Former India fast bowler and Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president Venkatesh Prasad has backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to continue playing until the 2027 ODI World Cup, insisting the veteran duo have earned the right to decide when to call time on their careers.

Speaking in Bengaluru, Prasad said neither player should be forced into retirement amid growing speculation over their future with the Indian team.

‘They have earned that freedom’: Venkatesh Prasad

“One hundred per cent. I have always said that. They should be given that freedom. They have earned the freedom to take a call whenever they want to retire from the game. I don’t think anybody should be forcing them to take that call,” Prasad said.

He pointed to Rohit’s match-winning century at Lord’s as proof that the Indian captain still has plenty to offer.

“Sunday’s innings at Lord’s, where he became the first Indian cricketer to score an ODI hundred at Lord’s, in itself shows that he still has everything. It is important to have both Virat and Rohit till the end of the World Cup,” he added.

Rohit dismisses retirement talk

Prasad’s comments came a day after Rohit emphatically silenced retirement speculation with a brilliant 138 off 110 balls in the third ODI against England at Lord’s.

Despite India’s 2-1 series defeat, the skipper made it clear that outside noise would not affect his focus.

“My job is with the bat. Come and play, represent my country, represent the team. That’s what I’ve been told to do since I made my debut. So that’s what I’m going to do,” Rohit said in a video shared by the BCCI.

The 39-year-old added that criticism has always been part of his career.

“What matters is what I do on the field, try to contribute to the success of the team. That’s all my focus is right now. And let the noise be there. If there’s no noise, there’s no fun.”

Rohit’s record-breaking knock in vain

Rohit’s 138, featuring 17 fours and five sixes, made him the first Indian batter to score an ODI century at Lord’s. It was also the highest individual ODI score by an Indian against England in England, surpassing his own unbeaten 137 at Trent Bridge in 2018.

India appeared well on course in their chase of 388 after Rohit added 147 for the opening wicket with Shubman Gill and 113 with Virat Kohli. Gill made 77, while Kohli followed up his 65 in the previous ODI with a fluent 74.

However, the visitors collapsed from 304/2 to be bowled out 27 runs short as England sealed the series.

Ben Duckett starred with 141, while Jacob Bethell (91), Joe Root (74 not out) and Jos Buttler (41 not out) powered England to 387/3 before Sam Curran claimed four wickets to wrap up the victory.

With both Rohit and Kohli now playing only the ODI format for India, the experienced pair are expected to return for the three-match home ODI series against the West Indies, beginning on September 27.

At least 12 people were killed after a section of the under-construction Head Race Tunnel (HRT) of the NHPC Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project collapsed at Samardung, Jholungey, in Sikkim’s Namchi district on Monday afternoon. Rescue operations continued through Tuesday amid fears that the death toll could rise further.

According to officials, the tunnel collapse was followed by a suspected methane gas leak, filling the tunnel with dense fumes and toxic gases. Twenty-five workers were trapped inside after the incident, while two others managed to escape.

Rescue teams initially brought out 16 workers alive after hours of strenuous efforts on Monday night. They were admitted to hospitals for treatment. Since the early hours of Tuesday, rescuers have recovered 11 bodies, eight of which have been identified.

Namchi District Superintendent of Police Sonam D Bhutia said several workers were still trapped and the death toll was likely to increase. A member of the specialised rescue team from Coal India told reporters that eight more (dead) persons were believed to be inside the tunnel but declined to comment further, saying, “Let us carry out the rescue operations.”

According to Namchi District Police, 10 bodies had been recovered by 9.30 a.m. on Tuesday. The deceased were identified as Bolo Oraon, Gora Oraon and Bikesar Oraon of Jalpaiguri in West Bengal; Yasohal of Pathankot, Punjab; Vikey Rawat of Dehradun, Uttarakhand; Babul Borodalai of Assam; and Lakpa Dorjee Tamang of Katang in Namchi district. Three unidentified bodies were sent to Singtam District Hospital and STNM Hospital for identification and legal formalities. Another body was recovered later, taking the death toll to 11.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) and Governor Om Prakash Mathur visited the accident site and reviewed the rescue operation with NHPC officials.

