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.

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda has emerged as the Narendra Modi government’s face in reaching out to the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) after nearly three weeks of protests at Jantar Mantar and activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike. On Tuesday, Nadda visited Delhi’s Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital to meet those injured during the police action following the CJP protest march to the Parliament.

On Monday, after the government received what Nadda described as a “proposal for dialogue” from the CJP, he was entrusted with leading the talks. “This morning, for the first time, a proposal came from the protesters to hold talks with the government, and our discussions have been ongoing since 11.50,” Nadda had posted on X.

Government sources said Nadda’s selection reflected both his stature and his reputation as a consensus-builder capable of handling sensitive situations. As the Union Health Minister and former BJP national president, his involvement conveyed that the Centre was taking the protests seriously.

The CJP was unwilling to engage with lower-level functionaries, making a senior Cabinet minister the preferred interlocutor. With protesters demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Education Ministry could not credibly lead the dialogue.

Therefore Nadda, as Health Minister, offered a relatively neutral face while also being directly connected to concerns involving medical students.

Sources said deploying Nadda was also a part of the broader strategy to project a conciliatory approach amid criticism over the police’s use of lathi-charge and tear gas against protesters. His visit to injured protesters at RML Hospital after the meeting was intended to demonstrate the government’s concern and willingness to engage.

Despite opening a channel of communication, the talks yielded no assurance on the protesters’ key demands. “The meeting with Naddaji was meant to hear the students’ concerns. No assurance was given that the government would accept or consider their demands,” sources said.

After the meeting, CJP leader Saurav Das also said that when he and Ranka met Nadda at his residence from noon onward and conveyed their demands, including the immediate resignation or dismissal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, no commitments were made. “The Minister assured us he would raise the matter at the appropriate level. However, no commitments have been made so far. The peaceful protesters will not rest until the demand is met,” he said

BJP sources acknowledged that the government decision to engage with the protesters after the issue escalated on the opening day of Parliament’s Monsoon Session, creating “bad optics” for the government. In other words, the government cannot be seen as insensitive to protesting students.

Addressing NDA law makers on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said those arrested in the NEET-UG paper leak case should face the toughest punishment. While defending the government’s response, he stressed the need to restore the trust of the youth, ensure no injustice is done to students, treat the issue as a national concern rather than a political one, and establish a foolproof nationwide system to prevent future examination paper leaks.

Punjab Police on Tuesday claimed to have dismantled an alleged terror network with the arrest of 17 people and said investigators had uncovered a suspected conspiracy to target a passenger train running between Ferozepur and Jammu using an improvised explosive device (IED).

The arrests emerged from an investigation into the grenade attack on the Sadar police station in Moga earlier this month, which police said was not an isolated incident but part of a larger network allegedly operating with the support of an overseas-based handler.

Addressing the media, Faridkot Range Inspector General of Police (IGP) Neelambari Jagadale Vijay said investigators had traced the operation to Iqbal Singh alias Ravi Dhaliwal, a native of Punjab who is currently residing in the United Kingdom. According to the police officer, the accused allegedly coordinated the activities of the module from abroad while local operatives were tasked with carrying out attacks in Punjab.

Police said the investigation indicated that members of the network had allegedly planned to plant an IED on the Ferozepur-Jammu train. Officials maintained that the plot was detected at an early stage and neutralised before any explosive device could be placed on the railway route, preventing what they described as a potentially serious security incident.

The probe was launched after unidentified persons allegedly hurled a low-intensity grenade inside the premises of the Sadar police station in Moga at around 3.15 a.m. on July 8. While the explosion caused concern, it also prompted an extensive investigation involving intelligence gathering, technical surveillance and coordinated field operations across multiple locations.

Police said the inquiry eventually led investigators to three alleged executors of the grenade attack. Gagan alias Kali, Rajesh alias Khanna and Shubham alias Bhinder. Their questioning, officials said, helped investigators piece together the wider network and identify several others suspected of providing logistical assistance, shelter and operational support.

During the course of the investigation, police arrested a total of 17 suspects. Among those whose alleged roles surfaced during the probe are Kuljit Kaur, Lazar alias Aman and Praveen Kaur, while investigators said further inquiries are underway to establish the full extent of the network and identify any additional associates.

Officials said several exhibits believed to be linked to the case were recovered during the operation, including an improvised explosive device (IED), a 9 mm Glock pistol with a magazine and a Hero Splendor motorcycle allegedly used by members of the module. The recovered material has been sent for forensic examination, while investigators are analysing digital and technical evidence collected during the raids.

