HT Evening Brief Sept 20: Cong's SIR jibe, Valarivan wins silver at Asian Games

**Congress Raises Alarm Over 'Shah Instigated Removal' of Voters Amid Electoral Roll Revision**: The Congress party has criticized the Election Commission's special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging significant voter deletions and dubbing it “Shah Instigated Removal.” This statement from general secretary Jairam Ramesh highlights concerns over potential constitutional violations, amidst ongoing political tensions during the electoral process.

Konkona Sen Sharma gives health update after dengue diagnosis, shares photo

Konkona Sen Sharma, currently seen in *Lust Stories 3*, provided a health update after being hospitalized with dengue but is recovering and urging caution about the illness. She recently celebrated Amol Parashar's 40th birthday with a playful video, reigniting rumors of their relationship. They previously collaborated in *Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare* in 2019, establishing a strong friendship.

How did BMW crash on Mumbai Coastal Road? What we know so far

A high-speed BMW crash on Mumbai's Coastal Road early Sunday morning resulted in three deaths and one critical injury. The vehicle, traveling from Marine Drive towards Haji Ali, veered off path and fell from the bridge after the driver lost control. All occupants, NMIMS College students from Ahmedabad, were rushed to Nair Hospital. Police are investigating the incident.

Tata Sons board resolution on Chandrasekaran reappointment invalid: Tata Trusts

Tata Trusts declared that N Chandrasekaran's reappointment as Chairman of Tata Sons was invalid due to lack of support from their nominee directors at the September 17 board meeting. The Trusts emphasized that their Articles of Association require majority support from their directors. They reaffirmed their previous stance on protecting director voting rights, dismissing claims regarding corporate governance.

England prioritising SA Tests: Archer, Atkinson, Tongue may not play AUS T20Is

England plans to rest key Test bowlers Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, and Josh Tongue for the upcoming five T20Is in Australia to prioritize Test cricket, with a series in South Africa commencing shortly after. White-ball head coach Brendon McCullum emphasized the need for managing player availability to ensure competitive performance during Tests. Stephen Fleming, the new Test head coach, will collaborate with McCullum on player rotations.

How a T20I vs India is accelerating Japan’s cricketing ambitions

The Sano International Cricket Ground has transformed for the historic T20I match between Japan and India for the Suzuki Cup on Tuesday, featuring new seating and VIP enclosures. The Japan Cricket Association, focused on growth, has seen player registration nearly triple. Despite challenges in gaining mainstream attention, ongoing projects aim to elevate Japan’s cricketing aspirations.

Buying a home in 2026? What to know about mortgage rates and costs

A mortgage is a loan enabling home purchases, with the property as collateral, typically repaid through monthly payments over 15-30 years, encompassing principal, interest, property taxes, and insurance. Buyers should consider total costs and explore government-backed loans or various mortgage types to optimize affordability and terms. Preparation is essential for securing favorable rates and managing expenses effectively.

LK Advani, Manish Sisodia, Kailash Gahlot among Delhi voters served SIR notices

BJP veteran LK Advani, Delhi’s former deputy CM Manish Sisodia, and other prominent figures received notices over electoral roll discrepancies in Delhi, affecting over 3.16 million voters. Key issues include ‘no mapping’ and logical discrepancies. These findings, raised by officials, have sparked concerns of potential Supreme Court involvement, with implications for voter rights and electoral integrity.

Defiant Ed Sheeran fans show up as tour resumes with no billed openers

Ed Sheeran's concert in Philadelphia proceeded despite controversy over rapper Macklemore's dismissal from the tour due to his pro-Palestine stance, prompting some fans to voice support for Sheeran. Many attendees focused on enjoying the music and tailgating, while a small protest regarding the situation occurred nearby. Fans expressed mixed feelings about the changes but remained excited for the show.

Delhi records slight dip in dragonfly, damselfly numbers; two new sightings: Survey

Delhi's biodiversity parks recorded 11,154 dragonflies and damselflies in a recent survey, down from 13,253 in 2025, attributed to erratic rains and dry conditions. Conducted from September 17-19, the survey noted two new species: the Yellow-tailed Ashy Skimmer and the Blue Grass Dart. Dragonflies require clean aquatic environments, highlighting the importance of maintained wetland ecosystems for their survival.

