National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

In a shocking incident, a 21-year-old woman lost her life after she was thrown from a bridge swing with no safety rope attached at a popular adventure attraction in Brazil. The deceased woman, identified as Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas, died on Saturday after falling approximately 40 metres from a bridge at the Ponte do Esqueleto trail in Limeira, in the state of São Paulo. According to eyewitness and police findings, employees at the attraction reportedly forgot to attach the safety rope to her harness before sending her off the attraction. A video captured the incident has surfaced on social media, which shows de Freitas being carried in a ‘Superman’ position by three employees at the adventure attraction before launching from the bridge. Seconds after she is released, voices can reportedly be heard yelling, “The rope, people, the rope.” Earlier that day, de Freitas had shared posts on her social media profile documenting her visit to the attraction. Through a series of posts, she disclosed the location of the attraction, showed the identification wristbands issued for the activity, and uploaded photos featuring staff members associated with the operation.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">JUST IN: 21-year-old dies after workers forget to attach safety rope and push her off 40-meter bridge in São Paulo’s Limeira, Brazil <a href="https://t.co/ceqniPJkUs">pic.twitter.com/ceqniPJkUs</a>&mdash; Rapid Report (@RapidReport2025) <a href="https://x.com/RapidReport2025/status/2065862054552936513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-origin-man-stabbed-to-death-in-west-london-probe-underway-1781378740814"> Indian origin man stabbed to death in West London; probe underway</a><h3>Netizens react to the incident</h3>Eyewitness told investigators that the staff had forgotten to attach the safety rope before the jump, according to information provided by Brazil’s military police. Following the tragic incident, six people were apprehended at the attraction. Since the video went viral on social media, it has attracted massive outrage, highlighting the safety concern.&nbsp;One of the users wrote, "If it truly was an accident, that moment of letting her go will replay in their minds for the rest of their lives."&nbsp;Suspecting that the employees had forgotten to attach the safety rope, the next user said," They seemed a little too relaxed after the tossing for me to believe it wasn’t intentional."&nbsp;Another also said, "No attachment. No double-check. No “wait, is the cord actually on her?” moment. Just lift, swing, launch, and watch her drop. That’s not “an accident.” That’s criminal-level negligence. The rope was right there. They walked past it. They handled her. They still threw her."&nbsp;

In a tragic accident in Brazil, 21-year-old Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas died after falling 40 meters from a bridge swing. Workers at the São Paulo attraction reportedly forgot to attach the safety rope to her harness before launching her.

In a shocking incident, a 21-year-old woman lost her life after she was thrown from a bridge swing with no safety rope attached at a popular adventure attraction in Brazil. The deceased woman, identified as Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas, died on Saturday after falling approximately 40 metres from a bridge at the Ponte do Esqueleto trail in Limeira, in the state of São Paulo. According to eyewitness and police findings, employees at the attraction reportedly forgot to attach the safety rope to her harness before sending her off the attraction. A video captured the incident has surfaced on social media, which shows de Freitas being carried in a ‘Superman’ position by three employees at the adventure attraction before launching from the bridge. Seconds after she is released, voices can reportedly be heard yelling, “The rope, people, the rope.” Earlier that day, de Freitas had shared posts on her social media profile documenting her visit to the attraction. Through a series of posts, she disclosed the location of the attraction, showed the identification wristbands issued for the activity, and uploaded photos featuring staff members associated with the operation.

In a tragic accident in Brazil, 21-year-old Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas died after falling 40 meters from a bridge swing. Workers at the São Paulo attraction reportedly forgot to attach the safety rope to her harness before launching her.

Woman launched from 40-metre bridge without safety rope in Brazil, falls to death

A major breakthrough has been achieved as researchers at the Universities of Cambridge and Southampton have designed "universal vaccine" using artificial intelligence which has now successfully passed its first human clinical trial. The universal vaccine has been designed against protecting multiple coronavirus strains. The vaccine could offer broader, long-term protection and help the world prepare for future pandemics without constant vaccine updates, according to reports.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/zuckerberg-admits-errors-in-meta-s-ai-transition-says-no-more-company-wide-layoffs-are-expected-this-year-1781346944037">Zuckerberg admits errors in Meta's AI transition, says no more company-wide layoffs are expected this year</a><h2>What we know about the universal vaccine?</h2>Researchers from the University of Cambridge and biotechnology company DIOSynVax (DVX) Ltd reported that this is an experimental vaccine which passed first human clinical trial. They said it was safe and caused no significant side effects in a clinical trial involving 39 healthy volunteers.According to researchers, this vaccine was designed to provide protection across the wider Sarbeco coronavirus family. This group includes SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, as well as SARS and related coronaviruses found in bats that could potentially spill over into humans in the future. The findings were published in the Journal of Infection.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/can-ai-be-your-best-friend-chatgpt-claude-gemini-and-real-humans-respond-1780904234395">Can AI be your best friend? ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini — and real humans respond</a>&nbsp;The fact that this vaccine has been developed using AI, represents a new approach to vaccine development. Researchers used artificial intelligence and computer modeling to create a “super-antigen" capable of triggering immunity against many related viruses at once. This is the first time a vaccine whose active component was designed entirely through computer simulations has been tested in people.

Researchers from the Universities of Cambridge and Southampton have developed an AI-designed universal coronavirus vaccine that has successfully passed its first human trial. Tested on 39 volunteers, it was found safe and could provide broad protection against multiple coronavirus strains

A major breakthrough has been achieved as researchers at the Universities of Cambridge and Southampton have designed "universal vaccine" using artificial intelligence which has now successfully passed its first human clinical trial. The universal vaccine has been designed against protecting multiple coronavirus strains. The vaccine could offer broader, long-term protection and help the world prepare for future pandemics without constant vaccine updates, according to reports. Also Read: Zuckerberg admits errors in Meta's AI transition, says no more company-wide layoffs are expected this year What we know about the universal vaccine? Researchers from the University of Cambridge and biotechnology company DIOSynVax (DVX) Ltd reported that this is an experimental vaccine which passed first human clinical trial. They said it was safe and caused no significant side effects in a clinical trial involving 39 healthy volunteers. According to researchers, this vaccine was designed to provide protection across the wider Sarbeco coronavirus family. This group includes SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, as well as SARS and related coronaviruses found in bats that could potentially spill over into humans in the future. The findings were published in the Journal of Infection. Also Read: Can AI be your best friend? ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini — and real humans respond The fact that this vaccine has been developed using AI, represents a new approach to vaccine development. Researchers used artificial intelligence and computer modeling to create a “super-antigen" capable of triggering immunity against many related viruses at once. This is the first time a vaccine whose active component was designed entirely through computer simulations has been tested in people.

Researchers from the Universities of Cambridge and Southampton have developed an AI-designed universal coronavirus vaccine that has successfully passed its first human trial. Tested on 39 volunteers, it was found safe and could provide broad protection against multiple coronavirus strains

AI just designed 'universal vaccine' — and it cleared first human trial: Could it prevent future pandemics?

An Indian student headed to the United States for a master's degree in Biomedical Engineering has sparked discussion online after sharing his experience of being denied a US student visa following a brief interview at the US Consulate in Mumbai. The student, who had secured admission to Michigan Technological University, said the visa interview lasted only a few minutes and included an unexpected question about whether he had experienced racism or harm in the United States and whether he expected similar issues upon returning.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to his Reddit post, the visa officer interrupted his explanation of why he chose the university and subsequently denied the application under Section 214(b) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act. The student also claimed that several other applicants interviewed at the same counter received similar decisions that day. His account has since drawn attention from international students, triggering discussions about visa interviews, rejection trends, and the US student visa process.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/indian-man-on-h-1b-visa-shares-brutal-experience-after-being-laid-off-wifes-h4-rejection-thinking-of-moving-back-101780841946348.html">Indian man on H-1B visa shares ‘brutal’ experience after being laid off, wife's H4 rejection: ‘Thinking of moving back’</a><h2>What exactly happened?</h2>

The Indian student recounted what he referred to as a challenging day for numerous students attending visa interviews at the Mumbai location. “I think the entire batch got unlucky today,” the student remarked. He said that as soon as he entered the visa interview room, the VO asked him to hand over the passport and as he was describing why he wanted to be a part of Michigan Technological University, he was interrupted and asked if he had encountered any harm or racism in the United States and whether he anticipated facing similar challenges upon his return. The student said that he responded with "No Sir" to both inquiries before being requested to present his Form I-20. The VO then said: “I am sorry but I cannot offer you US visa today.” The denial was allegedly issued under Section 214(b), a clause often referenced in nonimmigrant visa rejections when applicants fail to meet eligibility criteria or persuade consular officials of their intention to return to their home country upon finishing their studies.&nbsp;

An Indian student admitted to Michigan Technological University says his US student visa was denied after being asked about racism during a brief interview at the US Consulate in Mumbai. Shared on Reddit, the incident has sparked debate over F1 visa interviews and Section 214(b) rejections.

An Indian student headed to the United States for a master's degree in Biomedical Engineering has sparked discussion online after sharing his experience of being denied a US student visa following a brief interview at the US Consulate in Mumbai. The student, who had secured admission to Michigan Technological University, said the visa interview lasted only a few minutes and included an unexpected question about whether he had experienced racism or harm in the United States and whether he expected similar issues upon returning. According to his Reddit post, the visa officer interrupted his explanation of why he chose the university and subsequently denied the application under Section 214(b) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act. The student also claimed that several other applicants interviewed at the same counter received similar decisions that day. His account has since drawn attention from international students, triggering discussions about visa interviews, rejection trends, and the US student visa process. Also Read: Indian man on H-1B visa shares ‘brutal’ experience after being laid off, wife's H4 rejection: ‘Thinking of moving back’ What exactly happened?

An Indian student admitted to Michigan Technological University says his US student visa was denied after being asked about racism during a brief interview at the US Consulate in Mumbai. Shared on Reddit, the incident has sparked debate over F1 visa interviews and Section 214(b) rejections.

'Faced racism in the US?': Indian student's visa rejection after unusual question sparks debate

Violence erupted at Patliputra Railway Station in Patna on Sunday (Jun 14) when a protest by candidates appearing for the Bihar Police Prohibition Department recruitment examination turned chaotic. Hundreds gathered at the station, disrupting rail operations, triggering a confrontation with security personnel.According to officials, a large number of students assembled at the station, alleging a lack of adequate transportation arrangements for candidates travelling to examination centres. As tensions escalated, protesters blocked the railway tracks, disrupting the trains and also pelted stones.The situation became worse when police and railway security personnel attempted to clear the area. The police resorted to firing warning shots and tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. According to reports, several officials reportedly suffered minor injuries during the clashes.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">पाटलिपुत्र स्टेशन पर भारी बवाल 🚨😳 छात्रों और रेलवे पुलिस के बीच जम कर पथराव हुआ, कई ट्रेनों के शीशे तोड़े 😱 बिहार पुलिस मद्य निषेध परीक्षा देने जा रहे अभ्यर्थियों ने ट्रेन लेट होने और परीक्षा केंद्र दूर होने पर हंगामा कर दिया। देखते ही देखते पथराव और तोड़फोड़ शुरू हो गई,… <a href="https://t.co/ZFiEEPjMFc">pic.twitter.com/ZFiEEPjMFc</a>&mdash; Bihari Babu (@ZbnX5n) <a href="https://x.com/ZbnX5n/status/2065980592886559133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Patna, Bihar: A protest by exam candidates at Patliputra Railway Station turned violent, with reports of train vandalism. Police used tear gas, fired warning shots, and conducted a baton charge to disperse the crowd. The situation remains tense <a href="https://t.co/ElBCYed38D">pic.twitter.com/ElBCYed38D</a>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://x.com/ians_india/status/2065953043708015061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Patna, Bihar: Visuals of the vandalised train coach at Patliputra Railway Station following the stone-pelting incident earlier today. Senior officials are on the spot to assess the situation, and a heavy police deployment remains at the station to maintain law and… <a href="https://t.co/fTD19xbpyp">pic.twitter.com/fTD19xbpyp</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2065974252373938250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP) and local police launched a joint operation to remove protesters from the tracks and restore train services.Inspector General Jitendra Rana told IANS, “There were around 200–250 students who were preventing a train from departing. When police and railway security personnel tried to persuade them to move, some individuals began pelting stones. To prevent any loss of life or property, necessary action was taken.” He added that train services have since resumed.Security has been tightened at the station, with senior administrative and police officials monitoring the situation on the ground.Patna District Magistrate Thiyagarajan stated that the administration had arranged special trains for examination candidates and that two such services were already available at the station. He alleged that anti-social elements infiltrated the gathering and were responsible for provoking the violence.“We received information late at night about disturbances at the railway station. Officials reached the spot and dispersed the crowd using minimal force. The situation is now completely peaceful and under control,” he added.

A protest by Bihar Police exam candidates turned violent at Patna's Patliputra Railway Station, with train services disrupted, stone-pelting reported, and police firing warning shots and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Violence erupted at Patliputra Railway Station in Patna on Sunday (Jun 14) when a protest by candidates appearing for the Bihar Police Prohibition Department recruitment examination turned chaotic. Hundreds gathered at the station, disrupting rail operations, triggering a confrontation with security personnel. According to officials, a large number of students assembled at the station, alleging a lack of adequate transportation arrangements for candidates travelling to examination centres. As tensions escalated, protesters blocked the railway tracks, disrupting the trains and also pelted stones. The situation became worse when police and railway security personnel attempted to clear the area. The police resorted to firing warning shots and tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. According to reports, several officials reportedly suffered minor injuries during the clashes.

