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<p>Malayalam cinema underwent a sea of changes in 2024 after the Justice Hema Committee report was made public. The report gave details of the ingrained practices of sexism and harassment prevailing in the industry. Soon after the report was made public, as many as 35 cases were lodged, which highlighted wrong practices in the Malayalam film industry. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to probe these cases. But now the SIT has informed the Kerala High Court that it has dropped all those cases.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>SIT drops all cases related to Hema Committee report&nbsp;</h2><p>On Wednesday, the SIT told Kerala HC that it has dropped further action in the 35 cases lodged on the basis of the Justice Hema Committee report, as none of the victims came forward to give their statements.</p><p>Based on the new SIT report, a bench of Justices AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and CS Sudha said that no further action was required in the crimes registered by the agency for now. The HC was hearing several pleas seeking action based on the recommendations of the Hema Committee. The new order now puts all the cases to rest.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The court also noted that the state government has scheduled a Film Conclave to be held in the first week of August 2025, and directed that the petitions be listed on August 13 for further consideration.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The Justice Hema Committee was established by the Kerala government following the infamous 2017 assault and kidnapping case on an actress. The committee submitted its report the following year, but it was made public only in 2024, which caused a huge uproar, leading to the dissolution of the all-powerful actors' body of Malayalam cinema.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Malayalam cinema underwent a sea of changes in 2024 after the Justice Hema Committee report was made public. 

Malayalam cinema underwent a sea of changes in 2024 after the Justice Hema Committee report was made public. The report gave details of the ingrained practices of sexism and harassment prevailing in the industry. Soon after the report was made public, as many as 35 cases were lodged, which highlighted wrong practices in the Malayalam film industry. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to probe these cases. But now the SIT has informed the Kerala High Court that it has dropped all those cases. SIT drops all cases related to Hema Committee report On Wednesday, the SIT told Kerala HC that it has dropped further action in the 35 cases lodged on the basis of the Justice Hema Committee report, as none of the victims came forward to give their statements. Based on the new SIT report, a bench of Justices AK Jayasankaran Nambiar and CS Sudha said that no further action was required in the crimes registered by the agency for now. The HC was hearing several pleas seeking action based on the recommendations of the Hema Committee. The new order now puts all the cases to rest. The court also noted that the state government has scheduled a Film Conclave to be held in the first week of August 2025, and directed that the petitions be listed on August 13 for further consideration. The Justice Hema Committee was established by the Kerala government following the infamous 2017 assault and kidnapping case on an actress. The committee submitted its report the following year, but it was made public only in 2024, which caused a huge uproar, leading to the dissolution of the all-powerful actors' body of Malayalam cinema.

<p>Malayalam cinema underwent a sea of changes in 2024 after the Justice Hema Committee report was made public.&nbsp;</p>

SIT drops all 35 cases based on Justice Hema Committee report as no victim gives statement

<p>India has opted out of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) defence ministers' meeting joint statement over differences with China and Pakistan on the issue of terrorism. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh refused to sign the document as it "would have diluted India’s stand", sources said. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is in China for a 2-day visit to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) defence minister meeting.</p><p>Sources explaining the rationale of India's stance said, 'Defence Minister Rajnath Singh firmly stood ground on India’s stand on terrorism and Pahalgam', adding, 'It resulted into no Joint Statement or protocol will be issued. Pak and China were trying to divert the attention from terrorism.'</p><p>&nbsp;SCO is a major grouping of 10 countries – China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran, Belarus- that focuses on issues like counterterrorism, connectivity, etc. China is the host of the grouping for this year and will also be hosting the defence minister meeting in July and the summit in September.&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier in the day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh slammed Pakistan over its support for cross-border terror. He said, “Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide shelter to terrorists. There should be no place for such double standards. SCO should not hesitate to criticise such nations”.</p><p>No meeting with the Pakistani defence minister and the Indian defence minister will take place in Qingdao, given Islamabad's continued support for terrorism in India. Ties between India, Pakistan went for a free fall after the Pahalgam terror attack perpetrated by Pakistan trained terrorists.</p>

Sources explaining the rationale of India's stance said, 'Defence Minister Rajnath Singh firmly stood ground on India’s stand on terrorism and Pahalgam', adding, 'It resulted into no Joint Statement or protocol will be issued. Pak and China were trying to divert the attention from terrorism.'

India has opted out of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) defence ministers' meeting joint statement over differences with China and Pakistan on the issue of terrorism. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh refused to sign the document as it "would have diluted India’s stand", sources said. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is in China for a 2-day visit to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) defence minister meeting. Sources explaining the rationale of India's stance said, 'Defence Minister Rajnath Singh firmly stood ground on India’s stand on terrorism and Pahalgam', adding, 'It resulted into no Joint Statement or protocol will be issued. Pak and China were trying to divert the attention from terrorism.' SCO is a major grouping of 10 countries – China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran, Belarus- that focuses on issues like counterterrorism, connectivity, etc. China is the host of the grouping for this year and will also be hosting the defence minister meeting in July and the summit in September. Earlier in the day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh slammed Pakistan over its support for cross-border terror. He said, “Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide shelter to terrorists. There should be no place for such double standards. SCO should not hesitate to criticise such nations”. No meeting with the Pakistani defence minister and the Indian defence minister will take place in Qingdao, given Islamabad's continued support for terrorism in India. Ties between India, Pakistan went for a free fall after the Pahalgam terror attack perpetrated by Pakistan trained terrorists.

<p>Sources explaining the rationale of India's stance said, 'Defence Minister Rajnath Singh firmly stood ground on India’s stand on terrorism and Pahalgam', adding, 'It resulted into no Joint Statement or protocol will be issued. Pak and China were trying to divert the attention from terrorism.'</p>

India opts out of SCO Defence Ministers statement over differences on terrorism with China, Pakistan

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has shared another message for the people of the country, alongside his Axiom-4 crew. In a video shared on X by <a href="https://x.com/Axiom_Space">Axiom Space</a>, the crew that includes Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu, informed that they were flying over Europe and gave a glimpse of Earth from space. "<i>Namaskar from Space</i>," Shukla greeted in Hindi from the Dragon spacecraft. He also added, "I am thrilled to be here with my fellow astronauts. What a ride it was! When I was sitting in the capsule, the only thought was 'let's just go.' It was an amazing ride, and then suddenly, nothing. You were floating in the silence of vacuum," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier on Thursday, after the historic takeoff of the Axiom-4 mission, Shukla in a special message from Dragon spacecraft, said in Hindi, "<i>Namaskar mere deshwasiyon</i>. After 41 years, we are back in space. And what a magnificent journey it was. Right now, we are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The tricolour is on my shoulder, showing that I am with all of you." He ended his special message with “<i>Jai Hind! Jai Bharat</i>!”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ax-4 Mission | In-Flight Update <a href="https://t.co/Lqu0QiGGrA">https://t.co/Lqu0QiGGrA</a></p>&mdash; Axiom Space (@Axiom_Space) <a href="https://twitter.com/Axiom_Space/status/1938111215265591442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Axiom Mission 4</h2><p>Axiom Mission 4 is a private spaceflight to the International Space Station (ISS) operated by Axiom Space in partnership with SpaceX and NASA.[1] It used SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket to place Crew Dragon Grace into low Earth orbit. The flight was scheduled to lift off from the Kennedy Space Center on May 29, but it was scrubbed due to a liquid oxygen leak. Due to multiple other technical faults, the launch was further delayed, and it became a reality only on June 25 at 12:01 pm IST.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shukla earlier said that he will be carrying his favourite food to the space. "There will be plenty of food to eat in space, but I will be carrying mango nectar, carrot halwa (gajar ka halwa), and moong dal halwa with me," he said. Shukla added that he hopes to share them with his international crewmates aboard the ISS. Shukla also revealed that he is carrying a souvenir for Rakesh Sharma, the man who ignited his childhood dream of flying to space. "He has been advising me on many things, including how to prepare for this mission," Shukla shared, though he kept the details of the memento under wraps. "It will be a surprise when I return." Furthermore, he is also taking a small white toy swan named Joy, which will serve as the zero-gravity indicator on board. The moment the capsule enters orbit, Joy will float freely inside the cabin, signalling to the astronauts that they've officially left Earth behind.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The crew of Axiom-4 have chosen a white baby swan plush toy named &quot;Joy&quot; as the Zero-G indicator for this mission! 🦢<br><br>Swan is the vehicle of the Hindu goddess Saraswati and represents wisdom &amp; purity. 🕉<br><br>Mission Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla&#39;s 6 y/o son Kiash (aka Sid) also played a… <a href="https://t.co/5WFlQQBVoP">pic.twitter.com/5WFlQQBVoP</a></p>&mdash; ISRO Spaceflight (@ISROSpaceflight) <a href="https://twitter.com/ISROSpaceflight/status/1931731934910255443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla expressed his thrill in a video message from the Dragon spacecraft, alongside Axiom-4 crew. Here's his special message for Indians. Don't miss his toy swan named Joy

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has shared another message for the people of the country, alongside his Axiom-4 crew. In a video shared on X by Axiom Space, the crew that includes Peggy Whitson, Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski and Tibor Kapu, informed that they were flying over Europe and gave a glimpse of Earth from space. "Namaskar from Space," Shukla greeted in Hindi from the Dragon spacecraft. He also added, "I am thrilled to be here with my fellow astronauts. What a ride it was! When I was sitting in the capsule, the only thought was 'let's just go.' It was an amazing ride, and then suddenly, nothing. You were floating in the silence of vacuum," he said. Earlier on Thursday, after the historic takeoff of the Axiom-4 mission, Shukla in a special message from Dragon spacecraft, said in Hindi, "Namaskar mere deshwasiyon. After 41 years, we are back in space. And what a magnificent journey it was. Right now, we are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The tricolour is on my shoulder, showing that I am with all of you." He ended his special message with “Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”

<p>Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla expressed his thrill in a video message from the Dragon spacecraft, alongside Axiom-4 crew. Here's his special message for Indians. Don't miss his toy swan named ‘Joy’</p>

'Namaskar...': India's Shubhanshu Shukla sends new message for Indians from Axiom-4 ahead of docking - Watch

<p>The intelligence wing of the Rajasthan police has arrested a man from the Indian Navy's headquarters in Delhi on the charges of espionage for Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), according to reports. Identified as Vishal Yadav, a resident of Haryana, the man, as per reports, was working as a clerk at the naval headquarters. He stands accused of spying for Pakistan over the years, including during Operation Sindoor, a vital, recent military operation through which India carried out anti-terror activities.</p><h2><strong>Who is Vishal Yadav?</strong></h2><p>Yadav, as per reports, is a resident of the North Indian state of Haryana and was employed as a clerk at the Delhi-based naval headquarters. He stands accused of spying on India and passing on sensitive information about the Indian naval forces and other defence units to a female handler in Pakistan, in exchange for money. He is believed to have done this for years, including the recent Operation Sindoor, which followed the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam in April.</p><p>He was arrested following surveillance. Data recovered from his cellphone reportedly includes classified military documents and communications, which were shared with a foreign agent. Citing senior police officer Vishnukant Gupta, NDTV reported that the CID intelligence united has been closely keeping a track on espionage activities linked to Pakistani agencies.</p><h2><strong>Modus operandi and motive</strong></h2><p>Officials during surveillance found that Yadav was in regular contact with a Pakistani handler posing as 'Priya Sharma' on social media. She allegedly transferred payments in exchange for restricted defence-related intelligence. Investigators found that the spy, Yadav, had an online gambling addiction and had been motivated by financial desperation, primarily driven by gambling losses.</p><p>Payments were made through both cryptocurrency trading accounts and traditional bank transfers, NDTV reported, citing sources. Yadav is currently being interrogated at the Central Interrogation Centre in Jaipur by a joint team of intelligence agencies.&nbsp;</p><p>His arrest comes as India doubles down on espionage activities in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Among those arrested recently are two women believed to be in touch with a Pakistani officer named Ehsan-ur-Rahim, alias Danish, reportedly posted at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. One of them, Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber from Haryana, has over 3.7 lakh subscribers and significant social media reach. Another woman, Guzala, 31, from Punjab, is also under investigation for alleged links to Pakistani handlers.</p>

Vishal Yadav stands accused of spying on India and passing on sensitive information about the Indian naval forces and other defence units to a female handler in Pakistan, in exchange for money.

The intelligence wing of the Rajasthan police has arrested a man from the Indian Navy's headquarters in Delhi on the charges of espionage for Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), according to reports. Identified as Vishal Yadav, a resident of Haryana, the man, as per reports, was working as a clerk at the naval headquarters. He stands accused of spying for Pakistan over the years, including during Operation Sindoor, a vital, recent military operation through which India carried out anti-terror activities. Who is Vishal Yadav? Yadav, as per reports, is a resident of the North Indian state of Haryana and was employed as a clerk at the Delhi-based naval headquarters. He stands accused of spying on India and passing on sensitive information about the Indian naval forces and other defence units to a female handler in Pakistan, in exchange for money. He is believed to have done this for years, including the recent Operation Sindoor, which followed the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam in April. He was arrested following surveillance. Data recovered from his cellphone reportedly includes classified military documents and communications, which were shared with a foreign agent. Citing senior police officer Vishnukant Gupta, NDTV reported that the CID intelligence united has been closely keeping a track on espionage activities linked to Pakistani agencies. Modus operandi and motive Officials during surveillance found that Yadav was in regular contact with a Pakistani handler posing as 'Priya Sharma' on social media. She allegedly transferred payments in exchange for restricted defence-related intelligence. Investigators found that the spy, Yadav, had an online gambling addiction and had been motivated by financial desperation, primarily driven by gambling losses. Payments were made through both cryptocurrency trading accounts and traditional bank transfers, NDTV reported, citing sources. Yadav is currently being interrogated at the Central Interrogation Centre in Jaipur by a joint team of intelligence agencies. His arrest comes as India doubles down on espionage activities in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Among those arrested recently are two women believed to be in touch with a Pakistani officer named Ehsan-ur-Rahim, alias Danish, reportedly posted at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. One of them, Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber from Haryana, has over 3.7 lakh subscribers and significant social media reach. Another woman, Guzala, 31, from Punjab, is also under investigation for alleged links to Pakistani handlers.