Addressing reporters, the Chief Minister said the tunnel collapsed around lunchtime on Monday. According to preliminary information, 27 workers were inside the tunnel when the accident occurred. Two escaped safely, while 25 remained trapped.

He said personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, district administration and NHPC were jointly carrying out the rescue operation, with additional support from Central and State agencies.

A specialised team from the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) has also reached the site to assess the tunnel conditions. The exact cause of the accident has not yet been established, although methane gas is suspected to have triggered the disaster.

The Chief Minister announced the constitution of a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the incident. He said strict action would be taken if negligence by any agency or individual was established.

The Sikkim Government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased worker and Rs 50,000 for every injured worker.

Mr Tamang also said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken to him over the phone and assured the State Government of all possible assistance. “Our first priority is to complete the rescue operation and save the trapped workers,” he said.

SP Sonam D. Bhutia said heavy overnight rain caused water to enter the tunnel, hampering rescue efforts. Operations resumed after the water was pumped out around midnight. She added that specialist hazardous gas and chemical response teams from Asansol and Durgapur were on their way to assist investigators and rescuers.

A senior rescue official said the collapse occurred nearly 1.5 km inside the tunnel. The presence of toxic gases, including carbon monoxide, made rescue operations extremely challenging and reduced the chances of survival for those trapped.

Namchi District Information Officer Dipti Pradhan continued to issue periodic updates on the rescue operation, while authorities shifted the recovered bodies to Singtam District Hospital, STNM Hospital in Gangtok and Namchi District Hospital for post-mortem examinations and other legal formalities.

The rescue operation is being jointly conducted by NHPC, the Namchi district administration, NDRF, SDRF, Sikkim Police, Fire and Emergency Services, the Health Department and other line departments. The Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority (SSDMA) is closely monitoring the situation.

In a press release, NHPC said the accident occurred at 1.04 p.m. on Monday when a sudden burst of suspected methane gas trapped within the rock triggered an explosion inside the under-construction Head Race Tunnel, generating dense fumes and toxic gases.

The company said emergency response protocols were activated immediately and rescue operations were launched in coordination with the district administration, NDRF, SDRF, DGMS and other agencies. NHPC said its top management had reached the site and that a detailed investigation would be conducted to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari spoke to Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang over the phone and assured all possible assistance.

In a post on X, Mr Adhikari said he had personally spoken to the Sikkim Chief Minister to take stock of the situation, noting that several of the affected workers were believed to be from Jalpaiguri district in West Bengal. He said Minister Bishal Lama and the Darjeeling District Magistrate had been deputed to the site, while the West Bengal Home Secretary was maintaining constant contact with the Sikkim administration for updates on the rescue operation.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday ordered the power department to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards power theft and to recover outstanding arrears from industrial and commercial consumers.

Adhikari who has the power department under his portfolio held a review meeting with senior power department officials at Vidyut Bhavan in Salt Lake.

The chief minister told officials to go “all out and adopt a zero tolerance on hooking and asked them not to fall for any political interference in department proceedings.”

“No MLA, MP or ruling BJP leader will be allowed to influence departmental decisions,” Adhikari said.

“Zero political intervention” and strict action against illegal power connections were among the key instructions issued by the chief minister, who asked officials to disconnect illegal connections and recover pending electricity dues without succumbing to political pressure.

Adhikari also called for a gradual expansion of smart meters, but said the rollout should be accompanied by an effective grievance redressal mechanism, dedicated helpline and online complaint system.

Adhikari said West Bengal was working towards adding around 5,000 MW of new thermal power generation capacity to strengthen the state’s electricity supply network and meet rising demand from industry and other sectors.

The Chief Minister stressed the importance of renewable energy and said the state would accelerate implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar scheme.

Adhikari said 2,303 schools had been brought under solar power initiatives and announced that solar power connections for 1,800 households would be switched on from Nabanna later in the day.

“Through these measures were not only want to ensure seamless electricity supply across the state but also take care of the fact that electricity bills do not burn a hole in people’s pockets,” Adhikari said.

He said the state would also consider additional financial assistance for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe consumers to help them install rooftop solar systems.

