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.

Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez has broken his silence following the team’s heartbreaking FIFA World Cup final defeat to Spain, vowing to continue giving everything for the national team despite enduring a difficult night that ended with a red card.

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time at the New York-New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal to end the South Americans’ hopes of defending their World Cup crown.

Fernandez’s night ended in disappointment when he was sent off in second-half stoppage time. The Chelsea midfielder, who had earlier been booked for dissent, received a second yellow card after a late challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi, leaving Argentina to finish the match with 10 men.

‘There’s something bigger than the result’: Enzo Fernandez

A day after the defeat, Fernandez took to Instagram to reflect on Argentina’s campaign, saying the team’s commitment and unity mattered beyond the final scoreline.

“As time goes by, you understand that there’s something much bigger than a result. For years, this group has represented us in the best way.”

“They teach us that competing isn’t just about winning, but about giving everything for the shirt and never giving up. Being part of this group that always showed its mettle, that competed at the highest level, and that defended these colours with pride, humility and commitment is an honour.”

Message for Argentina’s fans

The 25-year-old also thanked Argentina’s supporters for standing behind the team throughout the tournament.

“I want to thank all the Argentine fans. Thank you for always being there, for supporting us in every match, for your affection, your unconditional support, and for making us feel at home anywhere in the world.”

Fernandez ended his message by promising to continue serving Argentina with the same passion whenever called upon.

“Wearing my country’s shirt is the greatest honour of my career, and I will continue to give my all every time I have the opportunity to defend it.”

The midfielder was one of Argentina’s standout performers throughout the tournament, but his campaign ended in heartbreak as Spain lifted the World Cup after an extra-time victory.

Sanju Samson has opened up on one of the toughest phases of his international career, revealing that he knew his hopes of making India’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 were over after a disappointing series against New Zealand and Ishan Kishan’s stunning rise.

The India wicketkeeper-batter admitted he could see the selectors’ thinking change as Kishan grabbed his opportunity with a string of match-winning performances.

“Ishan came in, and his story was completely different. He wasn’t even in the team. He won Jharkhand the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy almost single-handedly, then came into the Indian team and was batting on a different level altogether,” Samson told JioStar.

“I could clearly see that Ishan was moving above me in the pecking order.”

While Kishan made an immediate impact, Samson struggled for runs during the five-match series, scoring 24, 6, 6, 10 and 0.

‘All I could do was sit quietly and clap’: Sanju Samson

The 31-year-old admitted those numbers left little room for debate over who deserved a place in India’s World Cup squad.

“You get five matches and score 24, 6, 6, 10 and 0, then another guy comes in, scores 70-odd straightaway, gets a hundred later in the series, and the next match is directly in the T20 World Cup.”

“Anyone would prefer an in-form batter. It was clear that the World Cup was done for me. Whatever had to happen had happened, and the only thing I could do was sit quietly and clap.”

Samson said the setback came just when he felt he had finally established himself in India’s T20I side after scoring three centuries in seven matches.

“That’s the spice of being an Indian cricketer. Everything can change in a single day,” he said.

“When I made those runs, people would say, ‘Now you’re sorted, you’re settled. You’ve made your position in T20Is.’ But in my mind, I couldn’t believe it.”

The Kerala batter admitted the New Zealand series was a harsh reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in T20 cricket.

Learning to prioritise mental well-being

Looking back, Samson said the difficult phase also changed the way he approached the game, teaching him that recovery and mental well-being are just as important as hours spent training.

“I realised I was overdoing it, and my wife was right. Being happy and mentally in a good space is much more important than putting in hours and hours of practice. The New Zealand series taught me that.”

The wicketkeeper-batter said the experience ultimately helped him find a healthier balance between preparation and performance as he continues his international career.

Kremlin on Tuesday said that it remains “in touch” with New Delhi after the killing of four Indians in the Russian attack on a commercial vessel in the Black Sea.

The response from Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov comes hours after India summoned Russian Chargé d’affaires over the killing of Indian seafarers.

Four Indians were killed and one was critically injured after the vessel – MV Golden Leo – was attacked near the port of Odesa in Ukraine, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Sunday.

The vessel came under attack on the evening of July 19 when it was departing the Ukrainian port with 17 crew members, including five Indians.

“On the evening of July 19, 2026, the vessel MV Golden Leo was attacked while departing the port of Odesa. At the time of the incident, there were 17 crew members on board, including five Indian nationals. As per information available, four Indian nationals have tragically lost their lives, while one is hospitalized in a critical condition,” the MEA said.

India also condemned the attack, reiterating that targeting commercial vessels and endangering civilian lives is deplorable.

“India condemns such attacks and reiterates that targeting commercial shipping and endangering innocent civilian crew members, or otherwise impeding freedom of navigation and commerce, is deplorable and should be avoided,” the MEA added.

Earlier today, India summoned Russia’s Charge d’Affaires Vladimir Ladanov and lodged a strong protest over the attack.

Ministry of External Affairs conveyed India’s “grave concerns and unequivocal condemnation” of the July 19 attack, saying strikes on civilian commercial vessels threatened the safety and stability of international maritime trade.

“The targeting of commercial shipping and the resulting loss of innocent civilian lives are unacceptable and must be avoided,” the MEA told the Russian diplomat, asking him to convey New Delhi’s concerns to Moscow.

A fresh legal battle over controversial remarks made by Punjab Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa is set to unfold in the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday, where the senior Congress leader has challenged the criminal case registered against him over his claims relating to alleged bomb threats in the state.

Bajwa has asked the High Court to set aside the FIR lodged by the Punjab Police, arguing that the prosecution lacks legal merit and should not be allowed to continue. The petition will also test the continuation of the interim protection from arrest that the court granted him during the previous hearing.

The High Court had earlier issued notice to the Punjab government, seeking its response to Bajwa’s plea, while directing that no coercive action be taken against him until further orders. At the same time, the court advised the Congress legislator not to make any public comments on the issue while the matter remains under judicial consideration.

The controversy arose after Bajwa, during a television interview, claimed that around 50 bombs had reached Punjab, alleging that 18 had already exploded while several others were yet to go off. These statements have sparked discussion in political circles. The police state that such statements, made without evidence, can create panic and disrupt law and order; for this reason, the Punjab Police have initiated criminal proceedings.

Based on the complaint, the Cyber Crime Police Station in Mohali registered an FIR against the Congress leader under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges relating to the alleged circulation of false information affecting national security and public harmony.

As part of the investigation, Bajwa appeared before the Mohali police after being summoned and was questioned for nearly six hours. Emerging from the interrogation, he said he had fully cooperated with investigators and answered all questions put to him.

The Congress veteran has consistently denied any wrongdoing, contending that the criminal case was initiated for political reasons. He has accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government of attempting to target opposition voices through legal action, an allegation the ruling party has dismissed.

On the other hand, the Punjab government has stated that statements concerning public security especially those linked to alleged terror threats carry serious implications and therefore require verification.