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RCB back Yash Dayal amid absence; Head coach cites ‘personal situation’

RCB confirm Yash Dayal will miss the start of IPL 2026 due to a personal situation, with Mo Bobat backing the pacer and squad depth

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have thrown their support behind pacer Yash Dayal, confirming that he will not join the squad at the start of the IPL 2026 season due to a “personal situation”.

Head coach Mo Bobat said the franchise remains in regular contact with the player and continues to support him despite his absence.

“Just to confirm that Yash will not be joining the squad. He is going through a personal situation currently. We’ve been very supportive of him and he remains under contract. We will continue to stay in touch with him,” Bobat told reporters.

According to multiple media reports, Dayal is facing allegations of a sexual nature, including claims of a relationship under false pretences and subsequent exploitation. A complaint has reportedly been filed, and the matter is under legal scrutiny. However, there has been no official verdict, and the allegations remain unproven.

RCB’s decision to back the player amid uncertainty has become a key talking point ahead of the new season.

Bobat added that the team had anticipated such a scenario during the auction. “We went in with a worst-case scenario in mind that he may not be available. So we recruited accordingly and we’re confident in the options we have,” he said.

He also addressed concerns around the bowling attack, particularly with Josh Hazlewood still working his way back to full fitness.

“Josh is currently following a return-to-play programme in Australia. We are liaising closely with him and Cricket Australia, and hope to have him with us soon,” Bobat said.

Dismissing suggestions of a weakened pace unit, he added: “I disagree with that. We’ve got a very strong group of bowlers and we’re not concerned.”

Highlighting domestic options, Bobat said, “Rasikh, Abhinandan and Mangesh have all had excellent preparation and provide strong depth for us.”

He also pointed to a wider trend affecting teams across the league, with player availability impacted by a congested cricket calendar.

“It’s a symptom of the packed schedule. Workload management is a real challenge and not an exact science, especially with players moving across formats,” he noted.

On team selection, Bobat said no final XI has been decided yet. “We haven’t picked the team for the first game. The goal was to build a squad with depth and healthy competition,” he said.

The RCB coach also backed key players, including Phil Salt, to deliver despite recent form concerns. “Phil is one of the top T20 batters in the world. There’s huge confidence in him and I’m sure we’ll see him at his best,” he said.

Looking ahead, Bobat stressed the importance of focusing on the new campaign. “We’re proud of what we achieved last season, but this is a fresh start. We want to begin strongly and focus on what lies ahead,” he added.

RCB will open their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad, aiming to hit the ground running despite early-season uncertainties.

Six years after divorce, Badshah secretly marries Isha Rikhi; fans say, ‘abhi toh party shuru hui hai’

Photos shared by family members show Badshah and Isha Rikhi taking part in traditional wedding rituals, including varmala and pheras, in an intimate setting.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Just when the internet was busy arguing over his controversial track, the rapper dropped a real-life twist no one saw coming. Amid loud backlash and heated chatter, Badshah seems to have quietly rewritten his personal story with Isha Rikhi.

In a move straight out of a secret Bollywood script, Badshah has reportedly tied the knot with Punjabi actor Isha Rikhi. The news comes nearly six years after his divorce from his first wife.

Also Read: No mercy for Badshah: Haryana Police erases 857 ‘Tateeree’ links, arrest calls and FIR storm intensify

But here’s the catch: no official announcement, no grand reveal, and no exact wedding date. The couple has kept things extremely private.

The post that started it all

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by POONAM RIKHI (@poonamrikhi6)

The buzz didn’t come from Badshah himself. Instead, it was Isha’s mother, Poonam Rikhi, who accidentally (or maybe intentionally?) set the internet on fire.

She took to Instagram and dropped a series of pictures that screamed wedding vibes. Her caption was simple but powerful: “God bless you @isharikhi @badboyshah.” And just like that, speculation turned into near-confirmation.

Inside the intimate ceremony

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by POONAM RIKHI (@poonamrikhi6)

The pictures and clips shared online give a peek into what looks like a close-knit, traditional wedding ceremony.

Badshah is seen dressed in olive-green kurta styled with beige stole and grand golden turban. Standing beside him, Isha looks every bit the bride in bright red outfit filled with detailed gold embroidery. Her look is completed with traditional jewellery including maang tikka and mehendi on her hands.

Varmala, pheras & that sindoor moment

The visuals show couple exchanging varmala smiling softly as family members watch. Another clip captures them performing pheras, sealing the rituals in a traditional way.

One image, however, has really caught everyone’s attention: Isha with sindoor on her forehead.

