Times of India

CIA Director John Ratcliffe is poised to take a more active role in US peace talks as the White House contemplates changes to the negotiation team. Stalled progress primarily stems from major territorial and security disputes. Ratcliffe's expertise in intelligence may unlock fresh pathways for dialogue, aiming to breathe new life into the diplomatic discussions between Moscow and Kyiv.

Sachin Pilot's appointment as Punjab Congress in-charge brings new hope to party workers. He is seen as a capable leader who can unite various factions within the state unit. This move aims to strengthen the Congress party's position before the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections. Leaders like Charanjit Singh Channi and Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa welcomed the decision. The party is planning a statewide yatra to revive its organizational activities.

Jeremy Corbyn has found a buyer for his three-bedroom Finsbury Park home after 19 years. The former Labour leader bought the North London property for £363,000 in 2007 and initially listed it for £800,000 this year. The house was later reduced to offers over £700,000 and is now under offer, according to reports.

Jessica Pegula staged a stunning comeback in her US Open quarter-final against Emma Navarro after losing the first set. Securing victory, Pegula progresses to the semi-finals for the third consecutive year, showcasing her resilience on the court. Meanwhile, Navarro's impressive journey to the quarter-finals hints at a bright future in tennis, with both athletes coming from families boasting a combined net worth of fifteen billion dollars.

Oil prices have soared past the $100 mark per barrel, resulting in a dip in Wall Street's performance. This increase has amplified worries over fuel costs and inflation for both consumers and businesses alike. With petrol prices showing a 32% increase compared to last year, household finances are feeling the strain.

Seven men and a juvenile were arrested for the alleged killing of Chongtham Vikram Singh. The accused reportedly assaulted the musician after he objected to noise outside his home. Singh, a musician, died hours after the assault due to internal injuries. Police are investigating all aspects, including a potential racial angle in the incident. The North Eastern Students' Organisation demanded a swift and impartial probe into the matter.

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi faces pressure to disarm Shi'ite militias. Several powerful groups resist handing over their weapons to the state. This standoff creates significant security and political challenges for the government. The situation is complicated by ongoing regional tensions between Iran and the United States. US-led coalition forces are scheduled to withdraw from Iraq by September 30.

Amitabh Bachchan is back as the host of Kaun Banega Crorepati for its eighteenth season, continuing to enthrall viewers with emotional narratives and engaging challenges. He revealed that some participants' stories are truly poignant. In a lighthearted moment, he talked about giving up rice and Jaya Bachchan’s famous mango kheer. The season featured notable guests Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, adding to the excitement.

A video showing kalakand boxes with cash has gone viral before Alwar municipal polling. Locals reported a car seen unloading boxes around 1 am in the Diwakari area. Occupants allegedly fled after residents gathered and stopped the vehicle. The Congress candidate denied the video, calling it a defamation attempt. The forest minister stated the administration is investigating the circulating video.

Rahul Gandhi has called for the resignation of Punjab minister Harpal Singh Cheema amidst ongoing concerns surrounding the death of Gulzar Singh. The Congress leader emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and cautioned Dalit communities about the potential misuse of power by the AAP government. Family members of Gulzar Singh have accused officials of harassment and making casteist remarks following their inquiries.

Congress leader P Chidambaram proudly embraced the 'Dimagi Naxal' label given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also dismissed the 'Naraaz Fufa' remark as meaningless and lacking substance. Chidambaram noted that these comments have sparked widespread discussion and memes online. Prime Minister Modi had urged identifying and isolating those with an ideological Naxal mindset. The exchange highlights ongoing political sparring between the BJP and Congress parties.