Adhikari mentioned that future recruitment of engineers should be conducted through the Public Service Commission (PSC) to ensure transparency and prevent political interference. The recruitment process already underway, however, would continue.

“The state’s reputation has been severely tarnished over recruitment,” Adhikari said, referring to the teacher recruitment and municipal recruitment scandals. He said there should be no political interference in the appointment of highly skilled engineers.

“All recruitment to the power department will be done through PSC. This will ensure transparency and we will not allow anyone political persons to influence recruitment. The image of West Bengal and Bengalis has taken a beating and we need to improve on this on terms of recruitment,” Adhikari added.

He stressed that the Power Department must become more customer-friendly and efficient, while urging officials to speak freely about problems, proposals and reforms without fear.

The Chief Minister said he would try to visit Vidyut Bhavan once every month for a review, while the Minister of State would spend more time with the department and undertake regular review meetings and field visits.

Calling the Power Department an essential 24-hour service, Adhikari said even a minor lapse could have serious consequences.

Adhikari also asked the department to ensure that existing infrastructure was properly maintained while accelerating new projects, saying West Bengal’s power sector would have to keep pace with the growing demand for electricity from industry and other sectors.

The second day of the Monsoon Session witnessed a stormy start on Tuesday as proceedings in both the The second day of the Monsoon Session witnessed a stormy start on Tuesday as proceedings in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned till 12 noon following sustained protests by Opposition members demanding immediate discussions on the alleged NEET-UG examination paper leak, alleged financial irregularities in Ram Mandir donations, bribery allegations and the alleged lathicharge on students protesting the paper leak issue on July 20.

Soon after both Houses assembled, Opposition MPs rose from their seats, raised slogans and demanded that the scheduled business be suspended to take up what they described as urgent issues of national importance. The protests intensified as several members trooped into the Well of the House despite repeated appeals from the presiding officers to maintain order.

In the Lok Sabha, Speaker Om Birla urged members to return to their seats and allow the House to function, reiterating that Parliament was the appropriate platform for debate and discussion. However, the continued sloganeering and disruptions left the Chair with little option but to adjourn the House till 12 noon.

The Rajya Sabha also witnessed noisy scenes, with Opposition members pressing for an immediate debate on the NEET-UG controversy, the alleged use of force against students protesting on July 20 and the allegations of financial irregularities in Ram Mandir donations. As members continued their protests, the Chair adjourned the Upper House till 12 noon.

The disruptions came a day after the Monsoon Session began amid sharp exchanges between the government and the Opposition. Opposition parties have been demanding detailed discussions on the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, arguing that it has affected the future of lakhs of students, while also seeking accountability over the alleged lathicharge on student protesters. They have also sought discussions on the allegations relating to Ram Mandir donations and other issues they say warrant the government’s response.

The government has maintained that it is prepared to discuss issues in accordance with parliamentary rules while appealing to the Opposition to allow both Houses to function and carry forward the scheduled legislative business. Proceedings in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha are scheduled to resume at 12 noon. and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned till 12 noon following sustained protests by Opposition members demanding immediate discussions on the alleged NEET-UG examination paper leak, alleged financial irregularities in Ram Mandir donations, bribery allegations and the alleged lathicharge on students protesting the paper leak issue on July 20.

Soon after both Houses assembled, Opposition MPs rose from their seats, raised slogans and demanded that the scheduled business be suspended to take up what they described as urgent issues of national importance. The protests intensified as several members trooped into the Well of the House despite repeated appeals from the presiding officers to maintain order.

In the Lok Sabha, Speaker Om Birla urged members to return to their seats and allow the House to function, reiterating that Parliament was the appropriate platform for debate and discussion. However, the continued sloganeering and disruptions left the Chair with little option but to adjourn the House till 12 noon.

The Rajya Sabha also witnessed noisy scenes, with Opposition members pressing for an immediate debate on the NEET-UG controversy, the alleged use of force against students protesting on July 20 and the allegations of financial irregularities in Ram Mandir donations. As members continued their protests, the Chair adjourned the Upper House till 12 noon.