Police have invoked provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Explosive Substances Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against the accused. All 17 arrested persons have been produced before the court, and police have obtained custodial remand to continue questioning them regarding the alleged conspiracy, funding channels, communication links and possible cross-border or overseas connections.

The police said the investigation remains in progress and is focused on determining whether the alleged module had planned additional attacks or maintained links with other operatives. Officials added that further arrests and recoveries could not be ruled out as investigators continue to examine evidence gathered during the operation.

The development comes as Punjab Police has intensified its crackdown on organised crime and terror-linked networks under its ongoing campaign against gangsters and extremist elements, with investigators increasingly examining the role of overseas-based handlers in directing criminal and terror-related activities within the state.

Punjab farmers attempting to march towards Delhi on Tuesday to protest the proposed India-US trade deal were stopped at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points after Haryana authorities sealed both entry routes and deployed heavy security, leading to a fresh standoff between protesters and the administration.

Farmers began assembling early in the day at the Shambhu border on the Patiala-Ambala route and the Khanauri border connecting Sangrur and Jind, with plans to proceed to Delhi’s Kisan Ghat. Anticipating the march, Haryana Police strengthened barricading at both locations, preventing the protesters from moving forward. Security personnel, along with earthmoving machinery, were stationed at the sites to prevent the establishment of any permanent or temporary protest structures.

With their movement halted, several farmers remained at the borders and indicated they were preparing to continue their agitation from the spot. The protest is being led by Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) coordinator Sarwan Singh Pandher, who has been coordinating with farmer organisations present at the protest sites.

The administration imposed prohibitory restrictions under Section 163 near the Shambhu border, warning demonstrators not to approach within 100 metres of the barricades. The renewed closure of the Shambhu crossing also disrupted traffic on the Jalandhar-Delhi stretch of National Highway-44, prompting Haryana Police to divert vehicles and issue traffic advisories. Authorities asked commuters to contact the emergency helpline in case of difficulty.

The protest has been organised against the proposed trade arrangement between India and the United States, which farmer groups believe could adversely affect the agricultural sector if it results in greater access for imported farm and dairy products. Farmer organisations have demanded wider consultations with stakeholders before any such agreement is finalised.

Following a meeting with Haryana Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana, Pandher said the minister had conveyed that detained farmer leaders would be released soon. He also said efforts were being made to facilitate talks between farmer representatives and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan within the next several days. According to Pandher, the next course of the agitation would be decided after the release of farmer leader Gurnam Singh Chaduni and consultations with other organisations. He added that the proposed trade agreement would also be a key subject during future discussions with the Centre.

The Shambhu border has once again emerged as a flashpoint after remaining closed for more than 13 months during the previous farmers’ agitation. The crossing, which had been sealed in February 2024 and reopened in March 2025 following judicial intervention, has now been shut again as authorities seek to prevent protesters from entering Haryana and proceeding towards the national capital.

Security arrangements were tightened across several districts of Haryana, particularly along routes leading to Delhi. Police conducted intensive vehicle checks at multiple entry points, including the Kundli-Singhu border, where long traffic congestion was reported due to enhanced security screening. In some districts, police also detained or restricted the movement of farmer leaders travelling towards the protest venue.

Reacting to the demonstrations, Punjab BJP spokesperson Anil Sareen questioned the basis of the protest, stating that no final trade agreement had yet been concluded or made public. He argued that opposing a proposal whose details were yet to emerge was premature and alleged that certain groups were attempting to create unnecessary unrest.

The Aam Aadmi Party, however, backed the farmers’ right to protest. Party leader Baltej Pannu said farmers feared that an eventual free trade agreement could expose Indian agriculture and dairy producers to increased foreign competition, affecting their livelihoods. He urged the Centre to allow peaceful demonstrations in Delhi and called for dialogue instead of restrictions on movement.

Separately, Bhim Sena chief and Samvidhan Suraksha Party president Nawab Satpal Tanwar announced a nationwide Bharat Bandh on July 27, citing alleged human rights violations, corruption and other public issues, although the call was made independently of the farmers’ protest.

The situation remained tense but peaceful till the filing of this report, with security forces maintaining a strong presence at key border points while farmer organisations held consultations on their next course of action.

A section of municipal employees and former councilors are purportedly involved in the alleged land scam spearheaded by strongman Biswajit Poddar alias Sona Pappu, former Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner of Police Shantanu Sinha Biswas, and real estate developer Joy Kamdar, an Enforcement Directorate (ED) report submitted to the court mentioned.

