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Former India captain Viren Rasquinha is not a happy man.

‘What is the logic of orange?’: Rasquinha fumes at new saffron-coloured jersey

Former Indian hockey captain Viren Rasquinha has expressed his anger over the new saffron jersey unveiled by Hockey India for the upcoming FIH World Cup, a departure from the traditional blue worn by the team. While the jersey symbolizes courage and heritage, Rasquinha questions its logic, emphasizing the team's longstanding identity. The tournament runs from August 15 to 30.

The Punjab state and Chandigarh UT human rights commission also took suo motu cognisance of the incident and sought reports from the PU vice-chancellor and the UT chief engineer before September 18, 2026. (HT File)

Chandigarh: Day after PU scholar’s ‘electrocution’ death, 2 engineering officials suspended

A 28-year-old Panjab University research scholar, Jyoti, died of suspected electrocution on campus, prompting the university to suspend two engineering officials and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan to order a safety audit. Found unconscious in a waterlogged area, she was declared dead at a local hospital. Investigations are underway, with autopsy results pending to confirm the cause of death.

Drunk man fires pistol during late-night party at Virar resort, held

Drunk man fires pistol during late-night party at Virar resort, held

A late-night party at Tulsi Resort in Virar West turned chaotic when 32-year-old Sandesh Gurav allegedly fired a round from a country-made pistol, causing panic among guests. Intoxicated, he fled but was later arrested. Gurav, with a history of criminal cases, poses questions regarding the pistol's source. Similar past incidents raise concerns about safety.

The maximum temperature jumped to 35.1 degree celsius on Wednesday from Tuesday’s 29.6 temperature (Keshav Singh/HT)

42 mm rain recorded in Chandigarh, orange alert continues

The city experienced 42 mm of rainfall on Wednesday evening, leading to waterlogging and traffic disruptions, with a total of 87.6 mm over two days. The India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for heavy rain on Thursday and Friday, while temperatures are expected to drop from 35 to 31 degrees Celsius by Monday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy had earlier warned that a massive Russian attack was likely.

1 killed as Russia launches fresh strikes on Kyiv; Poland scrambles fighter jets

Russian ballistic missile strikes on Kyiv killed at least one person early Thursday, prompting Poland to scramble fighter jets for airspace security. Multiple explosions occurred, and non-residential sites ignited as air raid alerts were issued nationwide. President Zelenskiy emphasized the need for allies' anti-missile support to safeguard Ukrainians. Tensions escalate as Russia intensifies strikes.

He also announced that the party would hold an emergency meeting on Thursday to devise the way to take on the AAP government on this issue. (HT FILE)

Ludhiana: Sukhbir claims 11 exam papers ‘managed’ via selective leaks

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of facilitating a paper leak scam in Punjab, affecting 11 examination papers. Badal highlighted the frustration of youth feeling hopeless about their future amid ongoing corruption. The Punjab and Haryana high court has halted the pharmacy officers’ selection process, indicating systemic issues. SAD plans an emergency meeting to address the scandal.

The shooting in the waning hours of the Bite of Seattle festival near the Space Needle left three people dead, including a 19-year-old suspect.

Bullets that killed 2 at Seattle festival not from arrested teen shooter's gun

Preliminary testing confirmed that the bullets that killed two bystanders at a Seattle food festival didn’t come from a 15-year-old's gun involved in the shootout. The teen faces first-degree assault charges, with police speculating gang ties. Two victims were identified, sparking community support, as authorities seek more information on the incident. The festival was heavily monitored by police.

The department would explore the feasibility of installing CCTV cameras at these locations to curb traffic violations and improve enforcement, said a senior UT police officer . (HT File)

3 days after MP’s tweet , traffic police, private security guards streamline traffic outside Chandigarh railway station

Authorities have intensified efforts to alleviate traffic congestion outside Chandigarh railway station following MP Manish Tewari's concerns, deploying traffic police and private guards to combat illegal parking. Daily fines for violations are being issued, with planned infrastructure improvements underway, including road widening and the removal of obstacles. However, chronic bottlenecks persist due to poor road conditions and lack of surveillance.

ASI Randhir Singh, who is investigating the case, stated that the circumstances leading to the fatal accident are being examined in detail. (HT FILE)

Assam labourer killed at Ludhiana brick kiln, owner, 4 others booked

A migrant labourer from Assam, Haismul Haque, was killed in a tragic accident at Vishwakarma Brick Kiln Industry in Sahnewal after being struck by a tractor. His family lodged a Zero FIR, leading to criminal charges against the kiln owner and others. Police are investigating safety compliance and negligence at the site, ensuring accountability in the case.

The multi-featured park, once completed, will be the largest recreational park of its kind in Panchkula and is expected to primarily benefit residents of the trans-Ghaggar sectors. (HT File)

Panchkula: After missing 3 deadlines, HSVP issues fresh tender worth 65L for Sector-24 park

Construction of Panchkula’s ₹35-crore multi-featured park has accelerated after missing three deadlines and a probe into ₹22 crore spent. The Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran has issued a new ₹65.62 lakh tender for essential infrastructure, aiming for completion by late November. Originally announced in 2021, the park is projected to be the largest in the area, benefiting local residents.