The disruptions came a day after the Monsoon Session began amid sharp exchanges between the government and the Opposition. Opposition parties have been demanding detailed discussions on the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, arguing that it has affected the future of lakhs of students, while also seeking accountability over the alleged lathicharge on student protesters. They have also sought discussions on the allegations relating to Ram Mandir donations and other issues they say warrant the government’s response.

The government has maintained that it is prepared to discuss issues in accordance with parliamentary rules while appealing to the Opposition to allow both Houses to function and carry forward the scheduled legislative business. Proceedings in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha are scheduled to resume at 12 noon.

India on Tuesday conveyed to Russia its strong concern over the missile attack on commercial vessel MV Golden Leo when it was departing the port of Odisa in Ukraine in which at least four Indian nationals were killed.

‘’Today Russian Chargé d’Affaires, Mr. Vladimir Ladanov, was summoned to the Ministry of External Affairs. The Ministry conveyed India’s grave concerns and unequivocal condemnation of the attack on the commercial vessel MV Golden Leo on 19 July, which resulted in the tragic loss of four Indian lives, emphasising that such attacks undermine the safety, security, and stability of international maritime commerce,’’ the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

The Russian Chargé d’Affaires was asked to convey India’s strong concerns to his authorities that the targeting of commercial shipping and the resulting loss of innocent civilian lives are unacceptable and must be avoided, the MEA added.

At the time of the incident, there were 17 crew members on board, including 5 Indian nationals. While Indian nationals lost their lives, one is hospitalised in a critical condition.

‘’Our Mission in Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation and is making every effort to extend all possible assistance to those affected. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased Indian nationals and wish the injured Indian national a speedy and full recovery,’’ the MEA added.

Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee President and former minister Ajay Rai has written to President Draupadi Murmu seeking her intervention in the alleged police use of force during a student and youth protest in New Delhi.

He also demanded the removal of the Union Education Minister from his Mr Rai stated that repressive action, instead of engaging with young people exercising their democratic rights, is contrary to democratic values.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday, Mr. Rai stated in his letter that the incidents of water cannons, lathicharge, and tear gas use during the student march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament are extremely worrying.

He alleged that photographs and videos circulated on social media and other platforms showed many security personnel without nameplates, while allegations have emerged that some people in civilian clothes were also involved in the action. He demanded an independent and impartial investigation into the matter.

The Congress state president stated that the leak of the NEET question paper, questions raised about the examination system, and complaints related to the re-NEET exam have caused deep dissatisfaction among students and youth across the country. He stated that at such a time, the government should adopt a path of dialogue, not the use of force.

In the letter, Ajay Rai claimed that opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and the Congress leadership have established dialogue with students and supported their demands.

Referring to the tenure of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, he said that during that time, dialogue was the path adopted to resolve protests.

Mr. Rai demanded an independent investigation into the use of force during the Parliament March, an investigation into the role of security personnel without nameplates or alleged unauthorized persons, a transparent investigation into complaints related to NEET and other central examinations, and the fixing of responsibility for these matters.

UP Congress chief stated in the letter that the use of force against peaceful protests impacts India’s democratic image and that problems in a democracy should be resolved through dialogue.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Tuesday urged Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to end the protest he and several other Congress leaders are staging outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence.

Rahul, his sister Priyanka Gandhi and several top Congress leaders are staging the protest outside PM Modi’s house, demanding his resignation over police brutality against students during yesterday’s march to Parliament.

Singh, along with Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, reached Lok Kalyan Marg and spoke with Rahul, urging him to end the protest.

He reportedly told Gandhi that the government is ready to discuss the issue of paper leaks in Parliament during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

The meeting comes shortly after Rahul Gandhi gave a “Chalo PM House” call, urging “every patriotic Indian” to join Congress party’s dharna outside PM’s house.

“An attack on students is an attack on every Indian family. Prime Minister Modi thinks he can escape without giving answers, without facing any consequences – he won’t be able to, not at all this time,” he said.

“The voice of India’s students will not be ignored,” the Congress leader said.

Rahul said that they have marched to PM Modi’s house to demand answers from him for the brutalities against young students yesterday.