The activities ranged from land grabbing, evictions, illegal name transfers and misappropriation of properties to serve the business interests of the accused, the report mentioned.

The central investigating agency further claimed that some councillors were involved in these operations.

According to the anti-money laundering agency, Sona Pappu ran the racket in collusion with Sinha Biswas and Kamdar. The group was involved in illegal land and property grabbing, real estate development and extortion.

Earlier, the ED filed its first supplementary chargesheet against Sinha Biswas in a land grab and financial irregularities case, accusing him of having colluded with Pappu and Kamdar in running a land grabbing network spread across various parts of the city.

Investigators alleged that the accused had pressurised and harassed land owners by filing false complaints against them at several police stations. The chargesheet also states that the accused used his influence in the police administration to carry out the scam.

A video is causing a stir online. It appears to show Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya at a Burger King outlet near the site of his party’s Delhi protest. The clip has spread fast on social media. Many users are asking why he was at a mall while supporters were still out on the streets.

The video’s exact timing has not been confirmed. Nobody has verified when it was filmed or what happened right before or after.

 

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A post shared by Vijeta Dahiya (@vijetadahiya1)

The protest behind the row

The controversy started during CJP’s ‘Chalo Sansad’ march in Delhi. The march drew a large crowd. It also led to clashes with security personnel.

As protest visuals spread online, this second video began circulating too. It shows a group confronting Dahiya and asking why he wasn’t with the demonstrators. That exchange quickly became its own talking point.

Why people are angry

Some users were harsh in their criticism. They said protesters were facing police action while a party leader sat in a mall eating fast food. Others pushed back. They said the video alone doesn’t prove Dahiya skipped the protest.

The debate has stayed online for now. Neither side has fully backed down.

Dahiya responds

Dahiya posted an Instagram video to answer his critics. He said he had worked for the movement for about one and a half months. He claimed he had barely slept in the past two nights.

Also, he asked why eating a burger had become such a big deal.

His explanation shifted partway through. First he said there was nothing wrong with eating when hungry. Later he said he chose not to eat the burger once he learned it had refined flour and trans fats.

That answer split opinion further. Some defended him. They said nobody should be judged for grabbing food during a long day. Others felt the explanation made things worse, not better.

“Nobody pays me”

Dahiya also addressed criticism about his conduct at protests. Some people had objected to him dancing or wearing bright clothes during demonstrations. He said this kind of criticism pulls focus from the real issues the movement is raising.

He said he took part in the march and left only after it ended.

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

No apology for the burger

Dahiya refused to say sorry for the burger.

“Yes, I will eat the burger,” he said.

That one line has become the most talked about part of his response.

Indian-origin Labour MP Kanishka Narayan has been elevated to Britain’s Cabinet as Minister for Artificial Intelligence, giving the rapidly developing technology a dedicated place at the highest level of the UK government.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced the appointment on Monday as he began forming his government after succeeding Keir Starmer.

The decision makes AI policy a Cabinet-level responsibility in Britain for the first time and signals Burnham’s intention to place technology, industrial growth and digital security at the centre of his administration.

Narayan promoted from junior ministerial role

Narayan previously served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for AI and Online Safety in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

He was appointed to that position in September 2025 under the Keir Starmer government. The junior ministerial role covered areas including AI opportunities, the AI Security Institute, semiconductors, technology-led growth and online safety.

Burnham has now promoted Narayan while restructuring the technology portfolio and removing several senior ministers associated with the previous administration.

Narayan has described AI as potentially “the most significant technology in human history”.

He is expected to help shape policies aimed at using AI to strengthen public services, improve national security and support the reindustrialisation of Britain, while addressing concerns over disruption to jobs.

Who is Kanishka Narayan?

Narayan was born in India’s Bihar and moved to Cardiff with his family when he was 12.

He later attended Eton College on a scholarship before studying Philosophy, Politics and Economics at the University of Oxford. He subsequently completed an MBA at Stanford University.

Narayan was elected Labour MP for the Vale of Glamorgan in July 2024.

Before entering Parliament, he worked on economic policy and public-service reform and was associated with several social-policy and research organisations.

He served as Parliamentary Private Secretary in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs between July 2024 and September 2025.

Work in social mobility and public policy

Narayan co-founded Attain Wales, a non-profit initiative focused on education and social mobility in South Wales.