A protest by Bihar Police exam candidates turned violent at Patna's Patliputra Railway Station, with train services disrupted, stone-pelting reported, and police firing warning shots and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Stones pelted, trains vandalised, warning shots fired: Bihar exam protest turns violent at Patna Railway Station | VIDEO

Brazilian supporters turned Times Square into a sea of green and yellow on the eve of the Selecao's opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. On Friday, thousands of fans gathered in the heart of Manhattan to celebrate Brazil's rich football history and show their support ahead of the team's Group C clash with Morocco. The famous intersection of 7th Avenue and Broadway was filled with songs honoring Brazil's five World Cup triumphs in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002.&nbsp;Supporters also unfurled a giant Brazilian flag, creating a vibrant atmosphere in one of New York City's most iconic locations as anticipation builds for the tournament opener. Brazil begin their quest for a record-extending sixth World Cup title on Saturday when they face reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. However, the five-time world champions will be without their biggest star for the opening fixture after Neymar was ruled out due to fitness concerns.&nbsp;Watch the video here

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🇧🇷🟢🟡 Brazil has officially taken over Times Square! 👏 <a href="https://t.co/JzaQUoc6Sf">pic.twitter.com/JzaQUoc6Sf</a>&mdash; Ultras Clips (@ultras_clips) <a href="https://x.com/ultras_clips/status/2065667071292199297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that the 34-year-old will not feature against Morocco but remains hopeful of having the forward available later in the tournament. “He’s working hard to get fit as quickly as possible,” Ancelotti said. Neymar played an important role during Brazil's World Cup qualifying campaign, scoring two goals and providing three assists. He was also absent from Brazil's final warm-up match against Egypt, raising concerns about his condition ahead of the tournament.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VAMOS BRASIL! 🇧🇷 Os torcedores brasileiros já estão presentes em Nova York, nos Estados Unidos, cidade vizinha de Nova Jersey, que será o palco da estreia da seleção brasileira. Um bandeiraço do Rei Pelé marcou o momento no meio da Times Square. Neste sábado (13), os comandados… <a href="https://t.co/6hQ7Bs7LqI">pic.twitter.com/6hQ7Bs7LqI</a>&mdash; ge (@geglobo) <a href="https://x.com/geglobo/status/2065573587961159985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

His absence inevitably brings back memories of the injury setback he suffered during the 2014 World Cup on home soil. While the current issue is far less serious than the vertebrae fracture that ended his campaign 12 years ago, Brazil's medical staff remain cautious with one of the team's most influential players.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">O PROTOCOLO FOI ATIVADO! ATESTADO NA MÃO.<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Original?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Original</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/PlanejamentoCaz%C3%A9TV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlanejamentoCazéTV</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/ElencoCaz%C3%A9TV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElencoCazéTV</a> <a href="https://t.co/uxYk4TeXxx">pic.twitter.com/uxYk4TeXxx</a>&mdash; CazéTV (@CazeTVOficial) <a href="https://x.com/CazeTVOficial/status/2065593877621334202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

An MRI scan conducted before the tournament suggested Neymar could still play a significant role in Brazil's World Cup campaign despite being sidelined in recent weeks with a calf problem. For now, Brazil's focus remains firmly on their opening challenge against Morocco, while fans across New York and beyond continue dreaming of a sixth world title.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A TORCIDA BRASILEIRA CHEGOU!!! 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷 AMANHÃ TEM A ESTREIA DO BRASIL NA COPA!!! 🔥🔥<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Sele%C3%A7%C3%A3oBrasileira?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SeleçãoBrasileira</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/CopaNaCaz%C3%A9TV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CopaNaCazéTV</a> <a href="https://t.co/8os1qW8dzS">pic.twitter.com/8os1qW8dzS</a>&mdash; CazéTV (@CazeTVOficial) <a href="https://x.com/CazeTVOficial/status/2065593076714705144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Brazil fans celebrate in Times Square ahead of the 2026 World Cup opener vs Morocco, but Neymar is ruled out of Brazil’s first match due to injury

Brazilian supporters turned Times Square into a sea of green and yellow on the eve of the Selecao's opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. On Friday, thousands of fans gathered in the heart of Manhattan to celebrate Brazil's rich football history and show their support ahead of the team's Group C clash with Morocco. The famous intersection of 7th Avenue and Broadway was filled with songs honoring Brazil's five World Cup triumphs in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002. Supporters also unfurled a giant Brazilian flag, creating a vibrant atmosphere in one of New York City's most iconic locations as anticipation builds for the tournament opener. Brazil begin their quest for a record-extending sixth World Cup title on Saturday when they face reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. However, the five-time world champions will be without their biggest star for the opening fixture after Neymar was ruled out due to fitness concerns. Watch the video here

Brazil fans flood Times Square ahead of World Cup match against Morocco, but star played Neymar is ruled out of the opener due to injury concerns

WATCH | Brazil fans take over New York's Times Square ahead of FIFA World Cup clash against Morocco

The White House is preparing to host one of the most unusual events in its history as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) stages a fight card on the South Lawn in a first-of-its-kind sporting spectacle. The event, scheduled for Sunday to coincide with President Donald Trump's 80th birthday, will transform one of America's most iconic political landmarks into an outdoor combat sports arena complete with an octagon, thousands of seats and a towering steel structure known as ‘The Claw’.&nbsp;While the White House has long featured recreational facilities, including tennis courts, bowling alleys and a basketball court, it has never hosted a major professional sporting event. The idea reportedly originated with Trump himself, according to UFC president Dana White, highlighting the close relationship between the president and the mixed martial arts promotion. The event also reflects UFC's growing popularity among younger audiences and Trump's political base.&nbsp;Critics, however, have questioned the appropriateness of staging a combat sports event at the White House, while supporters see it as a celebration of American culture and entertainment. The buildup has not been without challenges. Organizers have faced concerns over severe weather, with forecasts suggesting thunderstorms could impact the outdoor event. UFC officials have reportedly stationed meteorologists on-site to monitor changing conditions throughout the weekend.&nbsp;Legal opposition also emerged in the days leading up to the event. A lawsuit filed by the watchdog group Public Integrity Project attempted to block the event, arguing that federal rules related to America's 250th anniversary celebrations were being improperly used to justify the UFC card. The legal challenge was ultimately rejected by a judge. Questions have also been raised regarding Trump's financial ties to UFC parent company TKO Group Holdings after disclosures revealed the president purchased company stock earlier this year.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-own-goal-that-ended-in-murder-the-tragic-story-of-andres-escobar-and-1994-fifa-world-cup-1781352800016">The own goal that ended in murder: The tragic story of Andres Escobar and 1994 FIFA World Cup</a>&nbsp;Despite the controversy, the administration has continued promoting the event. Officials have highlighted UFC's anti-drug policies and cultural influence, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced a partnership between the State Department and the UFC. Rubio described the organization as the "United Nations of fighting", arguing that UFC events bring together people from diverse backgrounds through a shared passion for the sport. At a White House media event, Sara Carter praised heavyweight fighter Derrick Lewis for his anti-drug testing record and public influence.&nbsp;Lewis thanked her, before telling reporters that he didn’t have anything against drugs, generally, but marijuana every now and then helps him out. If anyone wanted to give him a medal for it, he said, he’d take it. The fight card itself features several high-profile bouts. Undefeated lightweight champion Ilia Topuria will face interim champion Justin Gaethje in the main event, while Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane are scheduled to compete for an interim heavyweight title.&nbsp;Approximately 4,300 spectators are expected to attend, including around 1,200 active-duty military personnel. According to reports, military attendees were required to meet specific fitness standards and physical requirements in order to receive tickets.The guest list will also include political donors, lawmakers, UFC executives and members of the administration.&nbsp;Not everyone secured an invitation. UFC champion Sean Strickland claimed he was not cleared to attend the event and suggested it was linked to previous comments he had made on political issues. UFC president Dana White denied those claims. As anticipation builds, attention remains focused on whether weather conditions will cooperate. If the event proceeds as planned, it will mark an unprecedented moment in White House history and further blur the lines between politics, sports and entertainment.

Donald Trump's White House hosts a historic UFC fight night featuring Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje amid legal challenges, controversy and weather concerns

The White House is preparing to host one of the most unusual events in its history as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) stages a fight card on the South Lawn in a first-of-its-kind sporting spectacle. The event, scheduled for Sunday to coincide with President Donald Trump's 80th birthday, will transform one of America's most iconic political landmarks into an outdoor combat sports arena complete with an octagon, thousands of seats and a towering steel structure known as ‘The Claw’. While the White House has long featured recreational facilities, including tennis courts, bowling alleys and a basketball court, it has never hosted a major professional sporting event. The idea reportedly originated with Trump himself, according to UFC president Dana White, highlighting the close relationship between the president and the mixed martial arts promotion. The event also reflects UFC's growing popularity among younger audiences and Trump's political base. Critics, however, have questioned the appropriateness of staging a combat sports event at the White House, while supporters see it as a celebration of American culture and entertainment. The buildup has not been without challenges. Organizers have faced concerns over severe weather, with forecasts suggesting thunderstorms could impact the outdoor event. UFC officials have reportedly stationed meteorologists on-site to monitor changing conditions throughout the weekend. Legal opposition also emerged in the days leading up to the event. A lawsuit filed by the watchdog group Public Integrity Project attempted to block the event, arguing that federal rules related to America's 250th anniversary celebrations were being improperly used to justify the UFC card. The legal challenge was ultimately rejected by a judge. Questions have also been raised regarding Trump's financial ties to UFC parent company TKO Group Holdings after disclosures revealed the president purchased company stock earlier this year. Also Read: The own goal that ended in murder: The tragic story of Andres Escobar and 1994 FIFA World Cup Despite the controversy, the administration has continued promoting the event. Officials have highlighted UFC's anti-drug policies and cultural influence, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced a partnership between the State Department and the UFC. Rubio described the organization as the "United Nations of fighting", arguing that UFC events bring together people from diverse backgrounds through a shared passion for the sport. At a White House media event, Sara Carter praised heavyweight fighter Derrick Lewis for his anti-drug testing record and public influence. Lewis thanked her, before telling reporters that he didn’t have anything against drugs, generally, but marijuana every now and then helps him out. If anyone wanted to give him a medal for it, he said, he’d take it. The fight card itself features several high-profile bouts. Undefeated lightweight champion Ilia Topuria will face interim champion Justin Gaethje in the main event, while Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane are scheduled to compete for an interim heavyweight title. Approximately 4,300 spectators are expected to attend, including around 1,200 active-duty military personnel. According to reports, military attendees were required to meet specific fitness standards and physical requirements in order to receive tickets. The guest list will also include political donors, lawmakers, UFC executives and members of the administration. Not everyone secured an invitation. UFC champion Sean Strickland claimed he was not cleared to attend the event and suggested it was linked to previous comments he had made on political issues. UFC president Dana White denied those claims. As anticipation builds, attention remains focused on whether weather conditions will cooperate. If the event proceeds as planned, it will mark an unprecedented moment in White House history and further blur the lines between politics, sports and entertainment.

Donald Trump's White House will host the first-ever UFC event on the South Lawn, combining politics, sports and controversy in a historic spectacle

Inside Trump's historic UFC event at the White House: Octagon, fighters, controversy and a night like no other

The latest files released by the US Department of War documenting the extraterrestrial, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs) have revived the conspiracy theories about an alien base on the Earth’s natural satellite. This comes after the third batch of UFO files was released by the Pentagon on Friday (Jun 12). Among the files was an audio recording from a secret NASA meeting following the Apollo 16 mission, suggesting a possible “alien base” on the dark side of the moon.Apollo 16, which took place in April 1972, sent astronauts John Young and Charles Duke to explore the Moon’s highland region, while command module pilot Thomas “Ken” Mattingly remained in orbit.During the newly released 55-minute briefing, scientists reviewed data gathered during the mission, including lunar gravity measurements, laser experiments and several unexplained features identified on the Moon’s far side.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/did-cia-destroy-an-alien-message-newly-released-ufo-files-reveal-bizarre-1958-mystery-1781337303228">'Message from space': Did CIA destroy an alien message? Newly released UFO files reveal bizarre 1958 mystery</a>A part of the conversation focused on a large depression near the Van de Graaff crater, a region that has long attracted scientific interest because of its distinctive magnetic and geological properties.While discussing the feature, one participant referred to a “big hole” located in the area. The exchange then took an unexpected turn when another speaker casually suggested that it “could be an alien star base or something” before immediately moving on to the next presentation slide.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An &quot;alien starbase&quot; on the backside of the moon - via the third tranche of declassified UAP files:<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/ufo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ufo</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/uap?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#uap</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/disclosureday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#disclosureday</a> <a href="https://t.co/mK3gRLLxlE">https://t.co/mK3gRLLxlE</a> <a href="https://t.co/WbIYRP495n">pic.twitter.com/WbIYRP495n</a>&mdash; HermaJestar (@HermaJestar) <a href="https://x.com/HermaJestar/status/2065408295016263894?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The comment was made in the middle of a broader technical discussion and was not accompanied by any evidence supporting the idea. It remains unclear whether the remark was intended as a serious observation, speculation or simply a light-hearted aside.The recording has drawn attention because it was absent from official mission transcripts and forms part of a growing archive of declassified documents related to unidentified aerial phenomena and unexplained observations.

A newly released Apollo 16-era NASA audio recording in Pentagon UFO files has reignited Moon conspiracy theories after a participant casually mentioned a possible “alien star base” on the lunar far side.

The latest files released by the US Department of War documenting the extraterrestrial, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs) have revived the conspiracy theories about an alien base on the Earth’s natural satellite. This comes after the third batch of UFO files was released by the Pentagon on Friday (Jun 12). Among the files was an audio recording from a secret NASA meeting following the Apollo 16 mission, suggesting a possible “alien base” on the dark side of the moon. Apollo 16, which took place in April 1972, sent astronauts John Young and Charles Duke to explore the Moon’s highland region, while command module pilot Thomas “Ken” Mattingly remained in orbit. During the newly released 55-minute briefing, scientists reviewed data gathered during the mission, including lunar gravity measurements, laser experiments and several unexplained features identified on the Moon’s far side. Also read | 'Message from space': Did CIA destroy an alien message? Newly released UFO files reveal bizarre 1958 mystery A part of the conversation focused on a large depression near the Van de Graaff crater, a region that has long attracted scientific interest because of its distinctive magnetic and geological properties. While discussing the feature, one participant referred to a “big hole” located in the area. The exchange then took an unexpected turn when another speaker casually suggested that it “could be an alien star base or something” before immediately moving on to the next presentation slide.

A newly released Apollo 16-era NASA audio recording in Pentagon UFO files has reignited Moon conspiracy theories after a participant casually mentioned a possible “alien star base” on the lunar far side.

UFO files: ‘Alien base’ on the moon’s dark side? Secret NASA audio recording from Apollo 16 reveals...

A newly released batch of once-classified UFO files has revived interest in one of the strangest claims buried in Cold War-era intelligence records: a CIA-linked reference to a destroyed "message from space" and its transmitter. The fresh documents were released on Friday (Jun 12) as part of the Trump administration's third tranche of declassified files related to Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs), the government's official term for UFOs. The latest release includes photographs, videos, drawings and intelligence records from military and civilian agencies, adding to a growing public archive that has drawn intense interest in recent months.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rotting-body-discovered-metres-from-iran-team-s-fifa-world-cup-camp-in-tijuana-fifa-2026-1781322053339">'Bad smell' leads to discovery of rotting body near Iran team's FIFA World Cup camp in Tijuana</a><h2>CIA destroyed messages from aliens?</h2>Among the newly scrutinised records is a confidential CIA memorandum dated January 9, 1958. The document recounts a telephone conversation with Dr Leon Davidson, a chemical engineer who worked on the Manhattan Project and later at Los Alamos before becoming an independent researcher of UFO reports.

CIA communication about Dr Leon Davidson and 'destroyed' records from latest UFO file dump

In the memo, CIA official R.P.B. Lohmann wrote that Davidson had been informed the agency could not help resolve his concerns regarding a "space message and its transmitter" because records connected to the matter had already been destroyed."We have contacted Dr Davidson by telephone advising him that we cannot resolve his problem concerning the space message and its transmitter because records on the matter have been destroyed by the evaluating agency," the memo states.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/death-is-only-the-beginning-meta-patents-technology-that-ll-let-ai-run-your-social-media-from-beyond-the-grave-wion-explains-1771304178081">Death is only the beginning? Meta patents tech that'll let AI run your social media from beyond the grave | WION Explains</a>The document offers no further explanation about the nature of the alleged message, who discovered it, or which agency had evaluated and destroyed the records.What makes the memo particularly intriguing is its tone. Lohmann acknowledged that the response given to Davidson was "extraordinarily noncommittal and evasive" and suggested it was crafted to avoid contradicting previous statements made by government agencies.The memo also notes that CIA officials attempted to conceal their identities during conversations with Davidson, although Lohmann conceded that the scientist likely knew who he was dealing with.<h2>Alien starbase on moon?</h2>Davidson was not a fringe figure. Archival records maintained by Columbia University show he spent years collecting and studying UFO reports, eventually assembling what is now known as the Leon Davidson Flying Saucer Collection.The latest release also includes records linked to NASA's Apollo-era missions, including references to an alleged "alien starbase" on the far side of the Moon that reportedly did not appear in official mission transcripts.The Pentagon says public interest in the archive has been unprecedented, with the website hosting the files receiving more than 1.7 billion visits since its launch in May. For UFO researchers, the newly released memo is likely to become one of the most closely examined documents in the collection. &nbsp;

A declassified 1958 CIA memo has resurfaced in the latest UFO document release, revealing a mysterious reference to a destroyed "space message and its transmitter." The files also include claims linked to an alleged alien starbase on the Moon's far side.

