Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna on Tuesday signed the Budget for the financial year 2026–27 in his office at the Legislative Assembly.

Speaking on the eve of the Budget presentation, Khanna said the 2026–27 Budget had been finalised keeping in view the expectations of the people of the state, development requirements, and the government’s commitment to good governance.

He said the Budget was not merely a statement of figures but a reflection of the development vision and strong political will of the double-engine government.

The Finance Minister said the Budget further strengthens the trust built by the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over the past years, particularly in the areas of law and order, investment, and infrastructure.

“It provides a clear roadmap for the long-term strengthening of the state’s economy by prioritising agriculture, youth, women, workers and the welfare of the underprivileged, along with a strong emphasis on capital expenditure,” Khanna said.

He described the Budget as a concrete response to those questioning Uttar Pradesh’s development, stating that the state was now emerging as one of the country’s leading states in terms of investment, infrastructure and employment, and that the proposed Budget would further accelerate this progress.

Khanna said the Budget, prepared while maintaining fiscal discipline, was a decisive step towards building a self-reliant Uttar Pradesh and would take the state to new economic, social and industrial heights in the coming years.

The Finance Minister added that the proposed Budget prioritises agriculture, education, health, infrastructure, industrial investment, employment generation, and women and youth empowerment.

He said special provisions had been ensured for the balanced development of Purvanchal, Bundelkhand, and other backward regions of the state.

Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, V D Satheesan, on Tuesday said that the “extreme right-wing methods” of the Pinarayi Vijayan government have deeply disappointed cultural activists and Left-leaning fellow travellers.

Speaking to mediapersons in Kalpetta, Wayanad, Satheesan claimed that many Left fellow travellers were now inclined to join the United Democratic Front (UDF), asserting that there was a strong public desire for a change in government in Kerala.

Referring to the possibility of a third consecutive term for Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Satheesan said that when people hear of “Pinarayi 3.0,” they “put their hands on their heads,” an idiom he used to convey shock, dismay and despair.

He alleged that the people of Kerala were fatigued and distressed by the functioning of the current Left Democratic Front (LDF) government and were disheartened at the prospect of another five years under the same administration.

The senior Congress leader also alleged selective leaking of information in the Sabarimala gold heist case probe. He pointed out that when former Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran was questioned in connection with two cases, the information became public only after three to four days.

However, he claimed that when UDF convener Adoor Prakash was questioned, details were leaked to the media even before Prakash reached the office of the Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Satheesan alleged that agents of the CPM were part of the SIT probing the case and were selectively leaking information to the media. He further stated that if the SIT had recorded Adoor Prakash’s statement based on a photograph showing him alongside prime accused Unnikrishnan Potty, then it should also question Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, as a photograph of the Chief Minister with Potty had also surfaced.

Claiming that the Left Front was disintegrating, Satheesan said there was a lack of mutual trust among its constituent parties. He alleged that relations between the CPM and CPI were strained, citing disagreements on multiple issues, including the PM-SHRI agreement, which he said was signed without consulting the CPI. He also claimed that the CPM was not on good terms with the Kerala Congress and the RJD.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has been meeting top political leaders in New Delhi to personally invite them to his son Arjun Tendulkar’s wedding with Saaniya Chandhok. Along with his family and Saaniya’s family, Tendulkar recently met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and extended the wedding invitation ahead of the upcoming celebrations in Mumbai.

Sachin shared the moment on social media, expressing gratitude for the Prime Minister’s blessings and advice for the young couple. “We were honoured to invite Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji to Arjun and Saaniya’s wedding. Thank you, Modi ji, for your blessings and thoughtful advice for the young couple,” he wrote while posting pictures with the PM.

Indian cricket great #SachinTendulkar has invited Prime Minister @narendramodi to attend his son Arjun’s wedding to #SaaniyaChandok. In a social media post, he said, “We were honoured to invite Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji to Arjun and Saaniya’s wedding.”… pic.twitter.com/bqq9BiICIt

— The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) February 10, 2026

Tendulkar also met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and invited him to the wedding. Sharing another post, he wrote, “We cordially invited Hon’ble Home Minister Shri @AmitShah ji to Arjun and Saaniya’s wedding. Thank you for the warmth extended to our family, we deeply appreciate your kind wishes.”

We cordially invited Hon’ble Home Minister Shri @AmitShah ji to Arjun and Saaniya’s wedding.

Thank you for the warmth extended to our family, we deeply appreciate your kind wishes. pic.twitter.com/IfcNIms6qK

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 10, 2026

The former India captain further met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan to extend the invitation. Reflecting on the meeting, Tendulkar said, “Last February, Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu ji graciously hosted us at Rashtrapati Bhavan. We relived some of those cherished memories when we met the President today to invite her to Arjun and Saaniya’s wedding. Thank you for your warm wishes, Hon’ble President.”