<p>Vishal Yadav stands accused of spying on India and passing on sensitive information about the Indian naval forces and other defence units to a female handler in Pakistan, in exchange for money.</p>

Clerk at Indian Navy's Delhi HQ arrested for spying for Pakistan's ISI. Here's what we know about Vishal Yadav

<p>A bus carrying 18 passengers plunged into the Alaknanda River on the Badrinath National Highway in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand on Thursday (June 26) morning. Two bodies have been recovered, one near the accident site and the other from the river near Rudraprayag, reported PTI, citing Red Cross Society rescue team member Satyendra Singh Bhandari.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Seven people, including three women and two children were injured in the accident while ten others went missing, Bhandari further said. The injured have been taken to the local hospital for treatment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There were 20 people on the bus, including the driver when the unfortunate incident happened.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Teams of SDRF, police and the local administration are still at the spot carrying out rescue operation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“One person has died and seven people injured after an 18-seater bus fell into the Alaknanda river in Gholthir of Rudraprayag district. Teams of SDRF, police and administration are present on the spot for the rescue operation,” said Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey to news agency ANI.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttarakhand | One person dead, seven injured after an 18-seater bus falls into the Alaknanda river in Gholthir of Rudraprayag district. Teamsof SDRF, Police and Administration conduct search and rescue oeprationd<br><br>Video source: Police <a href="https://t.co/dgdznAc0ck">pic.twitter.com/dgdznAc0ck</a></p>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1938082397100380401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>According to preliminary information given to the press by local authorities, the bus was going towards the Badrinath Dham when the driver lost control and the bus fell into the river.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>All the passengers were pilgrims from Udaipur in Rajasthan who had come to Uttarakhand for Char Dham Yatra.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The administration has urged people to remain calm and refrain from spreading any rumours.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Uttarakhand Chief Minister has expressed condolences to the families of the victims.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Taking to X the CM wrote, "The news of a tempo traveller falling into a river in Rudraprayag district is deeply tragic. Relief and rescue operations are being conducted on a war footing by SDRF and other rescue teams. I am in constant contact with the local administration regarding this matter. I pray to God for everyone's safety."</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Many passengers are said to be missing as rescue operations continue.

A bus carrying 18 passengers plunged into the Alaknanda River on the Badrinath National Highway in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand on Thursday (June 26) morning. Two bodies have been recovered, one near the accident site and the other from the river near Rudraprayag, reported PTI, citing Red Cross Society rescue team member Satyendra Singh Bhandari. Seven people, including three women and two children were injured in the accident while ten others went missing, Bhandari further said. The injured have been taken to the local hospital for treatment. There were 20 people on the bus, including the driver when the unfortunate incident happened. Teams of SDRF, police and the local administration are still at the spot carrying out rescue operation. “One person has died and seven people injured after an 18-seater bus fell into the Alaknanda river in Gholthir of Rudraprayag district. Teams of SDRF, police and administration are present on the spot for the rescue operation,” said Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey to news agency ANI.

<p>According to preliminary information given to the press by local authorities, the bus was going uphill when the driver lost control and it fell into the river.&nbsp;</p>

Bus carrying Char Dham pilgrims falls into Alaknanda river, 2 dead, many feared missing

<p>Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (Jun 26) at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Defence Ministers' meeting in China's Qingdao indirectly slammed Pakistan for using "cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy". Addressing the SCO defence minister's meeting, Singh said that India has zero tolerance for terrorism and urged the other SCO member countries to condemn terrorism. In a blunt message, Singh said that terrorism will no longer go unanswered, and those sheltering terrorists must be held to account. "We have shown that the epicentres of terrorism are no longer safe. We will not hesitate to target them," Singh said.&nbsp;</p><p><i>Watch what he said here:</i></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;...Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide shelter to terrorists. There should be no place for such double standards... &quot; says Rajnath Singh, India&#39;s Defence Minister at the SCO Summit<br><br>(Source: ANI) <a href="https://t.co/8jVUtGOEjs">pic.twitter.com/8jVUtGOEjs</a></p>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1938065890190442931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>While the Indian Defence Minister did not name countries, his message was pointed — and unmistakable. ""...Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide shelter to terrorists. There should be no place for such double standards. SCO should not hesitate to criticise such nations, " he told counterparts from China, Russia, and Central Asia — including Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who was also in attendance.</p><h2><strong>Singh on Globalisation and India's push for multilateralism</strong></h2><p>Welcoming Belarus to the SCO family, the Indian Defence Minister underlined the broader instability of the current global order. "Globalisation, which once brought us closer together, has been losing momentum. The weakening of multilateral systems has made it harder to address urgent challenges, from maintaining peace and security to rebuilding economies after the pandemic," he said.</p><p>India, Singh said, continues to believe that "reformed multilateralism" is the way forward. "No country, however large and powerful, can manage alone. In fact, the very idea of the global order, or indeed of multilateralism, is the assumption that nations have to work with each other for their mutual and collective benefit. This is also reflective of our age-old Sanskrit saying 'Sarve Jana Sukhino Bhavantu', which implies peace and prosperity to all."</p><p>Referring to the Sanskrit saying 'Sarve Jana Sukhino Bhavantu', which means peace and prosperity to all, he said, "No country, however large and powerful, can manage alone. In fact, the very idea of the global order, or indeed of multilateralism, is the assumption that nations have to work with each other for their mutual and collective benefit."</p><p>India is expected to push for a stronger, joint approach to counterterrorism during the two-day summit, which runs from June 25 to 26. The Ministry of Defence said Singh will reiterate India's commitment to the SCO's founding principles and mandates. On the sidelines of the summit, Singh is slated to hold bilateral meetings with counterparts from Russia, China, and other participating nations.</p>

Addressing the SCO defence minister's meeting, Singh said that India has zero tolerance for terrorism and urged the other SCO member countries to condemn terrorism.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (Jun 26) at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Defence Ministers' meeting in China's Qingdao indirectly slammed Pakistan for using "cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy". Addressing the SCO defence minister's meeting, Singh said that India has zero tolerance for terrorism and urged the other SCO member countries to condemn terrorism. In a blunt message, Singh said that terrorism will no longer go unanswered, and those sheltering terrorists must be held to account. "We have shown that the epicentres of terrorism are no longer safe. We will not hesitate to target them," Singh said. Watch what he said here:

<p>Addressing the SCO defence minister's meeting, Singh said that India has zero tolerance for terrorism and urged the other SCO member countries to condemn terrorism.</p>

Rajnath Singh indirectly slams Pakistan at SCO, says 'epicentres of terrorism no longer safe'

<p>A French woman was sexually assaulted by a crew member in Rajasthan's Udaipur, where she was visiting to shoot an ad film. Accused Siddharth alias Pushpraj, who runs a casting company ‘Udaipur Casting Call’ has been arrested. The 29-year-old confessed to the crime in the preliminary interrogation. The police got information about this on June 23. A criminal case was registered at the Badgaon police station based on the woman's report.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Udaipur SP Yogesh Goyal says, "A French woman who had come here for shooting an advertisement was sexually assaulted by a member of her ad shoot team. As per the information she provided, she had come to Udaipur on 22 June.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Udaipur, Rajasthan | Udaipur SP Yogesh Goyal says, &quot;A French woman who had come here for shooting an advertisement was sexually assaulted by a member of her ad shoot team. The police got information about this on 23 June. A criminal case was registered at the Badgaon… <a href="https://t.co/ka7McZ7ojP">pic.twitter.com/ka7McZ7ojP</a></p>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1937838879337226533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>“The crew members attended a dinner party at the Greek Farm restaurant the same night. During that, Siddharth alias Pushpraj, one of the crew members of the shoot, took the girl to his car on the pretext of smoking and molested her,” he continued.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The accused then took her to his room, where he sexually assaulted her. He was arrested the next morning, he was caught him on the Chittorgarh highway.&nbsp;</p><p>SP Goyal added, “He confessed to this crime during preliminary interrogation. We have arrested him and within 7 days, we will complete the investigation and present the case in court.”</p>

A French woman was sexually assaulted by a crew member in Rajasthan's Udaipur, where she was visiting to shoot an ad film. Accused Siddharth alias Pushpraj, who runs a casting company ‘Udaipur Casting Call’ has been arrested. 

A French woman was sexually assaulted by a crew member in Rajasthan's Udaipur, where she was visiting to shoot an ad film. Accused Siddharth alias Pushpraj, who runs a casting company ‘Udaipur Casting Call’ has been arrested. The 29-year-old confessed to the crime in the preliminary interrogation. The police got information about this on June 23. A criminal case was registered at the Badgaon police station based on the woman's report. Udaipur SP Yogesh Goyal says, "A French woman who had come here for shooting an advertisement was sexually assaulted by a member of her ad shoot team. As per the information she provided, she had come to Udaipur on 22 June.”

<p>A French woman was sexually assaulted by a crew member in Rajasthan's Udaipur, where she was visiting to shoot an ad film. Accused Siddharth alias Pushpraj, who runs a casting company ‘Udaipur Casting Call’ has been arrested.&nbsp;</p>

French woman sexually assaulted in Udaipur, accused arrested

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that he wants to hold a dialogue with India to address all outstanding issues, including water, Jammu and Kashmir, trade, and terrorism. He expressed his wish during a telephonic conversation with the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Tuesday. “Pakistan is ready to engage in a meaningful dialogue with India on all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir, water, trade and terrorism,” he was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan.<br>In fact, Sharif last month also expressed his willingness to hold peace talks with India to resolve all outstanding issues while visiting Iran and Azerbaijan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sharif also expressed Pakistan’s support for the immediate de-escalation of tensions between Iran and Israel and called for a peaceful resolution through diplomatic means.</p><p>India, however, maintains that it can have talks with Pakistan only on the issue of terrorism and the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.</p><p><br>Sharif’s remark came weeks after India put the 1960 Indus Water Treaty (IWT) in abeyance and stopped all trade with Islamabad after Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 civilians in Pahalgam, a picturesque tourist place in Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22.</p><p><br>On May 7, India destroyed terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor, and then targeted Pakistan’s air bases and rendered them useless after Islamabad decided to retaliate by attacking Indian civilian areas and military installations.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India has also stopped all forms of trade with Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and closed its airspace for all Pakistani aircraft.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also said that the Indus Water Treaty will remain in abeyance till the time Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support to cross-border terrorism “just like Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, ‘terror and talks cannot go together, terror and trade cannot go together, and water and blood cannot flow together’.”</p>

Sharif’s remark came weeks after India put the 1960 Indus Water Treaty (IWT) in abeyance and stopped all trade with Islamabad after Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 civilians in Pahalgam, a picturesque tourist place in Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that he wants to hold a dialogue with India to address all outstanding issues, including water, Jammu and Kashmir, trade, and terrorism. He expressed his wish during a telephonic conversation with the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Tuesday. “Pakistan is ready to engage in a meaningful dialogue with India on all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir, water, trade and terrorism,” he was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan. In fact, Sharif last month also expressed his willingness to hold peace talks with India to resolve all outstanding issues while visiting Iran and Azerbaijan. Sharif also expressed Pakistan’s support for the immediate de-escalation of tensions between Iran and Israel and called for a peaceful resolution through diplomatic means. India, however, maintains that it can have talks with Pakistan only on the issue of terrorism and the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Sharif’s remark came weeks after India put the 1960 Indus Water Treaty (IWT) in abeyance and stopped all trade with Islamabad after Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 civilians in Pahalgam, a picturesque tourist place in Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22. On May 7, India destroyed terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor, and then targeted Pakistan’s air bases and rendered them useless after Islamabad decided to retaliate by attacking Indian civilian areas and military installations. India has also stopped all forms of trade with Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack and closed its airspace for all Pakistani aircraft. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also said that the Indus Water Treaty will remain in abeyance till the time Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support to cross-border terrorism “just like Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, ‘terror and talks cannot go together, terror and trade cannot go together, and water and blood cannot flow together’.”

<p>Sharif’s remark came weeks after India put the 1960 Indus Water Treaty (IWT) in abeyance and stopped all trade with Islamabad after Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 civilians in Pahalgam, a picturesque tourist place in Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22.</p>

Pak PM says want ‘meaningful dialogue’ with India on all outstanding issues

<p>The NATO Summit kicks off in the Netherlands, with discussions focusing on several agendas, including the Israel-Iran war, the Russia-Ukraine war and more.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>US President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Jun 25) on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Hague.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States will hold fresh talks with Iran next week, with a possible nuclear agreement on the table.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Click on the headlines for more</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/live-updates/world/nato-summit-live-trump-to-meet-zelensky-on-second-day-of-summit-at-the-hague-says-will-discuss-his-difficulties-1750844427117"><strong>NATO Summit LIVE: Trump calls PM Modi a 'great friend', again claims credit for ending India-Pakistan war</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750862331244.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="NATO Summit LIVE: Trump calls PM Modi a 'great friend', again claims credit for ending India-Pakistan war"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As the NATO Summit kickstarts in the Netherlands, with discussions focusing on several agendas, including Israel-Iran war, Russia-Ukraine war and more. US President Donald Trump praised the success of recent strikes on Iran's nuclear programme. NATO Chief Mark Rutte urged allies and industries to do more, better and together, stressing on the demand signal NATO is sending to the defence industry.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-putin-is-difficult-trump-says-after-very-nice-meeting-with-zelensky-at-nato-summit-1750863724729"><strong>‘Putin is difficult’: Trump says after ‘very nice’ meeting with Zelensky at NATO summit</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750863805648.jpg?rect=(0,2,1196,897)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘Putin is difficult’: Trump says after ‘very nice’ meeting with Zelensky at NATO summit"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>US President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Jun 25) on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Hague. Following the meeting, which lasted 50 minutes, Trump said, “I wanted to know how he’s doing,” and said the meeting was “very nice” even though they “had little rough times” in the past.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-nuclear-talks-back-on-table-trump-says-washington-tehran-may-sign-an-agreement-next-week-1750863430026"><strong>US-Iran nuclear talks back on table? Trump says Washington, Tehran 'may sign an agreement' next week</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750863774627.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="US-Iran nuclear talks back on table? Trump says Washington, Tehran 'may sign an agreement' next week"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States will hold fresh talks with Iran next week, with a possible nuclear agreement on the table.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-badly-damaged-iran-s-first-admission-of-damage-to-its-nuclear-facilities-in-us-strikes-1750856972488"><strong>‘Badly damaged’: Iran's first admission of damage to its nuclear facilities in US strikes</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750857516152.jpg?rect=(0,121,1212,907)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="‘Badly damaged’: Iran's first admission of damage to its nuclear facilities in US strikes"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Iran has finally admitted that its nuclear facilities have in fact been “badly damaged” in the US strikes. Esmail Baghaei, the spokesman of Iran’s foreign ministry, told Al Jazeera on Wednesday, “Our nuclear installations have been badly damaged.” However, he refused to share any details of the damage or the status of the nuclear facilities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-talks-intensified-says-hamas-as-trump-believes-great-progress-being-made-1750849782429"><strong>Gaza ceasefire talks ‘intensified,’ says Hamas as Trump believes ‘great progress being made’</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750849795373.jpg?rect=(0,58,908,682)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Gaza ceasefire talks ‘intensified,’ says Hamas as Trump believes ‘great progress being made’"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A senior Hamas official told AFP on Wednesday (Jun 25) that negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian militant group have “intensified in recent hours” with mediator countries. “Our communications with the brother mediators in Egypt and Qatar have not stopped and have intensified in recent hours,” Taher al-Nunu said.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-daddy-has-to-sometimes-nato-chief-rutte-reacts-to-trump-calling-israel-iran-two-kids-here-s-what-he-said-1750854170837"><strong>'Daddy has to sometimes...': NATO Chief Rutte reacts to Trump calling Israel, Iran 'two kids' - Here's what he said</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750854752232.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Daddy has to sometimes...': NATO Chief Rutte reacts to Trump calling Israel, Iran 'two kids' - Here's what he said"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Wednesday reacted to US President Donald Trump's statement, where he called Israel and Iran "two kids in a schoolyard." Rutte made a "daddy" remark on the US president's statement on the sidelines of NATO Summit in The Hague.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-the-us-strike-iran-again-trump-says-it-depends-on-this-one-thing-1750854363174"><strong>Will the US strike Iran again? Trump says it depends on THIS one thing</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750854622334.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Will the US strike Iran again? Trump says it depends on THIS one&nbsp;thing"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>US President Donald Trump has suggested that further American strikes on Iran are possible if the country resumes work on its nuclear programme. His comments came during the NATO Summit in The Hague on Wednesday (June 25).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-why-does-it-take-28-hours-for-axiom-4-astronauts-reach-space-station-1750865814127"><strong>EXPLAINED | Why does it take 28 hours for Axiom-4 astronauts to reach space station?</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750866351520.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="EXPLAINED | Why does it take 28 hours for Axiom-4 astronauts to reach space station?"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Axiom-4 astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon capsule, nestled atop the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, blasted off at 12:01 pm Indian time, 25th June, Wednesday. Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, the SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, and the crew began feeling microgravity-induced weightlessness. However, their journey to the International Space Station would take as much as 28 hours.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750854101328.png?rect=(0,160,960,720)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Diljit Dosanjh got emotional representing Punjab at Met Gala, says Cartier ‘stole’ Maharaja of Patiala’s diamond necklace"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Diljit Dosanjh is now a global star. The actor-singer made heads turn with his maiden appearance at the Met Gala 2025 earlier this year. Dressed like a Maharaja, Diljit’s look was designed by Prabal Gurung and created quite a stir with Diljit making it to best best-dressed list of several fashion pages. Now, over a month later, Diljit has revealed that he always wanted to dress up as a King on the global stage. Diljit also admitted that he had teared up when he first thought of wearing a cape with a map of Punjab on it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-i-am-not-that-happy-with-my-performance-today-says-neeraj-chopra-after-winning-ostrava-golden-spike-win-1750848450372"><strong>'I am not that happy with my performance today', says Neeraj Chopra after winning Ostrava Golden Spike win</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250625/image-1750849000587.jpg?rect=(0,63,992,744)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'I am not that happy with my performance today', says Neeraj Chopra after winning Ostrava Golden Spike win"></figure><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Neeraj Chopra might have won the Golden Spike title in his first outing at the meet, but the two-time Olympic champion was not pleased with his throw. Chopra's personal best effort of 85.29m was sufficient to win the event in a nine-man field, at the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet on Tuesday (June 24).</p>