A newly released batch of once-classified UFO files has revived interest in one of the strangest claims buried in Cold War-era intelligence records: a CIA-linked reference to a destroyed "message from space" and its transmitter. The fresh documents were released on Friday (Jun 12) as part of the Trump administration's third tranche of declassified files related to Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs), the government's official term for UFOs. The latest release includes photographs, videos, drawings and intelligence records from military and civilian agencies, adding to a growing public archive that has drawn intense interest in recent months. Also read | 'Bad smell' leads to discovery of rotting body near Iran team's FIFA World Cup camp in Tijuana CIA destroyed messages from aliens? Among the newly scrutinised records is a confidential CIA memorandum dated January 9, 1958. The document recounts a telephone conversation with Dr Leon Davidson, a chemical engineer who worked on the Manhattan Project and later at Los Alamos before becoming an independent researcher of UFO reports.

A declassified 1958 CIA memo has resurfaced in the latest UFO document release, revealing a mysterious reference to a destroyed "space message and its transmitter." The files also include claims linked to an alleged alien starbase to the Moon's far side.

'Message from space': Did CIA destroy an alien message? Newly released UFO files reveal bizarre 1958 mystery

In a bizarre incident, Army authorities detained a 21-year-old man posing as a senior Indian Army officer in a sting operation in Uttar Pradesh’s Shahjahanpur Cantonment. The suspect, identified as Aryan Verma, had allegedly spent months presenting himself as a Brigadier and moving around in various districts in military attire. According to officials, concerns about his activities first surfaced earlier this year when reports emerged of a young man frequently appearing in public wearing the insignia of a high-ranking Army officer.After finally locating him, Army personnel devised a strategy to bring him into the cantonment. Investigators reportedly contacted Verma under the guise of civilians and invited him to address aspirants preparing for defence recruitment examinations. Believing the invitation to be genuine, he agreed to attend the event.When Verma arrived at the Shaheed Museum on Friday, Army officials say he was dressed in a Brigadier’s ceremonial uniform and travelling in an SUV decorated with symbols typically associated with senior military officers. He was immediately stopped and taken into custody for questioning.The operation led to the recovery of several items that investigators believe were being used to support the false identity. These included a forged identification card bearing the seal of the dean of the Armed Forces Medical College, a regimental cane and a fake firearm. Authorities also found an identity card allegedly linked to a prestigious military medical institution, which is now under scrutiny.Investigators said Verma was accompanied by two men whom he allegedly introduced as National Security Guard (NSG) commandos. Officials suspect the arrangement was intended to reinforce his claims of holding an influential position within the armed forces.The case has now been handed over to an Army Intelligence team from Bareilly, which is examining how the accused obtained military-style uniforms, insignia and documents. Authorities are also exploring whether other individuals assisted him in maintaining the deception.Preliminary inquiries indicate that Verma had been living in Delhi while preparing for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) examination. Officials said his father is employed in the horticulture department and his mother works as a school teacher.Civil police are expected to register a formal case once the Army concludes its initial investigation and transfers custody of the accused.

A 21-year-old man posing as an Army Brigadier was caught in a Shahjahanpur Cantonment sting operation. Officials seized fake IDs, a replica weapon and military items as investigations continue.

In a bizarre incident, Army authorities detained a 21-year-old man posing as a senior Indian Army officer in a sting operation in Uttar Pradesh’s Shahjahanpur Cantonment. The suspect, identified as Aryan Verma, had allegedly spent months presenting himself as a Brigadier and moving around in various districts in military attire. According to officials, concerns about his activities first surfaced earlier this year when reports emerged of a young man frequently appearing in public wearing the insignia of a high-ranking Army officer. After finally locating him, Army personnel devised a strategy to bring him into the cantonment. Investigators reportedly contacted Verma under the guise of civilians and invited him to address aspirants preparing for defence recruitment examinations. Believing the invitation to be genuine, he agreed to attend the event. When Verma arrived at the Shaheed Museum on Friday, Army officials say he was dressed in a Brigadier’s ceremonial uniform and travelling in an SUV decorated with symbols typically associated with senior military officers. He was immediately stopped and taken into custody for questioning. The operation led to the recovery of several items that investigators believe were being used to support the false identity. These included a forged identification card bearing the seal of the dean of the Armed Forces Medical College, a regimental cane and a fake firearm. Authorities also found an identity card allegedly linked to a prestigious military medical institution, which is now under scrutiny. Investigators said Verma was accompanied by two men whom he allegedly introduced as National Security Guard (NSG) commandos. Officials suspect the arrangement was intended to reinforce his claims of holding an influential position within the armed forces. The case has now been handed over to an Army Intelligence team from Bareilly, which is examining how the accused obtained military-style uniforms, insignia and documents. Authorities are also exploring whether other individuals assisted him in maintaining the deception. Preliminary inquiries indicate that Verma had been living in Delhi while preparing for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) examination. Officials said his father is employed in the horticulture department and his mother works as a school teacher. Civil police are expected to register a formal case once the Army concludes its initial investigation and transfers custody of the accused.

A 21-year-old man posing as an Army Brigadier was caught in a Shahjahanpur Cantonment sting operation. Officials seized fake IDs, a replica weapon and military items as investigations continue.&nbsp;

NEET aspirant posing as fake Brigadier walks into Army trap in UP, arrested – Here’s what happened

A decomposing body was discovered inside the trunk of an abandoned vehicle parked near the stadium where Iran's national football team is training ahead of the FIFA World Cup, authorities said on Friday (Jun 12). The grisly discovery was made in a supermarket parking lot opposite Caliente Stadium in the Mexican border city of Tijuana, where Iran has set up its training base for the tournament.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-opening-ceremony-and-first-game-fan-fest-in-mexico-city-under-cloud-of-protest-1781155832671">FIFA 2026 | Opening ceremony and first game fan fest in Mexico City under cloud of protest</a><h2>How was the rotting body discovered?</h2>AFP, citing its journalists at the scene, said that police found the rotting body in the trunk of a grey Toyota SUV with California licence plates. Videos from the scene show forensic specialists in white protective suits examining and removing the body.According to the Tijuana prosecutor's office, a police patrol located the vehicle after reports from the area. "Upon inspecting the vehicle, they found a person wrapped in a black bag in the trunk, showing signs of violence," a spokesperson said.A security guard at the supermarket told the news agency that they were alerted to the vehicle after passersby reported a strong, foul smell. "That morning they found out because it smelled bad," the guard said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-why-haiti-asked-to-change-jersey-on-eve-of-football-world-cup-1781150472672">FIFA 2026 | Haiti asked to change jersey on eve of football World Cup</a><h2>Dead body was locked in SUV for days</h2>Authorities believe the SUV had been abandoned since Wednesday. With temperatures in Tijuana reaching 28 degrees Celsius, authorities suspect that the body had been left inside the vehicle for several days before being discovered.Prosecutors have launched an investigation to identify the victim and determine the circumstances of the killing.<h2>Is the rotting dead body linked to the Iran World Cup team?</h2>There was no immediate indication that the discovery was linked to the Iranian delegation or the World Cup. However, notably, the incident unfolded just metres from the stadium where Iran's World Cup squad has been training under heightened security. On Friday, the team's convoy departed the stadium only minutes after forensic personnel removed the body from the scene.Iran had originally planned to hold its pre-tournament camp in Arizona but shifted its base to Mexico amid hostilities with the United States. Since arriving in Tijuana, the team has travelled between its hotel and training ground under armed escort.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A decomposing body wrapped in a black bag was discovered inside an abandoned SUV parked near Iran's FIFA World Cup training facility in Tijuana, Mexico. Here's what investigators have revealed so far.

A decomposing body was discovered inside the trunk of an abandoned vehicle parked near the stadium where Iran's national football team is training ahead of the FIFA World Cup, authorities said on Friday (Jun 12). The grisly discovery was made in a supermarket parking lot opposite Caliente Stadium in the Mexican border city of Tijuana, where Iran has set up its training base for the tournament. Also read | FIFA 2026 | Opening ceremony and first game fan fest in Mexico City under cloud of protest How was the rotting body discovered? AFP, citing its journalists at the scene, said that police found the rotting body in the trunk of a grey Toyota SUV with California licence plates. Videos from the scene show forensic specialists in white protective suits examining and removing the body. According to the Tijuana prosecutor's office, a police patrol located the vehicle after reports from the area. "Upon inspecting the vehicle, they found a person wrapped in a black bag in the trunk, showing signs of violence," a spokesperson said. A security guard at the supermarket told the news agency that they were alerted to the vehicle after passersby reported a strong, foul smell. "That morning they found out because it smelled bad," the guard said. Also read | FIFA 2026 | Haiti asked to change jersey on eve of football World Cup Dead body was locked in SUV for days Authorities believe the SUV had been abandoned since Wednesday. With temperatures in Tijuana reaching 28 degrees Celsius, authorities suspect that the body had been left inside the vehicle for several days before being discovered. Prosecutors have launched an investigation to identify the victim and determine the circumstances of the killing. Is the rotting dead body linked to the Iran World Cup team? There was no immediate indication that the discovery was linked to the Iranian delegation or the World Cup. However, notably, the incident unfolded just metres from the stadium where Iran's World Cup squad has been training under heightened security. On Friday, the team's convoy departed the stadium only minutes after forensic personnel removed the body from the scene. Iran had originally planned to hold its pre-tournament camp in Arizona but shifted its base to Mexico amid hostilities with the United States. Since arriving in Tijuana, the team has travelled between its hotel and training ground under armed escort.

A decomposing body wrapped in a black bag was discovered inside an abandoned SUV parked near Iran's FIFA World Cup training facility in Tijuana, Mexico. Here's what investigators have revealed so far.

'Bad smell' leads to discovery of rotting body near Iran team's FIFA World Cup camp in Tijuana

A US deportation flight carrying migrants from countries including Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey and Georgia landed in the Central African Republic (CAR) on Friday (Jun 12), according to lawyers and activists familiar with the operation. The flight marks the latest example of the Trump administration's increasingly controversial practice of deporting migrants to third countries with which they have no apparent connection.The aircraft departed from Alexandria, Louisiana, on Thursday evening and made a scheduled stop in Ghana before arriving in the Central African capital of Bangui later on Friday, according to ICE Flight Monitor, a tracking project affiliated with Human Rights First.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plans-to-deport-iranian-migrants-to-central-african-republic-despite-persecution-torture-concerns-1781223346924">US plans to deport Iranian migrants to Central African Republic despite persecution, torture concerns</a><h2>Deported despite 'withholding of removal' protection</h2>Lawyers involved in the case told AFP that several of those on board had previously received "withholding of removal", a form of legal protection that prevents deportation to a person's home country if they are deemed likely to face persecution or danger there. While the status offers fewer protections than asylum, it has historically shielded recipients from being returned to countries they fled.Among those reportedly scheduled for removal were at least two Iranian women. Their attorney, Emily Trostle, said there were concerns that deportees could eventually be sent back to their countries of origin through onward removals.The deportation comes as the Trump administration continues to widen both the scope of its immigration crackdown and the range of destinations used for removals. Washington maintains that migrants granted withholding of removal cannot be sent to their home countries, but can legally be deported elsewhere.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-s-safest-countries-in-2026-did-india-make-it-to-the-top-10-global-peace-index-2026-1781246718561">World's Safest Countries in 2026: Did India make it to the top 10? Here's where it ranks</a><h2>'Do not...for any reason': What will happen to the deportees in Central African Republic?</h2>Questions remain over what will happen to the deportees in the Central African Republic, one of the world's poorest and most fragile nations. The US State Department currently advises Americans not to travel to the country "for any reason" due to security concerns. "Do not travel to Central African Republic for any reason," reads the advisory.Although security has improved in recent years with support from UN peacekeepers, Rwandan troops and Russian-linked Wagner forces, armed groups continue to operate across parts of the mineral-rich nation.As per the report, little is known about the agreement that allowed the transfer. Central African authorities have not publicly explained whether the migrants will remain in the country, be allowed to seek asylum, or be moved elsewhere. Washington argues that the "withholding of removal" only protects migrants from being sent to their home countries. However, some people have been further deported to their home countries, where they face persecution and torture threats, from Ghana and Equatorial Guinea, another African hub. &nbsp;

A US deportation flight carrying migrants from Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey has arrived in Central African Republic. Several deportees reportedly held legal protections preventing their return home, raising fresh concerns about Trump administration's expanding third-country deportation policy.

A US deportation flight carrying migrants from countries including Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey and Georgia landed in the Central African Republic (CAR) on Friday (Jun 12), according to lawyers and activists familiar with the operation. The flight marks the latest example of the Trump administration's increasingly controversial practice of deporting migrants to third countries with which they have no apparent connection. The aircraft departed from Alexandria, Louisiana, on Thursday evening and made a scheduled stop in Ghana before arriving in the Central African capital of Bangui later on Friday, according to ICE Flight Monitor, a tracking project affiliated with Human Rights First. Also read | US plans to deport Iranian migrants to Central African Republic despite persecution, torture concerns Deported despite 'withholding of removal' protection Lawyers involved in the case told AFP that several of those on board had previously received "withholding of removal", a form of legal protection that prevents deportation to a person's home country if they are deemed likely to face persecution or danger there. While the status offers fewer protections than asylum, it has historically shielded recipients from being returned to countries they fled. Among those reportedly scheduled for removal were at least two Iranian women. Their attorney, Emily Trostle, said there were concerns that deportees could eventually be sent back to their countries of origin through onward removals. The deportation comes as the Trump administration continues to widen both the scope of its immigration crackdown and the range of destinations used for removals. Washington maintains that migrants granted withholding of removal cannot be sent to their home countries, but can legally be deported elsewhere. Also read | World's Safest Countries in 2026: Did India make it to the top 10? Here's where it ranks 'Do not...for any reason': What will happen to the deportees in Central African Republic? Questions remain over what will happen to the deportees in the Central African Republic, one of the world's poorest and most fragile nations. The US State Department currently advises Americans not to travel to the country "for any reason" due to security concerns. "Do not travel to Central African Republic for any reason," reads the advisory. Although security has improved in recent years with support from UN peacekeepers, Rwandan troops and Russian-linked Wagner forces, armed groups continue to operate across parts of the mineral-rich nation. As per the report, little is known about the agreement that allowed the transfer. Central African authorities have not publicly explained whether the migrants will remain in the country, be allowed to seek asylum, or be moved elsewhere. Washington argues that the "withholding of removal" only protects migrants from being sent to their home countries. However, some people have been further deported to their home countries, where they face persecution and torture threats, from Ghana and Equatorial Guinea, another African hub.

A US deportation flight carrying migrants from Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey has arrived in Central African Republic. Several deportees reportedly held legal protections preventing their return home, raising fresh concerns about Trump administration's expanding third-country deportation policy.

Trump administration deports Iranian migrants to nation US warns against visiting 'for any reason'

Mongolia is a country that takes keen interest in preserving diverse fossils of the world and that is why it is one of the most favoured targets of black market smuggles who steal and smuggle the fossils. But recent international recovery efforts, have helped Mongolia recover a rare dinosaur skeleton and a trove of fossils illegally exported nearly 20 years ago, authorities said.&nbsp;The recovery includes a Tarbosaurus bataar skeleton that is estimated to be be over 50 per cent intact, along with 28 groups of fossilised dinosaur remains originally found in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, according to police. This also includes a half-complete, extremely rare relative of Tyrannosaurus rex.&nbsp;According to D Munkhkhuyag, head of the police public relations department, smugglers “with the aim of making a profit”, had smuggled the bones out of the country in 2006.<h2>France discovered first specimens</h2>&nbsp;It was in 2013 that French customs officials discovered some of the first specimens. For more than two years France and Mongolia worked together under international illicit cultural heritage trafficking laws to repatriate the fossils.&nbsp;In December 2025, France held a formal handover ceremony in Paris where representatives from both countries were present.&nbsp;Museum paleontologists in Mongolia will clean the fossils before it is put on display for the public after its recovery.&nbsp;Some of the recovered fossil fragments are that of theropods, ornithomimosaurs, and hadrosaurs that roamed the Gobi Desert about 65 to 70 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous.&nbsp;Although arid and cold today, the Gobi Desert was once a humid and diverse floodplain with dense forest and river channels. &nbsp;

For more than two years France and Mongolia worked together under international illicit cultural heritage trafficking laws to repatriate the fossils.

