Times of India

Election authorities in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu have seized over Rs 1,000 crore in poll-related inducements, including cash, liquor, drugs, and precious metals. The Election Commission deployed extensive surveillance teams to curb voter influence and ensure fair elections, while also establishing grievance committees to address public concerns.

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is preparing to lay off up to 500 employees, approximately 20% of its workforce, as part of a cost-control effort. This move aligns with the foundation's plan to wind down by 2045 and aims to cap operating expenses at $1.25 billion while increasing program spending to a record $9 billion in 2026.

Former selector Kris Srikkanth regrets omitting Rohit Sharma from India’s 2011 World Cup squad, saying he apologised for the decision. He explained it was due to team balance and preference for all-rounders. India, led by MS Dhoni, won the title, with Yuvraj Singh starring, while Rohit later became a top white-ball batter.

Former England captain Alastair Cook urges young batter Jacob Bethell to leave the IPL and return to Warwickshire. Cook believes Bethell, despite his T20 World Cup heroics, is wasting crucial development time on the bench with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Consistent game time is vital for his progression, Cook argued, suggesting he could open for his county and aid England's future.

Iran has seized two ships in the Strait of Hormuz. One vessel was heading to Mundra port in Gujarat. This action escalates tensions in the vital oil chokepoint. The seizures follow recent incidents involving Indian-bound ships. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has taken custody of the vessels. Tensions remain high despite a ceasefire.

A childhood viewing of Saajan inspired Sri Lankan actor Shehan Malik to learn Hindi and chase Bollywood dreams. Now in India for IPL 2026, the Kegalle-born content creator reflects on discovering language through films, playing junior cricket with Kusal Mendis and Niroshan Dickwella, and experiencing India’s intense cricket fandom firsthand.

A bench of Justices PK Mishra and NV Anjaria told the counsels arguing on behalf of the West Bengal administration which includes the CM Mamata Banerjee and other senior officials, that they may argue on abstract legal principles but the Court cannot shut it’s eye over the practical realities going on in the State.

Michael and Susan Dell have pledged $750 million to the University of Texas at Austin for a new medical center and research campus. This significant donation will focus on integrating AI and advanced computing to improve patient care, research, and education. The project, expected to open by 2030, aims to enhance Austin's healthcare capabilities and advance medical innovation.

'Bhooth Bangla', directed by Priyadarshan and starring Akshay Kumar, Tabu, Paresh Rawal, Wamiqa Gabbi, Rajpal Yadav, Mithila Palkar and Asrani, is chasing the Rs. 100 crore India net milestone as it enters Day 6 of its theatrical run. With a worldwide gross of Rs. 118.12 crore, the horror-comedy has recovered strongly from its Monday dip with an 18.5% growth on Day 5. The film opened with Rs. 12.25 crore on Day 1, peaked at Rs. 23 crore on Day 3 and is now building toward a healthy first week total. Marking Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan's reunion after 16 years, the supernatural comedy-thriller follows Arjun Acharya returning to his ancestral home to confront the demonic entity Vadhusur. Stay updated with all live Day 6 tracking, day-wise collections and the complete box office story of Bhooth Bangla.

Data from Vortexa indicates that Iranian exports have persisted despite mounting pressure. At least 34 vessels linked to Iran, including tankers and gas carriers, have crossed through the Strait of Hormuz and the US blockade zone.

Former India coach Sanjay Bangar advocates for Ishan Kishan to retain the Sunrisers Hyderabad captaincy even after Pat Cummins' return. Bangar highlighted Kishan's tactical acumen and game control under pressure, citing his effective use of bowlers, particularly spinners. He believes continuity in leadership will benefit the franchise, especially considering potential fitness concerns for Cummins.

Bombay High Court has permitted four individuals accused in the 2006 Malegaon blasts to challenge charges under the UAPA and other offenses. The court's decision allows them to contest charges including murder and attempt to murder. This development comes after the framing of 19 charges against them last year, with the NIA investigating the case.

US legal immigration, particularly for students and skilled workers, has seen a steeper decline than illegal entries under the Trump administration. International students face increased visa hurdles and uncertainty, while H-1B visa issuances are pressured by higher fees and stricter rules. This trend risks impacting US innovation and competitiveness.

Diet Coke is disappearing from shelves in major Indian cities due to a shortage of aluminum cans, exacerbated by global supply disruptions. The beverage's heavy reliance on cans, coupled with surging demand for sugar-free options, makes it particularly vulnerable. Companies are exploring costlier overseas imports as domestic production struggles to meet demand.