Last February, Hon’ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu ji graciously hosted us at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

We relived some of those cherished memories when we met the President today to invite her to Arjun and Saaniya’s wedding. Thank you for your warm wishes, Hon’ble President.… pic.twitter.com/oZA4nZmzfo

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 10, 2026

The Tendulkar family also met Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and personally invited him to Arjun and Saaniya’s wedding.

Sachin Tendulkar shared a post on social media, writing, “Our family had the opportunity to meet Shri Rahul Gandhi ji and invite him to Arjun-Saaniya’s wedding.”

Our family had the opportunity to meet Shri @RahulGandhi ji and invite him to Arjun-Saaniya’s wedding. pic.twitter.com/StdMKtaapq

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 10, 2026

Who is Saaniya Chandhok? Arjun Tendulkar’s fiancée and entrepreneur

Arjun Tendulkar is set to marry Saaniya Chandhok, an entrepreneur and qualified veterinary technician. The couple reportedly got engaged in a private ceremony in August last year, and the wedding festivities are expected to begin on March 3, with the marriage ceremony scheduled for March 5 in Mumbai.

Arjun, a left-arm fast bowler and handy lower-order batter, is an active cricketer in India’s domestic circuit and the Indian Premier League. He made his Ranji Trophy debut for Goa in 2022 and scored a century in his maiden first-class match. He was first picked by the Mumbai Indians in 2021 and made his IPL debut in 2023, later being retained for the 2024 season before being traded to Lucknow Super Giants ahead of the 2026 campaign.

Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the FMCG arm of Reliance Industries, officially announced here on Tuesday that it has acquired Southern Health Foods, a leading health foods maker from Tamil Nadu, for an undisclosed amount.

Southern Health Foods owns the brand Manna, and it has been manufacturing a wide range of healthy foods for more than two decades.

“The addition of Manna adds further strength to RCPL’s foods and staples portfolio that includes brands like Udhaiyam, Independence and SiL, through building a strong business vertical in the growing millet-based foods segment,” according to the company’s official statement.

Southern Health Foods is a player in several health-focused food categories such as packaged healthy foods, including millets, oats, multigrain products, health mixes, breakfast cereals and dry fruits, among others. Its flagship brand, Manna, is widely known for its healthy offerings in many emerging packaged foods categories such as millet flour, baby foods and multigrain drink mix.

RCPL Director T Krishnakumar said, “Manna is one of the most trusted names in the health-focused foods market in Tamil Nadu, with a noticeable presence in the adjoining states. It is known for healthy offerings such as millet-based staples and mixes, drinks and baby food”.

“Apart from adding muscle to RCPL’s packaged foods portfolio, Manna’s addition will help us serve consumers the best nutritious foods. With our strong distribution, R&D and supply chain capabilities, Manna would be made available in other geographies, eventually making it a household name across the country. The long-term vision, according to Reliance, is to transform Manna into a household name across India, aligning with Reliance’s core philosophy of providing “global quality at affordable prices”.

The latest acquisition is part of a broader expansion by RCPL into the FMCG space. Just days prior, the company acquired a majority stake in Australia’s Goodness Group Global, a “better-for-you” beverage business, indicating Reliance’s intent to become a global FMCG player.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday sought the response of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution to a public interest plea by the Association of Healthcare Providers (India) seeking the exclusion of medical professionals from the ambit of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

Seeking to be excluded from the Consumer Protection law that empowers patients to approach consumer courts to claim damages for alleged medical negligence, the PIL says, “The inclusion of medical professionals under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, undermines the trust-based, fiduciary nature of the doctor-patient relationship and erodes the moral foundation of medical practice.”

A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and NV Anjaria issued notice on a PIL by the Association of Healthcare Providers (India) (AHPI) and its former president, a Bengaluru-based doctor, that states that applying consumer law to medical services encourages defensive medical practice and that there are other, better-suited mechanisms to check on medical negligence.

The Consumer Protection Act provides consumers with a mechanism to seek redressal for unfair trade practices or deficiencies in goods and services. The Supreme Court, by its November 13, 1995, judgment, had ruled that the medical services too fall within the ambit of “service” under Section 2(1)(o) of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.

The Supreme Court by its November 13, 1995, judgment, had held “(1) Service rendered to a patient by a medical practitioner (except where the doctor renders service free of charge to every patient or under a contract of personal service), by way of consultation, diagnosis and treatment, both medicinal and surgical, would fall within the ambit of ‘service’ as defined in Section 2(1)(o) of the Act. (2) The fact that medical practitioners belong to the medical profession and are subject to the disciplinary control of the Medical Council of India and/or State Medical Councils constituted under the provisions of the Indian Medical Council Act would not exclude the services rendered by them from the ambit of the (Consumer Protection) Act.”