Mongolia is a country that takes keen interest in preserving diverse fossils of the world and that is why it is one of the most favoured targets of black market smuggles who steal and smuggle the fossils. But recent international recovery efforts, have helped Mongolia recover a rare dinosaur skeleton and a trove of fossils illegally exported nearly 20 years ago, authorities said. The recovery includes a Tarbosaurus bataar skeleton that is estimated to be be over 50 per cent intact, along with 28 groups of fossilised dinosaur remains originally found in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, according to police. This also includes a half-complete, extremely rare relative of Tyrannosaurus rex. According to D Munkhkhuyag, head of the police public relations department, smugglers “with the aim of making a profit”, had smuggled the bones out of the country in 2006. France discovered first specimens It was in 2013 that French customs officials discovered some of the first specimens. For more than two years France and Mongolia worked together under international illicit cultural heritage trafficking laws to repatriate the fossils. In December 2025, France held a formal handover ceremony in Paris where representatives from both countries were present. Museum paleontologists in Mongolia will clean the fossils before it is put on display for the public after its recovery. Some of the recovered fossil fragments are that of theropods, ornithomimosaurs, and hadrosaurs that roamed the Gobi Desert about 65 to 70 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous. Although arid and cold today, the Gobi Desert was once a humid and diverse floodplain with dense forest and river channels.

For more than two years France and Mongolia worked together under international illicit cultural heritage trafficking laws to repatriate the fossils.

Rare dinosaur fossils of theropods, ornithischian return to Mongolia after 20 years

Long before England lifted the World Cup on home soil in 1966, the tournament faced a crisis that threatened to overshadow the entire event. Four months before kickoff, the coveted Jules Rimet Trophy was stolen from a public exhibition in London, sparking a nationwide manhunt that would eventually be solved by an unlikely hero, a mixed-breed collie named Pickles.<h2>A trophy vanishes</h2>The story began on March 20, 1966, when the Football Association (FA) agreed to display the Jules Rimet Trophy at the Stanley Gibbons Stampex exhibition, “Sport with Stamps,” held at Methodist Central Hall in Westminster. Valued at £3,000 and displayed alongside rare stamps worth an estimated £3 million, the trophy was considered one of the exhibition’s main attractions. Then-FIFA President Stanley Rous approved the display under strict security conditions. The trophy was transported by a reputable company, kept inside a locked display case, guarded by security personnel, and insured for £30,000.&nbsp;Despite these precautions, a major flaw remained. Security coverage was not continuous, leaving gaps when the exhibition was closed. Taking advantage of the lapse, a thief entered through a rear door and stole the trophy in broad daylight sometime between 11 a.m. and 12:10 pm. Even more baffling was the fact that the thief ignored the far more valuable stamp collection and took only the World Cup trophy. The theft was a major embarrassment for authorities. The Metropolitan Police had no immediate leads and conflicting witness descriptions complicated the investigation.<h2>The ransom note</h2>Days later, FA chairman Joe Mears received a ransom note signed by someone calling himself “Jackson.” The note read: “Dear Joe Kno doubt you view with very much concern the loss of the World Cup ... To me it is only so much scrap gold. If I don’t hear from you by Thursday or Friday at the latest I assume it’s one for the POT.” The sender demanded £15,000 for the trophy’s return.&nbsp;Detective Inspector Len Buggy posed as Mears’s assistant and arranged a meeting with the alleged thief in Battersea Park. Carrying a briefcase filled mostly with newspapers, Buggy waited for the exchange. However, the suspect spotted police surveillance nearby and fled. He was quickly arrested and identified as Edward Betchley. Investigators soon discovered he was merely a middleman and did not possess the trophy. With no further leads, the investigation stalled.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/104-matches-16-cities-3-countries-the-massive-broadcast-operation-behind-fifa-world-cup-2026-1781279302683">104 matches, 16 cities, 3 countries: The massive broadcast operation behind FIFA World Cup 2026</a><h2>Enter Pickles</h2>Everything changed on the morning of March 27. David Corbett stepped outside his home with his dog Pickles. He planned to make a phone call from a nearby telephone box before taking his collie for a walk. As they passed a neighbor’s car, Pickles became interested in a suspicious package hidden in nearby bushes. Wrapped in newspaper and tied with string, the parcel seemed unusual enough to attract Corbett’s attention.&nbsp;Recalling the moment years later, Corbett told FIFA: “I picked it up and it’s quite heavy, though not very big; it wasn’t a spectacular cup.” “At the time the IRA (Irish Republican Army) were at large, so I personally thought it was a bomb. So I put it down. Picked it up, put it down again. Then curiosity took hold. I tore a bit off the bottom and there was a plain disc. Then I tore around and there was Brazil, Germany, Uruguay. I ran back in and said to my wife: ‘I think I’ve found the World Cup!’”&nbsp;Corbett immediately delivered the trophy to Cannon Row Police Station. Ironically, police initially viewed him as the prime suspect. Finding the missing World Cup trophy outside his own home seemed too incredible to be a coincidence. After extensive questioning, authorities cleared Corbett of any involvement. The investigation never conclusively determined who had originally hidden the trophy in the bushes.<h2>Overnight celebrity</h2>With the mystery solved, Pickles became an instant national celebrity. The collie appeared on television, starred in the film The Spy With a Cold Nose, received a medal from the National Canine Defence League (now Dogs Trust), and was rewarded with a year's supply of dog food. Corbett also received a £5,000 reward for recovering the trophy. The newfound fame came with memorable moments. Corbett later admitted to feeling embarrassed when Pickles relieved himself on elevator doors at the hotel hosting England’s World Cup winners' banquet—a celebration to which both owner and dog had been invited.<h2>England’s historic triumph</h2>Four months after the trophy was recovered, England completed one of the most memorable chapters in football history. The Three Lions defeated West Germany 4-2 after extra time in the 1966 World Cup Final. Geoff Hurst scored a historic hat-trick, becoming the first player ever to achieve the feat in a World Cup final.&nbsp;The record stood for 56 years until Kylian Mbappe matched it for France against Argentina in the 2022 World Cup Final.England captain Bobby Moore proudly lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy, the same trophy that had nearly vanished forever months earlier. Pickles was there to celebrate with the team, forever cementing his place in football folklore. Although the collie died just a year later, his remarkable discovery ensured that his legacy would endure as the dog who helped save the 1966 FIFA World Cup.

Discover the incredible true story of Pickles, the dog who found the stolen 1966 World Cup trophy. Learn how a bizarre theft, ransom plot, and canine hero saved football’s biggest tournament

Long before England lifted the World Cup on home soil in 1966, the tournament faced a crisis that threatened to overshadow the entire event. Four months before kickoff, the coveted Jules Rimet Trophy was stolen from a public exhibition in London, sparking a nationwide manhunt that would eventually be solved by an unlikely hero, a mixed-breed collie named Pickles. A trophy vanishes The story began on March 20, 1966, when the Football Association (FA) agreed to display the Jules Rimet Trophy at the Stanley Gibbons Stampex exhibition, “Sport with Stamps,” held at Methodist Central Hall in Westminster. Valued at £3,000 and displayed alongside rare stamps worth an estimated £3 million, the trophy was considered one of the exhibition’s main attractions. Then-FIFA President Stanley Rous approved the display under strict security conditions. The trophy was transported by a reputable company, kept inside a locked display case, guarded by security personnel, and insured for £30,000. Despite these precautions, a major flaw remained. Security coverage was not continuous, leaving gaps when the exhibition was closed. Taking advantage of the lapse, a thief entered through a rear door and stole the trophy in broad daylight sometime between 11 a.m. and 12:10 pm. Even more baffling was the fact that the thief ignored the far more valuable stamp collection and took only the World Cup trophy. The theft was a major embarrassment for authorities. The Metropolitan Police had no immediate leads and conflicting witness descriptions complicated the investigation. The ransom note Days later, FA chairman Joe Mears received a ransom note signed by someone calling himself “Jackson.” The note read: “Dear Joe Kno doubt you view with very much concern the loss of the World Cup ... To me it is only so much scrap gold. If I don’t hear from you by Thursday or Friday at the latest I assume it’s one for the POT.” The sender demanded £15,000 for the trophy’s return. Detective Inspector Len Buggy posed as Mears’s assistant and arranged a meeting with the alleged thief in Battersea Park. Carrying a briefcase filled mostly with newspapers, Buggy waited for the exchange. However, the suspect spotted police surveillance nearby and fled. He was quickly arrested and identified as Edward Betchley. Investigators soon discovered he was merely a middleman and did not possess the trophy. With no further leads, the investigation stalled. Also Read: 104 matches, 16 cities, 3 countries: The massive broadcast operation behind FIFA World Cup 2026 Enter Pickles Everything changed on the morning of March 27. David Corbett stepped outside his home with his dog Pickles. He planned to make a phone call from a nearby telephone box before taking his collie for a walk. As they passed a neighbor’s car, Pickles became interested in a suspicious package hidden in nearby bushes. Wrapped in newspaper and tied with string, the parcel seemed unusual enough to attract Corbett’s attention. Recalling the moment years later, Corbett told FIFA: “I picked it up and it’s quite heavy, though not very big; it wasn’t a spectacular cup.” “At the time the IRA (Irish Republican Army) were at large, so I personally thought it was a bomb. So I put it down. Picked it up, put it down again. Then curiosity took hold. I tore a bit off the bottom and there was a plain disc. Then I tore around and there was Brazil, Germany, Uruguay. I ran back in and said to my wife: ‘I think I’ve found the World Cup!’” Corbett immediately delivered the trophy to Cannon Row Police Station. Ironically, police initially viewed him as the prime suspect. Finding the missing World Cup trophy outside his own home seemed too incredible to be a coincidence. After extensive questioning, authorities cleared Corbett of any involvement. The investigation never conclusively determined who had originally hidden the trophy in the bushes. Overnight celebrity With the mystery solved, Pickles became an instant national celebrity. The collie appeared on television, starred in the film The Spy With a Cold Nose, received a medal from the National Canine Defence League (now Dogs Trust), and was rewarded with a year's supply of dog food. Corbett also received a £5,000 reward for recovering the trophy. The newfound fame came with memorable moments. Corbett later admitted to feeling embarrassed when Pickles relieved himself on elevator doors at the hotel hosting England’s World Cup winners' banquet—a celebration to which both owner and dog had been invited. England’s historic triumph Four months after the trophy was recovered, England completed one of the most memorable chapters in football history. The Three Lions defeated West Germany 4-2 after extra time in the 1966 World Cup Final. Geoff Hurst scored a historic hat-trick, becoming the first player ever to achieve the feat in a World Cup final. The record stood for 56 years until Kylian Mbappe matched it for France against Argentina in the 2022 World Cup Final. England captain Bobby Moore proudly lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy, the same trophy that had nearly vanished forever months earlier. Pickles was there to celebrate with the team, forever cementing his place in football folklore. Although the collie died just a year later, his remarkable discovery ensured that his legacy would endure as the dog who helped save the 1966 FIFA World Cup.

A collie named Pickles solved one of football’s greatest mysteries by finding the stolen 1966 FIFA World Cup trophy in a London hedge, saving England’s tournament from disaster

The dog who saved the 1966 FIFA World Cup: How Pickles Solved football's greatest mystery

German mathematician Joachim Klement has predicted that the Netherlands will win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite insisting that nobody should take his forecast too seriously. Klement has built a reputation for accurately predicting the last three World Cup winners. His model correctly identified Germany as champions in 2014, France in 2018, and Argentina in 2022.&nbsp;Speaking to Der Spiegel, Klement revealed that he originally created the model to prove that forecasting a World Cup winner was virtually impossible. However, when his first prediction came true, even he was surprised. "The first time I was horrified when Germany became world champions in Brazil, also because all the experts had pointed out that no European team had ever won a World Cup in South America," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kane-williamson-announces-retirement-from-international-cricket-1781258980691">Kane Williamson, former New Zealand captain, announces retirement from international cricket</a>&nbsp;Klement's model evaluates several factors, including GDP per capita, population size, football's cultural importance within a country, FIFA rankings, and a significant element of luck. Based on his calculations, the Netherlands are projected to defeat Spain in the semifinals before overcoming Portugal in the final to lift their first-ever World Cup trophy. Portugal, according to the model, will reach the final after defeating England in the other semifinal.&nbsp;Despite his impressive track record, Klement warns against relying on his predictions for betting purposes. "It's completely irrational," he said. "It's like playing the lottery. I always say that if anyone places a bet based on my prediction of who will be the next world champion, they're beyond help.&nbsp;“It's like tossing a coin. You might predict that the coin will land on heads four times in a row rather than tails, and that might well happen. But that doesn't guarantee it will happen again next time.” The Netherlands have reached three World Cup finals in their history but have never won the tournament. Under Ronald Koeman, the Dutch side will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Japan on June 14 before facing Sweden and Tunisia in Group F.

Joachim Klement, the mathematician who correctly predicted the last three World Cup champions, says the Netherlands will win the 2026 FIFA World Cup. See his full prediction, model, and projected finalists

German mathematician Joachim Klement has predicted that the Netherlands will win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite insisting that nobody should take his forecast too seriously. Klement has built a reputation for accurately predicting the last three World Cup winners. His model correctly identified Germany as champions in 2014, France in 2018, and Argentina in 2022. Speaking to Der Spiegel, Klement revealed that he originally created the model to prove that forecasting a World Cup winner was virtually impossible. However, when his first prediction came true, even he was surprised. "The first time I was horrified when Germany became world champions in Brazil, also because all the experts had pointed out that no European team had ever won a World Cup in South America," he said. Also Read: Kane Williamson, former New Zealand captain, announces retirement from international cricket Klement's model evaluates several factors, including GDP per capita, population size, football's cultural importance within a country, FIFA rankings, and a significant element of luck. Based on his calculations, the Netherlands are projected to defeat Spain in the semifinals before overcoming Portugal in the final to lift their first-ever World Cup trophy. Portugal, according to the model, will reach the final after defeating England in the other semifinal. Despite his impressive track record, Klement warns against relying on his predictions for betting purposes. "It's completely irrational," he said. "It's like playing the lottery. I always say that if anyone places a bet based on my prediction of who will be the next world champion, they're beyond help. “It's like tossing a coin. You might predict that the coin will land on heads four times in a row rather than tails, and that might well happen. But that doesn't guarantee it will happen again next time.” The Netherlands have reached three World Cup finals in their history but have never won the tournament. Under Ronald Koeman, the Dutch side will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Japan on June 14 before facing Sweden and Tunisia in Group F.

Mathematician Joachim Klement, who correctly predicted the last three World Cup winners, forecasts the Netherlands will win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Portugal in the final

Mathematician who correctly predicted last 3 World Cup winners reveals FIFA World Cup 2026 champion

War, terrorism, political instability and humanitarian crises continue to shape the world's least peaceful nations. Here are the 10 most dangerous countries in the world as per the latest Global Peace Index rankings.