Bengaluru resident questions society’s Sunday rule allowing drums, not cleaning

A Bengaluru resident sparked debate after highlighting his housing society's ban on deep cleaning by Urban Company on Sundays, despite allowing noisy drum playing. Users questioned the inconsistency, with some asserting it was a noise restriction rather than targeting specific services. Discussions revealed that such strict rules are prevalent in Indian housing societies, focused on minimizing disturbance.

Four Ferozepur men held with 47-kg heroin, pistols

Faridkot district police arrested four suspects linked to a cross-border smuggling network, seizing 47.3 kg of heroin and firearms during a special operation. Identified as residents of Ferozepur district, they were intercepted in a Honda City. Investigations indicate that the gang received contraband via drones from neighboring regions, with further inquiries ongoing into their syndicate.

The “Up” series, an epic of ordinary life, comes to an end

The “Up” series, launched in 1964, followed a group of children from varying social classes throughout their lives, revealing unexpected insights about class and personal relationships. After 14 installments, the series concludes with final episodes airing on ITV. It ultimately portrays how lives intertwined with love and support, transcending initial class assumptions, marking a significant cultural legacy.

Akal Takht excommunicates SAD leader Amarjit Singh Chawla, addl head granthi Malkit Singh

Akal Takht has excommunicated Shiromani Akali Dal leader Amarjit Singh Chawla and suspended granthi Malkit Singh from the Khalsa Panth after allegations of rape and harassment emerged. The FIR, filed by a woman from Sangrur, led to this decisive action by Sikh authorities, deeming their conduct damaging to Sikh dignity. Chawla now faces lifetime expulsion unless proven innocent.

IndiGo crew member, single mother to 5-year-old, dies in Mumbai accident

Kainoor Mistry, a 34-year-old IndiGo cabin crew member and single mother, died in a Mumbai road accident involving a car driving on the wrong side. She was on ventilator support before her passing. In response, cab vendors received warnings to enhance safety. Tributes highlighting road safety concerns continue to emerge on social media amid calls for stricter driving regulations.

Bank holiday tomorrow in Kerala and Assam? Here's what we know

Banks in Assam and Kerala will be closed on September 21 due to regional holidays: Janmotsav of Srimanta Sankardeva in Assam and Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi Day in Kerala. Other states' banks will operate normally. Srimanta Sankardeva, born in 1449, promoted unity, while Sree Narayana Guru advocated against caste discrimination and sought spiritual equality for all.

Horoscope Tomorrow, September 21, 2026, read predictions for all sun signs

Astrology insights for tomorrow reveal that each sign experiences unique energies influencing their actions and decisions. Aries focuses on evaluation and progress, while Taurus embraces nostalgia. Gemini reaches milestones, and Cancer prioritizes stability. Each sign has opportunities for growth and reflection, offering guidance on navigating challenges and responsibilities effectively. Tailored insights are provided by Kishori Sud of EnigmaTarotTribe.

Neurosurgeon charred to death after car hits divider, catches fire in Telangana

A neurosurgeon, 50-year-old Jagadish, was killed in Telangana when his car hit a roadside divider and caught fire on National Highway 365. The incident occurred around 7:15 am near Pillalamarri flyover as he was driving from Hyderabad to Khammam. Authorities suspect lack of sleep may have contributed to the accident. Jagadish worked at Mamata Hospital in Khammam.

Empowering small merchants through next phase of digital payments

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has transformed retail digital payments in India, settling nearly a billion transactions daily. With a new 0.4% MDR on high-value payments, the policy aims to sustain growth without hindering financial inclusion. A dedicated fund will enhance digital infrastructure for small merchants, fostering broader access and deeper engagement in the evolving ecosystem.

Iran says West Asia's US-led order ‘collapsed’, flags ‘strategic errors’

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared the "old American order" in West Asia has collapsed, urging Islamic nations to establish a new regional framework. He identified two strategic errors hindering Iran: advocating war without an endgame and underestimating national capabilities. Ghalibaf affirmed Iran's firm stance on negotiations, insisting that the Strait of Hormuz won't reopen until U.S. commitments are honored.