He also founded the “Help Your High Street” campaign following the announcement of the Covid-19 lockdown and previously served as a trustee of a Citizens Advice bureau.

His other roles included work with the foreign-policy think tank Chatham House and the Centre for Cities, which focuses on urban economies.

Britain seeks stronger position in global AI race

Narayan’s elevation comes as Britain faces pressure to strengthen its position in the global contest over artificial intelligence.

The UK is home to Google DeepMind and several growing AI companies, including ElevenLabs and autonomous-driving technology developer Wayve. It also has an established pool of researchers, engineers and technology investors.

However, successive British governments have faced criticism over changes in technology policy and insufficient investment in computing capacity, energy infrastructure and data centres.

High electricity costs and planning constraints have also complicated efforts to expand the infrastructure required to develop and operate advanced AI systems.

Burnham had signalled plans to create a Cabinet-level AI position as part of his first government changes. The move followed criticism from technology leaders over reports that the separate Department for Science, Innovation and Technology could be reorganised or abolished.

Narayan’s elevation gives him a wider platform to determine how Britain approaches AI investment, regulation, infrastructure, employment disruption and international partnerships.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the Director of AIIMS to set up a medical board to examine the health of self-styled godman Asaram, who has approached the court seeking interim bail on medical grounds. The top court said it would take a decision only after receiving an independent medical assessment.

A bench comprising Justices M M Sundresh and P B Varale asked the medical board to complete its examination and submit its report within one week.

Court wants independent medical opinion

The case came up after Asaram requested interim bail, claiming that his health condition required medical attention. During the hearing, his lawyer suggested that the AIIMS Director should form a team of specialist doctors to carry out a detailed examination.

The counsel also requested that the doctors determine whether Asaram’s condition requires hospital admission. The Supreme Court accepted the suggestion and ordered the constitution of the medical board.

The bench made it clear that it had no inclination to grant regular bail at this stage. The judges said any relief would depend entirely on medical necessity.

“We are not granting regular bail except if we are satisfied it is required on a medical ground. Let the report come,” the bench observed.

Centre questions medical bail claim

Representing the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta opposed the plea and questioned the basis of Asaram’s request for medical relief.

Mehta told the court that only a few months ago Asaram had travelled to religious places, including Kashi Vishwanath and Ayodhya.

“He got the bail on the ground that he was in vegetative state. But now he is roaming around,” Mehta argued, suggesting that the recent travel raised doubts about the seriousness of his medical condition.

The Supreme Court, however, decided to wait for an expert medical report before taking any further decision on the interim bail plea.

Rajasthan High Court had upheld life sentence

The latest hearing comes after the Rajasthan High Court, on May 27, upheld Asaram’s conviction and life imprisonment in a 2013 rape case involving a minor.

While confirming the life sentence, the High Court acquitted him of charges related to alleged gangrape and penetrative sexual assault under the erstwhile Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

However, it upheld his conviction under Section 376(2)(F) of the IPC, which deals with the rape of a minor, allowing the life sentence awarded by the trial court to remain in force.

Convictions under multiple laws remain

Apart from the rape conviction, the High Court also upheld several other findings against Asaram. These include convictions under IPC provisions related to wrongful confinement, trafficking, criminal intimidation, insulting the modesty of a woman and sexual harassment.

The court also retained his convictions under Sections 7 and 8 of the POCSO Act and Section 23 of the Juvenile Justice Act.

Asaram was originally convicted by the trial court on April 25, 2018, for sexually assaulting a minor student at his ashram. He got life imprisonment under multiple provisions of the IPC, the POCSO Act and the Juvenile Justice Act. The Supreme Court will now consider his request for interim medical bail after receiving the AIIMS medical board’s report.

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday, July 21, allowed activist Sonam Wangchuk, who remains on hunger strike in solidarity with the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar, to be shifted to a hospital of his choice.

“What we propose to do is get him shifted to the hospital of his choice, that is Medanta. He will be treated by the Medanta doctor. All the treatment details at Safdarjung Hospital will be supplied to Medanta immediately and he will be treated there. A panel of doctors to be formed by the director Medanta,” the Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia said, according to Bar and Bench.

Further, the court noted that an order in this regard will be passed after the lunch break.

The Division Bench was hearing the appeal filed by Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, challenging the single-judge’s order refusing to direct that Wangchuk be shifted from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram.

While appearing for Angmo, Senior Advocate Akhil Sibal submitted a letter by the doctor treating Wangchuk at the time of protest. While appearing for the central government, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Chetan Sharma also handed over documents.