Stay updated with our top stories from around the world, offering you a comprehensive overview of today's most impactful news and events.

The NATO Summit kicks off in the Netherlands, with discussions focusing on several agendas, including the Israel-Iran war, the Russia-Ukraine war and more. US President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Jun 25) on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Hague. President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States will hold fresh talks with Iran next week, with a possible nuclear agreement on the table. Click on the headlines for more NATO Summit LIVE: Trump calls PM Modi a 'great friend', again claims credit for ending India-Pakistan war As the NATO Summit kickstarts in the Netherlands, with discussions focusing on several agendas, including Israel-Iran war, Russia-Ukraine war and more. US President Donald Trump praised the success of recent strikes on Iran's nuclear programme. NATO Chief Mark Rutte urged allies and industries to do more, better and together, stressing on the demand signal NATO is sending to the defence industry. ‘Putin is difficult’: Trump says after ‘very nice’ meeting with Zelensky at NATO summit US President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (Jun 25) on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Hague. Following the meeting, which lasted 50 minutes, Trump said, “I wanted to know how he’s doing,” and said the meeting was “very nice” even though they “had little rough times” in the past. US-Iran nuclear talks back on table? Trump says Washington, Tehran 'may sign an agreement' next week President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States will hold fresh talks with Iran next week, with a possible nuclear agreement on the table. ‘Badly damaged’: Iran's first admission of damage to its nuclear facilities in US strikes Iran has finally admitted that its nuclear facilities have in fact been “badly damaged” in the US strikes. Esmail Baghaei, the spokesman of Iran’s foreign ministry, told Al Jazeera on Wednesday, “Our nuclear installations have been badly damaged.” However, he refused to share any details of the damage or the status of the nuclear facilities. Gaza ceasefire talks ‘intensified,’ says Hamas as Trump believes ‘great progress being made’ A senior Hamas official told AFP on Wednesday (Jun 25) that negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian militant group have “intensified in recent hours” with mediator countries. “Our communications with the brother mediators in Egypt and Qatar have not stopped and have intensified in recent hours,” Taher al-Nunu said. 'Daddy has to sometimes...': NATO Chief Rutte reacts to Trump calling Israel, Iran 'two kids' - Here's what he said NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Wednesday reacted to US President Donald Trump's statement, where he called Israel and Iran "two kids in a schoolyard." Rutte made a "daddy" remark on the US president's statement on the sidelines of NATO Summit in The Hague. Will the US strike Iran again? Trump says it depends on THIS one thing US President Donald Trump has suggested that further American strikes on Iran are possible if the country resumes work on its nuclear programme. His comments came during the NATO Summit in The Hague on Wednesday (June 25). EXPLAINED | Why does it take 28 hours for Axiom-4 astronauts to reach space station? Axiom-4 astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon capsule, nestled atop the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, blasted off at 12:01 pm Indian time, 25th June, Wednesday. Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, the SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, and the crew began feeling microgravity-induced weightlessness. However, their journey to the International Space Station would take as much as 28 hours. Diljit Dosanjh is now a global star. The actor-singer made heads turn with his maiden appearance at the Met Gala 2025 earlier this year. Dressed like a Maharaja, Diljit’s look was designed by Prabal Gurung and created quite a stir with Diljit making it to best best-dressed list of several fashion pages. Now, over a month later, Diljit has revealed that he always wanted to dress up as a King on the global stage. Diljit also admitted that he had teared up when he first thought of wearing a cape with a map of Punjab on it. 'I am not that happy with my performance today', says Neeraj Chopra after winning Ostrava Golden Spike win Neeraj Chopra might have won the Golden Spike title in his first outing at the meet, but the two-time Olympic champion was not pleased with his throw. Chopra's personal best effort of 85.29m was sufficient to win the event in a nine-man field, at the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet on Tuesday (June 24).

<p>Stay updated with our top stories from around the world, offering you a comprehensive overview of today's most impactful news and events.</p>

Top 10 world news: NATO Summit updates; Trump-Zelensky meet, and more

<p>Axiom-4 astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon capsule, nestled atop the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, blasted off at 12:01 pm Indian time, 25th June, Wednesday. Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, the SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, and the crew began feeling microgravity-induced weightlessness. However, their journey to the International Space Station would take as much as 28 hours. Here are the technical and scientific reasons behind why the four astronauts would reach the International Space Station only by 4:30 pm Indian time, 26th June, Thursday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Energy and fuel-efficient spaceflight</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are space missions where the crew reach the space station within seven hours of launch, this is known as "fast rendezvous". However, that requires highly precise planning, perfect alignment between the launching spaceport and the space station. Approaching the space station in such a short duration also requires a higher number of manoeuvres and engine firings. This would mean that more fuel is consumed in the process. To cater for this, the spacecraft must carry adequate fuel, and the rocket must be capable of lifting the heavier craft.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Instead, the Crew Dragon capsule is taking the 28-hour option. This allows adequate time to perform various system checks before gradually pushing the craft into orbit where the Space Station is. During this 28-hour journey, the Crew Dragon craft works fully autonomously, with the four astronauts only monitoring all the crucial parameters. In extremely rare cases, the Mission Commander(leader) would have to use the touch screen controls and take control of the touchscreen interfaces to manually manoeuvre the craft. However, such occasions are very rare with the Crew Dragon.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Crew Dragon and Space Station - Both orbits need to intersect</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Initially, the Crew Dragon Spacecraft is launched into an orbit (circular path) that is 200 km above the Earth. The Space Station is about 400 km above the Earth. The way space works, it is not possible for Crew Dragon to travel 200 km straight upwards and meet up with the space station immediately. Therefore, the Crew Dragon gradually adjusts its orbits via a series of engine burns. Each of these engines burns pushes the craft into a higher circular path (orbit), and eventually brings it into a path that matches that of the International Space Station. It must be remembered that objects in low Earth orbit travel at 28,000kmph, and extreme care must be taken during manoeuvres.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>The final runup to Docking</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The final approach is done in stages, once the Crew Dragon spacecraft gets barely 400 meters from the Space Station. Then, the Crew Dragon gradually moves itself towards the Space Station, while maintaining constant communication. The 400 metres is brought down to 200 meters, and eventually 30 meters and then the docking takes place. At each of these distances, the spacecraft may hold to carry out system checks, communicate with the space station and ground controllers, and monitor other technical parameters. When within 30meters of the space station, the Crew Dragon uses its cameras, Light Detection and Ranging(LIDAR) sensors.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Docking</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While a few centimetres away from the Space station, the docking ring of the spacecraft makes contact with the space station's docking port. Then, once aligned, the latching mechanisms align and create a pressure-tight seal. The electrical and data connections are made, and the Crew Dragon becomes a part of the ISS. After various checks are carried out, the hatches on both sides are opened, and the Crew Dragon astronauts enter the space station.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, but their journey to the ISS would take as much as 28 hours.

Axiom-4 astronauts aboard the Crew Dragon capsule, nestled atop the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, blasted off at 12:01 pm Indian time, 25th June, Wednesday. Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, the SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, and the crew began feeling microgravity-induced weightlessness. However, their journey to the International Space Station would take as much as 28 hours. Here are the technical and scientific reasons behind why the four astronauts would reach the International Space Station only by 4:30 pm Indian time, 26th June, Thursday. Energy and fuel-efficient spaceflight There are space missions where the crew reach the space station within seven hours of launch, this is known as "fast rendezvous". However, that requires highly precise planning, perfect alignment between the launching spaceport and the space station. Approaching the space station in such a short duration also requires a higher number of manoeuvres and engine firings. This would mean that more fuel is consumed in the process. To cater for this, the spacecraft must carry adequate fuel, and the rocket must be capable of lifting the heavier craft. Instead, the Crew Dragon capsule is taking the 28-hour option. This allows adequate time to perform various system checks before gradually pushing the craft into orbit where the Space Station is. During this 28-hour journey, the Crew Dragon craft works fully autonomously, with the four astronauts only monitoring all the crucial parameters. In extremely rare cases, the Mission Commander(leader) would have to use the touch screen controls and take control of the touchscreen interfaces to manually manoeuvre the craft. However, such occasions are very rare with the Crew Dragon. Crew Dragon and Space Station - Both orbits need to intersect Initially, the Crew Dragon Spacecraft is launched into an orbit (circular path) that is 200 km above the Earth. The Space Station is about 400 km above the Earth. The way space works, it is not possible for Crew Dragon to travel 200 km straight upwards and meet up with the space station immediately. Therefore, the Crew Dragon gradually adjusts its orbits via a series of engine burns. Each of these engines burns pushes the craft into a higher circular path (orbit), and eventually brings it into a path that matches that of the International Space Station. It must be remembered that objects in low Earth orbit travel at 28,000kmph, and extreme care must be taken during manoeuvres. The final runup to Docking The final approach is done in stages, once the Crew Dragon spacecraft gets barely 400 meters from the Space Station. Then, the Crew Dragon gradually moves itself towards the Space Station, while maintaining constant communication. The 400 metres is brought down to 200 meters, and eventually 30 meters and then the docking takes place. At each of these distances, the spacecraft may hold to carry out system checks, communicate with the space station and ground controllers, and monitor other technical parameters. When within 30meters of the space station, the Crew Dragon uses its cameras, Light Detection and Ranging(LIDAR) sensors. Docking While a few centimetres away from the Space station, the docking ring of the spacecraft makes contact with the space station's docking port. Then, once aligned, the latching mechanisms align and create a pressure-tight seal. The electrical and data connections are made, and the Crew Dragon becomes a part of the ISS. After various checks are carried out, the hatches on both sides are opened, and the Crew Dragon astronauts enter the space station.

<p>Barely 13 minutes after liftoff, the SpaceX rocket placed them in orbit around the Earth, but their journey to the International Space Station would take as much as 28 hours.</p>

EXPLAINED | Why does it take 28 hours for Axiom-4 astronauts to reach space station?

<p>An Essel Group company, Konti Infrapower and Multiventures, has moved the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) against Kotak Asset Management Company (AMC) over the asset management company’s failure to honour certain contractual obligations. Claiming dues to the tune of Rs 12.99 crore, the Essel Group entity has stated that Kotak AMC, as a corporate debtor, is yet to meet its financial obligations under an agreement dated April 6, 2019.</p><p>“As the Corporate Debtor failed and neglected to honour its contractual obligations as given under Agreement dated 6th April 2019, the Applicant vide demand notice dated 19 February 2025, inter-alia called once again upon the Corporate Debtor to release the due amounts as a pro-tem measure. Till date, the Financial Creditor has not received payment from the Corporate Debtor,” reads the plea by Konti Infrapower and Multiventures.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What is the plea about?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The matter is related to the Rs 20-crore non-convertible debentures (NCDs) subscribed by Kotak AMC of Essel Group entities on the pledge of listed equity shares of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), which in turn was the underlying security for the NCDs.</p><p>The NCDs were sold by Kotak AMC to certain other investors in February 2019, and the advancement of Rs 12.99 crore was in relation to this part only.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>According to Konti Infrapower and Multiventures’ plea, certain obligations arose due to the NCD issue, for which, a sum of Rs 12.99 crore was advanced to Kotak AMC. Under the agreement, the Kotak group company was required to repay the amount to Konti Infrapower after the completion of the market regulator SEBI’s routine annual inspection. SEBI was due to issue its report after completing the routine annual inspection of Kotak AMC from April 2019 to March 2020. Further, the amounts advanced were to be refunded after unit holders of Kotak AMC were paid the amounts under the underlying NCDs.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Konti Infrapower and Multiventures said it wrote two letters to Kotak AMC on July 6, 2022, for the release of the amounts as per the agreement, to which Kotak AMC replied on July 28, 2022, that the inspection of SEBI was not complete.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the Essel Group company, SEBI’s inspection of Kotak AMC, which is the trigger point for the refund of its money, has been completed, and a report dated 28 March, 2023, has been prepared. Also, Kotak AMC liquidated its NCDs and repaid the unitholders.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The next hearing in the matter is due on July 10.</p><p><br>At the time of publishing this report, an email sent to Kotak AMC remained unanswered.</p>

An Essel Group company has moved the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) against Kotak Asset Management Company, claiming dues of Rs 12.99 crore, citing the corporate debtor's failure to honour its contractual obligations in an agreement dated April 6, 2019.