Section 2(1)(o) of the Act, “service” includes services such as banking, finance, insurance, transport, electricity supply, housing construction, accommodation, entertainment, and the sharing of news or information. However, it does not cover services that are provided free of cost or services given under a personal employment contract.

The petition contends that equating medical care with ordinary consumer services overlooks the distinct nature of the medical profession. Relying on a 2024 Supreme Court ruling that excluded lawyers from the Consumer Protection Act, it argues that professional services differ fundamentally from commercial transactions and notes that the apex Court itself had indicated that its earlier decision bringing doctors under consumer law may require reconsideration by a larger Bench.

The petition argues that healthcare is inherently different from other services because it involves professional judgment exercised in situations marked by uncertainty, where outcomes cannot be guaranteed. It emphasises that, unlike fields with more predictable solutions, doctors often work in ambiguous conditions, making it difficult to exercise complete control over results, as outcomes are “elusive” due to the nature of medical practice.

Pointing to the growing trend of “defensive medicine,” the petition says that doctors prescribe additional tests or procedures mainly to shield themselves from potential lawsuits, rather than for medical necessity.

The petition says that consumer forums are ill-suited to handle medical disputes due to delays, limited medical expertise among the adjudicators, and inconsistent compensation. It emphasises that patients usually seek explanation and reassurance rather than litigation and that prolonged adversarial proceedings often undermine trust and professional morale instead of resolving concerns.

Bollywood’s glitz is facing a dark shadow! Just days after gunshots rang out outside superstar director Rohit Shetty’s house, actor Ranveer Singh is now on edge after receiving a chilling threat in a WhatsApp voice note. Mumbai’s film city vibes are turning scary real fast.

It all started when Ranveer Singh, the high-energy star of ‘Dhurandhar’, received a voice message threatening him. The message demanded crores of rupees and sent shockwaves through the actor’s team.

Following the threat, security around Ranveer’s house was immediately tightened, and the Mumbai Police swung into action. A manhunt for the sender is currently underway.

Rohit Shetty shooting: How it happened

The city is still reeling from the shooting outside Rohit Shetty’s Juhu residence. Five bullets were fired, leaving three visible holes in the building, as captured in exclusive footage by IANS.

Shetty’s house, a high-security tower with two gates and over 10 CCTV cameras, could have been a ticking time bomb if the bullets had strayed. Thankfully, no one was hurt.

Also Read: Rohit Shetty house firing case: Lawrence Bishnoi gang mechanic supplied weapon, Signal app used for secret chats

Mumbai Crime Branch investigations revealed the car used in the shooting came all the way from Pune. A man sold it to Aditya Gayki for Rs 30,000 just a few days before the attack. Aditya, along with another accused, Samarth Pomaji, left the vehicle at a pre-decided spot in Juhu, ready for the next step.

Here’s the twist: the group who bought and moved the car had no clue who the actual shooter was. It was Shubham Lonkar who ordered the shooter to pick up the car and carry out the attack. Police say this method of hiring multiple small groups, each unaware of the other has been used in previous crimes.

Immediately after the firing, senior Mumbai Police officers and Crime Branch teams rushed to Rohit Shetty’s residence. The suspects, however, managed to escape. Investigators are now tracking every lead, from the Pune connection to the voice-note threat against Ranveer Singh.

India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate welcomed the confirmation of the India–Pakistan clash in Colombo on Sunday, stressing that the team’s priority was firmly on cricket and not the political noise surrounding the fixture.

The uncertainty around the high-profile T20 World Cup encounter ended on Monday night after Pakistan confirmed it would take the field at the R Premadasa Stadium, bringing weeks of speculation over a possible boycott to a close.

Doubts had hovered over the marquee game since Pakistan announced it would stay away in solidarity with Bangladesh, who pulled out of the tournament following pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s eviction from Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL 2026 squad by the BCCI. Bangladesh’s refusal to travel to India ultimately resulted in them forfeiting their place in the competition.

Pakistan initially held firm on its protest, but after negotiations involving officials from Sri Lanka, the UAE, Bangladesh and the International Cricket Council (ICC), it agreed to play the fixture.

Speaking to reporters in the national capital, where the Indian team is set to face Namibia on Thursday, ten Doeschate said India’s preparations had remained unchanged despite the uncertainty.

“First of all, it’s great that the game is back on. We kind of never changed our preparation. We were under the impression that something would transpire and happen. It’s no big change for us – the way we are going about the things.

“We got the confirmation about it late yesterday and early morning, it became to come through that the game will go ahead. We are delighted to have another chance at playing a quality side in this stage of the tournament,” he said.

The former Netherlands all-rounder underlined that the Indian camp was deliberately steering clear of political considerations, placing the emphasis squarely on the cricketing challenge ahead, particularly the conditions in Colombo, where Pakistan have been based for the last fortnight.

“Like I said, we kind of accepted that as a status quo and until we got there and they didn’t show up we were assuming we were going to play.