From Russia to Syria: 10 Most dangerous countries in the world – Check full list

Every silk saree begins with a silkworm spinning a cocoon around itself. For most of those silkworms, that cocoon becomes a tomb. Few fabrics symbolise India's heritage quite like silk. From the royalty of the past to the traditions that defied ages to stay relevant even today, the luxurious "queen of textiles" remains woven into the fabric of Indian heritage. Revered for centuries and often used as a symbol of the country's craftsmanship, silk continues to feature prominently in India's diplomatic gifting tradition. In May 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a Maheshwari silk fabric to the UAE Queen Mother and gifted silk stoles to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Hidden in the threads of the luxurious textile lies a cruelty that consumes the lives of tens of thousands of living beings... while remaining largely hidden from public view.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-rescue-seeds-from-this-last-remaining-tree-in-wild-before-it-goes-extinct-1780742850347">Scientists rescue seeds from THIS last remaining tree in wild before it goes extinct</a><h2>Threads of cruelty</h2>An undercover investigation by the India leg of Reporters for Animals in the Malda and Murshidabad districts of West Bengal, India, confirmed the harrowing process in which silk is produced.Speaking to WION on the condition of anonymity, investigators from Reporters for Animals confirmed that approximately 6,000 to 10,000 cocoons are boiled alive to make just one silk saree. "To obtain long, continuous silk fibres, cocoons are collected before the moth can emerge. If the moth exits naturally, it breaks the silk filament, reducing its commercial value. As a result, the cocoons are boiled or steamed while the pupae remain inside," said RFA.

Silkworm cocoons boil in a heated basin at a silk-reeling workshop.

For those who don't know how silk is made, sericulture or the breeding of silkworms, is one of the primary steps in the process. The practice dates back at least 5,000 years and spread from China to India, Korea, Nepal, Japan and the West. Traditionally, silk making involves boiling cocoons of the silkworm to unravel the silk filaments.The investigation found that despite non-violent varieties like Ahimsa Silk and Eri Silk being around for decades, the cruel process of boiling or steaming a cocoon even as the pupae remains inside continues to this day.<h2>The livelihood</h2>The inherent cruelty in the process of making conventional silk remains a well-known reality. Yet, India remains torn between the decades-old debate of human vs animal rights.Any discussion of reform runs into a difficult reality: millions of Indians depend on sericulture and silk weaving for their livelihoods. As per the Government of India's Trade Portal, our nation is the second-largest producer of silk globally. The industry remains one of the largest foreign exchange earners for the country. The sericulture industry alone employs 9.76 million people across 52,360 villages.However, "economic importance does not negate ethical responsibility," noted RFA. "Rather, it highlights the need for nuanced conversations that acknowledge multiple stakeholders while remaining honest about the realities of production," they said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-world-s-largest-whale-graveyard-hidden-7km-beneath-the-indian-ocean-1781170611094">Scientists discover world's largest 'whale graveyard' hidden 7km beneath the Indian Ocean</a><h2>More than just humans vs animals</h2>The ethical questions surrounding silk are not limited to silkworm welfare. The advocacy group also raised concerns about labour conditions across parts of the supply chain. The RFA investigation highlighted concerns extending beyond the treatment of silkworms themselves. Many studies and reports on the silk industry have raised serious concerns about how workers are treated. Problems include child labour, unfair or exploitative working conditions, and health risks at the workplace. What risks? People who work in reeling and processing silk often have to deal with very high temperatures and repetitive, physically demanding tasks. They may also suffer from breathing problems and come into contact with chemicals that are used during the growing and manufacturing of silk. These conditions can harm their health over time.

A worker stirs silkworm cocoons in a large vat of hot water at a traditional silk-reeling unit in West Bengal.

Mulberry farming also creates environmental challenges. To support large numbers of silkworms, farmers often need intensive production, which can involve heavy use of pesticides. This raises concerns about damage to local ecosystems and risks to human health.<h2>So, what can you as a consumer do?</h2>RFA insisted that it "does not seek to erase centuries of tradition". Instead, the organisation said it was hoping to "illuminate realities that have remained largely invisible to the public". The organisation noted that consumers concerned about animal welfare could opt for less cruel alternatives like Eri Silk. "Silk will undoubtedly continue to occupy an important place within India's cultural and economic landscape. Its beauty, artistry and heritage remain undeniable. Yet beauty and scrutiny need not be mutually exclusive. Indeed, true appreciation of any craft requires an honest understanding of its origins," it noted.For many Indians, silk remains inseparable from weddings, festivals and tradition. Yet the investigation raises a question that consumers rarely ask: how much do we really know about the journey from cocoon to cloth?

Silk is one of India's most cherished textiles and remains deeply embedded in the country's culture, economy and diplomatic traditions. However, an undercover investigation by Reporters for Animals in West Bengal highlights the hidden cost of conventional silk production.

Every silk saree begins with a silkworm spinning a cocoon around itself. For most of those silkworms, that cocoon becomes a tomb. Few fabrics symbolise India's heritage quite like silk. From the royalty of the past to the traditions that defied ages to stay relevant even today, the luxurious "queen of textiles" remains woven into the fabric of Indian heritage. Revered for centuries and often used as a symbol of the country's craftsmanship, silk continues to feature prominently in India's diplomatic gifting tradition. In May 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a Maheshwari silk fabric to the UAE Queen Mother and gifted silk stoles to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Hidden in the threads of the luxurious textile lies a cruelty that consumes the lives of tens of thousands of living beings... while remaining largely hidden from public view. Also read | Scientists rescue seeds from THIS last remaining tree in wild before it goes extinct Threads of cruelty An undercover investigation by the India leg of Reporters for Animals in the Malda and Murshidabad districts of West Bengal, India, confirmed the harrowing process in which silk is produced. Speaking to WION on the condition of anonymity, investigators from Reporters for Animals confirmed that approximately 6,000 to 10,000 cocoons are boiled alive to make just one silk saree. "To obtain long, continuous silk fibres, cocoons are collected before the moth can emerge. If the moth exits naturally, it breaks the silk filament, reducing its commercial value. As a result, the cocoons are boiled or steamed while the pupae remain inside," said RFA.

Silk is one of India's most cherished textiles and remains deeply embedded in the country's culture, economy and diplomatic traditions. However, an undercover investigation by Reporters for Animals in West Bengal highlights the hidden cost of conventional silk production.

'Threads of cruelty': Caught between heritage, livelihoods and animal welfare - India's silk dilemma

India's defence system is going through a massive paradigm shift as it is likely to order over $2 billion worth of military drones from domestic firms, marking the biggest such purchase. The move comes after global and regional conflicts have boosted demand for high-tech defence equipment. The proposal is at an advanced stage, with deliveries expected to be completed within the next 18 to 24 months. While mainstream attention on defence deals is completely on high-profile drone manufacturers and aircraft startups, the true rush is taking place quietly in the components used to manufacture this technology. Among all critical components, battery technology is becoming the strategic winner in advancing defence technology. The proposed acquisition also includes energy storage systems, battery management technologies and testing infrastructure. An expert indicated that batteries are emerging as a key player in the modern drone operations, directly influencing flight timing, payload capacity, operational reliability and mission readiness. "India's planned $2 billion drone procurement is not just a boost for drone manufacturers—it is a catalyst for the entire defence technology supply chain. Batteries are emerging as one of the most critical technologies in modern unmanned systems because they directly determine flight endurance, mission reliability, payload capability, and operational readiness. As drones become integral to surveillance, logistics, precision strike, and autonomous operations, the demand for high-performance, safe, and mission-critical energy systems will grow exponentially," Kajal Shah, Co-founder &amp; CEO, Dreamfly Innovations. "For India to build a truly self-reliant drone ecosystem, the country must also develop indigenous capabilities in advanced battery systems, battery management electronics, testing infrastructure, and energy storage technologies. We believe the next phase of India's defence-tech growth will be driven by companies that can deliver reliable energy platforms capable of meeting military-grade performance standards at scale," She added. Other experts also observed that India's focus on self-reliance in defence manufacturing is increasingly moving beyond platforms and hardware to include the technology that powers the drones, missiles or components used in aircraft. Highlighting the importance of this critical equipment in defence applications, Saurabh Markandeya, Co-founder and CTO of Dreamfly Innovations, said, "Every major shift in defence technology has been enabled by advancements in energy systems. Today's drone revolution is no different. While drones often capture the headlines, batteries are the invisible technology that powers every mission. Whether it is a surveillance drone operating in high-altitude environments, a logistics platform carrying critical supplies, or a tactical system deployed in demanding battlefield conditions, performance ultimately depends on the quality and reliability of the energy system onboard." Experts also believe that the demand for high-performance batteries capable of performing under any conditions will continue to rise as drones become central to surveillance, logistics, reconnaissance and tactical operations. The decision of the government to make deals with Indian manufacturers is also likely to benefit the domestic clean-energy and battery ecosystem, making the country self-reliance on this sector.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-india-may-need-russian-su-57s-before-its-indigenous-amca-project-takes-flight-wion-decodes-1780666620969">Why India may need Russian Su-57s before its indigenous AMCA project takes flight? WION decodes</a><h3>Drones are an indispensable part of warfare</h3>Commenting on the development, Saurabh Jain, CExO Energy Storage at GEON, Green Energy On, said, "India’s recent procurement of more than US$2 billion worth of military drones from local manufacturers is indeed an important move towards ensuring greater security for the nation. With drones becoming an indispensable part of warfare and security missions, there is no doubt that the technologies used to power the drones will need equal attention. Batteries and energy technologies will be crucial in the success of drone technology." "This move by the government to procure drones from Indian manufacturers is indicative of its determination to ensure the self-sufficiency of the nation in its technology production and thereby enhancing its defence capabilities. This will be of immense benefit to India as it would give a boost to the indigenous technology industry of the nation," he added.&nbsp;Labelling the batteries as the engine of the drones, Udyut Goyal, Head, Business Development, AmpereHour Energy, highlighted that the component directly influences the flight time of the drones, their recharge cycles, payload capacity, and operational capacity, helping the drones to deliver effectiveness.&nbsp;“Drones play a critical role in India’s defence-tech system, where they are viewed through the lens of airframes and software, but no matter how advanced a drone is, it is imperative to remember that ultimately, its engine is the battery. India invests a lot in its defence technology, so for the optimal use and operational efficiency of drones, we have to ensure a reliable battery system powers them. Batteries directly influence the flight time of the drones, their recharge cycles, payload capacity, and operational capacity, which helps us determine the mission’s effectiveness. Batteries are not just a supporting technology here, but they are, in fact, a strategic component,” he said.&nbsp;“With the growth of drone deployment in defence applications, there will be an increase in the demand for high-performance, lightweight, durable, and domestically developed energy storage solutions. This will allow India to make more innovations and strengthen its capabilities in the battery value chain and be less dependent on imported critical technologies. Beyond defence, too, India will benefit across various sectors such as electric mobility, renewable energy integration, and industrial energy storage. &nbsp;India’s drone push isn’t just a catalyst for defence-tech’s growth, but also for the development of a stronger, more self-reliant energy technology ecosystem, ” Goyal added. India has over 600 companies manufacturing drones along with their components, with more than 100 focused on defence applications. The large players for these technologies include companies like Adani Group, Larsen &amp; Toubro and Tata Advanced Systems, to startups like Dreamfly Innovations, ideaForge, Newspace Research and Asteria Aerospace. They focus on building reconnaissance, loitering munitions, logistics, precision-strike and critical component systems. In addition, the defence ministry has also opened more areas of procurement to startups and private firms, which has eased the testing process and pushed the armed forces to add systems through repeat and interim orders that allow these firms to refine their products rapidly. The best part is that, along with a breakthrough in a drone's battery, the development directly accelerates innovations in Commercial logistics and agricultural drones, Electric vehicles (EVs) and Renewable energy storage systems (BESS).

Drone battery technology is becoming the strategic winner in advancing defence technology. The proposed acquisition of military drones also includes energy storage systems, battery management technologies and testing infrastructure.

India's defence system is going through a massive paradigm shift as it is likely to order over $2 billion worth of military drones from domestic firms, marking the biggest such purchase. The move comes after global and regional conflicts have boosted demand for high-tech defence equipment. The proposal is at an advanced stage, with deliveries expected to be completed within the next 18 to 24 months. While mainstream attention on defence deals is completely on high-profile drone manufacturers and aircraft startups, the true rush is taking place quietly in the components used to manufacture this technology. Among all critical components, battery technology is becoming the strategic winner in advancing defence technology. The proposed acquisition also includes energy storage systems, battery management technologies and testing infrastructure. An expert indicated that batteries are emerging as a key player in the modern drone operations, directly influencing flight timing, payload capacity, operational reliability and mission readiness. "India's planned $2 billion drone procurement is not just a boost for drone manufacturers—it is a catalyst for the entire defence technology supply chain. Batteries are emerging as one of the most critical technologies in modern unmanned systems because they directly determine flight endurance, mission reliability, payload capability, and operational readiness. As drones become integral to surveillance, logistics, precision strike, and autonomous operations, the demand for high-performance, safe, and mission-critical energy systems will grow exponentially," Kajal Shah, Co-founder & CEO, Dreamfly Innovations. "For India to build a truly self-reliant drone ecosystem, the country must also develop indigenous capabilities in advanced battery systems, battery management electronics, testing infrastructure, and energy storage technologies. We believe the next phase of India's defence-tech growth will be driven by companies that can deliver reliable energy platforms capable of meeting military-grade performance standards at scale," She added. Other experts also observed that India's focus on self-reliance in defence manufacturing is increasingly moving beyond platforms and hardware to include the technology that powers the drones, missiles or components used in aircraft. Highlighting the importance of this critical equipment in defence applications, Saurabh Markandeya, Co-founder and CTO of Dreamfly Innovations, said, "Every major shift in defence technology has been enabled by advancements in energy systems. Today's drone revolution is no different. While drones often capture the headlines, batteries are the invisible technology that powers every mission. Whether it is a surveillance drone operating in high-altitude environments, a logistics platform carrying critical supplies, or a tactical system deployed in demanding battlefield conditions, performance ultimately depends on the quality and reliability of the energy system onboard." Experts also believe that the demand for high-performance batteries capable of performing under any conditions will continue to rise as drones become central to surveillance, logistics, reconnaissance and tactical operations. The decision of the government to make deals with Indian manufacturers is also likely to benefit the domestic clean-energy and battery ecosystem, making the country self-reliance on this sector. Also read: Why India may need Russian Su-57s before its indigenous AMCA project takes flight? WION decodes Drones are an indispensable part of warfare Commenting on the development, Saurabh Jain, CExO Energy Storage at GEON, Green Energy On, said, "India’s recent procurement of more than US$2 billion worth of military drones from local manufacturers is indeed an important move towards ensuring greater security for the nation. With drones becoming an indispensable part of warfare and security missions, there is no doubt that the technologies used to power the drones will need equal attention. Batteries and energy technologies will be crucial in the success of drone technology." "This move by the government to procure drones from Indian manufacturers is indicative of its determination to ensure the self-sufficiency of the nation in its technology production and thereby enhancing its defence capabilities. This will be of immense benefit to India as it would give a boost to the indigenous technology industry of the nation," he added. Labelling the batteries as the engine of the drones, Udyut Goyal, Head, Business Development, AmpereHour Energy, highlighted that the component directly influences the flight time of the drones, their recharge cycles, payload capacity, and operational capacity, helping the drones to deliver effectiveness. “Drones play a critical role in India’s defence-tech system, where they are viewed through the lens of airframes and software, but no matter how advanced a drone is, it is imperative to remember that ultimately, its engine is the battery. India invests a lot in its defence technology, so for the optimal use and operational efficiency of drones, we have to ensure a reliable battery system powers them. Batteries directly influence the flight time of the drones, their recharge cycles, payload capacity, and operational capacity, which helps us determine the mission’s effectiveness. Batteries are not just a supporting technology here, but they are, in fact, a strategic component,” he said. “With the growth of drone deployment in defence applications, there will be an increase in the demand for high-performance, lightweight, durable, and domestically developed energy storage solutions. This will allow India to make more innovations and strengthen its capabilities in the battery value chain and be less dependent on imported critical technologies. Beyond defence, too, India will benefit across various sectors such as electric mobility, renewable energy integration, and industrial energy storage. India’s drone push isn’t just a catalyst for defence-tech’s growth, but also for the development of a stronger, more self-reliant energy technology ecosystem, ” Goyal added. India has over 600 companies manufacturing drones along with their components, with more than 100 focused on defence applications. The large players for these technologies include companies like Adani Group, Larsen & Toubro and Tata Advanced Systems, to startups like Dreamfly Innovations, ideaForge, Newspace Research and Asteria Aerospace. They focus on building reconnaissance, loitering munitions, logistics, precision-strike and critical component systems. In addition, the defence ministry has also opened more areas of procurement to startups and private firms, which has eased the testing process and pushed the armed forces to add systems through repeat and interim orders that allow these firms to refine their products rapidly. The best part is that, along with a breakthrough in a drone's battery, the development directly accelerates innovations in Commercial logistics and agricultural drones, Electric vehicles (EVs) and Renewable energy storage systems (BESS).