MC parked a tanker near the road cave in Mint Ghumari Chowk in Ludhiana on Wednesday in Ludhiana. (Gurpreet Singh/HT)

Striking staff leave commuters navigating risky craters in Ludhiana

A Municipal Corporation staff strike is causing delays in permanent road repairs, leading to dangerous cave-ins that threaten commuter safety. Despite temporary soil patches, residents worry about heavy rains exacerbating the issue. Key areas affected include Saggu Chowk and Mint Ghumari Chowk. Superintending engineer Sham Lal Gupta cited labor issues as the cause of stalled repairs, urging swift action.

Misir Besra. (HT Photo)

Top Maoist Besra with over 2.2 crore bounty arrested

In a significant breakthrough for anti-Naxal operations, Misir Besra, a senior CPI (Maoist) leader with a ₹2.2 crore bounty, was arrested in Dhanbad amidst 'Operation Daura Pahad.' Besra, wanted in 175 cases, played a crucial role in militant activities since 1980. His capture reflects a diminishing Maoist threat in Jharkhand, with many others arrested or surrendered recently.

Tewari said the Union ministry of home affairs (MHA), through communications dated July 22, 2025 and August 4, 2025 had reportedly sought detailed responses from the Chandigarh administration on these issues (HT File)

Delays in policy decisions causing property, housing hardships in Chandigarh: Tewari in Lok Sabha

Chandigarh MP Manish Tewari urged the Union government to address five unresolved property rights and housing security issues in the Lok Sabha, highlighting delays in policy decisions affecting residents. These include share-wise property sales, ownership rights in rehabilitation colonies, and housing board modifications. Tewari stressed the need for timely action to resolve long-standing uncertainties faced by residents.

Among the major projects cleared were strengthening the sewerage system in Khuda Lahora for  <span class='webrupee'>₹</span>27 lakh. (HT Photo for representation)

F&CC meet: Chandigarh MC gives nod to parks, roads, water and sewerage projects

The Finance and Contract Committee of the Chandigarh municipal corporation approved various infrastructure projects, including ₹15.3 lakh for redeveloping sports courts in Ward 23. Key initiatives focus on enhancing parks, upgrading sewerage and water systems, and improving roads across multiple sectors. The committee also revised auction prices for recyclable materials to boost revenue.

An FIR has been registered against 14 people in connection with an alleged multi-crore financial scam . (HT FILE)

2 ex-BDPOs, sarpaches among 14 booked in multi-crore scam in Ludhiana

A FIR has been filed against 14 individuals in a multi-crore financial scam involving Malkpur Bet village’s gram panchayat, following a district inquiry uncovering misuse of public funds from 2013 to 2024. The inquiry revealed misappropriation of nearly Rs 13.74 crore, improper expenditures, and procedural violations. Background checks revealed past audits lacking transparency and extensive documentation issues.

Google Pay India Ask Google Pay SBI credit card

Google Pay’s smart AI pivot, music subscriptions, and LG’s absurdity

Microsoft intervened due to complaints about LG generating pop-up ads on Windows PCs promoting McAfee. As a result, LG agreed to disable these ads from its utility app. This situation raises concerns about third-party hardware behavior on Windows. The backstory involves LG monitors that unintentionally delivered these ads, prompting Microsoft's response to safeguard user experience and maintain system integrity.

All of these mixer grinders come with three to six jars.

These 5 mixer grinders helped me grind masalas and chutneys faster

**Top Mixer Grinders for Efficient Indian Cooking**: Mixer grinders are essential in Indian kitchens for tasks like grinding and blending, yet performance varies. After testing models, the best include those with powerful motors, durable jars, and efficient grinding capabilities. The top five recommended models excel in performance and ease of use, transforming cooking into a quicker, simpler task.

UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath alleged that the previous government imposed restrictions on Hindu traditions.

UP's Bhadohi to be renamed Sant Ravidas Nagar again: Yogi Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced the renaming of Bhadohi district to Sant Ravidas Nagar, coinciding with the 650th birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas, emphasizing the government's commitment to honoring social reformers. He criticized former administrations for previous name changes and urged unity through such honors. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav countered, claiming voters will reject name changes in the upcoming elections. Bhadohi was originally named Sant Ravidas Nagar in 1997 before reverting in 2014.

Police recovered  <span class='webrupee'>₹</span>28.5 crore in cash and 15 kg of gold bars during a search at a house in West Bengal's Birbhum district.

28.5 crore cash, 15 kg gold seized from retired driver's house in Bengal

Police seized 28.5 crore in cash and 15 kg of gold bars worth 20 crore from retired bus driver Minar Mondal's home in West Bengal after a 20-hour search. The assets allegedly belong to his absconding brother-in-law, Tulu Mondal, linked to illegal trades. TMC MLA Kunal Ghosh urges government action amid rising corruption concerns.

The education system clearly demands a radical overhaul and AI can help India build something far better.