“We’re also trying to stay clear of all the politics I’ve mentioned before about the sentiments of the country and the different politics between the two countries. But I think it’s really important for us just to focus on the cricket side of things, it’s going to be a challenge going to Colombo where Pakistan have been for the last two weeks and we are fully focused on just bringing our best game to that fixture next week.”

Ten Doeschate also said he was unaware of any directive barring families from travelling with the team during the World Cup.

“That’s the first I’ve heard of it. I’m actually trying to see, I’ve seen a few people around. Look the BCCI has policies, I don’t know if those dates have kicked in with respect to this competition yet.

“We’ve been on the road for a couple of weeks now with the New Zealand series before. But that hasn’t been an issue as far as I’m concerned and that’s the first I’m hearing of it. Sorry I can’t give any more clarity on that,” he concluded.

Abhishek down with stomach issue

Ten Doeschate also provided a fitness update on Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah and Abhishek Sharma, saying Sundar and Bumrah are set to return to training while the explosive opener remains sidelined.

India head into the game at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on the back of a tense 29-run win over the USA at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday, where captain Suryakumar Yadav’s unbeaten 84 helped the defending champions recover from a precarious position. “Yes, Washi joined the team yesterday. He will train today. Abhi still has a few issues with his tummy. We hope that they will be available for the game in two days’ time.

“Booms will bowl today as well. He’s been ten days without bowling, but he’s feeling and moving a lot better. We will see how he goes in training today and tomorrow before getting on the field on Thursday,” ten Doeschate told reporters in a press conference on Wednesday.

Washington rejoined the squad after nearly a month away from competitive cricket. He last featured in the ODI series against New Zealand, where he suffered a side strain while bowling in the opening match in Vadodara in January. The all-rounder subsequently underwent rehabilitation and resumed training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru before being cleared to link up with the team for the World Cup.

Bumrah, meanwhile, missed the opening match against the USA due to a viral fever, while Abhishek was absent during the second innings in Mumbai because of an upset stomach. In Bumrah’s absence, Mohammed Siraj stepped in after arriving as a replacement for the injured Harshit Rana and claimed a three-wicket haul that swung the game back in India’s favour.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Malayalam actor Jayaram for questioning in connection with the Sabarimala gold theft case. He has been directed to appear at the agency’s Kochi unit office next Tuesday.

The move comes in the wake of the actor’s association and reported financial transactions with Unnikrishnan Potty, the prime accused in the case. Earlier, a video had surfaced showing the prime accused conducting a puja at Jayaram’s residence using gold-clad artefacts associated with the Sabarimala shrine. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) had earlier questioned the actor in connection with the incident.

The ED will examine whether Unnikrishnan Potti and others derived financial benefits by conducting such pujas at private residences, including the actor’s house. Potti is reportedly said to have convinced people that bringing such sacred objects from Sabarimala into their homes would bring prosperity.

Jayaram had earlier said that he performed a puja at his residence based on Unnikrishnan Potti’s advice that doing so would bring prosperity to the house. He added that he was not aware of Unnikrishnan Potty’s financial dealings or fraud.

Potty, who is currently out on bail, has not yet been questioned by the ED. Following Jayaram’s questioning, Unnikrishnan Potti is likely to be called in by the agency. Earlier, the ED questioned former Sabarimala administrative officer Murari Babu and another former official, S Sreekumar.

Sharad Pawar-led NCP MLA Rohit Pawar raised on Tuesday several questions about the January 28 air crash that killed late Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in Baramati here, and added that either France’s Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA), the UK government’s Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) or the US government’s (federal) National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) should probe the incident, besides the investigations being conducted by Indian agencies.

Raising serious concerns about the investigation so far, Rohit Pawar asked, “Where is the CCTV footage of the hangar? No investigation has been done so far. All these things can be manipulated if this is not done properly”.

Talking to media persons here at the Yashwantrao Balwantrao Chavan Centre in South Mumbai, Rohit Pawar made a detailed PowerPoint presentation and said, “Everyone has this question in their mind: was it an accident or something else?”

“Did the plane carry excess fuel tanks? CCTV footage should be scanned to see if they did. Such an act is not just illegal but also acts as a bomb. Was the pilot directed to save fuel? Why didn’t they take another roundabout? Was there an alternative for landing?” he asked.

Rohit Pawar called his late uncle Ajit Pawar’s death “either an accident or a possible conspiracy”. “This is a presentation I have made with my team. We have gathered information and tried to present whatever we could find,” he said.

“Why was the schedule changed? Dada was to leave Mumbai on the evening of January 27 to reach Pune. His convoy was ready, too. A big leader met him. He got delayed. So the plan was changed, and he decided to travel on the morning of January 28. Dada was very cautious about flying. He never took a risk about flying. He reached the airport on time but left late. Either the BEA (France), AAIB (UK), or NTSB (USA) should conduct a probe, apart from the government investigation,” Rohit Pawar demanded.