An Essel Group company, Konti Infrapower and Multiventures, has moved the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) against Kotak Asset Management Company (AMC) over the asset management company’s failure to honour certain contractual obligations. Claiming dues to the tune of Rs 12.99 crore, the Essel Group entity has stated that Kotak AMC, as a corporate debtor, is yet to meet its financial obligations under an agreement dated April 6, 2019. “As the Corporate Debtor failed and neglected to honour its contractual obligations as given under Agreement dated 6th April 2019, the Applicant vide demand notice dated 19 February 2025, inter-alia called once again upon the Corporate Debtor to release the due amounts as a pro-tem measure. Till date, the Financial Creditor has not received payment from the Corporate Debtor,” reads the plea by Konti Infrapower and Multiventures. What is the plea about? The matter is related to the Rs 20-crore non-convertible debentures (NCDs) subscribed by Kotak AMC of Essel Group entities on the pledge of listed equity shares of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), which in turn was the underlying security for the NCDs. The NCDs were sold by Kotak AMC to certain other investors in February 2019, and the advancement of Rs 12.99 crore was in relation to this part only. According to Konti Infrapower and Multiventures’ plea, certain obligations arose due to the NCD issue, for which, a sum of Rs 12.99 crore was advanced to Kotak AMC. Under the agreement, the Kotak group company was required to repay the amount to Konti Infrapower after the completion of the market regulator SEBI’s routine annual inspection. SEBI was due to issue its report after completing the routine annual inspection of Kotak AMC from April 2019 to March 2020. Further, the amounts advanced were to be refunded after unit holders of Kotak AMC were paid the amounts under the underlying NCDs. Konti Infrapower and Multiventures said it wrote two letters to Kotak AMC on July 6, 2022, for the release of the amounts as per the agreement, to which Kotak AMC replied on July 28, 2022, that the inspection of SEBI was not complete. According to the Essel Group company, SEBI’s inspection of Kotak AMC, which is the trigger point for the refund of its money, has been completed, and a report dated 28 March, 2023, has been prepared. Also, Kotak AMC liquidated its NCDs and repaid the unitholders. The next hearing in the matter is due on July 10. At the time of publishing this report, an email sent to Kotak AMC remained unanswered.

<p>An Essel Group company has moved the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) against Kotak Asset Management Company, claiming dues of Rs 12.99 crore, citing the corporate debtor's failure to honour its contractual obligations in an agreement dated April 6, 2019.</p>

Essel Group slams dishonest debtor Kotak AMC, drags it to NCLT for dishonouring contractual obligations

<p>A special flight carrying 296 Indian nationals and 4 Nepalese citizens arrived safely in New Delhi from Mashhad, Iran, at 4.30 pm on Wednesday as part of evacuations under Operation Sindhu, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X. The latest evacuation brings the total number of Indian nationals repatriated from Iran to 3,154 since the operation began.</p><p>Operation Sindhu was launched by the Indian government on 18 June to evacuate its nationals from Iran after a conflict broke out between Iran and Israel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Since then, multiple special flights and other modes of transport have been deployed to evacuate Indian nationals from various cities across Iran, including Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The evacuees include students, professionals, and tourists, while Nepalese nationals stranded in Iran have also been evacuated as part of cooperation between India and Nepal, reflecting regional solidarity in times of crisis.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel on 24 June. After some accusations of violations from both sides, the ceasefire has largely held.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier in the day, the Indian Air Force had successfully evacuated 224 Indian nationals from Israel, taking the total number of citizens brought back safely to 818, under Operation Sindhu.</p><p>Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje greeted the Indian nationals upon their arrival in New Delhi.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on X, “Operation Sindhu update, MoS Ms. Shobha Karandlaje received 224 Indian nationals who returned to India from Israel on an IAF aircraft at 10:30 Hrs on 25th June. The safety and security of Indian nationals remain a priority for the government. To date, 818 Indian nationals have returned home from Israel as part of Operation Sindhu.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The IAF used its C-17 aircraft to evacuate Indian nationals and citizens of friendly nations, like Nepal and Sri Lanka, from war-hit Israel.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The evacuation of Indian nationals from Israel under Operation Sindhu had started on Monday, June 23, via Jordan.</p>

Operation Sindhu was launched by the Indian government on 18 June to evacuate its nationals from Iran after a conflict broke out between Iran and Israel. Since then, multiple special flights and other modes of transport have been deployed to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran.

A special flight carrying 296 Indian nationals and 4 Nepalese citizens arrived safely in New Delhi from Mashhad, Iran, at 4.30 pm on Wednesday as part of evacuations under Operation Sindhu, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X. The latest evacuation brings the total number of Indian nationals repatriated from Iran to 3,154 since the operation began. Operation Sindhu was launched by the Indian government on 18 June to evacuate its nationals from Iran after a conflict broke out between Iran and Israel. Since then, multiple special flights and other modes of transport have been deployed to evacuate Indian nationals from various cities across Iran, including Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan. The evacuees include students, professionals, and tourists, while Nepalese nationals stranded in Iran have also been evacuated as part of cooperation between India and Nepal, reflecting regional solidarity in times of crisis. US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel on 24 June. After some accusations of violations from both sides, the ceasefire has largely held. Earlier in the day, the Indian Air Force had successfully evacuated 224 Indian nationals from Israel, taking the total number of citizens brought back safely to 818, under Operation Sindhu. Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje greeted the Indian nationals upon their arrival in New Delhi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on X, “Operation Sindhu update, MoS Ms. Shobha Karandlaje received 224 Indian nationals who returned to India from Israel on an IAF aircraft at 10:30 Hrs on 25th June. The safety and security of Indian nationals remain a priority for the government. To date, 818 Indian nationals have returned home from Israel as part of Operation Sindhu.” The IAF used its C-17 aircraft to evacuate Indian nationals and citizens of friendly nations, like Nepal and Sri Lanka, from war-hit Israel. The evacuation of Indian nationals from Israel under Operation Sindhu had started on Monday, June 23, via Jordan.

<p>Operation Sindhu was launched by the Indian government on 18 June to evacuate its nationals from Iran after a conflict broke out between Iran and Israel. Since then, multiple special flights and other modes of transport have been deployed to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran.</p>

Operation Sindhu: India evacuates 296 more Indians, 4 Nepalese nationals from Iran

<p>The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that Class 10 board exams will be held twice a year starting from 2026. This change is expected to offer students more flexibility and reduce stress.</p><h2><strong>When will the two phases of the exam take place?</strong></h2><p>According to CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj, the board exams will be conducted in two phases, the first in February and the second in May. While the first phase is compulsory for all students, the second phase will be optional.</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncert-erases-mughals-adds-maha-kumbh-but-skips-stampede-full-list-of-new-changes-to-class-7-textbooks-9008466"><strong>'History can't be wished away’: NCERT erases Mughals from books, adds Maha Kumbh but skips stampede: Full list of new changes</strong></a></p><p>Students will have the option to improve their scores by participating in the second phase in up to three subjects, including science, mathematics, social science, and languages.</p><h2><strong>When will the CBSE announce the results?</strong></h2><p>CBSE said that the results of the first phase will be declared in April, while the second phase results will be out in June. This gives students who choose to appear for the second phase a chance to improve their marks in the same academic year.</p><p>The board has clarified that internal assessments will only be conducted once during the academic session. This is part of the new norms that aim to simplify the evaluation process and avoid duplication of effort.</p><p>This new examination structure is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP), which has recommended making board exams less stressful by offering students more than one opportunity in a year.</p><p>“The first phase will be conducted in February, and the second in May. Students will be allowed to improve their performance in any three subjects out of science, mathematics, social science and languages,” Bhardwaj said.</p><p>Earlier this year in February, the CBSE had shared the draft norms with the public and sought suggestions. The finalised structure reflects the policy’s vision of reducing academic pressure while still maintaining rigour in learning&nbsp;and&nbsp;assessment.</p>

According to CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj, the board exams will be conducted in two phases, the first in February and the second in May.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that Class 10 board exams will be held twice a year starting from 2026. This change is expected to offer students more flexibility and reduce stress. When will the two phases of the exam take place? According to CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj, the board exams will be conducted in two phases, the first in February and the second in May. While the first phase is compulsory for all students, the second phase will be optional. Also read: 'History can't be wished away’: NCERT erases Mughals from books, adds Maha Kumbh but skips stampede: Full list of new changes Students will have the option to improve their scores by participating in the second phase in up to three subjects, including science, mathematics, social science, and languages. When will the CBSE announce the results? CBSE said that the results of the first phase will be declared in April, while the second phase results will be out in June. This gives students who choose to appear for the second phase a chance to improve their marks in the same academic year. The board has clarified that internal assessments will only be conducted once during the academic session. This is part of the new norms that aim to simplify the evaluation process and avoid duplication of effort. This new examination structure is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP), which has recommended making board exams less stressful by offering students more than one opportunity in a year. “The first phase will be conducted in February, and the second in May. Students will be allowed to improve their performance in any three subjects out of science, mathematics, social science and languages,” Bhardwaj said. Earlier this year in February, the CBSE had shared the draft norms with the public and sought suggestions. The finalised structure reflects the policy’s vision of reducing academic pressure while still maintaining rigour in learning and assessment.

<p>According to CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj, the board exams will be conducted in two phases, the first in February and the second in May.</p>

Students to take Class 10 board exams twice a year? CBSE approves biannual format from 2026 - Details here

<p>Ahead of the Amarnath Yatra starting from July 3, security remains a major concern for the forces. Security forces in Kashmir Valley held mock security drills at various Amarnath Yatra bases and transit camps across Various districts including Srinagar, Ganderbal and Anantnag. A joint security mock drill was conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Police along with CAPFs, NDRF, SDRF, and Army units.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>To learn about the preparedness, Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir held Multiple Amarnath Yatra security and safety mock drills across Kashmir valley. The drills were conducted to overview the extensive preparation to safeguard pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage of Amarnath Yatra. The purpose of these drills was to assess the emergency situations in case of Terrorist attacks, Natural disasters, Fire incidents, Medical emergencies.&nbsp;</p><p>''Today Srinagar Police along the Yatra route in all 8 zones, conducted multiple mock drills. The main purpose of these mock drills is to check the reactiveness and coordination among the forces. Police, Para Military and SDRF today conducted various situation scenarios like IED blasts, Terrorist attacks, Fire Incidents and stampedes and reaction for these situations. We played it very well and we checked our drills, and they are fine. Our administration is ready for all the challenges, '' said GV Sundeep, SSP Srinagar.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The Amarnath Yatra has been upgraded with all the high-tech gadgetry and AI-based facial recognition systems this year. For the first time ever, the data of active terrorist and OGWs and other blacklisted peoples has been fed in the system. The moment anyone from the system walks in front of these FRS Cameras, it will start beeping. Meanwhile, Every pilgrim will be given RFID tags for real-time pilgrim tracking which is mandatory for their movement. High-resolution CCTV cameras and drones are placed for continuous surveillance with control rooms at base camps. Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and bomb disposal squads are stationed at every strategic point.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>''JK Police in the country have been upgrading themselves with regard to technology for many years. Facial recognition systems and using AI is part of it. And this time in the Yatra we are using the FR Systems and AI to catch the criminals especially the OGW's and terrorist associates. Recently you have seen one OGW was caught using the AI and FRS cameras. Even in yatri niwas in Srinagar we have installed these FRS cameras and definitely we are confident that we won't leave any chance for criminals or OGW's to do anything. JK police is technologically fully upgraded, '' said GV Sundeep, SSP Srinagar.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>At Both Pahalgam and Baltal routes, security forces have declared them as “No Flying Zones” from July 1 to August 10, 2025, except for authorized security or emergency aircraft. Anti-drone technology deployed to counter unauthorized aerial threats. Army and CRPF dominate high-altitude areas to prevent terrorist infiltration. Sanitization operations will be conducted daily on Yatra routes to neutralize potential threats.</p>

 A joint security mock drill was conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Police along with CAPFs, NDRF, SDRF, and Army units. 

Ahead of the Amarnath Yatra starting from July 3, security remains a major concern for the forces. Security forces in Kashmir Valley held mock security drills at various Amarnath Yatra bases and transit camps across Various districts including Srinagar, Ganderbal and Anantnag. A joint security mock drill was conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Police along with CAPFs, NDRF, SDRF, and Army units. To learn about the preparedness, Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir held Multiple Amarnath Yatra security and safety mock drills across Kashmir valley. The drills were conducted to overview the extensive preparation to safeguard pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage of Amarnath Yatra. The purpose of these drills was to assess the emergency situations in case of Terrorist attacks, Natural disasters, Fire incidents, Medical emergencies. ''Today Srinagar Police along the Yatra route in all 8 zones, conducted multiple mock drills. The main purpose of these mock drills is to check the reactiveness and coordination among the forces. Police, Para Military and SDRF today conducted various situation scenarios like IED blasts, Terrorist attacks, Fire Incidents and stampedes and reaction for these situations. We played it very well and we checked our drills, and they are fine. Our administration is ready for all the challenges, '' said GV Sundeep, SSP Srinagar. The Amarnath Yatra has been upgraded with all the high-tech gadgetry and AI-based facial recognition systems this year. For the first time ever, the data of active terrorist and OGWs and other blacklisted peoples has been fed in the system. The moment anyone from the system walks in front of these FRS Cameras, it will start beeping. Meanwhile, Every pilgrim will be given RFID tags for real-time pilgrim tracking which is mandatory for their movement. High-resolution CCTV cameras and drones are placed for continuous surveillance with control rooms at base camps. Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and bomb disposal squads are stationed at every strategic point. ''JK Police in the country have been upgrading themselves with regard to technology for many years. Facial recognition systems and using AI is part of it. And this time in the Yatra we are using the FR Systems and AI to catch the criminals especially the OGW's and terrorist associates. Recently you have seen one OGW was caught using the AI and FRS cameras. Even in yatri niwas in Srinagar we have installed these FRS cameras and definitely we are confident that we won't leave any chance for criminals or OGW's to do anything. JK police is technologically fully upgraded, '' said GV Sundeep, SSP Srinagar. At Both Pahalgam and Baltal routes, security forces have declared them as “No Flying Zones” from July 1 to August 10, 2025, except for authorized security or emergency aircraft. Anti-drone technology deployed to counter unauthorized aerial threats. Army and CRPF dominate high-altitude areas to prevent terrorist infiltration. Sanitization operations will be conducted daily on Yatra routes to neutralize potential threats.