As soon as the pictures surfaced, the comment section exploded with congratulatory messages.

Interestingly, this personal update comes right when Badshah is facing backlash for his controversial Haryanvi track ‘Tateeree’. While the song stirred criticism, his reported wedding has shifted focus, at least for now, to his personal life.

3.75 lakh Indians home, ships stuck in Hormuz, energy supplies hit: PM Modi in Rajya Sabha | 10 points

PM Modi highlighted the growing impact of the West Asia conflict on energy supplies, trade routes, and Indians abroad, while calling for a united global push for peace.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday flagged the growing impact of the West Asia conflict on global energy, trade and India’s interests, calling for a collective push towards peace and dialogue.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, the PM said the ongoing war has disrupted key trade routes and affected supplies of essential commodities, even as India steps up diplomatic efforts and focuses on the safety of its citizens in the region.

Top points from PM Modi’s statement in Parliament

  1. PM Modi said it is essential that “a united voice for peace and dialogue” goes out from India’s Parliament to the world.
  2. He noted that the conflict has triggered a serious energy crisis, affecting supplies of petrol, diesel, gas, and fertilisers.
  3. The Prime Minister said key trade routes have been impacted, especially around the Strait of Hormuz.
  4. Around one crore Indians live and work in Gulf countries, and their safety remains a major concern.
  5. PM Modi flagged that many ships are stuck in the Hormuz Strait, with a significant number of Indian crew members on board.
  6. He said India is in continuous contact with Gulf nations, as well as Iran, Israel, and the United States. “We are in constant contact with the Gulf nations, as well as Iran, Israel and America. Our aim is to restore peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy.”
  7. Since the conflict began, PM Modi said he has held multiple rounds of calls with leaders from West Asia.
  8. Over 3.75 lakh Indians have returned safely since the war began, including more than 1,000 from Iran.
  9. India is working through diplomatic channels to ensure the safe movement of its ships even amid the conflict. “We have also talked about de-escalation and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Attacks on commercial ships and closing Hormuz are unacceptable,” he added.
  10. “In this war, danger to anyone’s life is not in the interest of humanity,” PM Modi said, stressing that India is urging all sides to resolve the crisis through dialogue.

For India, the challenge is not just geopolitical; it is also about protecting supply chains and millions of citizens caught in the middle of a growing conflict.

SP MP alleges ‘Dhurandhar’ uses Atiq Ahmed parallel, portrays character as ISI agent for box office gain

The controversy around ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ deepens as Afzal Ansari alleges the film indirectly portrays Atiq Ahmed as linked to ISI and the underworld. He questions the intent.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

The popcorn is still warm, the theatres are still packed, but the real drama around ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ seems to be happening off-screen. Ever since the film hit cinemas on March 19, it hasn’t just been about action, thrill, and big numbers, it has quietly slipped into a heated conversation that many didn’t see coming.

Directed by Aditya Dhar and led by Ranveer Singh, ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ has been breaking box office records at rapid pace. Fans are flocking to theatres.

Also Read: Baba Cop: Unbelievable story of the cop who took his name from Sanjay Dutt, and is now played by him in ‘Dhurandhar’

But while the film is winning commercially, a section of viewers is asking uncomfortable questions, especially about how close the story feels to real life.

The character everyone is talking about

The biggest talking point? A character named Atif Ahmed.

Some viewers strongly feel that this character mirrors the life of Atiq Ahmed. He was a Uttar Pradesh politician and former gangster shot dead in 2023. In the film, Atif works with Pakistan’s ISI and underworld don Dawood Ibrahim.

The makers have not confirmed any such link, but the similarities haven’t gone unnoticed.

Political reaction: “Films cash in on real names”

The controversy reached political circles when Afzal Ansari from the Samajwadi Party spoke out.

Interestingly, he admitted he hasn’t watched the film. Yet, he questioned the intent behind such storytelling. According to him, filmmakers often use disclaimers saying their stories are fictional, but when it comes to attracting audiences, they don’t hesitate to hint at real-life figures.

He suggested that using a name or personality similar to Atiq Ahmed, and possibly linking it to agencies like ISI, is a way to grab attention and sell tickets. He also pointed out that many powerful individuals who are still alive never have portrayals in such films, leaving audiences to read between the lines.

A former cop’s perspective

Not everyone sees it the same way.

Surya Kumar, who once served as Inspector General in Prayagraj, shared a very different take. Without directly commenting on the film, he described how figures like Atiq Ahmed operated in real life.