He said that at 7:10 am on January 28, the pilot had inquired about visibility in Baramati, and an “all okay” report was given, but raised questions about maintenance of the aircraft on the basis of an eyewitness account according to which the plane made “weird sounds”.

“Where is the technical log of the aircraft? Where is the airworthiness report of the aircraft? Who had done the routine check-up? Investigators need to speak to those who must have done all these inspections and written all the reports,” Rohit Pawar said.

He also raised concerns about the aircraft’s pilots and the Delhi-based Vista Sales Private Limited (VSR) company, which operated the Learjet 45 that supposedly crashed while attempting to land at Baramati table-top airstrip in the Pune district on January 28, killing his uncle Ajit Pawar and four others. He said the history of the company, including a 2023 Learjet accident whose report he believes is being suppressed, must be reviewed.

“Why was the main pilot changed before the flight? Pilots Sahil Madan and Yash were changed at the last minute. It is important to see why pilot Sumit Kapoor returned from Hong Kong. Was he drunk when he boarded the flight?” Rohit Pawar asked, citing Kapoor’s past record of drinking as well as pre-flight alcohol tests in 2010 and 2017, besides missed training sessions in the US due to drinking.

Rohit Pawar called for an investigation into internal WhatsApp chats of the VSR company regarding the sobriety of its pilots and questioned the safety and operational practices of the Delhi-based Vista Sales Private Limited (VSR), the operator of the crashed aircraft, by highlighting potential lapses, including the aircraft’s 16-year age, the absence of hangar CCTV footage, possible manipulation of flight duty time limits, and non-functioning cockpit voice recorders.

Rohit Pawar urged authorities to check if routine and heavy maintenance were properly conducted and whether the aircraft was airworthy. He stressed the need for accountability, saying that ministers continue to use VSR flights despite the accident. He called for a full inquiry into mechanical, procedural, and regulatory lapses to ensure that justice is done to the late Ajit Pawar’s family.

India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja on Tuesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Parliament House, accompanied by his wife Rivaba Jadeja, Gujarat’s Minister for Tribal Development, Primary, Secondary and Adult Education.

Sharing pictures from the interaction on social media, Jadeja expressed his admiration for the Prime Minister. “An absolute privilege and honour to meet and interact with Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi sir. His clarity of thought, enthusiasm, and commitment to excellence are deeply inspiring. A privilege to learn from such leadership,” Jadeja wrote on X.

The meeting comes at a time when Jadeja continues to be one of the senior pillars of Indian cricket. On Monday, he was retained in the Elite A category of the BCCI’s central contracts for the 2025–26 season—an honour shared by only three players: Jadeja, Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.

Jadeja has, however, stepped away from T20 internationals. He retired from the format after India’s triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup, alongside Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, and is therefore not part of India’s squad for the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup.

The newly announced central contracts also reflect a reshuffle in the grading structure. The BCCI has scrapped the A+ category this season, while Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli—having retired from Test and T20I cricket—have been placed in Grade B, along with India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav.

In total, 30 players have been awarded central contracts, down from 34 last season. Grade B features 11 cricketers, while Grade C includes 16 players, including emerging batter Abhishek Sharma. Several prominent names such as Mohammed Shami, Ishan Kishan, Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz Khan have missed out.

Jadeja was last seen in action during India’s recent three-match home ODI series against New Zealand, which the visitors won 2–1.

Uproarious scenes were witnessed in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Tuesday when BJP members objected to certain remarks of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and demanded an apology from him. Omar had defended the budget and criticised the Indo-US trade deal while replying to the debate on the UT’s budget.

He made some remarks that were objected to by the BJP members, who raised slogans seeking an apology from the CM. Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather tried to persuade the BJP members to take their seats and ruled that their protest would not be recorded.

The BJP members termed Omar’s remarks as “unparliamentary”.

Speaking on the recent Indo-US trade deal, the Chief Minister said it was disadvantageous to the interests of horticulturists of Jammu and Kashmir. Allowing duty-free import of American produce would have devastating consequences for local growers dependent on crops such as almonds, saffron, apples and kiwis.

Omar said those BJP members who appreciated the Indo-US trade deal should explain how it was beneficial for J&K. “Tree nuts, dry fruits, fresh fruits, and dairy will be imported duty-free. What else do we have in J&K? We have only dry fruits like almonds, walnuts, etc., fruits, and saffron. If all these are imported duty-free from the US, J&K will definitely suffer losses”.

He said that while the trade deal may benefit other regions, Jammu and Kashmir would only incur losses. “I cannot say who will benefit, but as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, I am speaking for my people. We will get no benefit from this Indo-US trade deal.

”The trade deal has come while we were giving a boost to the local horticulture industry. The Kiwi growers and honey beekeepers of Jammu will also suffer a severe setback,” he stated.