“The Government doesn’t want to take any accountability or does it want to have a debate on it in Parliament. PM and HM must resign for destroying the future of India’s youth,” he added.

This comes a day after thousands of students marched towards the Parliament but were stopped by the police.

The police resorted to lathicharge to disperse the student protesters, resulting in injuries to many of them.

The protest march was called by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) against Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged paper leaks.

MCD west zone chairman Harish Oberoi has inspected the Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste sites in Bindapur and Fateh Nagar areas.

West Zone Deputy commissioner Col Vinod Atri and other senior MCD officials were present on the occasion.

Oberoi, who inspected the waste sites on Monday, stated that these C&D sites are being developed as model sites to ensure that all measures are taken to minimise pollution and dust during the pollution season.

He also inspected the permanent pumping station at Bindapur, where he checked the functioning of all pumps and the sump well, and reviewed the manpower and operational arrangements for the monsoon season.

Additionally, Oberoi inspected the sanitation status and standards to review the field team’s performance.

He said there is a need to prevent waterlogging anywhere in the zone, minimise pollution, and maintain high standards of cleanliness across all wards in the zone.

Jammu and Kashmir’s 100-day anti-drug campaign has dealt a major blow to narcotics networks, with authorities arresting 2,581 drug traffickers, seizing over 1.43 tonnes of narcotic substances—including 23.29 kg of heroin—and confiscating assets worth Rs 188.89 crore to choke narco-terror financing, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Tuesday.

Addressing an event marking the completion of the ‘Drug-Free J&K Campaign’, Sinha said the drive had laid a strong foundation in the fight against drug abuse and narco-terrorism, but asserted that the administration’s mission was far from over and would continue with intensified action against drug cartels while expanding rehabilitation and public awareness initiatives.
“We are determined to neutralise the drug cartels and narco-terror networks that target our youth. We continue to strengthen our key priorities of dismantling illicit trafficking ecosystems, enhancing public awareness, and providing robust rehabilitation to help affected individuals reintegrate into society. The first 100 days of the campaign laid the foundation for the rigorous path ahead. The road ahead will certainly be tough, but our resolve to completely wipe out narco-terrorism is stronger than ever,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor said that during this 100-day campaign, he traveled across every region of the Union Territory, connecting with communities in all 20 districts through Padyatra. He recalled meeting many parents burdened by fear for their children’s futures.
By revoking hundreds of driving licences, vehicle registrations, recommending suspension of hundreds of passports and by taking action against non-compliant pharmacies, we have sent a clear message that no offender is above the law. Most importantly, thousands of young people have received treatment and are now rebuilding their lives in the mainstream,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor stated that rehabilitation transforms lives, restores families, and secures our future. He observed that the administration will soon launch the “Rehabilitation and Socio-Economic Reintegration Scheme for Drug Abuse Victims, 2026,” starting with a pilot in the two sensitive districts of Jammu as well as Kashmir Division.
He observed that the initiative, built on a structured 3-year cycle, guides individuals through medical care and therapy in Phase 1, education and employment in Phase 2, and long-term relapse prevention with community support in Phase 3.

The Lieutenant Governor also called upon people to speak up against drug abuse. He said the government needs the support of the entire community.
He also urged all teachers and leaders of religious and social organisations to sustain the energy you have shown in these 100 days. “You shape lives so keep instilling discipline and confidence in the youth and make them aware of the harmful effects of drugs”, LG added.

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin did not attend Sunday’s FIFA World Cup 2026 final, with reports pointing to growing tensions between European football’s governing body and FIFA over disciplinary rulings, refereeing issues and tournament operations.

Ceferin’s absence from the showpiece clash between Spain and Argentina highlighted the increasingly strained relationship between the two organisations during the tournament.

Disciplinary row sparks friction

One of the biggest flashpoints came after FIFA opted not to enforce an automatic one-match suspension for United States forward Folarin Balogun following his red card, a decision that reportedly drew strong criticism from UEFA officials, who viewed it as crossing “a red line”.

Another source of disagreement was the absence of Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was unable to officiate at the tournament after being denied entry into the United States. Artan has since been appointed to referee the UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa next month.