He spoke about how such individuals often built a public image by helping people financially; funding weddings or offering support, while also maintaining a strong grip through fear and influence.

According to him, political connections played a major role in their rise, allowing them to avoid strict punishment for years.

He recalled that Atiq Ahmed had dozens of criminal cases against him; numbers that kept growing over time. Yet, despite the fear he commanded, law enforcement continued to act, registering cases one after another. Eventually, he said, a major crackdown under the state government changed the situation.

Gautham Vasudev Menon’s old film deal haunts him: HC orders massive refund with 12% interest

A film that never even went on floors has now cost the filmmaker crores in court. The High Court ruled there was no proof of production, sealing the financier’s long legal fight.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

In a twist straight out of a film script, director Gautham Vasudev Menon has landed in serious legal trouble over a movie that never took off. Years after the deal was signed, the Madras High Court has now told the filmmaker and his company to return crores to a financier with interest.

This case goes all the way back to 2008, when Menon’s production house Photon Factory entered into an agreement with RS Infotainment, headed by S Elred Kumar.

Also Read: Baba Cop: Unbelievable story of the cop who took his name from Sanjay Dutt, and is now played by him in ‘Dhurandhar’

The plan was ambitious. RS Infotainment agreed to finance a total of Rs 13.5 crore for an untitled project, known at the time as Production No.6. Shooting was supposed to begin in December 2008 and wrap up by April 2009. Everything looked set on paper.

But reality turned out very different.

Money paid, movie missing

According to court records, the financier paid Rs 4.25 crore to Menon’s side, including an advance of Rs 2.5 crore. However, the project never went on floors.

Frustrated with lack of progress, RS Infotainment filed civil suit in 2013 claiming that despite receiving funds, filmmakers did not even begin production. Company sought to recover Rs 9.53 crore alleging financial loss and breach of agreement.

Filmmaker’s defence: “Funds were not fully paid”

Menon and his team argued that the fault was not entirely theirs. They claimed that the financier failed to pay the full agreed amount of Rs 13.5 crore.

According to their version, only Rs 4.25 crore was released, which was not enough to proceed with the film. Because of this shortfall, they said the project had to be shelved.

They also insisted that the money received was used for production-related expenses. They claimed that the shelved project was later revived and eventually released as film ‘Nee Thane En Pon Vasantham’.

Court not convinced

The court however did not buy these arguments.

A single judge bench led by Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy had already ruled in 2022 that Menon and his company must repay Rs 4.25 crore with 12% interest starting from May 11, 2010, until full repayment.

Menon and Photon Factory challenged this order. But on March 23, 2026, a Division Bench of Justices P Velmurugan and K Govindarajan Thilakavadi dismissed their appeal.

The judges made it clear that they found no issue with the earlier ruling and saw no reason to interfere.

“No proof the film even started”

The court pointed out that the filmmakers failed to show any solid evidence that the project had even begun.

The bench said there was no “tangible and valuable evidence” to prove that shooting ever started. It also rejected the bills and vouchers presented by the defence, saying they were not clearly linked to the agreed project.

Argument that later film ‘Nee Thane En Pon Vasantham’ fulfilled the original contract was also dismissed.

Court went step further suggesting that filmmakers may have deliberately shifted roles and used different entities to avoid fulfilling their original obligation and payments.

In its final conclusion, High Court held that Menon and his firm had clearly breached the contract. Reason was simple: they accepted funds but did not begin production as promised.

With the appeal now dismissed, earlier order stands. The filmmaker and his company must repay Rs 4.25 crore along with 12% interest. This gets calculated from 2010 until the amount is fully paid.

RCB vs SRH IPL 2026: How to buy tickets online, prices & key details

RCB vs SRH IPL 2026 tickets are now on sale. Check how to book online, prices, entry rules, parking details, and matchday guidelines.

Neha Buswal | New Delhi |

Tickets for the IPL 2026 season opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), set to be played on March 28 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, are now available.

With high demand expected, fans are advised to book early through official channels.

Where to buy RCB vs SRH tickets

Tickets are available only via official RCB platforms:

Fans should avoid third-party or unofficial websites to prevent fraud.

How to book RCB vs SRH tickets

Follow these steps to secure your tickets:

  • Visit the official RCB website or open the RCB app
  • Complete the mandatory Digital KYC (link your government ID)
  • Select the match: RCB vs SRH (March 28, 2026)
  • Choose your preferred stand and seating category
  • Fans can also pre-book parking, as spaces are limited at designated locations such as Garuda Mall, St. Joseph’s Indian High School, St. Joseph’s Boys High School, and Freedom Park.
  • Make payment via UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking
  • Download your M-ticket

Note: The entry QR code will activate only a few hours before match time.