<p>&nbsp;A joint security mock drill was conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Police along with CAPFs, NDRF, SDRF, and Army units.&nbsp;</p>

Mock drills for Amarnath Yatra conducted across various districts of Kashmir

<p>Indian citizen and Group Captain in the Indian Air Force, Subhanshu Shukla, successfully boarded SpaceX’s Falcon 9 as part of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) with a four-member international crew including astronauts from the US, Poland, and Hungary. Nearly four decades after Rakesh Sharma, he became another Indian citizen to travel to space as a part of the fourth private mission to the International Space Station (ISS).</p><p>Subhanshu Shukla represents India in a science-heavy mission which involves more than 60 experiments from 31 countries. The mission is a joint venture of the ISRO in collaboration with NASA and ESA (European Space Agency). The involvement of Shukla in space lays the scientific preliminaries for the country’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission.</p><p><strong>However, there is a list of Indian citizens and Indian-origin people who flew into space on several missions:</strong></p><h3>Rakesh Sharma</h3><p>A former Indian Air Force pilot, Rakesh Sharma, flew aboard the Soviet Soyuz T-11 spacecraft on April 3, 1984, as part of the Interkosmos program. During the mission, he spent 7 days, 21 hours, and 40 minutes aboard the Salyut 7 space station, which conducted experiments in biomedicine and remote sensing. He was awarded the Hero of the Soviet Union and India’s Ashok Chakra.</p><h3>Kalpana Chawla &nbsp;</h3><p>She was born in Karnal, India, and became a US citizen and joined NASA as an astronaut. She boarded the Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-87) in 1997 as a mission specialist, who conducted microgravity and material science experiments. But her second mission (STS-107) in 2003 ended horrendously when the shuttle disintegrated during re-entry, killing all seven crew members. Chawla was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honour. She was the first woman of Indian origin to travel to space.</p><h3>Sunita Williams &nbsp;</h3><p>Williams was born and brought up to an Indian-American father, who joined as US Navy officer and later turned to NASA astronaut. She has completed three spaceflights (2006, 2012, 2024) and holds records for the most spacewalks by a woman (7) and the longest spacewalking time by a woman (50 hours, 40 minutes). Williams ran the first marathon in space in 2007 and has served as a flight engineer and commander on the International Space Station (ISS), contributing to numerous experiments.</p><h3>Raja Chari &nbsp;</h3><p>A US Air Force brigadier general and NASA astronaut was born to an Indian father who commanded the SpaceX Crew-3 mission to the ISS in 2021–22, spending over 170 days in space. Selected for the Artemis Team of NASA in 2020, he is training for future lunar missions. Raja Chari also performed a spacewalk in 2022, demonstrating quick thinking by fixing a crewmate’s helmet camera.</p><h3>Sirisha Bandla &nbsp;</h3><p>Born in Andhra Pradesh, India, Sirisha Bandla is an Indian origin-American aeronautical engineer and Vice President at Virgin Galactic. Bandla flew to the edge of space on the Virgin Galactic Unity 22 mission on July 11, 2021, becoming the third woman of Indian origin in space.</p><h3>Gopi Thotakura &nbsp;</h3><p>He was also born in Andhra Pradesh, Thotakura, an entrepreneur and pilot, flew on Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin NS-25 mission in May 2024, a suborbital flight crossing the Kármán line. As part of a six-member crew, he became the first Indian to travel to space as a tourist, carrying a small Indian flag during the mission.</p><h3>Shubhanshu Shukla &nbsp;</h3><p>A Group Captain in the Indian Air Force, Shubhanshu Shukla, launched on June 25, 2025, aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 as part of a private spaceflight, Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4). He becomes the second Indian citizen to travel to space, 41 years after Rakesh Sharma. Shukla, trained at NASA, ESA, and JAXA, will spend up to 14 days on the ISS conducting scientific research, including yoga in microgravity, and educational outreach.</p><p>Other Indian-origin individuals, like Anil Menon, have been selected as NASA astronaut candidates but have not yet flown to space. In addition, Ravish Malhotra also served as a backup for Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission but did not fly.</p><p>Meanwhile, Rakesh Sharma and Shubhanshu Shukla are the only Indian citizens on this list, representing ISRO and the Indian Air Force. The others are of Indian descent but held US citizenship before or during their missions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Rakesh Sharma and Shubhanshu Shukla are the only Indian citizens on this list, representing ISRO and the Indian Air Force. The others are of Indian descent but held US citizenship before or during their missions.

Indian citizen and Group Captain in the Indian Air Force, Subhanshu Shukla, successfully boarded SpaceX’s Falcon 9 as part of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) with a four-member international crew including astronauts from the US, Poland, and Hungary. Nearly four decades after Rakesh Sharma, he became another Indian citizen to travel to space as a part of the fourth private mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Subhanshu Shukla represents India in a science-heavy mission which involves more than 60 experiments from 31 countries. The mission is a joint venture of the ISRO in collaboration with NASA and ESA (European Space Agency). The involvement of Shukla in space lays the scientific preliminaries for the country’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission. However, there is a list of Indian citizens and Indian-origin people who flew into space on several missions: Rakesh Sharma A former Indian Air Force pilot, Rakesh Sharma, flew aboard the Soviet Soyuz T-11 spacecraft on April 3, 1984, as part of the Interkosmos program. During the mission, he spent 7 days, 21 hours, and 40 minutes aboard the Salyut 7 space station, which conducted experiments in biomedicine and remote sensing. He was awarded the Hero of the Soviet Union and India’s Ashok Chakra. Kalpana Chawla She was born in Karnal, India, and became a US citizen and joined NASA as an astronaut. She boarded the Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-87) in 1997 as a mission specialist, who conducted microgravity and material science experiments. But her second mission (STS-107) in 2003 ended horrendously when the shuttle disintegrated during re-entry, killing all seven crew members. Chawla was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honour. She was the first woman of Indian origin to travel to space. Sunita Williams Williams was born and brought up to an Indian-American father, who joined as US Navy officer and later turned to NASA astronaut. She has completed three spaceflights (2006, 2012, 2024) and holds records for the most spacewalks by a woman (7) and the longest spacewalking time by a woman (50 hours, 40 minutes). Williams ran the first marathon in space in 2007 and has served as a flight engineer and commander on the International Space Station (ISS), contributing to numerous experiments. Raja Chari A US Air Force brigadier general and NASA astronaut was born to an Indian father who commanded the SpaceX Crew-3 mission to the ISS in 2021–22, spending over 170 days in space. Selected for the Artemis Team of NASA in 2020, he is training for future lunar missions. Raja Chari also performed a spacewalk in 2022, demonstrating quick thinking by fixing a crewmate’s helmet camera. Sirisha Bandla Born in Andhra Pradesh, India, Sirisha Bandla is an Indian origin-American aeronautical engineer and Vice President at Virgin Galactic. Bandla flew to the edge of space on the Virgin Galactic Unity 22 mission on July 11, 2021, becoming the third woman of Indian origin in space. Gopi Thotakura He was also born in Andhra Pradesh, Thotakura, an entrepreneur and pilot, flew on Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin NS-25 mission in May 2024, a suborbital flight crossing the Kármán line. As part of a six-member crew, he became the first Indian to travel to space as a tourist, carrying a small Indian flag during the mission. Shubhanshu Shukla A Group Captain in the Indian Air Force, Shubhanshu Shukla, launched on June 25, 2025, aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 as part of a private spaceflight, Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4). He becomes the second Indian citizen to travel to space, 41 years after Rakesh Sharma. Shukla, trained at NASA, ESA, and JAXA, will spend up to 14 days on the ISS conducting scientific research, including yoga in microgravity, and educational outreach. Other Indian-origin individuals, like Anil Menon, have been selected as NASA astronaut candidates but have not yet flown to space. In addition, Ravish Malhotra also served as a backup for Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission but did not fly. Meanwhile, Rakesh Sharma and Shubhanshu Shukla are the only Indian citizens on this list, representing ISRO and the Indian Air Force. The others are of Indian descent but held US citizenship before or during their missions.

<p>Rakesh Sharma and Shubhanshu Shukla are the only Indian citizens on this list, representing ISRO and the Indian Air Force. The others are of Indian descent but held US citizenship before or during their missions.</p>

From Rakesh Sharma to Shubhanshu Shukla: List of Indian-origin people who made history in space

<p><strong>Kailash Mansarovar: </strong>The first batch of Indian Pilgrims has reached the Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet as India and China thaw tensions, and focus on restarting people-to-people ties between them. The journey to Mansarovar and Kailash is considered one of the most arduous pilgrimages in Hinduism, but one that is believed to be spiritually fulfilling. Several pilgrims whom we spoke with expressed joy over reaching the Mount Kailash base, which has profound spiritual importance across Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism.</p><p>'I am so happy, I thank Indian Government, UP, Sikkim government, Chinese government, all played a role. Coming near the Kailash felt like a son coming to the lap of father. This is a feeling I can't describe' said Rupinder Singh from Jodhpur, Rajasthan.</p><p>Mount Kailash is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism and is seen as the cosmic axis or "world pillar" (Meru) in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. Its unique pyramid-like shape and the fact that it remains unclimbed due to its sacred status add to its mystique. Many of the pilgrims undertook the 52-km circumambulation or parikrama around Mount Kailash. It is challenging, but many pilgrims termed it as a transformative journey, one that will help them achieve Moksha or Liberation.</p><p>Many Indian Americans were also present. Shilpa from Dallas, told WION, with tears rolling said, 'I have been preparing for the day. I meet my Shiva, Only Shiva For me. Totally divine experience'</p><p>Five batches, each consisting of 50 Yatris, will travel through Uttarakhand via Lipulekh Pass and another 10 batches with 50 yatris will travel through Sikkim, crossing over at Nathu La Pass. The Ministry of External Affairs is the nodal ministry for organising the visit, and applications are accepted through an online process on the dedicated website kmy.gov.in. The Yatris will be selected from among applicants through a fair, computer-generated, random and gender-balanced selection process. Since 2015, the entire process, commencing with online application till selection of Yatris, is a fully computerised process.</p><p>The resumption of key pilgrimage comes after a gap of over five years and was agreed as both sides normalise ties. The normalisation comes after Indian PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting on the sidelines of the Kazan BRICS summit in October 2024. In October, both countries agreed to resume patrolling and disengage troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, resolving the 4-and-a-half-year-old standoff. &nbsp;Ties between the two Asian giants have been on a free fall since the Galwan incident of 2020.</p><p>After the leadership meeting, the foreign and defence ministers of the 2 countries have met, even as Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has travelled to China for special representative-level talks, followed by the visit of foreign secretary Vikram Misri. China is the host of the SCO summit this year, and it is expected that PM Modi will travel to the country, given India has extended its support for the Chinese presidency of the grouping.</p>

The journey to Mansarovar and Kailash is considered one of the most arduous pilgrimages in Hinduism, but one that is believed to be spiritually fulfilling.

Kailash Mansarovar: The first batch of Indian Pilgrims has reached the Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet as India and China thaw tensions, and focus on restarting people-to-people ties between them. The journey to Mansarovar and Kailash is considered one of the most arduous pilgrimages in Hinduism, but one that is believed to be spiritually fulfilling. Several pilgrims whom we spoke with expressed joy over reaching the Mount Kailash base, which has profound spiritual importance across Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism. 'I am so happy, I thank Indian Government, UP, Sikkim government, Chinese government, all played a role. Coming near the Kailash felt like a son coming to the lap of father. This is a feeling I can't describe' said Rupinder Singh from Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Mount Kailash is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism and is seen as the cosmic axis or "world pillar" (Meru) in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. Its unique pyramid-like shape and the fact that it remains unclimbed due to its sacred status add to its mystique. Many of the pilgrims undertook the 52-km circumambulation or parikrama around Mount Kailash. It is challenging, but many pilgrims termed it as a transformative journey, one that will help them achieve Moksha or Liberation. Many Indian Americans were also present. Shilpa from Dallas, told WION, with tears rolling said, 'I have been preparing for the day. I meet my Shiva, Only Shiva For me. Totally divine experience' Five batches, each consisting of 50 Yatris, will travel through Uttarakhand via Lipulekh Pass and another 10 batches with 50 yatris will travel through Sikkim, crossing over at Nathu La Pass. The Ministry of External Affairs is the nodal ministry for organising the visit, and applications are accepted through an online process on the dedicated website kmy.gov.in. The Yatris will be selected from among applicants through a fair, computer-generated, random and gender-balanced selection process. Since 2015, the entire process, commencing with online application till selection of Yatris, is a fully computerised process. The resumption of key pilgrimage comes after a gap of over five years and was agreed as both sides normalise ties. The normalisation comes after Indian PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting on the sidelines of the Kazan BRICS summit in October 2024. In October, both countries agreed to resume patrolling and disengage troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, resolving the 4-and-a-half-year-old standoff. Ties between the two Asian giants have been on a free fall since the Galwan incident of 2020. After the leadership meeting, the foreign and defence ministers of the 2 countries have met, even as Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has travelled to China for special representative-level talks, followed by the visit of foreign secretary Vikram Misri. China is the host of the SCO summit this year, and it is expected that PM Modi will travel to the country, given India has extended its support for the Chinese presidency of the grouping.

<p>The journey to Mansarovar and Kailash is considered one of the most arduous pilgrimages in Hinduism, but one that is believed to be spiritually fulfilling.</p>

First batch of Indian pilgrims reach Kailash Manasarovar

<p>50 years ago, today, Indira Gandhi imposed emergency, marking the darkest chapter in the history of Indian Democracy. Invoking Article 352 of the Constitution, PM Gandhi suspended civil liberties, muzzled the press, and arrested tens of thousands of opposition to civic bodies without trial. Prime Minister Modi calls it Samvidhan Hatya Diwas. The emergency lasted 21 months, but half a century later, one must wonder if we have left that legacy of emergency, or have we internalised it.</p><p>The emergency was a period of constitutional authoritarianism. It was marked by the suspension of civil liberties, censorship of the press and widespread abuse of executive power. More than 100,000 political opponents were imprisoned, including Jayprakash Naryan, LK Advani and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The ADM Jabalpur v. Shivkant Shukla (1976) case, which suspended the civil liberties of the people, ie, right to life, right to constitutional remedy, shows the moral hollowness of the period. A decision so vile that the judiciary distances itself from its history.</p><p>However, after 50 years, we seem to have internalised the instruments of the emergency. What was present in the emergency period of 21 months is eerily available around us without the formal declaration of it.&nbsp;</p><p>"What was done in 1975 under Emergency is now done through routine legislation and executive orders," says Professor Ujjwal Kumar Singh of Delhi University, "The facade of democracy remains, but the infrastructure of authoritarianism is well in place."</p><p>In 2025, there is no formal emergency, but journalists, activists, professors, and students often self-censor, wary of raids, defamation suits, police raids or the troll army on social media. A far more subtle trend is in place, which works in a ghostly manner.&nbsp;</p><p>Take the case of Journalist Siddique Kappan, who was arrested under Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) as he was going to cover Hathras Ganga Rape. He did not get bail for four months. Or take the case of Umar Khalid, who had been rotting in jail for more than 5 years without any trial, and charges have not been framed in court. Or take the case of the Bhima Koregaon Activists who are old and ailing, being incarcerated, and held without trial.&nbsp;</p><p>During the emergency, editors had to get their front page approved by the government, but today, much of the media is voluntarily docile and compliant. A few digital platforms that try to push back are met with raids from the Government Instruments. Whereas mainstream media have become the conduit of state propaganda.</p><p>“The Emergency taught the state the value of narrative control,” says Seema Chishti, veteran journalist. “Today, news anchors act like enforcers. And those who question the government are labelled ‘anti-national’ or worse.”</p><p>The use of advertising money, hostile takeover, raids, and criminal cases to silence the critical voice from NDTV to Dainik Bhaskar shows that censorship has evolved.&nbsp;</p><p>We live in a state of ambient surveillance,” says Anushka Jain from the Internet Freedom Foundation. “You won’t know you’re being watched until it's too late, and that’s the point.”</p><p>The Pegasus software scandal, where the government snooped on the phones of journalists, was confirmed by the Amnesty International Security Lab. The case remains unresolved in Indian courts. But sets a dangerous precedent.&nbsp;</p><p>The language of the Emergency was “internal disturbance,” “foreign hand,” “national interest”. It has been replaced by “urban naxals,” “toolkits,” and “anti-nationals.” The labels change, the intent remains. 50 &nbsp;years on, most of the tools of emergency, such as crack down on civil society, press censorship and mass surveillance, have remained the same, but now it has gained majoritarian approval and judicial blessing.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

On the 50th anniversary of the darkest chapter of Indian democracy, which has become a ritual of nostalgia, we reflect on the internalised authoritarianism from the very subtle cues.  