Drone battery technology is becoming the strategic winner in advancing defence technology. The proposed acquisition of military drones also includes energy storage systems, battery management technologies and testing infrastructure.

India's $2 billion drone push: Why batteries could be biggest winner in defence-tech boom

Jupiter is transitioning through Cancer, and this period is associated with emotional healing and major changes in personal life. It is one of the most powerful and auspicious astrological events of the year. "Jupiter is moving in Atichara (accelerated motion), meaning it is travelling unusually fast through Cancer. What normally takes eighteen months is compressed into a matter of months. Jupiter moves quickly, and so do its results," Acharya Poonam Dutta (Satyamshakti), says. The traits of Jupiter mix with Cancer to shoot up by several notches. This transit is a time for blessings, but this period will end in about four months. The lingering effects will remain, but will make you work more. "When Jupiter moves into Cancer and reaches its highest point, something important starts to happen. Jupiter is seen as the Guru, a symbol of divine wisdom. When this wisdom meets Cancer’s water element, it doesn’t give rewards right away. Instead, it reveals what needs to be seen first," Acharya Poonam says.&nbsp;<h2>What you might experience during Jupiter's transition through Cancer</h2> The transit started on June 2, 2026, with the most fortunate movement happening on June 18. The period wouldn't start on a high note, but it will bring certain negative effects at first. Acharya Poonam says, "At the start of this transit, your mind may feel unsettled. Old emotional patterns and wounds can come up again, even if you thought they were gone." But this does not mean that something is wrong. In fact, a shift is happening to make things work in your favour. "This isn’t just a random disruption. Jupiter in Cancer is working to heal your emotional self, clearing away what has built up from years of stress, grief, or holding things in. If you notice health issues, emotional ups and downs, or repeating patterns, these are signs that healing is happening," she says.&nbsp;Jupiter’s exaltation in Cancer does not mean instant rewards, but becoming someone who can purely accept grace.<h2>The best time during this Jupiter transit</h2> Jupiter's transit enters a fortunate phase on June 18. "Jupiter enters Pushya Nakshatra, known as the most fortunate of the twenty-seven lunar mansions. This sixty-day period is considered the most blessed time of the year. It’s a great time to start new projects, spiritual practices, or long-term commitments, as they are likely to last," Acharya Poonam says, adding that "traditionally, though, marriage ceremonies are avoided during Pushya."&nbsp;When do the positive effects of Jupiter start to wane? The blessings from this transit last until about September. After that, as Jupiter moves quickly towards Leo, the energy changes. The peak will start to fall, but will not fade away completely. Cancer’s softness is replaced by a need for more action and responsibility. Jupiter’s support doesn’t go away, but it asks more from you. Growth moves from emotional healing to living out your true purpose.&nbsp;By the end of the year, Jupiter will enter Leo and then go retrograde. This period marks the time when your true soul purpose becomes clear and accessible. &nbsp;

Have you had strange feelings in June? Jupiter is moving through Cancer at great speed, and with this is will bring major changes in your relationships and emotions. It will be a time for healing and one of the most auspicious periods this year. 

Jupiter is transitioning through Cancer, and this period is associated with emotional healing and major changes in personal life. It is one of the most powerful and auspicious astrological events of the year. "Jupiter is moving in Atichara (accelerated motion), meaning it is travelling unusually fast through Cancer. What normally takes eighteen months is compressed into a matter of months. Jupiter moves quickly, and so do its results," Acharya Poonam Dutta (Satyamshakti), says. The traits of Jupiter mix with Cancer to shoot up by several notches. This transit is a time for blessings, but this period will end in about four months. The lingering effects will remain, but will make you work more. "When Jupiter moves into Cancer and reaches its highest point, something important starts to happen. Jupiter is seen as the Guru, a symbol of divine wisdom. When this wisdom meets Cancer’s water element, it doesn’t give rewards right away. Instead, it reveals what needs to be seen first," Acharya Poonam says. What you might experience during Jupiter's transition through Cancer The transit started on June 2, 2026, with the most fortunate movement happening on June 18. The period wouldn't start on a high note, but it will bring certain negative effects at first. Acharya Poonam says, "At the start of this transit, your mind may feel unsettled. Old emotional patterns and wounds can come up again, even if you thought they were gone." But this does not mean that something is wrong. In fact, a shift is happening to make things work in your favour. "This isn’t just a random disruption. Jupiter in Cancer is working to heal your emotional self, clearing away what has built up from years of stress, grief, or holding things in. If you notice health issues, emotional ups and downs, or repeating patterns, these are signs that healing is happening," she says. Jupiter’s exaltation in Cancer does not mean instant rewards, but becoming someone who can purely accept grace. The best time during this Jupiter transit Jupiter's transit enters a fortunate phase on June 18. "Jupiter enters Pushya Nakshatra, known as the most fortunate of the twenty-seven lunar mansions. This sixty-day period is considered the most blessed time of the year. It’s a great time to start new projects, spiritual practices, or long-term commitments, as they are likely to last," Acharya Poonam says, adding that "traditionally, though, marriage ceremonies are avoided during Pushya." When do the positive effects of Jupiter start to wane? The blessings from this transit last until about September. After that, as Jupiter moves quickly towards Leo, the energy changes. The peak will start to fall, but will not fade away completely. Cancer’s softness is replaced by a need for more action and responsibility. Jupiter’s support doesn’t go away, but it asks more from you. Growth moves from emotional healing to living out your true purpose. By the end of the year, Jupiter will enter Leo and then go retrograde. This period marks the time when your true soul purpose becomes clear and accessible.

Have you had strange feelings in June? Jupiter is moving through Cancer at great speed, and with this is will bring major changes in your relationships and emotions. It will be a time for healing and one of the most auspicious periods this year.&nbsp;

Jupiter’s exaltation in Cancer: Time for emotional healing and finding soul's true purpose

Princess Bajrakitiyabha, &nbsp;the eldest child of Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn, has passed away at 47, the royal household confirmed. The royal palace announced the death on June 12, more than three years after she was hospitalised following a sudden illness.&nbsp;Known as Princess Bha, she had been in a coma since collapsing in Dec 2022 during a walk with her dogs. &nbsp;She was King Vajiralongkorn's first daughter and the only child of his first marriage to Princess Soamsawali.<h3>Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha dies after more than three years in a Coma</h3>&nbsp;Three years ago, Thai Princess was hospitalised, after which doctors said that she suffered a serious irregular heartbeat brought on by a mycoplasma infection affecting her heart. &nbsp;This happened when she was on her visit to the north-eastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima.&nbsp;On Friday, the royal palace announced her death, saying that she was suffering from an abdominal infection and "her condition continued to worsen", the Bureau of the Royal Household said in a statement, until she "passed away peacefully" on Thursday evening at Chulalongkorn Hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp;"T he medical team provided the closest and most intensive care possible, but her condition continued to decline progressively," the palace said. They also revealed that the princess had an intra-abdominal infection, colitis, and low blood pressure.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">IN MEMORIAM Princess Bajrakitiyabha of Thailand 1978 - 2026 Photo: Royal Office of Thailand <a href="https://t.co/0MlcElzHJk">pic.twitter.com/0MlcElzHJk</a>&mdash; The Royal News Organisation (@royalnews_org) <a href="https://x.com/royalnews_org/status/2065239077125820727?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Her remains will be placed at Piman Rattaya Throne Hall in the Grand Palace, in Bangkok, and her funeral will be held "with the highest honours according to royal tradition", it added.&nbsp;In May, the Bureau of the Royal Household, shared that her health condition had deteriorated and shewas relying on medical devices to support her lung and kidney functions, as well as medication.&nbsp;Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha: A voice for women&nbsp;Born on December 7, ‌1978, Princess Bha was known for her significant contributions to justice reform efforts and for her project to help rehabilitate incarcerated Thai women before their release. A prominent lawyer and diplomat, she was educated in Britain, Thailand and the United States, earning a law degree from Cornell University, and serving for a time as Thailand's ambassador to Austria.&nbsp;"Society cannot grow if there is instability and injustice," she told the AP in 2013. “Without the rule of law, without a good justice system, it's always chaos. I think the rule of law is a very important pillar to development, to economic growth, and of course to human rights.” She also held several positions with the United Nations and became a voice for women's empowerment.&nbsp;&nbsp;The late princess was close to her father, and was appointed to a senior role in his bodyguard command a year before her hospitalisation. However, the king has not announced his heir. He has seven children from four marriages.&nbsp;

She had remained in a coma since collapsing in December 2022 during a walk with her dogs. Doctors said she suffered a serious irregular heartbeat brought on by a mycoplasma infection affecting her heart.



Princess Bajrakitiyabha, the eldest child of Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn, has passed away at 47, the royal household confirmed. The royal palace announced the death on June 12, more than three years after she was hospitalised following a sudden illness. Known as Princess Bha, she had been in a coma since collapsing in Dec 2022 during a walk with her dogs. She was King Vajiralongkorn's first daughter and the only child of his first marriage to Princess Soamsawali. Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha dies after more than three years in a Coma Three years ago, Thai Princess was hospitalised, after which doctors said that she suffered a serious irregular heartbeat brought on by a mycoplasma infection affecting her heart. This happened when she was on her visit to the north-eastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima. On Friday, the royal palace announced her death, saying that she was suffering from an abdominal infection and "her condition continued to worsen", the Bureau of the Royal Household said in a statement, until she "passed away peacefully" on Thursday evening at Chulalongkorn Hospital. "T he medical team provided the closest and most intensive care possible, but her condition continued to decline progressively," the palace said. They also revealed that the princess had an intra-abdominal infection, colitis, and low blood pressure.

Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha had remained in a coma since collapsing in December 2022 during a walk with her dogs. Doctors said she suffered a serious irregular heartbeat brought on by a mycoplasma infection affecting her heart.

Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha dies after more than three years in a Coma

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has widened its campaign against examination irregularities, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and announcing a series of protests across India over the coming week. At its second protest rally in Pune on Thursday (Jun 11), attended by around 1,000 people, the party, which started as a satirical movement, unveiled five additional demands that it says are aimed at protecting students from the consequences of paper leaks, exam cancellations, delayed results and technical failures. Future demonstrations are planned in Lucknow, Amritsar, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Jaipur and Delhi between June 12 and June 20. Here's all you need to know.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rss-leader-sunil-ambekar-weighs-in-on-viral-cockroach-janta-party-says-gen-z-has-tremendous-faith-in-india-1780133856392">RSS leader Sunil Ambekar weighs in on viral Cockroach Janta Party, says Gen Z has 'tremendous faith' in India</a><h2>Cockroach Janta Party's five new demands</h2>The party founded by Abhijeet Dipke during its Pune protest unveiled five new demands, in addition to the resignation of Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Prasad. The demands come amid mounting concerns over paper leaks, including in the NEET-UG 2026 exam, recruitment test delays, and technical glitches such as those seen in the CBSE Class 12 examination, which continue to dominate discussions around India’s examination system. Let's take a look at the fresh demands by the CJP party:<h2>Compensation for students affected by exam failures</h2>One of CJP's key demands is financial compensation for students when examinations are cancelled, leaked or postponed at the last minute.The party argues that candidates often spend thousands of rupees on travel, accommodation, coaching classes and study materials, only to see examinations disrupted due to administrative failures. "The government should provide ₹10,000 to each student to cover costs of trains, buses, accommodation, and psychological hardship. For delayed exam results beyond one month, each student should get an additional 10,000 per month for administrative failure," said the CJP in its press release.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cockroach-janta-party-s-x-account-to-stay-blocked-delhi-hc-declines-to-order-immediate-restoration-abhijeet-dipke-1780037483425">Cockroach Janta Party's X account to stay blocked: Delhi HC declines to order immediate restoration</a><h2>Re-examinations within 72 hours</h2>CJP has also called for a mandatory backup plan for every major examination conducted in the country.According to the proposal, "if an exam is cancelled, leaked, compromised, or disrupted for any reason, authorities should be prepared to conduct a re-exam within 72 hours."<h2>Manual evaluation for paper-based exams</h2>The party has raised concerns about increasing dependence on digital systems for evaluating written examinations.It argues that educational infrastructure remains uneven across India and that paper-based exams "should be evaluated through a transparent paper-based process" until reliable technological facilities are available everywhere. CJP says this would improve transparency and reduce concerns about errors in the evaluation process.<h2>Age-limit relaxation for delayed recruitment exams</h2>Another demand focuses on students and job seekers who lose eligibility because of examination delays.CJP wants automatic age-limit extensions whenever an exam is postponed, cancelled or its results are delayed. The duration of the delay, it says, should be added directly to the upper age limit so candidates are not penalised for circumstances beyond their control.<h2>Independent audits of computer-based exam centres</h2>For online and computer-based tests, the party has proposed mandatory third-party audits of examination centres at least seven days before an exam. "Hardware, software, internet connectivity, and infrastructure must be tested in advance. If a centre fails the audit, it must be replaced immediately," according to the party.&nbsp;

The Cockroach Janata Party has expanded its campaign against paper leaks, exam cancellations and recruitment delays, unveiling five new demands and announcing protests across multiple Indian cities. All you need to know.

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has widened its campaign against examination irregularities, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and announcing a series of protests across India over the coming week. At its second protest rally in Pune on Thursday (Jun 11), attended by around 1,000 people, the party, which started as a satirical movement, unveiled five additional demands that it says are aimed at protecting students from the consequences of paper leaks, exam cancellations, delayed results and technical failures. Future demonstrations are planned in Lucknow, Amritsar, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Jaipur and Delhi between June 12 and June 20. Here's all you need to know. Also read | RSS leader Sunil Ambekar weighs in on viral Cockroach Janta Party, says Gen Z has 'tremendous faith' in India Cockroach Janta Party's five new demands The party founded by Abhijeet Dipke during its Pune protest unveiled five new demands, in addition to the resignation of Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Prasad. The demands come amid mounting concerns over paper leaks, including in the NEET-UG 2026 exam, recruitment test delays, and technical glitches such as those seen in the CBSE Class 12 examination, which continue to dominate discussions around India’s examination system. Let's take a look at the fresh demands by the CJP party: Compensation for students affected by exam failures One of CJP's key demands is financial compensation for students when examinations are cancelled, leaked or postponed at the last minute. The party argues that candidates often spend thousands of rupees on travel, accommodation, coaching classes and study materials, only to see examinations disrupted due to administrative failures. "The government should provide ₹10,000 to each student to cover costs of trains, buses, accommodation, and psychological hardship. For delayed exam results beyond one month, each student should get an additional 10,000 per month for administrative failure," said the CJP in its press release. Also read | Cockroach Janta Party's X account to stay blocked: Delhi HC declines to order immediate restoration Re-examinations within 72 hours CJP has also called for a mandatory backup plan for every major examination conducted in the country. According to the proposal, "if an exam is cancelled, leaked, compromised, or disrupted for any reason, authorities should be prepared to conduct a re-exam within 72 hours." Manual evaluation for paper-based exams The party has raised concerns about increasing dependence on digital systems for evaluating written examinations. It argues that educational infrastructure remains uneven across India and that paper-based exams "should be evaluated through a transparent paper-based process" until reliable technological facilities are available everywhere. CJP says this would improve transparency and reduce concerns about errors in the evaluation process. Age-limit relaxation for delayed recruitment exams Another demand focuses on students and job seekers who lose eligibility because of examination delays. CJP wants automatic age-limit extensions whenever an exam is postponed, cancelled or its results are delayed. The duration of the delay, it says, should be added directly to the upper age limit so candidates are not penalised for circumstances beyond their control. Independent audits of computer-based exam centres For online and computer-based tests, the party has proposed mandatory third-party audits of examination centres at least seven days before an exam. "Hardware, software, internet connectivity, and infrastructure must be tested in advance. If a centre fails the audit, it must be replaced immediately," according to the party.