Later, talking to reporters outside the Assembly, Omar said there was no question of tendering an apology to the BJP members. ”They did not allow me to speak and interrupted my speech”.

On Pakistan withdrawing its boycott of the T20 World Cup match against India, he said, “They should not issue threats if they cannot stand by them. They got scared and retracted their words. They should have quietly come and played and let the result speak.”

Speaking to reporters, Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma (BJP) said, “I feel that in the history of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly proceedings, today will be written in black letters. It will be remembered as a day that has shamed the democratic process”.

“By crossing all limits of decorum and tearing apart the sanctity of this Assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has crossed such limits of misconduct that it neither befits the office of a Chief Minister nor has any Chief Minister in any Assembly of this country ever said such things”.

England star Jos Buttler hailed India’s 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, calling him the “best player he has ever seen” after the teenager’s stunning match-winning 175 against England in the final of the men’s 2026 Under-19 World Cup. The knock, the highest individual score in a knockout or final in Youth ODIs, powered India to a sixth U19 World Cup title.

Speaking on the For The Love Of Cricket podcast alongside pacer Mark Wood, Buttler said Sooryavanshi’s ability at such a young age left him in awe. “My statement about Sooryavanshi is: he’s the best player I’ve ever seen. If he’s doing that at 14, what’s he going to be doing at 16, 18, or 20?” Buttler said.

Buttler also reflected on having seen the youngster up close during the IPL, where Sooryavanshi had already announced himself on the big stage. “I played in the game where he got 100 in the IPL. Even as a 14-year-old at that point, playing against an attack of Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Rashid Khan, proper bowling attacks, I was in awe of these shots.”

“The bat flow, the distance he’s hitting the ball, that fearlessness… and I must say, the England boys played so well throughout that whole Under-19 World Cup. They went unbeaten into the final, and then you run into Sooryavanshi, who scores 175 in the end with 14 fours and 15 sixes. I was watching it on TV, thinking these are not just any old shots; they’re some of the best shots you’ve ever seen.”

England fast bowler Wood admitted he was equally stunned by what he witnessed, drawing a humorous comparison with his own teenage years.

“I think of what I was doing at 14, and I think of what he’s doing at 14. I mean, unbelievable. The closest I got to anything at that stage was the pressure of a snowball fight in the schoolyard. That was probably as close as I got to that sort of pressure. I mean, unreal. 14 years old, and he plays shots like an experienced 30-year-old,” Wood chuckled.

Wood also sympathised with the England U19 side that found itself helpless against Sooryavanshi’s onslaught in the final. “Watching that game, sometimes they didn’t do a lot wrong. It was almost like we shifted a field and then he’d hit it in that gap, and it was just like this is one of those days! Just happens to be in the final. It’s just he played so well,” Wood added.

Sooryavanshi’s exploits are not limited to age-group cricket. In the previous IPL season, he featured in seven matches for Rajasthan Royals, hammering a century against Buttler’s Gujarat Titans and following it up with a fluent 57 against Chennai Super Kings.

When Wood asked whether the teenager could become an “absolute superstar” or risk being derailed by pressure in the coming years, Buttler was unequivocal.

“Don’t see how he can’t be (an absolute superstar),” he said.

“To be playing the way he can at 14 years old. If he hadn’t played in the IPL, you’d say, ‘Oh, he’s only done it in under 19 World Cup, and yes, it’s amazing, but let’s see when he steps up to senior cricket’. But he’s already played in IPL, and he’s got 100. He hit his first ball in the IPL for six. In the game he got 57 against Chennai, there were Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja bowling. He was whacking the ball for six and then sort of tapping one off his hip to trot down the other end like a seasoned pro just seeing his team home. So I can’t imagine what can derail that sort of a player,” Buttler added.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday announced a revised schedule for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in West Bengal, in accordance with directions issued by the Supreme Court on February 9, 2026, in a pending writ petition.
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In a formal communication to the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal, the ECI conveyed the Supreme Court’s order and emphasised strict compliance with the court’s instructions. The Commission stated that the revision programme in West Bengal would be adjusted to align with the court’s directives.
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According to the updated schedule, hearings on notices issued during the revision process must conclude by February 14, 2026. The scrutiny of documents and resolution of cases are to be completed by February 21, followed by the rationalisation of polling stations by February 25. The Election Commission has set February 27 for verification of health parameters of the electoral rolls, with the final publication of the updated voter list slated for February 28, 2026.
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An Election Commission official explained that the revised timeline aims to ensure transparency and procedural fairness while adhering to the Supreme Court’s directions. The official affirmed the Commission’s commitment to a timely completion of the revision exercise in full compliance with the court order.
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‎The Special Intensive Revision, initiated in late 2025, involves verification of existing voter entries, disposal of claims and objections, and adjustment of polling stations to enhance the accuracy of electoral rolls. Several instructions were issued to state election authorities on October 27, December 30, and January 15 to guide the process.
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The Supreme Court intervention came amid challenges to the revision process, prompting judicial directions to streamline and supervise the exercise. The Election Commission’s latest directive aims to fully harmonise the ongoing revision with the court’s mandates.
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‎The Commission has also instructed that the revised schedule be communicated to all relevant authorities to ensure smooth implementation. Copies of the directive have been sent to the Chief Secretary of West Bengal, the Senior Deputy Election Commissioner (General Body), and the Director General (IT).