50 years ago, today, Indira Gandhi imposed emergency, marking the darkest chapter in the history of Indian Democracy. Invoking Article 352 of the Constitution, PM Gandhi suspended civil liberties, muzzled the press, and arrested tens of thousands of opposition to civic bodies without trial. Prime Minister Modi calls it Samvidhan Hatya Diwas. The emergency lasted 21 months, but half a century later, one must wonder if we have left that legacy of emergency, or have we internalised it. The emergency was a period of constitutional authoritarianism. It was marked by the suspension of civil liberties, censorship of the press and widespread abuse of executive power. More than 100,000 political opponents were imprisoned, including Jayprakash Naryan, LK Advani and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The ADM Jabalpur v. Shivkant Shukla (1976) case, which suspended the civil liberties of the people, ie, right to life, right to constitutional remedy, shows the moral hollowness of the period. A decision so vile that the judiciary distances itself from its history. However, after 50 years, we seem to have internalised the instruments of the emergency. What was present in the emergency period of 21 months is eerily available around us without the formal declaration of it. "What was done in 1975 under Emergency is now done through routine legislation and executive orders," says Professor Ujjwal Kumar Singh of Delhi University, "The facade of democracy remains, but the infrastructure of authoritarianism is well in place." In 2025, there is no formal emergency, but journalists, activists, professors, and students often self-censor, wary of raids, defamation suits, police raids or the troll army on social media. A far more subtle trend is in place, which works in a ghostly manner. Take the case of Journalist Siddique Kappan, who was arrested under Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) as he was going to cover Hathras Ganga Rape. He did not get bail for four months. Or take the case of Umar Khalid, who had been rotting in jail for more than 5 years without any trial, and charges have not been framed in court. Or take the case of the Bhima Koregaon Activists who are old and ailing, being incarcerated, and held without trial. During the emergency, editors had to get their front page approved by the government, but today, much of the media is voluntarily docile and compliant. A few digital platforms that try to push back are met with raids from the Government Instruments. Whereas mainstream media have become the conduit of state propaganda. “The Emergency taught the state the value of narrative control,” says Seema Chishti, veteran journalist. “Today, news anchors act like enforcers. And those who question the government are labelled ‘anti-national’ or worse.” The use of advertising money, hostile takeover, raids, and criminal cases to silence the critical voice from NDTV to Dainik Bhaskar shows that censorship has evolved. We live in a state of ambient surveillance,” says Anushka Jain from the Internet Freedom Foundation. “You won’t know you’re being watched until it's too late, and that’s the point.” The Pegasus software scandal, where the government snooped on the phones of journalists, was confirmed by the Amnesty International Security Lab. The case remains unresolved in Indian courts. But sets a dangerous precedent. The language of the Emergency was “internal disturbance,” “foreign hand,” “national interest”. It has been replaced by “urban naxals,” “toolkits,” and “anti-nationals.” The labels change, the intent remains. 50 years on, most of the tools of emergency, such as crack down on civil society, press censorship and mass surveillance, have remained the same, but now it has gained majoritarian approval and judicial blessing.

<p>On the 50th anniversary of the darkest chapter of Indian democracy, which has become a ritual of nostalgia, we reflect on the internalised authoritarianism from the very subtle cues. &nbsp;</p>

50th anniversary of emergency: The legacy we didn’t leave behind

<p>In a major development in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case, key conspirators and accused Sonam Raghuvanshi and her boyfriend Raj Kushwaha have admitted to their relationship and their role in killing Raja Raghuvanshi, an Indore-based transport businessman, said the police on Tuesday (June 24). The duo is in the custody of Meghalaya police and the investigation is likely to end soon in the case.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking to the media, Vivek Syiem, the Superintendent of Police in East Khasi Hills said, "Both accused have admitted to the crime. We have reconstructed the crime scene. They have shown us how it was done. With strong evidence already in place, a Narco test is unnecessary."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Clarifying on the victim's family's demand for a narco test on the woman, Syiem said, "Narco test is done usually when there's no evidence at all, and Narco analysis is actually banned by the Supreme Court."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, two individuals—a property dealer and a security guard— were arrested on Monday (June 23) for allegedly concealing crucial evidence linked to the case. The arrests point to a possible post-murder cover-up, as police recover a box containing jewellery, a laptop, and what could be the murder weapon. With the arrests of these two individuals, the total number of people held for the crime has reached seven.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The Meghalaya Police Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrested one Silome James from Bhonrasa toll-gate in Dewas district of Madhya Pradesh while he was trying to flee to Bhopal around 7.30 pm on Saturday." said Syiem.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“He is a property dealer and lessee of a building at Heera Bagh Colony in Indore, where Sonam had stayed and kept the jewellery and other items she took with her after the incident," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Raja Raghuvanshi, an Indore-based transport businessman, was killed by his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi while on a honeymoon trip to Meghalaya. His body was thrown off a deep gorge, which was later discovered by the police.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Sonam and Raj Kushwaha are in the custody of Meghalaya police and the investigation is likely to end soon in the case.

In a major development in the Meghalaya honeymoon murder case, key conspirators and accused Sonam Raghuvanshi and her boyfriend Raj Kushwaha have admitted to their relationship and their role in killing Raja Raghuvanshi, an Indore-based transport businessman, said the police on Tuesday (June 24). The duo is in the custody of Meghalaya police and the investigation is likely to end soon in the case. Speaking to the media, Vivek Syiem, the Superintendent of Police in East Khasi Hills said, "Both accused have admitted to the crime. We have reconstructed the crime scene. They have shown us how it was done. With strong evidence already in place, a Narco test is unnecessary." Clarifying on the victim's family's demand for a narco test on the woman, Syiem said, "Narco test is done usually when there's no evidence at all, and Narco analysis is actually banned by the Supreme Court." Meanwhile, two individuals—a property dealer and a security guard— were arrested on Monday (June 23) for allegedly concealing crucial evidence linked to the case. The arrests point to a possible post-murder cover-up, as police recover a box containing jewellery, a laptop, and what could be the murder weapon. With the arrests of these two individuals, the total number of people held for the crime has reached seven. “The Meghalaya Police Special Investigation Team (SIT) arrested one Silome James from Bhonrasa toll-gate in Dewas district of Madhya Pradesh while he was trying to flee to Bhopal around 7.30 pm on Saturday." said Syiem. “He is a property dealer and lessee of a building at Heera Bagh Colony in Indore, where Sonam had stayed and kept the jewellery and other items she took with her after the incident," he added. Raja Raghuvanshi, an Indore-based transport businessman, was killed by his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi while on a honeymoon trip to Meghalaya. His body was thrown off a deep gorge, which was later discovered by the police.

<p>Sonam and Raj Kushwaha are in the custody of Meghalaya police and the investigation is likely to end soon in the case.</p>

Meghalaya honeymoon murder: Sonam, Raj Kushwaha admit to their romantic relationship

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (June 25) said that no Indian will ever forget how the spirit of the Constitution was violated during the Emergency, as he affirmed his government's commitment to strengthening constitutional principles, while posting about the 50th year of the Emergency. In a long post on X, the Prime Minister said that it was one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic history and it was the Congress government that placed Indian democracy under house arrest. The values enshrined in the Constitution were set aside, fundamental rights suspended, press freedom extinguished and a large number of political leaders, social workers, students and ordinary citizens jailed, he noted. The BJP government under PM Modi's leadership had announced last year that the Emergency anniversary would be commemorated as "Samvidhan Hatya Diwas". The Emergency was imposed on June 25, 1975 by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Here's a full recap of what happened:</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today marks fifty years since one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic history, the imposition of the Emergency. The people of India mark this day as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas. On this day, the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution were set aside, fundamental rights…</p>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1937710563389256191?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Congress(R), 1971 victory and court verdict&nbsp;</h2><p>The court verdict that played a crucial role in prompting Indira Gandhi to impose the Emergency was the Allahabad High Court judgment delivered on June 12, 1975. In the case titled - State of Uttar Pradesh vs Raj Narain - Indira Gandhi was accused of electoral malpractices to win the 1971 Lok Sabha elections. The petitioner, Raj Narain, contested against Indira Gandhi from the Rae Bareli seat in Uttar Pradesh, but Gandhi was declared the winner. Later, Narain accused her of electoral malpractices under the Representation of the People Act, 1951. When the Lok Sabha election results were declared, Indira Gandhi was elected with 183,309 votes, with Raj Narain being the closest rival with 71, 499 votes.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At that time, Indira Gandhi contested on the ticket of her newly formed Congress faction - Congress (R) - after she was expelled from her father's party in 1969. Though Congress(R) delivered a stunning victory by securing 352 out of 518 seats in Lok Sabha, her own win from Rae Bareli came under scrutiny. Narain, who was nearly 110,000 votes away from Gandhi, challenged the poll verdict in an election petition. Raj Narain contested on the ticket of&nbsp;the Samyukta Socialist Party.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As per Bar and Bench, an election petition is a plea filed directly before a High Court challenging the election of a particular candidate. Such a petition has to be filed within 45 days from the date of declaration of the election results. Additionally, the malpractices that Gandhi was accused of under the Representation of People (RP) Act of 1951 - &nbsp;list out the grounds on which the election of a candidate can be called into question. Section 123 of the RP Act lists certain corrupt practices which, if proved successful, can be grounds to declare the election of a candidate void.</p><h2>Why did the court invalidate Indira Gandhi's election?</h2><p>Interestingly, out of the long list of allegations raised against Gandhi by Narain, most were turned down by the High Court but her election was ultimately invalidated on two findings. The first one was that Indira Gandhi used government machinery to set up stage for poll campaign and second that she used gazette officer as an election agent. Gandhi's election agent was Yashpal Kapur &nbsp;who held the post of Officer on Special Duty in the Prime Minister’s Secretariat. He subsequently submitted his resignation and was appointed the election agent.</p><p><br>But, the devil was in the details: Kapur had submitted his resignation on January 13, 1971 and his resignation was accepted with effect from January 14, 1971. Though Kapur was appointed election agent of Gandhi on February 4, 1971, the High Court held that &nbsp;Kapur delivered election speeches on January 7, 1971 at Munshi Ganj and another speech at Kalan on January 19, 1971 - one before his resignation was in effect and another before his official appointment date.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, Kapur, the District Magistrate of Rae Bareli, the Superintendent of Police of Rae Bareli and the Home Secretary of Uttar Pradesh government arranged for rostrums, loudspeakers and barricades to be set up and for members of the police force to be posted in connection with her election campaign tour.&nbsp;</p><h2>Imposition of Emergency</h2><p>The court verdict by Justice Jagmohanlal Sinha found Indira Gandhi guilty of misuse of government machinery during her election campaign. The court declared her 1971 election invalid, effectively disqualifying her from holding public office for six years. The judgment did not immediately remove her as Prime Minister, but it severely undermined her legitimacy. Fearing political instability, mass protests, and possible ouster, Indira Gandhi advised the President (Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed) to declare a state of Emergency under Article 352 of the Indian Constitution, citing internal disturbances. The Emergency lasted from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977, during which civil liberties were suspended, the press was censored, political opponents were jailed, and democratic institutions were heavily curtailed.</p>

50 years ago, Indira Gandhi imposed Emergency - the darkest chapter of Indian democracy. From the split in Congress to the court verdict, here's what happened then

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (June 25) said that no Indian will ever forget how the spirit of the Constitution was violated during the Emergency, as he affirmed his government's commitment to strengthening constitutional principles, while posting about the 50th year of the Emergency. In a long post on X, the Prime Minister said that it was one of the darkest chapters in India’s democratic history and it was the Congress government that placed Indian democracy under house arrest. The values enshrined in the Constitution were set aside, fundamental rights suspended, press freedom extinguished and a large number of political leaders, social workers, students and ordinary citizens jailed, he noted. The BJP government under PM Modi's leadership had announced last year that the Emergency anniversary would be commemorated as "Samvidhan Hatya Diwas". The Emergency was imposed on June 25, 1975 by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Here's a full recap of what happened:

<p>50 years ago, Indira Gandhi imposed the Emergency - the darkest chapter of Indian democracy. From the split in Congress to the court verdict, here's what led to the final decision that curbed civil liberties and fundamental rights</p>

Emergency 50 years | Congress, 1971 victory and court verdict: How Indira Gandhi brought 'darkest chapter in Indian democracy'

<p>Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force has officially entered orbit as part of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) &nbsp;on Wednesday. The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT). The launch marks a historic first for India, with Shukla becoming the country’s first astronaut to travel to the ISS. The spacecraft, travelling at over 27,000 kilometres per hour in low Earth orbit, is expected to dock with the ISS around 4:30 PM IST on June 26 after a 28-hour journey. Just before departure, Shukla shared a heartfelt message for his wife, Kamna Shukla, expressing deep gratitude for her constant support.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shukla is joined by three international crewmates—mission commander Peggy Whitson from the United States, and mission specialists Tibor Kapu (Hungary) and Slawosz Uznanski (Poland), both representing the European Space Agency. This is the first ISS mission for all three participating nations—India, Hungary, and Poland—since their initial crewed spaceflights nearly four decades ago. The Axiom-4 mission, organised by Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX, ISRO, and international partners, underscores growing cooperation in commercial space exploration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Farewell message before departure</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Before departing Earth, Shukla shared a personal message on social media, expressing gratitude to his team, friends, and family. His note included a special mention of his wife, Kamna Shukla. “Special thanks to Kamna for being the wonderful partner that you are. Without you none of this was possible, but more importantly none of this would matter,” he wrote. The post was accompanied by a poignant photograph of the couple bidding farewell through a glass partition, a quiet moment before a momentous journey.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DLTF3b2yZA5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DLTF3b2yZA5/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; 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<p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shukla and Kamna’s story traces back to their school days in Lucknow, where they met in primary school. Now parents to a six-year-old, the couple’s long-standing bond has stood alongside the pilot’s rise through the Indian Air Force and into space history.</p><h2><strong>Milestone for Indian spaceflight</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In orbit, Shukla addressed the nation with a brief message: “This is the beginning of India’s space programme. Every Indian should feel proud. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.” The mission serves as a precursor to ISRO’s planned Gaganyaan mission in 2027, and India’s long-term goal of landing an astronaut on the Moon by 2040.&nbsp;</p>

In orbit, Shukla addressed the nation with a brief message: “This is the beginning of India’s space programme. Every Indian should feel proud. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.”