The Cockroach Janata Party has expanded its campaign against paper leaks, exam cancellations and recruitment delays, unveiling five new demands and announcing protests across multiple Indian cities. All you need to know.

From compensation to age relaxation: Cockroach Janata Party reveals 5 new demands at Pune protest | Details

On 12 June 2025, an Air India 171 plane took off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Just 32 seconds later, it crashed in Ahmedabad in the western state of Gujarat. The flight, en-route London, ploughed into the Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College hostel, killing all 242 but one on board and 19 people on the ground.&nbsp;In the next few days, India reeled from the shocking headlines. There was fear in the minds of passengers. Those in the medical college in Ahmedabad struggled to recover from the horror. WION spoke to Yash Kotak, a final-year MBBS student at B.J. Medical College at the time of the crash, who recalled the day of horrors.<h3>What happened on the day of the crash?</h3>&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;It was an ordinary Thursday afternoon. Lectures were ongoing. Students strolled the campus. Then, boom. Smoke billowed into the air.Kotak had gone to see his brother at the campus hospital when a nurse barged in, “Jordaar aag lagi! (massive fire)” Kotak couldn’t trust his eyes at first, unable to digest the magnitude of the tragedy unfolding in front of him.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-dangerously-high-levels-of-toxins-found-in-bodies-of-air-india-crash-victims-repatriated-to-uk-hazardous-to-mortuary-workers-1764839878589">'Dangerously high' levels of toxins found in bodies of Air India crash victims repatriated to UK, hazardous to mortuary workers</a>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Kotak said he saw ambulances and rescue crews rushing to the scene.&nbsp; At the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, located near the hostel, the emergency room was overwhelmed.&nbsp; Kotak recalled seeing anxious relatives rush into the ER as police personnel managed the chaos.&nbsp; Many bodies were charred beyond recognition.Authorities turned to DNA profiling to identify the deceased.&nbsp; The college shut down for almost a month. Counselling rooms were set up for the immediate families of the victims.<h3>The bitter loss and deafening silence</h3>&nbsp;Kotak said his batchmates were all away from the hostel at the time of the accident. But a few juniors were missing.&nbsp; After days-long search, they were found dead. Among them, a female cook whom the residents fondly called “maasi”. Her granddaughter, who used to accompany her, also lost her life. Kotak said the news was disturbing for the students. “They had a different connection. It was not easy to accept that the people who fed them almost every day were gone."&nbsp;The hostel was home to both doctors and medical students.&nbsp; “It was lunchtime when it happened, many students were having lunch in the mess and many were on call with their loved ones. In a moment it was all wiped out”, Kotak said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-dangerously-high-levels-of-toxins-found-in-bodies-of-air-india-crash-victims-repatriated-to-uk-hazardous-to-mortuary-workers-1764839878589">'Dangerously high' levels of toxins found in bodies of Air India crash victims repatriated to UK, hazardous to mortuary workers</a>&nbsp;<h3>“The untouched food and empty plates still create a void in all of us”.</h3>Today, the accident ground zero is a painful reminder of the horrors that unfolded. “It has left a permanent scar on me and the college which can't be healed”, said Kotak, currently an intern at the same medical college.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Like an open wound, the hostel building still bears the gaping hole where the plane crash-landed: blackened walls, damaged foundation, broken concrete, burnt remains, abandoned personal belongings.&nbsp;“There is a complete silence. Nobody likes to go there,” Kotak said.&nbsp;<h3>A tragedy before college foundation day</h3>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Air India crash happened just three days before the college’s foundation day. “It was a black day for our college”, Kotak said.But this one too shall pass. “We will come out of the grief. We will stand tall,” he said.&nbsp;On the anniversary of the crash, the college plans to hold a blood donation drive and a prayer meeting in memory of the victims.&nbsp;Plans for a new hostel building at the site are underway.Soon, the older students who witnessed the crash will pass out as new medical practitioners and will slowly move forward.Whispers of the tragic disaster might quieten over time. But the memories will never truly fade away.

A year has passed since the Air India plane crash in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad. The medical hostel where the plane crashed saw shocking events unfold on a normal weekday. WION spoke to a student who recalled how it all unfolded.

On 12 June 2025, an Air India 171 plane took off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Just 32 seconds later, it crashed in Ahmedabad in the western state of Gujarat. The flight, en-route London, ploughed into the Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College hostel, killing all 242 but one on board and 19 people on the ground. In the next few days, India reeled from the shocking headlines. There was fear in the minds of passengers. Those in the medical college in Ahmedabad struggled to recover from the horror. WION spoke to Yash Kotak, a final-year MBBS student at B.J. Medical College at the time of the crash, who recalled the day of horrors. What happened on the day of the crash?

A year has passed since the Air India plane crash in the western Indian city of Ahmedabad. The medical hostel where the plane crashed saw shocking events unfold on a normal weekday. WION spoke to a student who recalled the horror. Written by Kenisha Arora

Air India Ahmedabad crash, one year on: Student who was near the hostel that plane landed on recalls horror

India and Pakistan both operate Mi-17 helicopters, but have faced fatal crashes. India has seen multiple accidents in challenging terrains like Arunachal Pradesh, while Pakistan's 2026 crash in June 10 was linked to a technical fault. 

India vs Pakistan: Mi-17 crash history, fleet strength, key features and security concerns - What do we know?

Scientists have discovered a strange anomaly in the North Atlantic, situated south of Greenland, where a 'cold blob' of ocean and air is cooling down while the rest of the world is experiencing a rise in temperature. Researchers used satellite data, multiple reanalysis records, and ocean heat content data extending back to 1955, in order to figure out the driving forces behind the blob. Up to this point, scientists have long debated two possible causes behind the Atlantic Ocean's "cold blob": either reduced heat transport into the region by ocean currents or increased heat loss from the ocean surface. The latest findings support the former theory, suggesting results support the first explanation, and they conclude that we're now very close to a dangerous tipping point. The study links the cold patch to a weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a major ocean current system that appears to be edging closer to a potential collapse. Researchers warn that such a shutdown could have far-reaching global consequences beyond the cooling observed in the North Atlantic. "Given the well-established existence of a tipping point of the AMOC, as well as recent studies finding a range of different 'early warning signals' of the ocean circulation approaching such a tipping point, the strong evidence for a weakening AMOC is a serious concern for society and policy," the researchers wrote in a published paper.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/straight-out-of-science-fiction-scientists-want-to-spray-a-giant-shield-to-protect-earth-from-solar-storms-bizarre-science-news-1781081111671">Could chemicals sprayed around Earth stop dangerous solar storms? New study suggests it might</a><h3>Deep ocean currents drive surface heat loss</h3>Their analysis found that the cooling is driven by changes in deep ocean currents rather than heat escaping from the surface. In fact, surface heat loss in the region has declined, indicating that the main issue is a reduced inflow of warm water. Because the cold blob lies at the northern end of the AMOC's vast ocean conveyor belt, a slowdown in the system would naturally result in lower temperatures there, as less warm water is transported northward from tropical and equatorial regions. The new findings give us a few of the best pieces of evidence yet that the cold blob and this vast ocean current are directly interconnected. "The observed cooling trend cannot be explained by surface heat flux changes," write the authors of this new study. "Multidecadal heat content variations are generally larger and more tightly correlated with ocean heat transport than with surface heat flux variability." Most scientists agree that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is gradually approaching closer to a critical point and could eventually cease functioning altogether. Rising ocean water temperatures, coupled with melting glaciers (which release freshwater into the oceans), are disrupting the balance that drives the current system. A complete collapse of the AMOC could trigger far-reaching impacts, including much colder, harsher winters, with significant changes in global weather patterns, ecosystems, and food security across Europe. "While large uncertainty remains over how close the Earth is to this tipping point, standard CMIP6 simulations of future global warming scenarios suggest it is crossed in a substantial subset of these model simulations around the middle of this century," write the researchers. Since 2004, the current system has been directly monitored, leaving scientists with a very small record to clearly find out the long-term trajectory of its recent weakening.

Scientists found a "cold blob" in the North Atlantic cooling despite global warming, driven by a weakening Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) current system. Data since 1955 shows reduced warm water inflow, warning of a potential weather-altering tipping point by mid-century.

Scientists have discovered a strange anomaly in the North Atlantic, situated south of Greenland, where a 'cold blob' of ocean and air is cooling down while the rest of the world is experiencing a rise in temperature. Researchers used satellite data, multiple reanalysis records, and ocean heat content data extending back to 1955, in order to figure out the driving forces behind the blob. Up to this point, scientists have long debated two possible causes behind the Atlantic Ocean's "cold blob": either reduced heat transport into the region by ocean currents or increased heat loss from the ocean surface. The latest findings support the former theory, suggesting results support the first explanation, and they conclude that we're now very close to a dangerous tipping point. The study links the cold patch to a weakening of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a major ocean current system that appears to be edging closer to a potential collapse. Researchers warn that such a shutdown could have far-reaching global consequences beyond the cooling observed in the North Atlantic. "Given the well-established existence of a tipping point of the AMOC, as well as recent studies finding a range of different 'early warning signals' of the ocean circulation approaching such a tipping point, the strong evidence for a weakening AMOC is a serious concern for society and policy," the researchers wrote in a published paper. Also read: Could chemicals sprayed around Earth stop dangerous solar storms? New study suggests it might Deep ocean currents drive surface heat loss Their analysis found that the cooling is driven by changes in deep ocean currents rather than heat escaping from the surface. In fact, surface heat loss in the region has declined, indicating that the main issue is a reduced inflow of warm water. Because the cold blob lies at the northern end of the AMOC's vast ocean conveyor belt, a slowdown in the system would naturally result in lower temperatures there, as less warm water is transported northward from tropical and equatorial regions. The new findings give us a few of the best pieces of evidence yet that the cold blob and this vast ocean current are directly interconnected. "The observed cooling trend cannot be explained by surface heat flux changes," write the authors of this new study. "Multidecadal heat content variations are generally larger and more tightly correlated with ocean heat transport than with surface heat flux variability." Most scientists agree that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is gradually approaching closer to a critical point and could eventually cease functioning altogether. Rising ocean water temperatures, coupled with melting glaciers (which release freshwater into the oceans), are disrupting the balance that drives the current system. A complete collapse of the AMOC could trigger far-reaching impacts, including much colder, harsher winters, with significant changes in global weather patterns, ecosystems, and food security across Europe. "While large uncertainty remains over how close the Earth is to this tipping point, standard CMIP6 simulations of future global warming scenarios suggest it is crossed in a substantial subset of these model simulations around the middle of this century," write the researchers. Since 2004, the current system has been directly monitored, leaving scientists with a very small record to clearly find out the long-term trajectory of its recent weakening.

Scientists found a "cold blob" in the North Atlantic cooling despite global warming, driven by a weakening Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) current system. Data since 1955 shows reduced warm water inflow, warning of a potential weather-altering tipping point by mid-century.

Mysterious North Atlantic 'cold blob' signals growing risk of major ocean current collapse: What's happening?

Gurgaon techie Himanshu Jagra is not the only person to have made objectionable comments on comedian Pranit More’s crowd work shows. As the Rs 370 biryani video went live, another video from another show of More’s has come to light where a woman doctor is shown making inappropriate remarks about Male cadavers as More laughed on. The video also grabbed a lot of eyeballs as social media continued to criticise the comedian and Jagra.&nbsp;&nbsp;Now the woman, who goes by the name of Sejal Pawar, has shared an apology video on social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a video message, she admitted to saying a "very wrong thing" and expressed deep regret over the controversy.The physician faced intense backlash after a video clip from comedian Pranit More’s show went viral on social media. During an audience interaction segment, More asked whether medical professionals remain serious or crack jokes while conducting autopsies. Pawar responded by sharing anatomy-related experiences from her medical training, claiming that she and her colleagues would compare the sizes of male cadavers' private parts.<h2>"I Am Very Sorry": Doctor Accepts Full Responsibility</h2>Addressing the swift and severe backlash, Pawar released a video message to publicly acknowledge her mistake and issue an apology.&nbsp;"I just wanted to come here and say I am very sorry. I said a very wrong thing. I am so sorry about that," she said, adding, "Maine aisa kabhi intentionally nahi socha thaa ki main woh cheez bolungi (I never intentionally thought that I would say something like that)."&nbsp;Pawar insisted she was not trying to "justify" her words, recognising that the remark was entirely inappropriate. She explained that the now-viral clip was recorded approximately two months ago during the very first stand-up comedy show she had ever attended.&nbsp;She admitted to being "really very naive" and noted she did not anticipate that a brief segment of the interaction would be viewed in isolation and attract such widespread criticism.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">मिलिए डॉ॰ सेजल पवार से, जिन्होंने आरजे प्रणित के लाइव कॉमेडी शो (क्राउडवर्क) में &quot;डेड बॉडी जोक&quot; पर विवाद के बाद अपना माफीनामा जारी किया l जब प्रणित ने उनसे मेडिकल प्रोफेशन को लेकर सवाल किए, तो डॉ. सेजल ने हंसते हुए बताया, वे और उनके साथी डॉक्टर्स मेडिकल की पढ़ाई के लिए आने… <a href="https://t.co/zLLJP0sRGY">pic.twitter.com/zLLJP0sRGY</a>&mdash; Vishal Mohan Yadav (@VishalMYadav_) <a href="https://x.com/VishalMYadav_/status/2064929468830093420?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"I had no idea that a 2-month-old clip would become such a big issue," she stated. "I am never going to justify this. I know it is my mistake."<h2>Respect for Body Donors and Social Media Accountability</h2>While Pawar claimed that she had emphasised during the broader interaction that she and her colleagues deeply respected cadavers, she conceded that the specific comment should never have been made. Many online viewers fiercely criticised her remarks, labelling them as insensitive, highly unprofessional, and disrespectful toward body donors and their families.&nbsp;Pawar acknowledged that social media users were entirely justified in calling out her problematic behaviour, promising to be much more careful about her public statements moving forward.&nbsp;Concluding her apology, she said: "Maine agar aapke sentiments hurt kiye toh, I am sorry (If I have hurt your sentiments, I am sorry)."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/why-is-pranit-more-being-called-out-for-his-latest-show-know-all-about-the-rs-370-biryani-controversy-1781076324369">Why is Pranit More being called out for his latest show?</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Sejal pawar doctor by profession talking about how she and her friends make fun of dead bodies about their dick size and made several nasty comments about male reproductive organ <a href="https://t.co/q7rfQoi6DJ">pic.twitter.com/q7rfQoi6DJ</a>&mdash; Aarohi (@hamlakroo) <a href="https://x.com/hamlakroo/status/2064626215260999999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pranit-more-criticised-by-celebrities-like-malti-chahar-elvish-yadav-sutapa-sikdar-as-rs-370-biryani-controversy-continues-1781166310579">Pranit More criticised by celebrities as 'Rs 370 biryani' controversy continues</a><h2>A Pattern of Controversial Audience Interactions at Pranit More's shows</h2>This incident marks the second time an audience interaction from Pranit More’s comedy shows has triggered a massive national backlash.&nbsp;The controversy closely follows the viral "Rs 370 biryani" episode involving Gurugram resident Himanshu Jangra. Jangra’s comments—suggesting he expected a physical or romantic "return" after paying for a date's meal—ignited a fierce national debate on misogyny, consent, and entitlement, ultimately resulting in the loss of his job.