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has lauded the International Cricket Council (ICC) for “finding an amicable solution” that cleared the way for the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to go ahead as scheduled, after the Pakistan government on Monday reversed its earlier decision to boycott the match.

The uncertainty stemmed from a decision taken by the Shehbaz Sharif-led government a couple of weeks ago, when Pakistan announced it would not allow its senior men’s team to play India. That stance was formally reversed on Monday night, with the Pakistan government confirming that the February 15 fixture in Colombo will be played.

“I am delighted to see the outcome of the deliberations initiated by the ICC representative, supervised by the ICC chairman, and then the representatives who had gone to Lahore to talk to the Pakistan Cricket Board, as well as the Bangladesh Cricket Board. It’s a good solution, an amicable solution which has been found to give priority to the importance of cricket to the game,” Shukla told reporters on Tuesday.

“So all kudos to ICC for taking this initiative, resolving the whole issue and bringing cricket back to the forefront. So this is a big achievement as far as ICC is concerned. I would like to thank ICC for taking this initiative and bringing Pakistan to the table and then, ultimately, deciding for Pakistan to play in the Colombo match. It’s good news for all of us, and the scheduled match for Feb 15 in Colombo will take place, and Pakistan will also play. So now this World Cup will also be a big success story,” he added.

The Pakistan government, in its statement on Monday night, said the decision was taken following extensive diplomatic engagement and consultations with other cricket boards and friendly nations.

“In view of the outcomes achieved in multilateral discussions, as well as the request of friendly countries, the Government of Pakistan hereby directs the Pakistan National Cricket Team to take the field on February 15, 2026, for its scheduled fixture in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Moreover, this decision has been taken with the aim of protecting the spirit of cricket, and to support the continuity of this global sport in all participating nations,” the statement read.

The breakthrough followed marathon negotiations overseen by ICC chair Jay Shah, who deputed deputy chair Imran Khwaja and UAE Cricket Board chairman Mubashir Usmani to engage with the Pakistan Cricket Board and its chairman Mohsin Naqvi. While Khwaja held in-person talks in Lahore, Usmani coordinated discussions from London, with Shah monitoring developments from India. ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta and PCB CEO Salman Naseer were also part of the prolonged deliberations.

The Pakistan government acknowledged the role played by several member nations, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the UAE, in pushing for a resolution.

“The Government of Pakistan has reviewed the formal requests extended to the PCB by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, as well as the supporting communications from Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, and other member nations. These correspondences sought Pakistan’s leadership in securing a viable solution to recent challenges,” the statement said.

It also confirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held direct talks with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake as part of the process.

“This evening, the Prime Minister held a telephone call with H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of Sri Lanka. During their warm and friendly conversation, they recalled that Pakistan and Sri Lanka had always stood shoulder to shoulder, especially during challenging times. The Sri Lankan President requested the Prime Minister to accord serious consideration to amicably resolve the current impasse,” the government added.

In the aftermath of the resolution, the ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board confirmed that Bangladesh will not face any financial, sporting or administrative penalties for missing the tournament, and will instead be given the opportunity to host an ICC event ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2031, subject to standard hosting processes.

Shukla said the outcome addressed Bangladesh’s concerns as well. “Another important aspect is that Bangladesh’s feelings have also been assessed as far as these negotiations are concerned, and some relief has been given to their board also, and they are also happy,” he said.

“In fact, they have praised ICC for their efforts. So it’s a win-win situation for everybody, and I am happy that, you know, the match will take place and the World Cup will be a successful event,” he concluded.

Telangana BJP leaders blamed the ruling Congress for harassment on the eve of municipal polls in the state after a party candidate died by suicide in Makhtal of Narayanpet district of the state. State BJP president N Ramchander Rao even alleged that threats by sports minister Vakiti Srihari led E Mahadevappa, a Scheduled Tribe candidate, to take the extreme step, and the local police have changed the FIR registered initially.

Meanwhile, BJP workers and leaders demonstrated in front of the office. The National ST Commission has sought a report from the district authorities on the death of the candidate, while the BJP raised the issue in Parliament as well.

