Register FIR in cases of missing persons immediately, irrespective of age or gender: SC

The Supreme Court has mandated that FIRs for missing persons must be registered immediately by all states and Union Territories, clarifying that "person" includes all ages and genders. The court expressed dismay at misinterpretations and warned of contempt proceedings against non-compliant officials. Over 47,000 missing children highlight the urgency of effective tracking and tracing measures.

Could Elizabeth Waddell be somewhere on land or on a boat? Husband weighs in

Elizabeth Waddell, 44, has been missing since July 22 while vacationing in Grenada, prompting extensive search efforts. Husband Cailen Waddell speculates she could be on land or a boat, though no evidence supports this. Investigators found no intention for her to disappear, while CCTV shows her swimming but not returning. She is a physical therapist from North Carolina.

Heavy to very heavy rain likely in parts of Delhi over next 3 hours

Heavy to very heavy rain is forecast in Delhi-NCR on Tuesday due to thunderstorms moving from Uttar Pradesh, prompting the IMD to issue a yellow alert. Rainfall will range from light to moderate throughout the day, with heavy rain expected in specific areas. The warning lasts until 3 PM, with potential waterlogging in low-lying regions.

Revive anti-ragging panels, students' grievance system: Odisha govt tells educational institutions

The Odisha government has mandated that all higher educational institutions revive key statutory committees, including anti-ragging panels, prior to the academic session 2026–27. Due to staff changes, institutions must review and reconstitute committees to ensure they are functional and comply with regulations. Institutions have seven days to complete this process, ensuring readiness for student grievances.

What email did Patrick Clancy send? Testimony about 5:24 pm message sparks row

An email sent by Patrick Clancy at 5:24 pm on January 24, 2023, during the trial of his wife Lindsay Clancy, has raised questions on social media regarding its timing. Prosecutors allege Lindsay meticulously planned the tragic killings of their three children while Patrick was away. Lindsay pleads not guilty, citing postpartum psychosis. The email's legitimacy remains unchallenged in court.

WW-2 link & astrologer's warning: How Aug 15 was chosen as India's I-Day

Lord Louis Mountbatten impulsively chose August 15, 1947, for India's independence, aligning it with VJ Day, despite protests from astrologers deeming the date inauspicious. Amidst rising communal violence and failed negotiations, Mountbatten accelerated the British exit by unveiling the Partition plan on June 3, 1947, marking a significant shift in India's historical timeline and political landscape.

Longer financing tenures underline India’s smartphone purchases

India's smartphone financing system is shifting towards longer tenures, with recent data revealing an average of 10 months for non-banking financial institutions in Q2 2026. This trend caters to rising phone costs amidst geopolitical issues and a pre-festive sales lull. EMI usage is particularly high in Tier-II (57.5%) and Tier-III (55%) towns, suggesting affordability is becoming a priority for consumers. Major brands like Apple and Samsung are adapting financing strategies, with EMI tenures averaging 17.2 months and 11.4 months, respectively. Counterpoint forecasts that flexible repayment options will enhance smartphone ownership affordability, with EMIs projected to reach 42% of sales by 2026.

Is your haircare routine damaging your hair? Avoid these 3 common mistakes

Complicated haircare routines may not lead to better results; consistent and simple practices, such as gentle cleansing and conditioning, are key to healthy hair, states Rochelle Chhabra of Streax Professional. Signs of unsuitable products include persistent itching and excessive oiliness, while effective ingredients like Baobab Oil promote nourishment. Focus on individual needs rather than trends for optimal care.

SC to hear PIL alleging breach of guidelines in Odisha DGP appointment process

The Supreme Court will hear a PIL claiming the Odisha government is trying to breach 2006 guidelines regarding the selection of the Director General of Police by including an ineligible officer. Senior advocate P. Chidambaram argued that the state was withdrawing and modifying candidate lists just ahead of a UPSC meeting. The ruling mandates selection only from the senior-most eligible officers.

Police trainee officer arrested for cheating fellow trainees of over ₹7 lakh

A police recruit, Sambhu R Krishnan, was arrested for allegedly cheating fellow trainees out of over Rs 7 lakh intended for uniforms, spending the funds instead on online gambling. As a member of the uniform committee, he collected money from July 3 to 13, but failed to deposit it, prompting fellow trainees to report the fraud.