European delegates also raised concerns over FIFA’s handling of matches involving Iran, as well as several operational changes introduced during the tournament, including mandatory hydration breaks and the extended half-time interval used in the World Cup final.

Spain crowned world champions

On the pitch, Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time at the New York-New Jersey Stadium to lift their second FIFA World Cup title and first since 2010.

Substitute Ferran Torres scored the winner in the 106th minute after Nico Williams nodded Pedro Porro’s cross into his path.

Spain dominated large spells of the final but were repeatedly denied by Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who produced a series of outstanding saves to keep his side in the contest.

Argentina’s task became even more difficult when Enzo Fernandez was sent off in second-half stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi.

Spain thought they had gone ahead early in extra time through Nico Williams, only for the goal to be ruled out after referee Slavko Vincic spotted a foul by Mikel Merino on Nicolas Otamendi in the build-up.

Torres eventually broke the deadlock six minutes later, firing into the roof of the net to secure Spain’s victory.

The triumph extended La Roja’s unbeaten run to a European-record 38 international matches and ended Argentina’s bid to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup.

India’s national record-holder Vishal Thennarasu Kayalvizhi (Vishal TK) says he is heading into his Commonwealth Games debut with a “winning mindset” as the 22-year-old quarter-miler looks to cap a breakthrough season with a podium finish in Glasgow.

Vishal has enjoyed a landmark year, becoming the first Indian man to break the 45-second barrier in the 400m after clocking a national record 44.98 seconds. The four-time national champion also starred at the Asian Athletics Championships, helping India win gold in the mixed 4x400m relay and silver in the men’s 4x400m relay.

Ranked among the world’s top 60 men’s 400m runners, Vishal now arrives in Glasgow as one of India’s brightest medal prospects in the sprint events.

‘I don’t set limits on what I can achieve’: Vishal TK

As he prepares to compete at his maiden Commonwealth Games, Vishal said his focus is on delivering his best performance rather than placing limits on his ambitions.

“I’m entering the Commonwealth Games with a winning mindset. Months of hard work, honesty, discipline, consistency and self-belief have brought me to this stage, and I trust the process and my coach Jason Dawson completely.

“My focus is on performing at my highest level and making every second count on the track. I don’t set limits on what I can achieve. I believe in pushing my boundaries every time I compete. Representing India is the biggest motivation, and I’ll give everything I have to make the nation proud.”

Vishal credited the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS) and his coaching team for helping him develop into one of India’s leading one-lap runners.

“Success is never an individual effort, and I’m fortunate to have an incredible team supporting me. The Inspire Institute of Sport has provided everything an athlete needs – from world-class coaching and sports science to nutrition, recovery and mental conditioning.

“Their belief in me has given me the confidence to keep improving every day. Having such a strong support system allows me to focus entirely on giving my best performance.”

‘We’re changing the perception of Indian athletics’

Having already rewritten the national record books, Vishal believes India’s current generation of 400m runners is raising the country’s profile on the global stage.

“It’s an honour to be part of a generation that’s changing the perception of Indian athletics. We are proving that Indian athletes can compete with the best in the world.

“Every performance is about setting a new benchmark, not just for myself, but for the next generation of athletes who dream of wearing the Indian jersey.”

Reflecting on his preparations, Vishal said consistency has been the biggest takeaway from his training in recent months.

“I’ve learned to stay composed under pressure, trust my preparation and perform with confidence when it matters the most.”

The national record-holder said representing India remains the greatest honour of his career and promised to give everything on the track as he targets another milestone at the Commonwealth Games.

Having already become the first Indian man to run the 400m in under 45 seconds, Vishal now heads to Glasgow aiming to translate his record-breaking form into his first Commonwealth Games medal.

Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee was all in his spirits after the massive turnout of the July 21 rally, so much so that he indirectly stopped short of using the common Bengali slur ‘BC’ for the rebel Ritabrata Banerjeee camp.

“Those who have sided with the pillow-licking group to save themselves, please don’t call them Trinamool. They are pillow-lickers. It will suffice if you just call them BC. There are many meanings for BC. I am not elaborating on this. BC stands for Balish Chata (pillow lickers),” Banerjee said at the Kalighat Trinamool May 21 rally near Birla Planetarium in Kolkata.