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force has officially entered orbit as part of the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday. The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT). The launch marks a historic first for India, with Shukla becoming the country’s first astronaut to travel to the ISS. The spacecraft, travelling at over 27,000 kilometres per hour in low Earth orbit, is expected to dock with the ISS around 4:30 PM IST on June 26 after a 28-hour journey. Just before departure, Shukla shared a heartfelt message for his wife, Kamna Shukla, expressing deep gratitude for her constant support. Shukla is joined by three international crewmates—mission commander Peggy Whitson from the United States, and mission specialists Tibor Kapu (Hungary) and Slawosz Uznanski (Poland), both representing the European Space Agency. This is the first ISS mission for all three participating nations—India, Hungary, and Poland—since their initial crewed spaceflights nearly four decades ago. The Axiom-4 mission, organised by Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX, ISRO, and international partners, underscores growing cooperation in commercial space exploration. Farewell message before departure Before departing Earth, Shukla shared a personal message on social media, expressing gratitude to his team, friends, and family. His note included a special mention of his wife, Kamna Shukla. “Special thanks to Kamna for being the wonderful partner that you are. Without you none of this was possible, but more importantly none of this would matter,” he wrote. The post was accompanied by a poignant photograph of the couple bidding farewell through a glass partition, a quiet moment before a momentous journey.

<p>In orbit, Shukla addressed the nation with a brief message: “This is the beginning of India’s space programme. Every Indian should feel proud. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat.”</p>

Shubhanshu Shukla’s touching farewell to wife before Axiom-4 mission to International Space Station

<p>The Axiom-4 mission carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three others lifted off at 12:01 pm on Wednesday (June 25) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The historic takeoff after multiple delays is special for India and Shubhanshu Shukla's mother couldn't stop her tears as the mission took off. After the takeoff, in a special message from Dragon spacecraft, Shukla said in Hindi, "Namaskar mere deshwasiyon. After 41 years, we are back in space. And what a magnificent journey it was. Right now, we are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The tricolour is on my shoulder, showing that I am with all of you." He ended his special message with “Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”</p><h2>Shubhanshu Shukla's full message</h2><p>“Namaskar, my dear countrymen! What a ride! We are back in the space once again after 41 years. It's an amazing ride. We are revolving around the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me that I am with all of you. This journey of mine is not a beginning to the International Space Station (ISS) but to India's Human Space Programme. I want all of you to be part of this journey. Your chest, too, should swell with pride...Together, let's initiate India's Human Space Programme. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>WATCH HERE&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As the Dragon capsule successfully reached orbit and separated from the Falcon 9’s second stage, the moment space fans around the world waited for arrived, the appearance of the zero gravity indicator. A small plush toy named ‘Joy’ floated into view inside the cabin, signaling that the crew had officially entered microgravity. For Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, it marked the first moments of floating freely in space, a milestone in India’s human spaceflight journey. The capsule is now coasting in orbit as it begins its journey to dock with the International Space Station.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft lifted off at 12:00 PM IST (2:30 AM EDT) on June 25, 2025, and is now en route to the International Space Station (ISS). Docking is expected at approximately 4:30 PM IST on June 26, after a 28-hour orbital journey.</p><p>This historic flight makes Shukla the first Indian to travel to the ISS, marking a major milestone in India's growing contribution to global space exploration. The mission reflects deepening cooperation between ISRO, NASA, and private partners, reinforcing India's presence in the next era of human spaceflight.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/live-updates/science/shubhanshu-shukla-live-updates-indian-astronaut-set-for-launch-on-nasa-and-spacex-axiom-4-space-mission-shortly-1750825715615"><strong>Follow our LIVE covergae for real time updates</strong></a> - Traveling at a staggering speed of 27,000 kilometers per hour, the Dragon spacecraft has entered a stable low Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 210 km. This high-velocity orbital path allows the capsule to circle the Earth roughly once every 90 minutes. At this speed and altitude, Shubhanshu Shukla and the Axiom-4 crew are now truly in space, experiencing microgravity as they cruise toward their scheduled docking with the International Space Station.</p>

The historic takeoff of Axiom-4 mission after multiple delays is special for India and Shubhanshu Shukla sent a special message in Hindi for the people of the country as the Dragon spacecraft took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida

The Axiom-4 mission carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla and three others lifted off at 12:01 pm on Wednesday (June 25) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The historic takeoff after multiple delays is special for India and Shubhanshu Shukla's mother couldn't stop her tears as the mission took off. After the takeoff, in a special message from Dragon spacecraft, Shukla said in Hindi, "Namaskar mere deshwasiyon. After 41 years, we are back in space. And what a magnificent journey it was. Right now, we are orbiting the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The tricolour is on my shoulder, showing that I am with all of you." He ended his special message with “Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!” Shubhanshu Shukla's full message “Namaskar, my dear countrymen! What a ride! We are back in the space once again after 41 years. It's an amazing ride. We are revolving around the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me that I am with all of you. This journey of mine is not a beginning to the International Space Station (ISS) but to India's Human Space Programme. I want all of you to be part of this journey. Your chest, too, should swell with pride...Together, let's initiate India's Human Space Programme. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!” WATCH HERE

<p>The historic takeoff of Axiom-4 mission after multiple delays is special for India and Shubhanshu Shukla sent a special message in Hindi for the people of the country as the Dragon spacecraft took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida</p>

'Tricolour is on my shoulder': Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's special message in Hindi after launch of Axiom-4 mission - Watch

<p>Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will today depart for China's Qingdao to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting set to be held from June 25-26. Singh said he is looking forward to presenting India's vision for global peace and security and calling for joint and continuous efforts to eliminate terrorism.<br>In a statement shared on X, Rajnath Singh stated, "Today, 25th June, I shall be leaving for Qingdao, China, to take part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting. I will have the opportunity to interact with various Defence Ministers on a wide range of issues. Looking forward to present India's vision for global peace and security and also, call for joint and consistent efforts to eliminate terrorism."<br>During the meeting, the leaders are expected to discuss various issues, including regional and international peace and security, counter-terrorism efforts and cooperation among the Ministries of Defence of SCO member states.<br>In a press release, Ministry of Defence stated, "Raksha Mantri is expected to highlight India's continued commitment to the principles and mandate of the SCO, outline India's vision towards achieving greater international peace &amp; security, call for joint &amp; consistent efforts to eliminate terrorism &amp; extremism in the region, and stress on the need for greater trade, economic cooperation and connectivity within SCO. He will also hold bilateral meetings with the Defence Ministers of some participating countries, including China and Russia, on the sidelines of the meeting."<br>The Ministry of Defence noted that India attaches special importance to the SCO in promoting multilateralism, political, security, economic and people-to-people interactions in the region. It further said, "SCO pursues its policy based on the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity of nations, non-interference in internal affairs, mutual respect, understanding and equality of all member states."<br>SCO is an intergovernmental organisation established in 2001. India became its full member in 2017 and assumed the rotating Chairmanship in 2023. The SCO members include Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran and Belarus, besides India. China has assumed the Chair of the SCO for 2025 under the theme 'Upholding the Shanghai Spirit: SCO on the Move'.&nbsp;</p><p><i>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</i></p>

In a statement shared on X, Rajnath Singh stated, “Today, 25th June, I shall be leaving for Qingdao, China, to take part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting."

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will today depart for China's Qingdao to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting set to be held from June 25-26. Singh said he is looking forward to presenting India's vision for global peace and security and calling for joint and continuous efforts to eliminate terrorism. In a statement shared on X, Rajnath Singh stated, "Today, 25th June, I shall be leaving for Qingdao, China, to take part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting. I will have the opportunity to interact with various Defence Ministers on a wide range of issues. Looking forward to present India's vision for global peace and security and also, call for joint and consistent efforts to eliminate terrorism." During the meeting, the leaders are expected to discuss various issues, including regional and international peace and security, counter-terrorism efforts and cooperation among the Ministries of Defence of SCO member states. In a press release, Ministry of Defence stated, "Raksha Mantri is expected to highlight India's continued commitment to the principles and mandate of the SCO, outline India's vision towards achieving greater international peace & security, call for joint & consistent efforts to eliminate terrorism & extremism in the region, and stress on the need for greater trade, economic cooperation and connectivity within SCO. He will also hold bilateral meetings with the Defence Ministers of some participating countries, including China and Russia, on the sidelines of the meeting." The Ministry of Defence noted that India attaches special importance to the SCO in promoting multilateralism, political, security, economic and people-to-people interactions in the region. It further said, "SCO pursues its policy based on the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity of nations, non-interference in internal affairs, mutual respect, understanding and equality of all member states." SCO is an intergovernmental organisation established in 2001. India became its full member in 2017 and assumed the rotating Chairmanship in 2023. The SCO members include Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran and Belarus, besides India. China has assumed the Chair of the SCO for 2025 under the theme 'Upholding the Shanghai Spirit: SCO on the Move'. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

<p>In a statement shared on X, Rajnath Singh stated, “Today, 25th June, I shall be leaving for Qingdao, China, to take part in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting."</p>

Rajnath Singh to depart for China today, call for joint efforts to eliminate terrorism at SCO meeting

<p>Axiom Mission 4 is scheduled to launch today (June 25) by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA and SPACEX. The mission is the first Indian government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in four decades and the fourth commercial mission to the International Space Station. The crew is scheduled to start its flight at 2:31 a.m. EDT, launching towards the orbiting laboratory. &nbsp;It was previously scheduled to lift off on June 11, 2025, from Kennedy Space Centre, but was scrubbed due to a leak of liquid oxygen.&nbsp;</p><p>Here are the key details of Axiom Mission 4</p><h2>What is Axiom Mission 4</h2><p>Axiom Mission 4 is a planned private spaceflight to the International Space Station (ISS). It will use SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, marking the maiden flight of the C213 Crew Dragon. It will dock at the International Space Station following approximately 28-hour journey in orbit.</p><h2>Who is abroad?</h2><p>The crew consists of Peggy Whitson, an Axiom employee, Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Space Research Organisation, and mission specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, a European Space Agency project astronaut from Poland, and Tibor Kapu representing the Hungarian Space Office.&nbsp;</p><h2>Why is it significant ?</h2><p>The Axiom Mission 4 is crucial for India because it is the first time an Indian will be on the International Space Station, also the second time an Indian cosmonaut will be in orbit, after Rakesh Sharma with Soyuz in 1984</p><h2>Axiom Mission 4 experiments&nbsp;</h2><p>Axiom Mission 4 will conduct 60 scientific studies representing 31 countries, including India, the US, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and nations across Europe. These experiments include AstroMentalHealth, AstroPerformance, EEG Neurofeedback, Human Gut Microbiota, Human Gut Microbiota, Leopard Data Processing Unit, etc. Shubhanshu Shukla will also conduct experiments developed by the India Space Research Organisation and other Indian institutions, namely studies of screen use, muscle atrophy and other cognitive effects.</p><h2>What does Axiom Space intend to achieve?</h2><p>Axiom Space intends to build the world's first commercial space station once the International Space Station retires. It will allow, government, businesses and research organisations to access space without them developing their own systems. Eventually replacing ISS with a low orbit destination.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Axiom Mission 4 is scheduled to launch today, the first Indian government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in four decades. Here is all you need to know

Axiom Mission 4 is scheduled to launch today (June 25) by Axiom Space in collaboration with NASA and SPACEX. The mission is the first Indian government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in four decades and the fourth commercial mission to the International Space Station. The crew is scheduled to start its flight at 2:31 a.m. EDT, launching towards the orbiting laboratory. It was previously scheduled to lift off on June 11, 2025, from Kennedy Space Centre, but was scrubbed due to a leak of liquid oxygen. Here are the key details of Axiom Mission 4 What is Axiom Mission 4 Axiom Mission 4 is a planned private spaceflight to the International Space Station (ISS). It will use SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, marking the maiden flight of the C213 Crew Dragon. It will dock at the International Space Station following approximately 28-hour journey in orbit. Who is abroad? The crew consists of Peggy Whitson, an Axiom employee, Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Space Research Organisation, and mission specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, a European Space Agency project astronaut from Poland, and Tibor Kapu representing the Hungarian Space Office. Why is it significant ? The Axiom Mission 4 is crucial for India because it is the first time an Indian will be on the International Space Station, also the second time an Indian cosmonaut will be in orbit, after Rakesh Sharma with Soyuz in 1984 Axiom Mission 4 experiments Axiom Mission 4 will conduct 60 scientific studies representing 31 countries, including India, the US, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and nations across Europe. These experiments include AstroMentalHealth, AstroPerformance, EEG Neurofeedback, Human Gut Microbiota, Human Gut Microbiota, Leopard Data Processing Unit, etc. Shubhanshu Shukla will also conduct experiments developed by the India Space Research Organisation and other Indian institutions, namely studies of screen use, muscle atrophy and other cognitive effects. What does Axiom Space intend to achieve? Axiom Space intends to build the world's first commercial space station once the International Space Station retires. It will allow, government, businesses and research organisations to access space without them developing their own systems. Eventually replacing ISS with a low orbit destination.

