extreme poverty. Income inequality has also reached a 27-year peak of 32.7. These increases are attributed to IMF stabilization policies, natural disasters, and weak growth, leading to a 12% fall in real household income over seven years.

NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seek the resignation of Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu pending an inquiry into the January 28 plane crash that killed Ajit Pawar. Pawar alleged potential links between the aircraft's owner, VSR, and the minister's party, demanding an independent probe into the incident and possible conspiracy.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav backed opener Abhishek Sharma despite his three ducks in the T20 World Cup, stating it's now the team's turn to support him. Bowling coach Morne Morkel also expressed confidence, believing Sharma is just one innings away from regaining form.

President Trump fiercely attacked the Supreme Court after it struck down his tariffs, accusing the justices of being "lapdogs for the radical left" and influenced by foreign interests. He specifically targeted Indian-American attorneys involved in the case. The ruling, a 6-3 decision, reinforced Congress's trade powers, marking a significant setback for the President's executive actions.

A heartwarming video of India head coach Gautam Gambhir interacting warmly with fans during a practice session has gone viral. Gambhir was seen signing autographs and sharing a light-hearted exchange, leaving supporters smiling. Meanwhile, the Indian team prepares for their Super 8 campaign against South Africa.