After taking note of the medical reports, Justice Karia stated that the activist’s potassium levels had dipped.

“Clinical observation is generally more acceptable than the reports,” Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, also appearing for the Centre, stated.

My heartfelt thanks to the Hon’ble #delhihighcourt for passing favourable order of discharge of @Wangchuk66 to #medanta, the hospital of our choice! My heartfelt thanks also to @SibalAkhil and Bahuli Sharma and their teams for this win against unbelievable odds in record time!!

— Gitanjali J Angmo (@GitanjaliAngmo) July 21, 2026

After the hearing, Angmo wrote on X, “My heartfelt thanks to the Hon’ble #delhihighcourt for passing favourable order of discharge of @Wangchuk66 to #medanta, the hospital of our choice! My heartfelt thanks also to @SibalAkhil and Bahuli Sharma and their teams for this win against unbelievable odds in record time!!”

Four people, including a 10-year-old boy, are undergoing treatment for Covid-19 at private hospitals in Kolkata, doctors said, as they advised the public to remain vigilant amid a rise in seasonal viral infections.

Three Covid-19 patients are currently admitted to one private hospital, while the child is being treated at another facility after testing positive earlier this month.

Two patients required ICU care

Dr Subhajit Sen, Consultant Pulmonologist and Critical Care Specialist at the hospital treating the three patients, said one patient has recovered and is being discharged.

The other two patients required admission to the intensive care unit because of low oxygen levels but have responded well to treatment and are now stable, he said.

According to Sen, the current Covid-19 infections resemble the Omicron wave, with most patients reporting mild upper respiratory symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough and body aches.

However, he said elderly people and those with underlying medical conditions remain at greater risk of developing severe illness.

“There is no need to panic, as most patients recover well with timely medical care,” Sen said, advising people to wear masks in crowded places, maintain hand hygiene, avoid unnecessary gatherings during periods of increased viral transmission and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Child admitted after testing positive

On July 18, a 10-year-old boy from Kolkata’s Garia area was admitted to a private hospital with fever, cough and shortness of breath.

Doctors conducted a swab test after suspecting Covid-19 infection, and the result came back positive. The child was later shifted to the ICU isolation unit for treatment.

Covid-19 cases reported in other states

Health authorities have also reported fresh Covid-19 infections in other parts of the country.

According to the IANS report, Andhra Pradesh recorded 12 Covid-19 cases between June 26 and July 16. Four patients with underlying medical conditions also died during the period.

Doctors have also reported new Covid-19 cases in Pune over the past 10 days after a gap of nearly three years, though they said most patients have mild symptoms while urging continued caution.

The Calcutta High Court has sought a report from the police on the action taken over allegations of vandalism at the Trinamool Congress’ (Kalighat faction) Martyrs’ Day rally venue on the eve of its July 21 programme in Kolkata on Tuesday.

The matter was mentioned before Justice Sougata Bhattacharya by counsel Arka Nag, appearing for the Kalighat TMC, who informed the court that a complaint had been emailed to Chief Justice Tapobrata Chakraborty on Monday night after the alleged attack on the stage.

Referring to its earlier order directing the police to maintain law and order in view of multiple political rallies in the city on July 21, the court questioned why such an incident had occurred despite prior instructions.

Justice Bhattacharya said any breach of peace after the court’s directions was unacceptable and asked the police to submit a detailed report on the steps taken by the police.

The Joint Commissioner of Police was also instructed to ensure adequate security at the rally venue to prevent any untoward incident.

The Kalighat TMC alleged that a group of miscreants vandalised its stage near Birla Planetarium on Monday night, tearing banners and posters, damaging the sound system and cutting electrical and microphone cables.

The faction also claimed that workers engaged in setting up the venue were assaulted and later threatened while dismantling equipment after the programme.

Former chief minister Mamata Banerjee visited the venue shortly after midnight following reports of the alleged vandalism.

“We had to guard the rally area the whole night. I am thankful to all the supporters and colleagues who stayed with me the whole night so that we can conduct the meeting in the morning,” Mamata Banerjee said.

She accused the BJP of attempting to disrupt the Martyrs’ Day observance and alleged that supporters were being prevented from attending the rally.

She also claimed that families of those commemorated on the occasion were being intimidated by the police.

Addressing the gathering on Tuesday, Banerjee thanked the Calcutta High Court for directing the police to ensure security around the rally venue. “They were stopping us from doing our programme. I want to thank the Calcutta High Court for allowing us to conduct the rally,” she said.