<p>Axiom Mission 4 is scheduled to launch today, the first Indian government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in four decades. Here is all you need to know</p>

Axiom Mission 4 liftoff today, taking India’s Shubhanshu Shukla to ISS: Know all the details

<p>Commenting on the recent buzz about him joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday (June 24) clarified that he is not “leaping to join the prime minister's party.” It all began when Tharoor published an article praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Operation Sindoor's outreach initiative. Tharoor said that the article was not an indication of him joining the ruling party, but a call for national unity. Tharoor in the article had described PM Modi's energy and global engagement as a "prime asset" for India. In the article published in The Hindu, Tharoor has also written that the diplomatic outreach following "Operation Sindoor" was a moment of national resolve and effective communication.</p><p><br>Speaking at an event in Moscow, the Thiruvananthapuram MP responded to reactions over his article, and said, “It is not a sign of my leaping to join the prime minister's party (the BJP) as some people unfortunately have been implying,” Tharoor said. “It is a statement of national unity, of national interest and of standing up for India, which to my mind is fundamentally why I came back to India after 25 years of service at the UN.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier, Tharoor's remark about surgical strikes that India has conducted in the last decade during his visit as a part of the Operation Sindoor delegation had not gone down well with his party. The Congress party was quick to highlight that the surgical strikes that were conducted before 2014 as well, with Congress leader Pawan Khera publically criticising him. &nbsp;“I have been working in Congress for the past 16 years. I have some differences of opinion with the party, and I will discuss them inside the party," Tharoor had said after returning to India. He did highlight the difference in opinion, but was clear about the fact that the Congress party, its values and workers are dear to him. "As you know, I have disagreements with the current Congress leadership. Some of them are in the public domain, so you know them. It is better to sort it out within the party by talking to them directly. Congress party, its values, and its workers are dear to me. I have been working with them for the past 16 years, and I have seen their commitment, dedication and idealism," he added.</p><h2>What more Tharoor said in the article?</h2><p>In the article titled, ‘Lessons from Operation Sindoor’s global outreach’ in The Hindu, Tharoor - who was a part of Operation Sindoor's outreach delegation - &nbsp;wrote, “The very composition of our delegations, featuring Members of Parliament (MPs) from diverse political parties, different States and varied faiths, was a potent message in itself. It underscored that when it comes to national security and confronting terrorism, India speaks with one voice. This transcended domestic political differences, imbuing our message with greater credibility and gravitas in the eyes of our international interlocutors. Whether engaging with the President of Guyana or the U.S. Vice-President, the collective resolve of India, represented by its varied political spectrum, resonated deeply.”<br>&nbsp;</p><p>He also praised Prime Minister Modi's "energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage" as a "prime asset" for India on the global stage, adding that the Prime Minister deserved greater support. "While the immediate military action was decisive, the subsequent diplomatic outreach was equally, if not more, vital in shaping global perceptions and consolidating international support," he added.&nbsp;</p><h2>Congress vs BJP over Tharoor's comment</h2><p>The BJP said that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor’s opinion piece has “exposed” the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Office, through its official handle on X, also shared Tharoor’s opinion piece. Meanwhile, in the first open criticism, Congress leader K Muraleedharan targeted Tharoor and said, “he is a member of the working committee. It is quite disgusting that a member of the working committee continues to praise the political opponent of the Congress.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

It all began when Congress leader Shashi Tharoor published an article praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Operation Sindoor's outreach initiative. 

Commenting on the recent buzz about him joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday (June 24) clarified that he is not “leaping to join the prime minister's party.” It all began when Tharoor published an article praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Operation Sindoor's outreach initiative. Tharoor said that the article was not an indication of him joining the ruling party, but a call for national unity. Tharoor in the article had described PM Modi's energy and global engagement as a "prime asset" for India. In the article published in The Hindu, Tharoor has also written that the diplomatic outreach following "Operation Sindoor" was a moment of national resolve and effective communication. Speaking at an event in Moscow, the Thiruvananthapuram MP responded to reactions over his article, and said, “It is not a sign of my leaping to join the prime minister's party (the BJP) as some people unfortunately have been implying,” Tharoor said. “It is a statement of national unity, of national interest and of standing up for India, which to my mind is fundamentally why I came back to India after 25 years of service at the UN.” Earlier, Tharoor's remark about surgical strikes that India has conducted in the last decade during his visit as a part of the Operation Sindoor delegation had not gone down well with his party. The Congress party was quick to highlight that the surgical strikes that were conducted before 2014 as well, with Congress leader Pawan Khera publically criticising him. “I have been working in Congress for the past 16 years. I have some differences of opinion with the party, and I will discuss them inside the party," Tharoor had said after returning to India. He did highlight the difference in opinion, but was clear about the fact that the Congress party, its values and workers are dear to him. "As you know, I have disagreements with the current Congress leadership. Some of them are in the public domain, so you know them. It is better to sort it out within the party by talking to them directly. Congress party, its values, and its workers are dear to me. I have been working with them for the past 16 years, and I have seen their commitment, dedication and idealism," he added. What more Tharoor said in the article? In the article titled, ‘Lessons from Operation Sindoor’s global outreach’ in The Hindu, Tharoor - who was a part of Operation Sindoor's outreach delegation - wrote, “The very composition of our delegations, featuring Members of Parliament (MPs) from diverse political parties, different States and varied faiths, was a potent message in itself. It underscored that when it comes to national security and confronting terrorism, India speaks with one voice. This transcended domestic political differences, imbuing our message with greater credibility and gravitas in the eyes of our international interlocutors. Whether engaging with the President of Guyana or the U.S. Vice-President, the collective resolve of India, represented by its varied political spectrum, resonated deeply.” He also praised Prime Minister Modi's "energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage" as a "prime asset" for India on the global stage, adding that the Prime Minister deserved greater support. "While the immediate military action was decisive, the subsequent diplomatic outreach was equally, if not more, vital in shaping global perceptions and consolidating international support," he added. Congress vs BJP over Tharoor's comment The BJP said that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor’s opinion piece has “exposed” the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Office, through its official handle on X, also shared Tharoor’s opinion piece. Meanwhile, in the first open criticism, Congress leader K Muraleedharan targeted Tharoor and said, “he is a member of the working committee. It is quite disgusting that a member of the working committee continues to praise the political opponent of the Congress.”

<p>It all began when Congress leader Shashi Tharoor published an article praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Operation Sindoor's outreach initiative. Tharoor had previously expressed his difference of opinion with his own party</p>

Will Congress leader Shashi Tharoor join BJP after praising PM Modi? Here's what he says

<p>A new COVID-19 variant, XFG, has become the dominant strain in Madhya Pradesh, revealed a genomic analysis by the Regional Virology Laboratory at AIIMS Bhopal. The institute’s report further said that there was ‘no detection’ of NB.1 (Nimbus variant) in their sequenced samples from the state, despite its classification as a ‘Variant Under Monitoring’ by the WHO.<br>AIIMS Bhopal’s data shows the dominance of XFG in MP, while NB.1.8.1 is more prominent in other regions like Delhi, Maharashtra, and Kerala.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Regional Virology Laboratory at AIIMS Bhopal completed the genome sequencing of 44 Covid-19 positive samples collected between May and June 2025 from Bhopal (14), Gwalior (22), Tikamgarh (2), and one each from Indore, Khargon, Chhindwara, Lalitpur, Sidhi, and Gaya.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The analysis showed the XFG variant as the dominant strain in 28 of 44 samples (63.6%). This variant, which developed from the LF.7 variant, was initially identified in May 2025, increased through early June, and became exclusive by late June.&nbsp;</p><p>XFG.3, a new subvariant evolved from the XFG lineage, also appeared in 5 of the 28 XFG-positive samples.&nbsp;</p><p>The LF.7 variant, which was detected in 50% of samples in May, gradually decreased until it receded completely by late June.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Both XFG and LF.7 have mutations that cause infection even in vaccinated people, but all the cases so far have been mild or asymptomatic. The WHO has not categorised them as ‘Variants of Concern’ or ‘Variants Under Monitoring’.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>AIIMS Bhopal director Dr Ajai Singh said, “AIIMS Bhopal Regional Virology Laboratory is working with scientific rigor to ensure that no emerging viral variant goes undetected. The early detection of variants like XFG and its sub-lineages helps us understand the virus’s behaviour and take timely precautionary public health measures.”</p><p>Regular genomic sequencing serves as an essential component of epidemic preparedness and response.&nbsp;</p><p>This surveillance strategy enables early detection, prompt intervention, and improved readiness against future outbreaks or emerging variants.</p>

Regular genomic sequencing serves as an essential component of epidemic preparedness and response. This surveillance strategy enables early detection, prompt intervention, and improved readiness against future outbreaks or emerging variants.

A new COVID-19 variant, XFG, has become the dominant strain in Madhya Pradesh, revealed a genomic analysis by the Regional Virology Laboratory at AIIMS Bhopal. The institute’s report further said that there was ‘no detection’ of NB.1 (Nimbus variant) in their sequenced samples from the state, despite its classification as a ‘Variant Under Monitoring’ by the WHO. AIIMS Bhopal’s data shows the dominance of XFG in MP, while NB.1.8.1 is more prominent in other regions like Delhi, Maharashtra, and Kerala. The Regional Virology Laboratory at AIIMS Bhopal completed the genome sequencing of 44 Covid-19 positive samples collected between May and June 2025 from Bhopal (14), Gwalior (22), Tikamgarh (2), and one each from Indore, Khargon, Chhindwara, Lalitpur, Sidhi, and Gaya. The analysis showed the XFG variant as the dominant strain in 28 of 44 samples (63.6%). This variant, which developed from the LF.7 variant, was initially identified in May 2025, increased through early June, and became exclusive by late June. XFG.3, a new subvariant evolved from the XFG lineage, also appeared in 5 of the 28 XFG-positive samples. The LF.7 variant, which was detected in 50% of samples in May, gradually decreased until it receded completely by late June. Both XFG and LF.7 have mutations that cause infection even in vaccinated people, but all the cases so far have been mild or asymptomatic. The WHO has not categorised them as ‘Variants of Concern’ or ‘Variants Under Monitoring’. AIIMS Bhopal director Dr Ajai Singh said, “AIIMS Bhopal Regional Virology Laboratory is working with scientific rigor to ensure that no emerging viral variant goes undetected. The early detection of variants like XFG and its sub-lineages helps us understand the virus’s behaviour and take timely precautionary public health measures.” Regular genomic sequencing serves as an essential component of epidemic preparedness and response. This surveillance strategy enables early detection, prompt intervention, and improved readiness against future outbreaks or emerging variants.

<p>Regular genomic sequencing serves as an essential component of epidemic preparedness and response. This surveillance strategy enables early detection, prompt intervention, and improved readiness against future outbreaks or emerging variants.</p>

New Covid variant XFG most prevalent in Madhya Pradesh: AIIMS Bhopal

<p>A 30-year-old woman engineer, deeply offended over being spurned, scripted a dramatic tale of revenge and allegedly sent hoax bomb threats in 11 states to frame her love interest. The accused, Rene Joshilda, used fake email IDs she created in the name of Divij Prabhakar, who did not love her back and got married recently, to frame him. Joshilda used VPNs and fake email IDs to mask her digital footprints and evade being traced and gave police of multiple states a hard time as their investigations always hit a dead end, till one mistake gave her away.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to police, Joshilda completed her engineering in Chennai and then did a course in robotics and was working as a senior consultant at an MNC. During a project in Bengaluru, she met Divij Prabhakar and fell for him, but the feelings were one-sided. Divij never reciprocated her feelings and married someone else in February, leaving her shattered and fuming. Unable to cope with the emotional loss, she seethed with anger and decided to unleash her fury at him.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>She first created several fake email IDs by using variations of his name and started sending bomb threats to schools, hospitals, and sports venues.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Sent mail threats to blow up schools, hospitals, and public venues</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Joshilda sent threats to blow up as many as 21 spots in and around Ahmedabad alone, including the Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera, the Geneva Liberal School in Sarkhej, and a civil hospital, Joint CP (Crime) Ahmedabad, Sharad Singhal, told the media.</p><p>She sent threats to 11 states, including Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Karnataka, Kerala, Bihar, Telangana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana, claiming to target public events and VVIP visits, setting off high security alerts and mobilisation of security forces in vain.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But, on June 12, when Air India’s Ahmedabad-London flight crashed, leading to the loss of at least 274 lives, when the plane hit the BJ Medical College building, the college administration received an email. “I think now you know power. Like we sent you mail yesterday, we crashed the Air India plane with our former CM (Vijay Rupani). We know the police would have thought that the plane crash was a hoax and ignored it. Well done to our pilot. Now you know we are not playing. Now you know.” This mail, police said, has been traced to Rene Joshilda.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>One login mistake helped cops track her</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ahmedabad police officials reveal that Joshilda always covered her tracks well while sending out threats by using her tech expertise. “The number she would use to create email IDs would be virtual. She sent threat emails through the Tor browser (a network for anonymous communication) and the Dark Web. She took several precautions. She was very smart and never revealed her digital trail. But she made a small mistake, and our cybercrime wing and crime branch tracked her down,” Singhal said.</p><p>Joshilda made a mistake six months ago when she logged into her real and fake email accounts from the same device on one occasion. This exposed her IP address and tied her to the hoax emails. “That one careless login gave her away,” a police officer said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Joshilda was arrested from her home in Chennai by Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Police after a months-long investigation. The cops seized devices and digital records from her residence that provided damning evidence.</p>

Joshilda made a mistake six months ago when she logged into her real and fake email accounts from the same device on one occasion. This exposed her IP address and tied her to the hoax emails. “That one careless login gave her away,” a police officer said.

A 30-year-old woman engineer, deeply offended over being spurned, scripted a dramatic tale of revenge and allegedly sent hoax bomb threats in 11 states to frame her love interest. The accused, Rene Joshilda, used fake email IDs she created in the name of Divij Prabhakar, who did not love her back and got married recently, to frame him. Joshilda used VPNs and fake email IDs to mask her digital footprints and evade being traced and gave police of multiple states a hard time as their investigations always hit a dead end, till one mistake gave her away. According to police, Joshilda completed her engineering in Chennai and then did a course in robotics and was working as a senior consultant at an MNC. During a project in Bengaluru, she met Divij Prabhakar and fell for him, but the feelings were one-sided. Divij never reciprocated her feelings and married someone else in February, leaving her shattered and fuming. Unable to cope with the emotional loss, she seethed with anger and decided to unleash her fury at him. She first created several fake email IDs by using variations of his name and started sending bomb threats to schools, hospitals, and sports venues. Sent mail threats to blow up schools, hospitals, and public venues Joshilda sent threats to blow up as many as 21 spots in and around Ahmedabad alone, including the Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera, the Geneva Liberal School in Sarkhej, and a civil hospital, Joint CP (Crime) Ahmedabad, Sharad Singhal, told the media. She sent threats to 11 states, including Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Karnataka, Kerala, Bihar, Telangana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana, claiming to target public events and VVIP visits, setting off high security alerts and mobilisation of security forces in vain. But, on June 12, when Air India’s Ahmedabad-London flight crashed, leading to the loss of at least 274 lives, when the plane hit the BJ Medical College building, the college administration received an email. “I think now you know power. Like we sent you mail yesterday, we crashed the Air India plane with our former CM (Vijay Rupani). We know the police would have thought that the plane crash was a hoax and ignored it. Well done to our pilot. Now you know we are not playing. Now you know.” This mail, police said, has been traced to Rene Joshilda. One login mistake helped cops track her Ahmedabad police officials reveal that Joshilda always covered her tracks well while sending out threats by using her tech expertise. “The number she would use to create email IDs would be virtual. She sent threat emails through the Tor browser (a network for anonymous communication) and the Dark Web. She took several precautions. She was very smart and never revealed her digital trail. But she made a small mistake, and our cybercrime wing and crime branch tracked her down,” Singhal said. Joshilda made a mistake six months ago when she logged into her real and fake email accounts from the same device on one occasion. This exposed her IP address and tied her to the hoax emails. “That one careless login gave her away,” a police officer said. Joshilda was arrested from her home in Chennai by Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Police after a months-long investigation. The cops seized devices and digital records from her residence that provided damning evidence.

<p>Joshilda made a mistake six months ago when she logged into her real and fake email accounts from the same device on one occasion. This exposed her IP address and tied her to the hoax emails. “That one careless login gave her away,” a police officer said.</p>

Spurned woman engineer sends bomb threats to 11 states for framing love interest, arrested

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Spurned woman engineer sends bomb threats to 11 states for framing love interest