Education needs a radical overhaul for the AI age

India has reached a consensus that its education system must change due to rampant exam leaks and corruption, which undermine genuine learning. By leveraging AI, India can move beyond colonial-era methods, fostering critical thinking and personalized education. This transformation can revive its rich intellectual traditions, allowing for a new generation of innovative thinkers. Education must prioritize dialogue and comprehension over rote memorization, positioning India to lead in learning once again.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, economies, and everyday life at an unprecedented pace.

Single-minded agents may not be evil, but need reins

Recent incidents involving AI systems, including a breach by OpenAI's models into Hugging Face, highlight the urgent need for mandatory incident reporting and liability in AI governance. India's current voluntary guidelines are insufficient as risks intensify. Strengthening the IndiaAI Safety Institute and enhancing CERT-In’s scope can protect firms from evolving threats while minimizing reliance on uncertain foreign models.

A democracy allows citizens to dissent and protest. It is the State that must justify restricting it.

Time to raise the legal shield for protestors

In India, protests often require citizens to justify their grievances while the State employs force, including barricades and tear gas, in response. Constitutional rights guarantee peaceful assembly and dissent, challenging the State's authority. Notably, the Supreme Court has reiterated limits on State power in cases of abuse during protests, emphasizing constitutional protections. Historical context underscores the enduring struggle for these rights.

Lindsay Clancy's husband, Patrick, testified about the day she killed their three children.

Lindsay Clancy: Postpartum psychosis survivor shares experience amid trial

Lindsay Clancy is on trial for the murder of her three children, with her postpartum psychosis being a central issue. Kathryn Myers, a postpartum psychosis survivor, shared her haunting experience of hearing voices and hallucinating, shedding light on Clancy's struggles. Experts will discuss postpartum psychosis at the trial, but personal testimonies from survivors like Myers will not be allowed.

A firefighting plane dumping water on flames west of Madrid this past weekend.

Why Europe’s Wildfires Are So Intense This Year

Devastating wildfires in Europe, particularly in France and Spain, have forced over 300,000 evacuations, fueled by an exceptionally wet winter followed by extreme heat. More than 370,000 acres have burned, with Madrid facing its worst wildfire crisis. Rising temperatures and unmanaged vegetation have intensified the season, with projections indicating ongoing challenges ahead.

Sonu Nigam's words on becoming 'one with the song' offer a powerful lesson in creativity and purpose.

Quote of the day by Sonu Nigam: ‘When the singer becomes the song, the singer…’

Sonu Nigam has spent more than three decades redefining Indian playback singing with his versatility, emotion and technical brilliance. From romantic ballads to devotional songs and live performances, the singer has often spoken about music as more than just entertainment, it is a form of complete surrender. As the singer celebrates his 53rd birthday today let’s revisit one of his thought-provoking quotes.

A resurfaced video of Jared Leto quoting a controversial line about "high school girls" during a 2013 concert has resurfaced online. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni/File Photo

Jared Leto's old 'high school girls' remark resurfaces amid BBC allegations

A resurfaced 2013 video of Jared Leto quoting a controversial line about "high school girls" has gained attention following a BBC documentary alleging sexual misconduct by the actor. Ten women, some minors at the time, recounted inappropriate encounters, with four alleging criminal conduct. Leto has denied all allegations, branding them "absolutely and categorically false." The accusations echo previous claims against him.

Ramayana trailer sparks buzz: Stunning visuals, Yash's Ravana shine, Hanuman's absence surprises fans.

Ramayana trailer divides internet: Ranbir Kapoor, Yash spark mixed reactions

The trailer for Nitesh Tiwari’s adaptation of *Ramayana*, releasing November 8, has generated mixed reactions, notably regarding the absence of Hanuman and criticisms of character designs resembling Western aesthetics. While visual effects by DNEG and collaborations with A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer are praised, concerns about Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Rama linger. The film retells Valmiki's epic, revered in Indian culture.

Representational image.

Indian corporates are taking the rentier route to wealth | Number Theory

On July 27, the government revealed that the number of Indians earning over ₹100 crore annually surged from 142 to 576 between the assessment years 2021-22 and 2025-26, highlighting a significant increase in wealth. However, only 19 individuals reported such high salary incomes in 2023-24. Critics point out that many are opting for rentier profits over entrepreneurship.

US President Donald Trump during an announcement in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC.

US strikes Iran after Trump vows to beat the 'fu****g s**t' out of them

The US military launched strikes on Iranian targets in response to Tehran's ballistic missile attack on American bases in Jordan, intensifying a five-month conflict. This escalation follows President Donald Trump's stern vow to retaliate forcefully. The situation has evolved beyond its primary battlefronts, highlighting the growing tensions between the US and Iran. This is a developing story.

Singapore-based founder Miza Nazili.

‘Had less than 2K’: Founder reveals journey from rock bottom to buying Porsche

Singapore entrepreneur Miza Nazili highlighted her journey from battling $80,000 in debt to achieving over $15 million in business success, emphasizing the unseen struggles behind her triumphs. Social media praised her candidness about failure and perseverance, with followers expressing admiration and encouragement, reminding others to focus on their unique paths to success. Her post illustrates the disparity between public perception and reality.