The death of an ST candidate of the BJP by suicide has led to tension before the municipal polls. Slamming the Congress for the unnatural death, BJP president N Ramchander Rao said, “The primary reason behind this tragic death is the sustained intimidation and harassment by Congress goons. This is not an isolated incident. Congress keeps doing this regularly and gives sermons on democracy. What is even more shocking is that reports are now emerging that the local police have allegedly changed and doctored the original FIR. This is a shameful act and raises serious questions about police neutrality and integrity. Such behaviour amounts to shielding the guilty and trampling upon justice.”

He demanded that the police revert to the original FIR without manipulation and conduct a proper post-mortem to ensure transparency.

Union Minister Bandi Sanjay also lashed out at the ruling party. He said,“The death of the BJP candidate of ward number four in Maktal, Mahadevappa, is not a suicide. It is not a suicide. It is undoubtedly a murder committed by Congress. We will not sit quietly watching these atrocities that Congress is committing out of fear of defeat. If you mistake our patience for cowardice, you will have to pay a heavy price. In Telangana, the situation is coming to a head in Telangana that soon Congress leaders will be pelted with stones.”

However, DGP B Shivadhar Reddy said that no suicide note was recovered in the death of Mahadevappa. He also said that so far, no specific information has been received from the family members about the death, but further investigations are underway.

The Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign, considered crucial in the fight against filariasis in Uttar Pradesh, began on Tuesday.

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda virtually inaugurated the campaign. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, Minister of State for Health Mayankeshwar Sharan Singh, Additional Chief Secretary for Health Amit Ghosh, NHM Mission Director Dr. Pinky Jowel, and district magistrates from 21 districts joined the event from Lucknow.

Nadda said that the chain of infection will not be broken until more than 90 percent of eligible people take the medicine. This campaign is being implemented in 124 districts across 12 states, including Uttar Pradesh.

Pathak said that the state government is fully committed to the goal of a filariasis-free Uttar Pradesh. In this campaign, which will run from February 10t to 28, ASHA workers and other health workers will go door-to-door and administer anti-filariasis medication to approximately 14 million people.

Under the campaign, all eligible individuals over the age of one will receive age-appropriate World Health Organization-recommended medications—ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine (DEC), and albendazole.

State Filaria Officer Dr. A.K. Chaudhary stated that a five-pillar strategy has been adopted in the state for filariasis elimination, which includes MDA, disease management and prevention, mosquito control, interdepartmental coordination, and innovation.

Shahjahanpur has the highest number of blocks covered under the campaign, with 13. This campaign will be followed by Ballia with 12 blocks, Barabanki with 7, Unnao and Chitrakoot with 4 blocks each, Pratapgarh with 3, and Hardoi, Prayagraj, Sonbhadra, Kaushambi, Ayodhya, and Bhadohi with 2 blocks each.

At the same time, anti-filariasis medicines will be administered in one block each in Rae Bareli, Ambedkar Nagar, Kheri, Pilibhit, Auraiya, Banda, Fatehpur and Bahraich, including the Mal block of Lucknow.

Andhra never truly threatened to stretch Bengal in their Ranji Trophy quarter-final at Kalyani, and the final day was more about damage control than revival. Resuming their second innings on 64 for 3 and still 270 runs adrift after Sudip Gharami’s commanding 299, Andhra’s slim hope rested on delaying the inevitable rather than avoiding it.

That resistance proved short-lived. Ricky Bhui, Andhra’s lone bright spot in the first innings, fell early on the final morning, becoming Shahbaz Ahmed’s second scalp of the innings.

Shahbaz soon struck again to remove Saurabh Kumar, tightening Bengal’s grip. When Nitish Kumar Reddy was dismissed later in the day, Shahbaz completed a four-wicket haul of 4 for 72, adding to the damage already inflicted by Mukesh Kumar (5 for 66) and Akash Deep (4 for 79) in the first innings.

At 96 for 6, Andhra were staring at an innings defeat before Reddy offered some resistance. He first shared a 57-run partnership with Kalidindi Raju, and then combined with No. 9 T Vijay for a further 85 runs, briefly lifting hopes of extending the contest. Vijay chipped in with a 46, while Reddy anchored the innings with a composed knock.

Reddy appeared set for a well-earned century but fell just short, dismissed by Shahbaz for 90 off 144 deliveries, an innings that included seven fours and two sixes. With wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat unavailable due to injury, the remaining resistance faded quickly, and Andhra were eventually bowled out to hand Bengal a comprehensive innings-and-90-run victory.

Bengal now move into the semi-finals, where they will face first-timers Jammu and Kashmir from February 15. The other semi-final will see Karnataka take on Uttarakhand.

Brief Scores: Bengal 629 (Gharami 299, Gandhi 95, Rasheed 4-63) beat Andhra 295 (Bhui 83, Mukesh 5-66, Akash Deep 4-79) and 244 (Reddy 90, Shahbaz 4-72) by an innings and 90 runs.