Banerjee wanted to draw a sharp line between the two groups of the Trinamool, handing the rebel camp a sharp blow for asserting itself to be the ‘real’ faction. He was also alluding to a controversial video featuring Ritabrata, which had a reference to pillow.

The Diamond Harbour MP who is also regarderd as the TMC’s second-in-command mentioned the massive turnout at its rally saying that the real strength behind its party lies in its workers.

Banerjee even hit out at the Ritabrata camp over its thin crowd at the latter’s Martyr’s Day event saying that even a JCB or bulldozer machine at work at a village draws far more crowd than the number of people who have turned up on Tuesday at the rally.

“Today’s programme is a living proof that there is no alternative to TMC workers. Those who used to claim themselves to be Trinamool, just go and look at their programme at Mayo Road. Even a JCB at work in a village is able to draw more crowds than how many people assembled today at their event,” he said.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya was beaten up by some of the protestors for allegedly instigating them while savouring burger himself.

A video of the alleged assault went viral on social media. The video shows Dahiya being confronted by some men at a popular Delhi eatery.

One of the individuals who also recorded the video is heard asking Dahiya why he was at the eatery while others protesters were braving rain at the Jantar Mantar.

“You were eating a burger while we were protesting?” asked one of the individuals.

https://twitter.com/NewsAlgebraIND/status/2079517784820858971

Meanwhile, the CJP has removed Dahiya as its spokesperson over “deeply insensitive and “unacceptable” conduct during the protest.

“We strongly condemn the deeply insensitive actions of our spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya, whose videos surfaced while peaceful protestors and our team were facing brutal police violence. Such conduct is unacceptable, shows a complete lack of judgment, and is wholly inconsistent with the values and principles of our movement,” the party said in a statement.

Clarifying his viral burger video, Dahiya had said that he was not being paid to attend the protest and that he was doing it to for the country.

A day after the ‘Chalo Sansad’ march in the national capital, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Tuesday, July 21, removed Vijeta Dahiya as its spokesperson after viral videos showed him at a Burger King outlet in a mall near the protest site. In the clips, several people had asked Dahiya why he was at the mall even when supporters were still out on the streets.

“We strongly condemn the deeply insensitive actions of our spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya, whose videos surfaced while peaceful protestors and our team were facing brutal police violence. Such conduct is unacceptable, shows a complete lack of judgment, and is wholly inconsistent with the values and principles of our movement,” read a post on X by the CJP.

It added, “In response, we are removing Vijeta Dahiya as spokesperson of the Cockroach Janta Party and relieving him of all the official duties.”

We strongly condemn the deeply insensitive actions of our spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya, whose videos surfaced while peaceful protestors and our team were facing brutal police violence. Such conduct is unacceptable, shows a complete lack of judgment, and is wholly inconsistent with…

— Cockroach is Back (@Cockroachisback) July 21, 2026

In the viral video, a few people could be seen confronting Dahiya at a Burger King outlet in a mall. The exact timing of the video as well as the circumstances in which it was recorded could not be independently verified.

The controversy started during CJP’s ‘Chalo Sansad’ march in the national capital on Monday. Drawing a large crowd. the demonstration also led to clashes with security personnel.

Several people criticised Dahiya over his alleged act, stating that protesters were facing police action while the CJP member sat in a mall eating fast food.

After the controversy, Dahiya posted a video on Instagram to defend himself. He said he had worked for the movement for about one and a half months. besides claiming that he had barely slept for the past two nights. Also, he asked why eating a burger had become such a big deal.

“Nobody pays me to participate in the protest,” he said. He added that he does this for the country.

Dahiya also refused to say sorry on the matter.

FIFA has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the post-match brawl that erupted after Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, following chaotic scenes at the New York-New Jersey Stadium.

World football’s governing body confirmed that disciplinary proceedings have been opened against those involved but did not provide a timeline for the investigation.

Mass confrontation after final whistle

Tempers flared moments after the final whistle when Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes confronted Spain defender Eric Garcia, triggering a mass confrontation involving players, substitutes and coaching staff from both teams.