RCB vs SRH Ticket Prices (Approximate)

  • General stands: ₹2,300 – ₹5,500
  • Mid-range: ₹3,300 – ₹7,500
  • Premium seating: ₹8,500 – ₹15,000
  • Corporate lounges: ₹25,000 – ₹45,000
  • Luxury boxes: Up to ₹65,800

Entry & Stadium Guidelines

  • Entry allowed only via Cubbon Road, Link Road, and MG Road
  • Limited access from Queens Road (specific Pavilion stands only)
  • Check gate details on your ticket for smooth entry and exit

Fan Benefits

Free Metro Ride: Match tickets can be used for complimentary metro travel on match day (via Cubbon Park & MG Road stations).

Important Ticket Info

  • Each user can book up to 4 tickets
  • M-ticket includes stand, row, and seat details
  • QR code appears shortly before gates open


With RCB returning home for the season opener, tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Fans are encouraged to book early and follow official updates for a smooth matchday experience.

Iran’s new Supreme Leader open to talks with US, Araghchi already spoke with Witkoff: Report

Iran’s foreign ministry had publicly denied any negotiations over 24 days of conflict, making the reported Araghchi-Witkoff conversation, approved at Tehran’s highest level, a direct contradiction of its own official position.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is prepared to negotiate with the United States, Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported, citing a conversation between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and United States intermediary Steve Witkoff that was approved at the highest levels in Tehran.

The report, carried by Arab News, represents the clearest indication yet that back-channel contacts between Washington and Tehran are moving beyond exploratory contacts.

It lands in direct contradiction with Iran’s Foreign Ministry, whose spokesman had said that Tehran had held no negotiations with Washington during the 24 days of what it called an ‘unprovoked’ US-Israel war against the Islamic Republic.

Notably, Mojtaba Khamenei assumed the position of Supreme Leader following the killing of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint United States-Israeli strikes on February 28.

Meanwhile, Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said the United States and Iran had held “very good and productive conversations” over the past two days, describing them as “in-depth, detailed, and constructive.”

He also announced a five-day pause on strikes against Iranian power plants and energy sites, saying the decision was based on the “tenor and tone” of the discussions.

On those involved in the negotiations on the Iranian side, Trump, while speaking to reporters in Florida, was pointed without being specific. “We’re dealing with some people that I find to be very reasonable, very solid. The people within know who they are, they’re very respected, and maybe one of them will be exactly what we’re looking for,” he said.

Trump also floated a striking vision of what a post-war arrangement might look like, saying the Strait of Hormuz would be “open very soon” and that he and Iran’s new Supreme Leader would jointly manage the critical waterway. “It’ll be jointly controlled. Me and the Ayatollah, whoever the Ayatollah is, whoever the next Ayatollah is,” he said.

The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly 15 million barrels of crude oil and five million barrels of oil products per day in normal times, about 25 per cent of global seaborne oil trade. The waterway has been considered high-risk for transit since the conflict began four weeks ago

AIMIM UP chief Shaukat Ali threatens ‘encounters’ for those who harm muslims

Addressing party supporters at a public gathering, AIMIM’s Uttar Pradesh unit president Shaukat Ali asked supporters to strengthen the party’s political presence in the state.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader, Shaukat Ali, made a provocative statement warning of “encounters” against those who harm Muslims.

Addressing party supporters at a public gathering, AIMIM’s Uttar Pradesh unit president Ali urged them to strengthen AIMIM’s political presence in the state. “Give us just 11 MLAs in Uttar Pradesh, not 111,” he said, asserting that a smaller but decisive representation could influence governance. He further claimed that those responsible for killing Muslims would face similar consequences in “encounters.”

During his speech, the AIMIM leader alleged that Muslims in the state have been subjected to injustice despite their contributions to India’s independence. He accused authorities of targeting the community through actions such as sealing madrasas, demolishing homes on alleged false grounds, and incidents of police firing.

Ali also criticised mainstream political parties, alleging that those who secured large electoral mandates have failed to address the concerns of minorities. “Those who were elected with 111 MLAs now say this is not their government,” he remarked.

Raising development issues, Ali called for balanced growth across Uttar Pradesh, stating that progress should extend beyond regions like Gorakhpur and Saifai to cities such as Meerut.

Referring to a recent administrative remark in Meerut about cancelling licences of individuals offering prayers on streets, Ali said similar scrutiny should be applied during religious processions. He specifically mentioned about action against practices like the “Naagin dance” near mosques during Ram Navami.