South Delhi luxury floor prices rise 6-21% in Q2 26 amid HNI-NRI demand: Report

Luxury independent floor prices in South Delhi surged 6%–21% year-on-year in Q2 2026 amid robust demand and limited supply, as revealed in a Golden Growth Fund report. Major areas saw significant price increases, with Category A colonies achieving up to 21% growth. The ongoing geopolitical tensions are attracting HNIs and NRIs to invest in the region, enhancing market resilience.

Harry Potter fans force ₹5,500 crore cable to change route over Dobby shrine

A proposed £430 million power cable project linking Britain and Ireland is being rerouted to avoid a memorial for Dobby, a beloved Harry Potter character, after fan protests. Originally set to pass near Freshwater West beach, the new route also circumvents important archaeological remains. Dobby’s death scene was filmed there, transforming the location into a pilgrimage site for fans.

Four people killed after car rams into road divider on Pune-Satara highway: Police

Four young men were killed and two others injured early Tuesday in a car accident on the Pune-Satara carriageway of National Highway-48 near Shirwal. The vehicle lost control, collided with a road divider, overturned, and then hit a truck. The deceased were all from Pune district, while the injured are receiving treatment. Police are investigating the incident.

NDA MPs target Gandhi over silence on lathi charge against students in Jharkhand

BJP leaders criticized Rahul Gandhi for his silence on the alleged mistreatment of students during protests in Jharkhand, claiming he dodges accountability while demanding answers from the Union Home Minister. They accused the Opposition of obstructing Parliament and failing to address pressing issues, amidst ongoing tensions over student recruitment irregularities. The student protests have sparked significant political contention.

Lok Sabha adjourned within 4 mins as Opposition sticks to Shah statement demand

Lok Sabha was adjourned swiftly as Opposition lawmakers demanded Union Home Minister Amit Shah address police actions during protests against examination irregularities. Despite Speaker Om Birla's appeals for cooperation, sloganeering persisted. The government had previously offered to discuss student issues, but tensions remained high. The ongoing monsoon session has faced significant disruptions due to these demands.

How UK man swapped a 3-year NHS wait for knee surgery in India and saved £26,000

A British man, Jean Paul, opted for medical treatment in India due to a three-year NHS wait for knee replacements. His £14,000 package covered surgery, travel, accommodation, and aftercare, contrasting sharply with the estimated £40,000 cost in the UK. Jean is now fully recovered, highlighting the growing trend of medical tourism as patients seek timely care abroad.

Kerala student seriously injured in Maharashtra taekwondo event; family alleges referee negligence

A 17-year-old Kerala student, Faiz Abdul Jalal, is in critical condition on ventilator support after being kicked in the head during a CBSE Taekwondo competition in Maharashtra, prompting allegations of referee negligence from his family. The incident occurred on August 3, leading to emergency surgery. The family plans to pursue legal action against the CBSE.

Sinéad Gleeson: “In fiction, you can do anything”

In "Hagstone," the author delves into the complexities of embodiment and artistry through her protagonist, Nell. The novel blends realism with folklore, reflecting on the female experience and the intersections of art and identity. Drawing from Irish cultural narratives, the title "Hagstone" symbolizes visibility and transformation within storytelling, demonstrating how creative expression serves as a form of political resistance.

Police bust high-end car theft racket in Arunachal's Kra Daadi

Police in Arunachal Pradesh's Kra Daadi district have dismantled a vehicle theft racket, recovering 15 stolen luxury cars and arresting four suspects, including the alleged kingpin Zahangir Alam. The gang, operating mainly from Assam, targeted high-end vehicles from the Delhi-NCR region for resale in Arunachal and Nagaland. Additionally, four minors were apprehended for a related two-wheeler theft network.

‘Sarfaraz’s name comes into my best XI’: Kaif throws Jurel selection into doubt

Sarfaraz Khan has returned to India's Test squad, potentially altering playing XI decisions ahead of matches in spin-friendly Sri Lanka. His impressive century against New Zealand showcases his aptitude against spin, prompting support from former player Mohammad Kaif. While Dhruv Jurel's recent form is under scrutiny, Sarfaraz's versatility could prove vital for success as conditions deteriorate.