Television footage appeared to show Paredes placing a hand on Garcia’s throat, sending the Spanish defender to the ground. Spain midfielder Gavi was also involved as players exchanged shoves before teammates and officials stepped in to defuse the situation.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni was seen trying to calm his players during the altercation.

Heated contest spills over

The flashpoint capped an already fiery final in which Argentina were reduced to 10 men late in the match after Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a second bookable offence following a challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi.

Fernandez became the first player to be sent off in a FIFA World Cup final since Netherlands defender John Heitinga’s dismissal against Spain in the 2010 final, ending a 16-year run without a red card in football’s biggest match.

Spain crowned world champions

Despite the ugly scenes, emotions eventually cooled, with several Spain players embracing Argentina captain Lionel Messi, while Scaloni and Spain coach Luis de la Fuente shared a lengthy embrace at midfield.

Spain sealed their second FIFA World Cup title after substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, converting Nico Williams’ headed assist to secure a 1-0 extra-time victory.

La Roja dominated much of the contest, controlling possession and creating the better chances, although Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez produced a string of outstanding saves to keep his side in the game before Torres finally broke the deadlock.

The triumph ended Spain’s 16-year wait for a second World Cup crown after their maiden success in 2010 and capped an unbeaten tournament following their UEFA Euro 2024 title.

Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday became the latest BJP-ruled state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

The contentious UCC bill, which was passed by the state Legislative Assembly, will now be sent to the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, and come into effect after her assent.

“The country’s most populous state has now implemented the UCC. I extend my congratulations,” said Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav.

Accusing the Congress party of double standards over the issue, CM Yadav alleged that the Congress party views Hindus and Muslims through two different lenses as vote banks, and the party will pay the price for it.

“The Congress has already disappeared from more than 80 per cent of the country’s geographical area, and it will continue to pay the price for this,” he added.

Reacting to the development, MP Minister Vishvas Sarang said, “Women will no longer face atrocities or harassment in Madhya Pradesh. No man will be able to marry four times. Regressive practices like ‘halala’ will end. Uniformity and equality will prevail.”

The Opposition Congress, however, alleged that Parliamentary norms were floated by the state government while passing  the Bill

“A discussion on the amendment was held. An opportunity was provided. I put forward my proposals… However, after two hours, it became evident that there was sheer obstinacy,” said Congress MLA Arif Masood.

“The Constitution is no longer being upheld, nor are parliamentary norms being respected. The sole objective was simply to get the bill passed,” he added.

Former West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief issued a stern warning to the Ritabrata Banerjee camp at the July 21 event saying that their masks will come off since the truth cannot be hidden forever.

Speaking at the dais of the Martyr’s Day event, Banerjee said, “I want to tell those who have spent years in the Trinamool Congress and later changed their stand that, one day, every mask will come off. The truth cannot remain hidden forever.”

Banerjee said that people will be able to note the difference between those who strongly stood with the party and those who alienated their peers coming under pressure.

Claiming that a majority of its ranks deserted them after the May 4 poll debacle coming under the pressure of central agencies, the TMC chief said, “Many have left because of fear, fear of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), or the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).”

Banerjee even claimed, “I have never seen the CID so active in my political life.”

The TMC chief even asserted that as many as 40,000 cases have been registered against her party workers, exclaiming that it is “unprecedented”.

Thanking her workers for standing tall against such atrocities, Banerjee said, “Despite facing such an enormous number of cases, our workers never bowed their heads. Many went to jail, endured imprisonment, and returned with the same determination to continue the struggle.”

Contrasting their loyalty with those who left her camp, Banerjee said that such sacrifices on their part deserve respect as opposed to those who chose to chicken out.

“Those who chose to leave because of pressure from the ED, CBI, or CID have made their own decisions,” she said, stressing out that she bears “no bitterness” towards them.

Issuing a war cry on the party’s most significant political event after the electoral defeat, Banerjee said, “Our movement must continue with people who remain committed despite adversity.”

“Politics is done through conviction and public trust, not by fear or personal convenience,” she emphasised.