The statement has intensified political tensions in Uttar Pradesh, with reactions expected from various parties as the issue gains traction.

 

IPL 2026: KKR sign Saurabh Dubey as Akash Deep replacement; SRH rope in David Payne

KKR sign Saurabh Dubey as injured Akash Deep’s replacement, while SRH rope in England pacer David Payne for IPL 2026.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have signed Vidarbha left-arm pacer Saurabh Dubey as a replacement for injured India seamer Akash Deep, who has been ruled out of the IPL 2026 season with a lumbar stress injury.

Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have brought in England cricketer David Payne as a replacement for injured Australian all-rounder Jack Edwards.

Akash Deep, who has featured in 10 Tests for India and taken 28 wickets, will undergo rehabilitation under the BCCI Medical Team at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Dubey will join KKR for ₹30 lakh, according to an official IPL statement.

“Akash Deep – a right-arm pacer who has played 10 Tests for India, scalping 28 wickets – has been ruled out of the season due to a lumbar stress injury. He will be under the care of the BCCI Medical Team at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for further management. Saurabh, a left-arm pacer, will replace him at KKR,” the statement read.


In a parallel move, SRH confirmed Payne’s signing as an injury replacement for Edwards. The left-arm seamer has played one ODI for England and brings significant T20 experience, with 304 wickets from 233 matches. He joins the franchise for ₹1.5 crore.


Dubey, who was previously signed by SRH for IPL 2022, is yet to make his IPL debut after a back injury curtailed his earlier stint. He went unsold at last year’s mini-auction but remained part of the Registered Available Player Pool (RAPP), making him eligible as a replacement signing.

The 27-year-old has featured in eight List A and three T20 matches for Vidarbha and was part of the India A squad for the 2019 ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup. He has also been monitored closely in domestic circuits by former India pacer Subroto Banerjee.

SRH will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on March 28, while KKR will face the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on March 29.

 

Scheduled Caste status limited to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists; conversion to other religions leads to loss: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has clarified that individuals who convert to Christianity and continue to follow the faith cannot claim Scheduled Caste status under the current legal framework.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

The Supreme Court on Tuesday reaffirmed that a person who converts to Christianity and continues to follow the faith cannot claim Scheduled Caste (SC) status.

A Bench of Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra and Justice NV Anjaria upheld an Andhra Pradesh High Court ruling, saying the bar under the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, is clear and leaves no room for exceptions.

‘Cannot claim both’

The court said a person cannot simultaneously profess another religion and seek the benefits reserved for the Scheduled Castes.

“No person who professes a religion other than Hinduism, Sikhism or Buddhism can be regarded as a member of the Scheduled Caste,” said the SC.

Case details

In this case, the appellant had converted to Christianity and was working as a pastor for over a decade, conducting regular prayers.

The court said the facts clearly showed that he continued to practice Christianity, and there was no evidence of reconversion or acceptance back into his original community.

“In the present case, it is not the case of the petitioner that he reconverted from Christianity to his original religion or has been accepted back in the folds of the Madiga community. On the contrary, the evidence establishes that the appellant continued to profess Christianity… These concurrent facts leave no room for doubt that he continued to remain a Christian,” the Justice Mishra-led Bench noted.

On April 30, 2025, the Andhra Pradesh High Court took a similar view, ruling that the petitioner could not seek protection under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act after converting and actively practising Christianity.

RCB, KSCA to reserve 11 seats in tribute to stampede victims ahead of IPL 2026 opener

RCB and KSCA to honour stampede victims ahead of IPL 2026 opener with a memorial plaque and 11 permanently reserved seats at Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

As defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru prepare to begin their IPL 2026 campaign at home, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), in collaboration with the franchise, will honour the lives lost in last year’s tragic stampede.

Ahead of Saturday’s opening clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, officials will unveil a memorial plaque near the inner entrance of the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, creating a dedicated space for reflection. In addition, 11 seats inside the stadium will be permanently reserved in memory of the victims and will remain unoccupied during all events, including international fixtures.

The reserved seating area is expected to be located in a prominent stand, serving as a quiet zone for remembrance.

“We will be unveiling a memorial plaque near the entrance and reserving 11 seats in memory of the victims. Further details will be shared during the press conference later in the day,” sources told IANS.

The move comes in the wake of the tragic stampede on June 4, 2025, outside the stadium during RCB’s title celebrations. The incident claimed 11 lives and left more than 50 people injured, with an estimated crowd of over 300,000 leading to severe overcrowding.