Ram Gopal Varma’s Police Company to explore Dawood Ibrahim’s underworld era

Harshvardhan Rane will star in Ram Gopal Varma's upcoming film "Police Company," inspired by Mumbai's fight against organized crime. The film features the notorious Daya Nayak, a renowned police officer who was part of a special squad that neutralized over 300 gangsters during the late '90s and early 2000s. Varma’s project highlights a violent era in the city's underworld.

War of words, ‘photos & loyalties’ debate in Tamil Nadu assembly over alliances

The Tamil Nadu Assembly saw intense confrontations on Tuesday as former chief minister O Panneerselvam criticized the TVK government's failure to fulfill key electoral promises, such as financial grants for women, while asserting public disillusionment with the administration. Counterarguments from Leader K A Sengottaiyan highlighted the government’s ongoing mandate, resulting in a personal clash over shifting political allegiances, ultimately overshadowing significant issues.

Woman reveals harsh reality of living in Greater Noida flat worth crores

A woman's video highlighting the stark disparity between luxury living and actual conditions in a high-rise society has gone viral, with users resonating with her plight regarding chronic water shortages and power cuts despite high costs. Many echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the disconnect between advertised luxury and uncomfortable living realities in NCR's premium flats. HT.com is seeking further comments.

Lindsay Clancy trial: Psychiatrist Jennifer Tufts slammed, expertise questioned

Lindsay Clancy’s psychiatrist, Dr. Jennifer Tufts, is under scrutiny during Clancy's murder trial for the deaths of her three children. Defense lawyers criticize Tufts' treatment approach and teletherapy methods. Clancy, diagnosed with anxiety and depression, faces life imprisonment if convicted. She pleads not guilty, citing a psychotic episode from postpartum mental illness as her defense.

UP youth groups announce 'Justice Morcha', plan 50-day campaign on edu, jobs

In response to recent Gen Z protests in Delhi, youth groups in Uttar Pradesh have formed the 'Justice Morcha' to address education and employment issues, launching a 50-day campaign starting August 12, coinciding with International Youth Day. The initiative follows a 36-day protest and aims to engage over 800 educational institutes. Key demands include improved recruitment processes and education reforms.

‘Jihadists being elected’: Trump attacks Democratic candidates in US midterms

In a controversial statement, President Trump criticized Somali immigrants, branding them as "not smart" and expressing disdain for their influence in the U.S. political landscape. His remarks follow a history of negative rhetoric towards Muslims. Amid rising tensions, Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed countered Trump's claims, emphasizing love and unity in his marriage, while Republican leaders escalate their anti-Muslim rhetoric.

Unorganised sector workers stage 'jail bharo' protest in Jalna; 80 detained

Workers from the unorganised sector in Jalna, Maharashtra, led by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions, staged a 'jail bharo' agitation demanding permanent employment status and social security benefits. The protest focused on anti-worker policies amid rising inflation. Protesters submitted a memorandum to the authorities and called for immediate repeal of four labor codes impacting workers’ rights.

Founder reveals ₹2 crore Goa villa earns nearly ₹12 lakh/year: ‘Not selling it’

Akshat Shrivastava’s Goa villa, purchased for ₹2 crore in 2023, generates ₹1 lakh monthly through Airbnb, yielding about 6% annually. He trusts a management company for operations and emphasizes distinct regional rental yields, asserting no intention to sell despite market fluctuations. Notably, he cautioned against investments in North Goa, where property corrections are evident.

Charity races to raise millions to buy historic English estate

A UK conservation charity is urgently raising £30 million to acquire the 3,800-hectare Rothbury Estate, a potentially vital biodiversity sanctuary in Northumberland, currently owned by the Percy family. With £20.6 million raised, the Wildlife Trusts aim to protect the land from commercial exploitation. This significant estate could restore habitats, boost wildlife, and connect nature reserves.

Cops fact-check Harbhajan Singh over zombie drug clip: ‘Not from Punjab'

A political dispute ignited after BJP MP Harbhajan Singh shared a misleading drug-related video, wrongly attributing it to Punjab. The Punjab Police quickly clarified the footage's origin as Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan. Political leaders from AAP condemned Singh’s actions, accusing him of defaming Punjab amid ongoing tensions over the state’s drug crisis, which remains a critical concern in regional politics.