Times of India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored 98-year-old BJP veteran Makhanlal Sarkar at the party's first West Bengal government swearing-in. Sarkar, a key grassroots leader since the BJP's inception, was recognized for his decades of service and association with the nationalist movement. His arrest in Kashmir in 1952 while with Syama Prasad Mukherjee highlights his early commitment.

A 19-year-old girl in Aligarh district bravely fought off a crocodile attack on the Kali river, fending off the reptile with sickles alongside her sister-in-law. The crocodile had clamped onto the girl's left hand, but their fierce resistance forced it to retreat. She sustained severe injuries to three fingers requiring surgery.

Suvendu Adhikari has been sworn in as West Bengal's first BJP Chief Minister following a decisive election victory. Attended by top BJP leaders, the ceremony marks a significant political shift. Adhikari, a former TMC leader, was unanimously elected by BJP MLAs. His government's priorities include judicial probes and fulfilling campaign promises, with a motto of 'Talk Less Work More'.

A driver, Montu Mondal, is the sole survivor of an attack that killed Chandranath Rath and Buddhadeb Bera. Mondal, who hid in the rear of the SUV, provided a detailed account of the 50-second assault to investigators. The SIT is now focusing on his testimony to reconstruct the events and identify potential surveillance.

Krunal Pandya reflects on his 11-season IPL journey, crediting adaptability, fitness and constant reinvention for his longevity and success with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The left-arm spinner discusses refining his bowling for bounce and deception, embracing challenges, and staying driven by an ambition to return to India’s national team. Gratitude, resilience and evolution remain central to his career and mindset.

Suvendu Adhikari has been unanimously elected BJP legislative party leader and will be Bengal's next chief minister. Union Home Minister Amit Shah made the announcement, highlighting Adhikari's fighting spirit and administrative experience. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance.

The US has sanctioned ten individuals and companies, including those in China and Hong Kong, for aiding Iran's drone and ballistic missile programs. These measures aim to curb Iran's military capabilities and its threat to regional shipping. The sanctions target entities involved in procuring weapons components and raw materials, with a warning to foreign firms engaged in illicit Iranian trade.

Soaring crude oil prices, averaging $105.4 a barrel, are straining oil companies' finances as they sell fuel below cost. Despite government excise duty cuts, losses are unsustainable. Experts suggest gradual price hikes and innovative strategies to manage the transition to renewables while supporting companies' investments and the macroeconomy.

The Supreme Court emphasized its reluctance to direct arrests, prioritizing evidence collection and witness protection. While monitoring investigations, the bench declined to comment on the merits of the Anil Ambani Group (ADAG) case, citing past collateral damage to reputations. The CBI has filed nine FIRs totaling Rs 27,337 crore against ADAG entities.

Indian Haj pilgrims are questioning a mandatory Rs 7,000 GPS smartwatch, part of a Rs 10,000 airfare hike. Many devices, procured by the Haj Committee and supplied by Sekyo Innovations, reportedly fail to turn on or track pilgrims, causing distress, especially for the elderly. This initiative, aimed at safety, faces criticism over cost and execution.

The Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini controversy intensified after a former NFL scout alleged that the veteran insider had relationships with several prominent NFL figures, including Bill Belichick and Sean Payton. The claims spread rapidly online following renewed attention from TMZ reports and viral social media discussions. Sports analyst Jason Whitlock also mocked the scandal publicly, calling it “The Love Bloat.” Despite the growing controversy, Patriots players reportedly continue supporting Vrabel ahead of the upcoming season.

The Supreme Court expressed strong disapproval of Madhya Pradesh minister Kunwar Vijay Shah's controversial remarks, questioning the state government's decision on prosecuting him. Despite the Solicitor General suggesting the minister intended praise, the bench noted a lack of repentance and the statement's unfortunate impact. The court also directed the SIT to investigate other instances of the minister's objectionable statements.

Congress leadership intervened as supporters of opposition leader V D Satheesan held demonstrations across Kerala, demanding his appointment as the next chief minister. Some activists allegedly tore down posters of AICC leader K C Venugopal, also a contender for the post, prompting the KPCC to direct workers to refrain from such actions.

Bengal CM-designate Suvendu Adhikari's aide Chandranath Rath's murder probe now includes contract killers from UP and Odisha. Sleuths are focusing on Montu Mondal, who was in the SUV during the attack and escaped. A car used in the crime was traced to a Matigara owner who'd advertised it for sale online.

Congress leadership is deliberating on the Kerala CM post, weighing intra-party support for KC Venugopal against public sentiment favoring VD Satheesan. A decision is expected by Sunday, with discussions involving key state leaders and central party chiefs in Delhi.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that future wars will hinge on innovative thinking and synergy, not just weaponry. He urged commanders to prioritize artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and secure communications, stressing the need to anticipate enemy surprises and stay ahead. Singh highlighted hybrid threats and multi-domain operations, commending the forces' jointness and technological adoption.

Dhinakaran said there were media reports that his party had supported TVK. He alleged that there could be a forged letter purportedly supporting TVK.