Following the tragedy, the Karnataka government held RCB, KSCA, and event partners accountable for failing to secure necessary approvals and for lapses in crowd management. The franchise later announced a compensation of ₹25 lakh for the families of each victim.

Chinnaswamy Stadium has not hosted an RCB match since the incident. With government approval now in place, the team is set to play five matches at the venue this season, while two home fixtures will be held in Raipur, as previously announced.

Trump preps Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth as a perfect patsy to blame for Iran war

Trump’s latest remarks on the Iran war have added to the confusion, as shifting explanations continue to raise questions over how the decision to launch military action was made.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Four weeks into the conflict with Iran, there is still no single, settled version of how the United States chose to go to war. President Donald Trump’s latest remarks have only added to that uncertainty.

At a roundtable in Tennessee on Monday, Trump suggested that Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth was among the first to argue in favour of military action.

“Pete, I think you were the first one to speak up, and you said, ‘Let’s do it because you can’t let them have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said.

Recalling internal discussions, he said Hegseth had pushed for a strike, warning that Iran could not be allowed to get close to a nuclear weapon.

“I called Pete. I called General Kane. I called a lot of our great people,” said Trump. “We got a problem in the Middle East Or we can take a stop and make a little journey into the Middle East and eliminate a big problem.”

The comment is the latest in a series of shifting explanations from within the administration.

No clear line on why the war began

So far, the reasoning behind the decision has varied depending on who is speaking.

Some within the administration have maintained that Israel was already moving towards action, making US involvement unavoidable. Others have framed the strike as a response to concerns about Iran’s nuclear capabilities.

There are also questions about what the administration expected in response.

Just hours before referencing Hegseth’s role, Trump said Iran’s retaliation across the region had come unexpectedly, suggesting it caught many off guard.

“Look at the way they attacked, unexpectedly, all of those countries,” he said, adding: “Nobody was even thinking about it.”

That claim sits uneasily alongside reports indicating that warnings of a possible response had been flagged earlier, raising questions about whether those signals were fully acted upon.

Hegseth emerges as central voice

While the narrative around the decision continues to shift, one figure has remained consistently visible: Pete Hegseth.

The defence secretary has taken the lead in publicly outlining the objectives of the campaign – from targeting Iran’s missile and drone capabilities to weakening its naval strength.

He has also pushed back against criticism of the operation, defending its direction and urging a more favourable reading of developments so far.

Signs of unease within the administration

Behind the scenes, however, there are indications that not everyone was aligned.

Trump acknowledged that Vice President JD Vance had been less enthusiastic about the move, though Vance has not voiced any public dissent.

Reports suggest divisions are growing, with some pushing for strong action while others urged a more cautious approach.

The strain appears to have had consequences. Joe Kent, who led the National Counterterrorism Center, stepped down last week, the first senior resignation linked to the conflict.

Between changing explanations, conflicting accounts and uncertain next steps, the picture remains far from clear.

What stands out is not just the scale of the conflict, but the lack of a consistent narrative around how it began, and who, ultimately, drove the decision.

Photo Story | Royal Enfield’s Power Move: Flying Flea C6, the first electric bike from RE stable

With this e-bike, the India-based motorcycle giant also introduced Flying Flea as a dedicated all-electric sub-brand, signalling its long-term vision for sustainable two-wheel mobility.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Royal Enfield has taken a bold leap into the electric era with the launch of its first-ever EV motorcycle, the Flying Flea C6, a modern reinterpretation of a legendary wartime icon. Inspired by the original 1940s Flying Flea, this new-age electric bike blends heritage with innovation, bringing a unique mix of authenticity, lightweight engineering, and refined design.

With this e-bike, the India-based motorcycle giant also introduced Flying Flea as a dedicated all-electric sub-brand, signalling its long-term vision for sustainable two-wheel mobility.

Positioned at the intersection of technology and lifestyle, the Flying Flea brand goes beyond conventional EV offerings. Unlike some standalone electric spin-offs in the industry, Royal Enfield retains close control over the sub-brand, ensuring it stays rooted in the company’s legacy while embracing future-forward mobility.

The Flying Flea C6 carries a distinctive parachute-inspired “FF” logo, a nod to its military origins. It represents a fresh design philosophy aimed at urban riders seeking both style and substance.

The Flying Flea C6 stands out with its lightweight frame, mid-mounted battery, and a unique girder-style front fork, a clear homage to its historic predecessor. Designed with inputs from Royal Enfield’s UK design team and powered by a motor developed in collaboration with electric dirt bike specialist Stark Future, the motorcycle reflects a careful balance of performance and practicality. Its slim tires, regular-sized wheels, and minimalist yet functional styling make it ideal for city commuting, while still echoing the spirit of the original Flying Flea bikes once parachuted into battlefields during World War II.

