Times of India

Rahul Gandhi has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to posthumously award the Bharat Ratna to Bahujan Samaj Party founder Kanshi Ram. Gandhi highlighted Kanshi Ram's significant role in social justice and empowering marginalized communities. This call follows consistent demands from Dalit leaders and intellectuals for the highest national honor for the BSP founder.

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali criticized the decision to bat Babar Azam at No.4 during the T20 World Cup, suggesting he should have opposed the move like Virat Kohli. However, Kamran Akmal disagreed, stating players rarely challenge management, especially when out of form.

A 30-year-old Punjabi cab driver, Devinder Singh, was tragically shot and killed in North Battleford, Canada, while on a pickup. Police are investigating the homicide, which occurred when a man reportedly followed a female passenger and opened fire. Devinder, who had moved to Canada four years ago, was a driver for Crown Cab and co-owned a café with his wife.

The Madras High Court allowed a CBSE student to take mathematics as an additional subject, criticizing India's education system's focus on admissions over learning. The court emphasized correcting procedural errors when factual evidence shows a student studied the subject, highlighting the judiciary's role in balancing rules with student welfare.

Indian exporters are navigating Middle East conflict fallout, facing rising freight, insurance, and transit times. Businesses are adapting by adjusting inventory and contracts, while shipping lines reroute vessels around Africa, adding significant delays and costs. The government is exploring support measures, including airlifting perishables and alternative port options.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah emphasized that no team is bigger than the organization, reflecting on the recent T20 World Cup's success despite pre-tournament uncertainties. He highlighted shattered viewership records and congratulated associate teams for their strong performances. Shah also urged India's captain and coach to maintain their winning momentum and plan for future tournaments.

The Election Commission is set to announce the schedule for assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal today at 4 pm. Ahead of the announcement, opposition leaders have voiced concerns, questioning the poll body's neutrality and the effectiveness of the Model Code of Conduct.

Pakistan launched strikes on Afghan military facilities and alleged terrorist hideouts in Kandahar, escalating tensions with the Taliban. These actions follow Pakistan's interception of drone attacks originating from Afghanistan. The Taliban administration reported limited civilian damage, while Pakistan warned of retaliation after its president stated a "red line" was crossed by targeting civilians.

Beloved star Madhu Malhotra, recognized for her captivating performances in classics like 'Satte Pe Satta' and 'Hero', sadly departed at the age of 71 on March 13. With a prolific career that flourished during the 80s and 90s, she graced over 100 films, leaving a lasting impact with standout roles in both 'The Great Gambler' and 'Satte Pe Satta'. Read on to know more in detail.

Abhishek Sharma faced a challenging start to the T20 World Cup 2026, scoring three consecutive ducks. Supported by captain Suryakumar Yadav and coach Gautam Gambhir, who advised him to disconnect from social media, Sharma regained his form. He played a crucial role in India's title win with a blistering 52 in the final.

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde's official vehicle and escort car had their red and blue flashing lights removed following a social media controversy and an RTI activist's objection. The BMC confirmed similar lights on the deputy mayor's and leader of the house's vehicles were also taken down, citing an administrative lapse.

The escalating US-Iran conflict threatens the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Iran's participation in doubt following controversial statements and their own reported intent to withdraw. FIFA faces a complex dilemma, balancing security concerns and potential sanctions against Iran's right to withdraw due to force majeure.

Delhi experienced a welcome rainfall on Sunday morning, offering a break from the recent heat. Temperatures are expected to hover around 27-29°C, with a further chance of light rain and thunderstorms on March 18. While a temporary dip in maximum temperatures is anticipated, a gradual rise is forecast for the coming days, with night temperatures likely to remain mild.

A 24-year-old man, HIV-positive since birth, was arrested for attempting to murder a relative by injecting her with his infected blood. He allegedly acted after she refused to marry him upon discovering his condition. The incident occurred at her flat, and she fell ill the next day. Police are awaiting medical results.

Iran's foreign minister stated the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all nations except the US and Israel, following US airstrikes. He asserted that while many ships avoid the passage due to security concerns, this is not Iran's doing. Meanwhile, former President Trump urged global powers to send warships to ensure the strait's openness.

India's T20 World Cup champions visited a Mumbai temple, continuing celebrations despite a debate sparked by Kirti Azad's remarks questioning religious inclusivity. Azad argued the victory belonged to all Indians, not a specific faith. Harbhajan Singh and Gautam Gambhir defended the team's actions, emphasizing the magnitude of their achievement.

The NHL handed Radko Gudas a five-game suspension after a kneeing play left Auston Matthews with a season-ending MCL tear. The incident also revived anger tied to Sidney Crosby’s earlier knee injury, which forced him to miss Canada’s Olympic gold medal game. Both the Pittsburgh Penguins and Toronto Maple Leafs now face major lineup gaps, and many fans believe the punishment does little to reflect the long-term damage caused by the collisions.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2026 journey ended prematurely, missing the semifinals on net run rate despite a final win. Selector Aaqib Javed admitted the situation is serious but not catastrophic, emphasising the team's capability. He pledged a review of the campaign to learn from mistakes and shape the future of Pakistan cricket.