The geopolitics beneath our feet

The geopolitical emphasis is shifting from oil to critical minerals like lithium and cobalt, crucial for technologies such as electric vehicles and semiconductors. India's National Critical Mineral Mission aims to enhance domestic processing and partnerships while ensuring supply chain resilience. Strategic autonomy relies on developing local capabilities to mitigate vulnerabilities and compete effectively in a resource-driven global landscape.

‘Nothing wrong in Vijay going abroad, meeting Ajith Kumar’: Prakash Raj

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, joined by Ajith Kumar and Trisha Krishnan, participated in the Le Mans race in Silverstone, stirring political controversy over public spending on the trip. Commentator comparisons to Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise highlight Ajith’s star status. Actor Prakash Raj urges patience for Vijay’s government, emphasizing the importance of giving time for performance assessment.

Uttarakhand glaciers retreat 23m a year on average; some lose 88m: Study

Glaciers in Uttarakhand's Central Himalaya are retreating at an alarming average of 23.23 meters annually, with some losing up to 88 meters each year, as per a recent study. Conducted by researchers at Wadia Institute and UPES, it highlights rising temperatures, glacier characteristics, and topography as key factors influencing ice loss. Notably, the equilibrium line altitude has increased by nearly 500 meters since 2000, exacerbating negative glacier mass balances. Historical trends show a shift to a more humid climate post-2000, yet overall glacier volume continues to decline. Enhanced monitoring is crucial for assessing water security and managing natural hazards.

A 7.8% economy that runs on unpaid women

India's GDP grew 7.8% in the April-June quarter, surpassing expectations, yet the labor force participation rate fell to 54.6%, indicating fewer people are actively seeking work. Notably, women's employment reveals a troubling trend: while more women seem to join the workforce, many occupy unpaid roles. This dichotomy highlights economic growth that fails to translate into meaningful livelihoods for women.

Paediatrician lists common childhood infections that can progress to sepsis

Sepsis, a serious condition arising from infections, particularly affects vulnerable populations like infants, cautions Dr. Sushil Singla, a paediatrician. Common childhood infections—including UTIs, meningitis, gastrointestinal infections, and pneumonia—can escalate quickly, with symptoms like high fever, persistent vomiting, or unusual lethargy warranting immediate medical attention to prevent severe outcomes. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.

What happens to your lung cancer risk after you quit smoking? Oncologist explain

Quitting smoking dramatically lowers lung cancer risk, but former smokers remain at higher risk than never-smokers, according to Dr. Prakash. While health improvements start quickly, risks decrease significantly over time, with a 30–60% reduction after ten years. Comprehensive lung cancer care access is critical, especially in India, where gaps in healthcare pathways exist.

Fed keeps rates high: Could S&P 500, Nasdaq and Dow face more losses?

US stocks are up this year, with the S&P 500 rising 11% and the Nasdaq 14%, despite the Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate hike, which could pressure economic growth and stock valuations. Historically, similar rate increases have led to significant market declines. While earnings growth—especially from AI—could support stocks, high rates pose risks for continued market strength.

Minimalist or maximalist? 7 ways to balance both decor styles at home

To achieve a stylish yet comfortable interior, balance is key, according to Priyanka Sinha of The Opulence. Homeowners should mix minimalist and maximalist elements, selecting a few statement pieces while ensuring functionality and space for each item to stand out. Luxury today emphasizes intentional decor over abundance, creating calm, appealing environments through thoughtful choices.

How AI-first smart meter operations centres cut outage times

India's ambitious smart metering program, aimed at installing 20.33 crore meters, faces significant pushback as only 5.73 crore are installed, with households hesitant due to concerns over inflated bills and automated disconnections. While the technology functions effectively, utilities struggle to leverage the data, underscoring a need for integrated systems that prioritize consumer experience and proactive service solutions.

The ally Europe didn't know it was missing

Europe, grappling with unreliable U.S. alliances, is seeking stability through a potential partnership with Canadian PM Mark Carney, who was mentioned for an unprecedented associate membership. Carney's vision emphasizes resilience and cooperative trade, resonating with Europe’s desire for dependable allies amid geopolitical uncertainty. This evolving relationship highlights the EU's shift towards stronger, more predictable partnerships.