The FF C6’s ground-up redesigned front suspension features a forged aluminium Girder fork and articulating mudguard, creating a unique ride exclusive to the FF C6.

 

 

 

This classic-styled motorcycle is the original icon, rewired.

Baba Cop: Unbelievable story of the cop who took his name from Sanjay Dutt, and is now played by him in ‘Dhurandhar’

He was a feared cop chasing gangsters in Karachi, and secretly a die-hard Sanjay Dutt fan. Now, in a twist no scriptwriter could imagine, the star is bringing his biggest admirer to life on screen.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Sanjay Dutt is getting a lot of love for his powerful role in ‘Dhurandhar’. He plays Chaudhary Aslam Khan, a real-life Pakistani police officer known for his tough action against crime and terror.

The film directed by Aditya Dhar is a spy thriller. It takes inspiration from real events and builds a semi-fictional story around India’s fight against terror networks in Pakistan. Big part of the story focuses on Karachi’s Lyari area, which was once known for gang violence and criminal activity.

Also Read: ‘Peak detailing’ or weak detailing? Cameraman in frame, silent gunfire; ‘Dhurandhar’ checks every wrong box

But here’s the twist no one saw coming.

The “Baba Cop” nickname no one expected

Turns out, the real Chaudhary Aslam Khan was actually a huge fan of… Sanjay Dutt himself.

Yes, really.

This surprising detail was revealed by veteran journalist Anirudhya Mitra on The Ranveer Show. According to him, the officer had many nicknames, but one stood out: “Baba Cop.”

Why “Baba”?

Because after watching ‘Khalnayak’, he became a die-hard fan of Sanjay Dutt, who is fondly called “Baba” in Bollywood circles.

Why Sanjay Dutt was the perfect casting

Interestingly, Anirudhya Mitra also said that Sanjay Dutt was the perfect choice for the role. Knowing the real-life connection just makes the casting feel even more spot-on.

It’s almost like life quietly set this up years ago.

He also mentioned that a project based on Chaudhary Aslam’s life had already been attempted in Pakistan before ‘Dhurandhar’.

Who was Chaudhary Aslam Khan?

Chaudhary Aslam Khan wasn’t just a name. He was a force.

He joined the Sindh Police in the 1980s as an Assistant Sub-Inspector. Over the years, he worked across different towns and built a reputation as a fearless officer.

In the 2000s, he was chosen to lead the Lyari Task Force, a major crackdown unit targeting gangs in Karachi. His work led to the elimination of several big criminals in the region.

He even survived a Taliban attack in 2011, something that added to his larger-than-life image.

But his story ended tragically. In 2014, he was assassinated by Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Pakistani Taliban group.

Pakistan ranked world’s most polluted country in 2025

Pakistan emerged as the world’s most polluted country in 2025, recording PM2.5 levels up to 13 times higher than the safe limits prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Manisha Gupta | New Delhi |

Pakistan emerged as the world’s most polluted country in 2025, recording PM2.5 levels up to 13 times higher than the safe limits prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO), according to a new global air quality report released on Tuesday. The findings highlight worsening air pollution trends and growing public health concerns across multiple regions.

The report, published by Swiss air quality monitoring firm IQAir, noted that only 13 countries and territories managed to meet the WHO’s recommended annual average PM2.5 limit of 5 micrograms per cubic metre in 2025. This marks a slight improvement from seven countries in 2024, but the overall global picture remains alarming.

Experts warn that prolonged exposure to PM2.5, fine particulate matter capable of penetrating deep into the lungs and bloodstream, is linked to severe health issues, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and premature deaths. The report underscores the urgent need for stronger environmental regulations and international cooperation to tackle air pollution.

Key findings from the IQAir 2025 Report

  • A total of 130 out of 143 monitored countries and territories failed to meet WHO air quality guidelines.
    
  • Bangladesh and Tajikistan ranked second and third most polluted countries, respectively, after Pakistan.
    
  • Chad, the most polluted country in 2024, dropped to fourth place in 2025, though experts attribute this to incomplete data rather than real improvement.
    
  • The United States shut down a key global air monitoring programme in March 2025 due to budget constraints, affecting data reliability in several regions.
  • All the world’s 25 most polluted cities were located in India, Pakistan, and China.
    