Pranit More's previous crowd work shows too are in focus as controversy around the Rs 370 biryani viral video rages on. Now, a woman doctor has apologised for making jokes about male cadavers at his show, a few months back.

Gurgaon techie Himanshu Jagra is not the only person to have made objectionable comments on comedian Pranit More’s crowd work shows. As the Rs 370 biryani video went live, another video from another show of More’s has come to light where a woman doctor is shown making inappropriate remarks about Male cadavers as More laughed on. The video also grabbed a lot of eyeballs as social media continued to criticise the comedian and Jagra. Now the woman, who goes by the name of Sejal Pawar, has shared an apology video on social media. In a video message, she admitted to saying a "very wrong thing" and expressed deep regret over the controversy. The physician faced intense backlash after a video clip from comedian Pranit More’s show went viral on social media. During an audience interaction segment, More asked whether medical professionals remain serious or crack jokes while conducting autopsies. Pawar responded by sharing anatomy-related experiences from her medical training, claiming that she and her colleagues would compare the sizes of male cadavers' private parts. "I Am Very Sorry": Doctor Accepts Full Responsibility Addressing the swift and severe backlash, Pawar released a video message to publicly acknowledge her mistake and issue an apology. "I just wanted to come here and say I am very sorry. I said a very wrong thing. I am so sorry about that," she said, adding, "Maine aisa kabhi intentionally nahi socha thaa ki main woh cheez bolungi (I never intentionally thought that I would say something like that)." Pawar insisted she was not trying to "justify" her words, recognising that the remark was entirely inappropriate. She explained that the now-viral clip was recorded approximately two months ago during the very first stand-up comedy show she had ever attended. She admitted to being "really very naive" and noted she did not anticipate that a brief segment of the interaction would be viewed in isolation and attract such widespread criticism.

Pranit More's previous crowd work shows too are in focus as controversy around the Rs 370 biryani viral video rages on. Now, a woman doctor has apologised for making jokes about male cadavers at his show, a few months back.

Woman doctor apologizes after viral clip from Pranit More's show sparks outrage: 'Said a very wrong thing, I am sorry'

Scientists have uncovered what may be the largest, deepest and oldest whale graveyard ever discovered. The graveyard, as per newly published research, lies hidden more than seven kilometres beneath the surface of the south-eastern Indian Ocean. What's more remarkable about the find is that it includes hundreds of whale fossils dating back over five million years. Scientists also found modern whale carcasses that they said continue to support thriving deep-sea ecosystems in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/straight-out-of-science-fiction-scientists-want-to-spray-a-giant-shield-to-protect-earth-from-solar-storms-bizarre-science-news-1781081111671">Straight out of science fiction: Scientists want to 'spray' a giant shield to protect Earth from solar storms</a><h2>Where is the whale graveyard?</h2>The discovery was made in the Diamantina Fracture Zone, a vast network of trenches and ridges formed tens of millions of years ago as Australia and Antarctica drifted apart. Using a deep-sea submersible, an international team of researchers from China, Italy and New Zealand explored the region and documented an astonishing concentration of whale remains scattered across the ocean floor.Whale falls, the remains of whales that sink to the seabed after death, are known to create temporary ecosystems that sustain a wide range of marine life. Most previously documented whale falls have been found at depths shallower than 4,000 metres. The newly discovered site extends to depths of more than 7,000 metres, making it the deepest whale-fall ecosystem ever recorded.Researchers identified 485 fossil whale sites and five modern whale falls in advanced stages of decomposition. The remains were spread across a 1,200-kilometre corridor, leading scientists to describe the area as a previously unrecognised "whale-fall community supercorridor."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-israeli-troops-shoot-a-7-month-old-baby-shocking-new-video-challenges-idf-account-watch-1781161317025">Fact Check: Did Israeli troops shoot a 7-month-old baby? Shocking new video challenges IDF account</a><h2>Extinct whales found</h2>Among the discoveries were fossils from extinct whale species, including a 5.3-million-year-old skull belonging to the beaked whale species Pterocetus benguelae. The team also identified a previously unknown species, which they named Pterocetus diamantinae.The modern whale carcasses were far from lifeless, suggests the research published in Nature. Researchers found them supporting dense communities of organisms including crustaceans, molluscs, brittle stars and bone-eating worms. Many of these species may be entirely new to science.<h2>Why it matters</h2>Scientists say the discovery highlights how little is known about life in the deep ocean. The extreme conditions of the site, where sunlight never penetrates, and water pressure reaches crushing levels, were once thought to limit biodiversity. Instead, the findings suggest these remote habitats may host complex ecosystems that have remained hidden for millions of years.

An international team of scientists has discovered what may be the largest, deepest and oldest whale graveyard ever found. Hidden beneath the south-eastern Indian Ocean, the site contains hundreds of whale fossils dating back more than five million years.

Scientists have uncovered what may be the largest, deepest and oldest whale graveyard ever discovered. The graveyard, as per newly published research, lies hidden more than seven kilometres beneath the surface of the south-eastern Indian Ocean. What's more remarkable about the find is that it includes hundreds of whale fossils dating back over five million years. Scientists also found modern whale carcasses that they said continue to support thriving deep-sea ecosystems in one of the most extreme environments on Earth. Also read | Straight out of science fiction: Scientists want to 'spray' a giant shield to protect Earth from solar storms Where is the whale graveyard? The discovery was made in the Diamantina Fracture Zone, a vast network of trenches and ridges formed tens of millions of years ago as Australia and Antarctica drifted apart. Using a deep-sea submersible, an international team of researchers from China, Italy and New Zealand explored the region and documented an astonishing concentration of whale remains scattered across the ocean floor. Whale falls, the remains of whales that sink to the seabed after death, are known to create temporary ecosystems that sustain a wide range of marine life. Most previously documented whale falls have been found at depths shallower than 4,000 metres. The newly discovered site extends to depths of more than 7,000 metres, making it the deepest whale-fall ecosystem ever recorded. Researchers identified 485 fossil whale sites and five modern whale falls in advanced stages of decomposition. The remains were spread across a 1,200-kilometre corridor, leading scientists to describe the area as a previously unrecognised "whale-fall community supercorridor." Also read | Fact Check: Did Israeli troops shoot a 7-month-old baby? Shocking new video challenges IDF account Extinct whales found Among the discoveries were fossils from extinct whale species, including a 5.3-million-year-old skull belonging to the beaked whale species Pterocetus benguelae. The team also identified a previously unknown species, which they named Pterocetus diamantinae. The modern whale carcasses were far from lifeless, suggests the research published in Nature. Researchers found them supporting dense communities of organisms including crustaceans, molluscs, brittle stars and bone-eating worms. Many of these species may be entirely new to science. Why it matters Scientists say the discovery highlights how little is known about life in the deep ocean. The extreme conditions of the site, where sunlight never penetrates, and water pressure reaches crushing levels, were once thought to limit biodiversity. Instead, the findings suggest these remote habitats may host complex ecosystems that have remained hidden for millions of years.

An international team of scientists has discovered what may be the largest, deepest and oldest whale graveyard ever found. Hidden beneath the south-eastern Indian Ocean, the site contains hundreds of whale fossils dating back more than five million years.

Scientists discover world's largest 'whale graveyard' hidden 7km beneath the Indian Ocean

Several celebrities have come forward and criticised comedian Pranit More for promoting the Rs 370 Biryani video online. Controversy erupted after a member in the audience during More’s show spoke about his recent date and how he spent Rs 370 on biryani and wanted physical intimacy in return from the girl. The man also gave graphic details about him getting intimate with the woman, even as the crowd cheered on and More laughed, called it ‘Peak Gurgaon content’. Now several celebrities, including Elvish Yadav, Rashami Desai, Sutapa Sikdar and Malti Chahar have called him out along with other users on social media.&nbsp;More issued an apology and later even deactivated the account but the controversy continues to rage on.&nbsp;<h2>Celebrities slam Pranit More</h2>&nbsp;Several celebrities have now come out and expressed anger over the episode. Sutapa Sikdar, wife of actor, the late Irrfan Khan, also expressed anger. She shared a post highlighting rape statistics in India and wrote, “Sorry?? After enjoying like a joker to get more laughter from more perverts in the audience? We don't accept your apology — if we do nothing will change!” [#mysogy] [#mentalrapes] [#enough] [#stop] [#pranitmore]&nbsp;

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZZDpvQtQEV/?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/reel/DZZDpvQtQEV/?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; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZZDpvQtQEV/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Sutapa Sikdar (@sikdarsutapa)</a></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/why-is-pranit-more-being-called-out-for-his-latest-show-know-all-about-the-rs-370-biryani-controversy-1781076324369">Why is Pranit More being called out for his latest show?</a>&nbsp;YouTuber Elvish Yadav wrote, “₹370 ki biryani ne do cheezein expose kar di: Ek aadmi ko laga consent ka MRP hota hai. Aur ek comedian ko laga har uncomfortable silence ko laughter track se bachaya ja sakta hai. Biryani toh dum pe bani thi, controversy ego pe. (The ₹370 biryani exposed two things: one man believed consent had a price tag, and another comedian believed every uncomfortable silence could be saved with a laughter track.)”&nbsp;Actor Rashami Desai addressed the 23‑year‑old Himanshu Jagra, who made the derogatory comments on the show, and Pranit More for entertaining them.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/salman-khan-s-old-warning-to-pranit-more-resurfaces-amid-comedian-s-latest-controversy-watch-1781089967956">Salman Khan's old warning to Pranit More resurfaces amid comedian's latest controversy | Watch</a>&nbsp;She wrote, “Praful bhai, this is not comedy. It is an ordinary conversation and it has no content. They start communicating when they don't have content or creativity. Pranit is not an artist. He's also not a comedian.”&nbsp;She added, “The fraternity will get trolled unnecessarily; this is really bad for genuine artists. And this boy has lost his job. Also, Pranit's shows should be stopped. #Shame on Pranit. Shame on Gurgaon boy.”&nbsp;Indian actress, model and filmmaker Malti Chahar who was a co-contestant with Pranit in Bigg Boss 19, wrote, “₹370 biryani and Peddi… make you realise why many women are hesitant about marriage, why we value our independence, and why we choose to split the bill. Some women are even financially supporting men entirely. Yet we continue to be objectified, and a woman's consent is apparently worth no more than a plate of biryani. After generations of fighting for equality, dignity and respect, it's disheartening that we're still confronting the same underlying mindset. To all mothers and future mothers: please teach your sons to respect women and understand the importance of consent.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">₹370 biryani and Peddi… make you realize why many women are hesitant about marriage, why we value our independence, and why we choose to split the bill. Some women are even financially supporting men entirely. Yet, we continue to be objectified, and a woman&#39;s consent is…&mdash; Malti Chahar🇮🇳 (@ChaharMalti) <a href="https://x.com/ChaharMalti/status/2064625007385616742?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What's the controversy?</h2>In the now-deleted viral clip, Himanshu Jagra said that he took a girl out for a date and while they were out, he paid Rs 370 for the biryani. When she wanted to leave after the date, he felt cheated as he believed that he had earned the right to be physically intimate with her.&nbsp;Pranit called it “peak Gurgaon content” as the audience laughed.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/comedian-pranit-more-deactivates-instagram-account-amid-viral-rs-370-biryani-controversy-1781092252949">Pranit More deactivates Instagram account amid 'Rs 370 biryani' controversy</a>&nbsp;In another clip from the same show, the man gave some graphic details about their physical encounter as he took her to a “dark park”. The audience laughed along, and so did Pranit and he encouraged him to say more. At the end, Pranit reportedly rewarded the man with Rs 5000 for his storytelling.&nbsp;As the clip went viral, influencers and social media users criticised both the nature of the comments and More's decision to share the interaction online, calling out the normalisation of such behaviour.<h2>Pranit More apologises</h2>Following the backlash on the internet, More issued an apology on his Instagram page. He said the comments made by the audience member did not reflect his views and admitted that it was a lapse of judgment to laugh along.&nbsp;More wrote, "I've seen the criticism regarding a recent crowdwork clip. The comments made by the audience member do not reflect my views. Looking back, I should have challenged the remark instead of laughing and moving on. That was a lapse in judgment on my part."&nbsp;On Wednesday, as online chatter around the viral content gained more attention, More deactivated his Instagram account.

Celebrities like Rashami Desai, Malti Chahar and Elvish Yadav slammed Pranit More and now deleted Rs 370 biryani viral video. More has been criticised for not calling out the audience member who said objectionable things about a girl he went on a date with.

Several celebrities have come forward and criticised comedian Pranit More for promoting the Rs 370 Biryani video online. Controversy erupted after a member in the audience during More’s show spoke about his recent date and how he spent Rs 370 on biryani and wanted physical intimacy in return from the girl. The man also gave graphic details about him getting intimate with the woman, even as the crowd cheered on and More laughed, called it ‘Peak Gurgaon content’. Now several celebrities, including Elvish Yadav, Rashami Desai, Sutapa Sikdar and Malti Chahar have called him out along with other users on social media. More issued an apology and later even deactivated the account but the controversy continues to rage on. Celebrities slam Pranit More Several celebrities have now come out and expressed anger over the episode. Sutapa Sikdar, wife of actor, the late Irrfan Khan, also expressed anger. She shared a post highlighting rape statistics in India and wrote, “Sorry?? After enjoying like a joker to get more laughter from more perverts in the audience? We don't accept your apology — if we do nothing will change!” [#mysogy] [#mentalrapes] [#enough] [#stop] [#pranitmore]

Celebrities like Rashami Desai, Malti Chahar and Elvish Yadav slammed Pranit More and now deleted Rs 370 biryani viral video. More has been criticised for not calling out the audience member who said objectionable things about a girl he went on a date with.

trending

Woman launched from 40-metre bridge without safety rope in Brazil, falls to death

AI just designed 'universal vaccine' — and it cleared first human trial

Indian student's visa rejection after unusual question sparks debate

Stones pelted, trains vandalised: Bihar protest turns violent

WATCH | Brazil fans take over Times Square ahead of World Cup clash with Morocco

Inside Trump’s UFC birthday show at White House: Octagon comes to the South Lawn

UFO files: ‘Alien base’ on the moon’s dark side? Secret NASA audio reveals...

CIA destroyed an alien message? Latest UFO files revive bizarre 1958 mystery

NEET aspirant posing as fake Brigadier walks into Army trap in UP, arrested

Rotting body discovered metres from Iran team's FIFA World Cup camp in Tijuana

US deports migrants to country Americans are told not to visit 'for any reason'

Rare dinosaur fossils of theropods return to Mongolia after 20 years

How a collie named Pickles found the stolen 1966 FIFA World Cup trophy

Mathematician who correctly predicted last 3 World Cup winners reveals FIFA World Cup 2026 champion

From Russia to Syria: 10 Most dangerous countries in the world – Check full list

India's silk dilemma: Caught between heritage, livelihoods and animal welfare

India's $2b drone push: Why batteries could be biggest winner in defence-tech

Jupiter’s exaltation in Cancer: Time for healing and finding soul's true purpose

Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha dies after more than three years in a Coma

Compensation to age relaxation: Cockroach Janata Party reveals 5 new demands

Air India Ahmedabad crash, one year on: Student recalls horror

India vs Pakistan: Know Mi-17 crash history, fleet strength & security concerns

Mysterious North Atlantic 'cold blob' signals major ocean current collapse risk

Woman doctor apologizes after viral clip from Pranit More's show sparks outrage

Scientists discover largest 'whale graveyard' hidden beneath Indian Ocean

Pranit More criticised by celebrities as 'Rs 370 biryani' controversy continues