  • Only 14% of global cities met WHO standards in 2025, down from 17% in 2024.
  • Canadian wildfires contributed to increased PM2.5 levels across parts of the United States and even Europe.
    
  • Australia, Iceland, Estonia, and Panama were among the few nations that complied with WHO limits.
    
  • Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Mongolia reported notable improvements, largely due to favourable La Niña weather conditions.
    
  • While 75 countries saw reduced pollution levels in 2025, 54 recorded an increase, indicating uneven progress worldwide.

Dwayne Johnson is back as Maui, and Disney’s ‘Moana’ trailer is a full-blown nostalgia storm

The ocean calls again as Disney drops a live-action glimpse packed with familiar songs, fiery villains and island adventure. With a new Moana leading the journey and Maui back in action, the nostalgia hits hard.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Disney just dropped the new Moana trailer, and honestly, it feels like déjà vu with a glossy, real-world twist. The ocean is calling again, Maui is flexing again, and fans are already arguing (lovingly, of course) about whether this remake will match the magic of the original.

This time, the fearless wayfinder is played by newcomer Catherine Laga`aia, stepping into some very big shoes. The trailer shows her taking on Moana’s journey with confidence, heart, and a whole lot of ocean drama.

Right beside her? None other than Dwayne Johnson, returning as the larger-than-life demigod Maui. Yes, the tattoos, the attitude, the chaos; it’s all still there. And if his Instagram caption is anything to go by, he’s fully leaning into the hype: “The ocean chose her for a reason.”

Trailer feels like a nostalgia trip

If you’ve seen the 2016 film, the trailer will hit like a memory rewind. Moana meets Maui. The shiny-loving crab makes a dramatic comeback. The terrifying lava monster Te Kā rises again.

Even the music is pulling emotional strings. Snippets of “I Am Moana (Song of the Ancestors)” are woven in, giving longtime fans goosebumps. It’s clear Disney isn’t straying too far from what worked the first time; they’re just giving it a live-action glow-up.

Big names behind the scenes

The film is directed by Thomas Kail, best known for his work on Hamilton. Behind the production are heavyweights like Lin-Manuel Miranda, along with Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, and Hiram Garcia.

Let’s not forget, the original Moana was a massive hit. Released in 2016, it earned around $643 million worldwide and even scored an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature.

And yes, that iconic song “How Far I’ll Go” (also Oscar-nominated) still lives rent-free in everyone’s head.

The live-action Moana is set to hit theatres on July 10, 2026.

Also Read: Hannah Montana cast reunites… but one major face is missing and fans notice

Miami Open: Jannik Sinner makes history, moves past Djokovic in Masters 1000 streak

Jannik Sinner makes history at the Miami Open, surpassing Novak Djokovic’s 24-set Masters 1000 record with a dominant third-round win over Moutet.

Statesman News Service | New Delhi |

Jannik Sinner made ATP Masters 1000 history at the Miami Open, defeating Corentin Moutet 6-1, 6-4 in the third round to surpass Novak Djokovic’s record, winning 26 consecutive sets at the Masters 1000 level.

The Italian had equaled Djokovic’s previous record of 24 sets in his second-round win on Saturday, then moved clear of the Serbian great with his commanding performance inside Hard Rock Stadium.

“I am very happy,” Sinner said after the match. “This sport is unpredictable, so we try to stay focused as much as possible and see what comes next.”

Sinner’s streak dates back to last November at the Paris Masters, where he clinched the title without dropping a set. He has carried that form into March, repeating the feat at the Paribas Open. With his two wins in Miami, Sinner has now won 13 consecutive Masters 1000 matches, according to ATP reports.

Next, Sinner will face Alex Michelsen, who defeated Alejandro Tabilo 3-6, 6-3, 6-4. A victory would keep Sinner on track to complete the ‘Sunshine Double’, last achieved by Roger Federer in 2017.

Sinner, who is not defending any ATP ranking points in Miami, is now in a strong position to close the gap in the World No. 1 race with Carlos Alcaraz, who was upset by Sebastian Korda in the third round on Sunday.

Earlier, Frances Tiafoe overcame defending champion Jakub Mensik in a thrilling contest, saving two match points and converting on his seventh to win 7-6(4), 4-6, 7-6(11).

Mensik, who stunned Novak Djokovic in last year’s Miami final to claim his maiden tour-level title, could not repeat that success after beating Adam Walton in his opener.

Tiafoe, 28, reaches the fourth round in Miami for the fifth time and first since 2022. The world No. 20 will next face Terence Atmane, who upset Top 10 star Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 1-6, 6-3.