The deadlock over seat-sharing negotiations between Congress and the DMK in Tamil Nadu has continued, with the Congress formally requesting 45 Assembly seats for the 2026 polls. This demand, conveyed during a meeting between Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, senior leader TS Singh Deo, and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, is based on an internal review of the Congress’s performance in the 2021 Assembly elections. According to Congress, the request stems from a strategic analysis
The deadlock over seat-sharing negotiations between Congress and the DMK in Tamil Nadu has continued, with the Congress formally requesting 45 Assembly seats for the 2026 polls. This demand, conveyed during a meeting between Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, senior leader TS Singh Deo, and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, is based on an internal review of the Congress’s performance in the 2021 Assembly elections. According to Congress, the request stems from a strategic analysis
India’s financial sector has been grappling with the persistent issue of mis-selling, especially in the realm of banking and insurance products. In a recent statement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the ongoing concern, declaring that banks cannot treat mis-selling as a routine part of their business. She went as far as to say that mis-selling is an "offence," sending a clear message to financial institutions that such practices will not be tolerated. Her remarks came at a pr
India’s financial sector has been grappling with the persistent issue of mis-selling, especially in the realm of banking and insurance products. In a recent statement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the ongoing concern, declaring that banks cannot treat mis-selling as a routine part of their business. She went as far as to say that mis-selling is an "offence," sending a clear message to financial institutions that such practices will not be tolerated. Her remarks came at a pr
Ohio lawmakers are advancing a proposal that would allow residents to claim state income tax deductions for qualifying church donations, arguing the move would bring Ohio policy in line with federal tax law while strengthening faith-based services across local communities.
House Bill 444, also known as the Tithing Protection Act, was introduced last fall by Republican Rep. Josh Williams of Sylvania Township and Democratic Rep. Dontavius Jarrells of Columbus. The measure received its first he
Ohio lawmakers are advancing a proposal that would allow residents to claim state income tax deductions for qualifying church donations, arguing the move would bring Ohio policy in line with federal tax law while strengthening faith-based services across local communities.
House Bill 444, also known as the Tithing Protection Act, was introduced last fall by Republican Rep. Josh Williams of Sylvania Township and Democratic Rep. Dontavius Jarrells of Columbus. The measure received its first he
Dallas residents planning their weekend outings may want to shift their attention from routine forecasts to festive drink specials, as National Margarita Day arrives on Sunday, February 22. Restaurants and bars across the Dallas-Fort Worth area are preparing a wide range of Margarita and Tequila promotions designed to attract both casual diners and dedicated DallasEats enthusiasts looking for value-driven celebrations.
The annual observance has become a major draw for the local hosp
Dallas residents planning their weekend outings may want to shift their attention from routine forecasts to festive drink specials, as National Margarita Day arrives on Sunday, February 22. Restaurants and bars across the Dallas-Fort Worth area are preparing a wide range of Margarita and Tequila promotions designed to attract both casual diners and dedicated DallasEats enthusiasts looking for value-driven celebrations.
The annual observance has become a major draw for the local hosp
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has issued a stark warning about the narrowing window for diplomacy between the United States and Iran, emphasizing the urgent need for an agreement to prevent further military escalation. His remarks come as concerns grow over Iran’s enriched nuclear material, which he said remains largely intact despite US strikes on key facilities last year.
Speaking in an interview with French broadcaster TF1, Grossi stressed tha
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has issued a stark warning about the narrowing window for diplomacy between the United States and Iran, emphasizing the urgent need for an agreement to prevent further military escalation. His remarks come as concerns grow over Iran’s enriched nuclear material, which he said remains largely intact despite US strikes on key facilities last year.
Speaking in an interview with French broadcaster TF1, Grossi stressed tha
Sleep terrors in children can be deeply frightening for parents, especially when a child suddenly wakes up screaming, sweating, and appearing terrified while remaining unresponsive. These episodes often occur during deep sleep and can leave families confused and worried. However, medical experts emphasize that sleep terrors, also known as night terrors, are a common childhood sleep condition and are usually harmless. Understanding why they happen and how parents should respond can make these
Sleep terrors in children can be deeply frightening for parents, especially when a child suddenly wakes up screaming, sweating, and appearing terrified while remaining unresponsive. These episodes often occur during deep sleep and can leave families confused and worried. However, medical experts emphasize that sleep terrors, also known as night terrors, are a common childhood sleep condition and are usually harmless. Understanding why they happen and how parents should respond can make these
Poland has formally prohibited Chinese-made cars and other technologically advanced vehicles from entering the country’s military facilities, citing concerns over potential data security risks. The decision, announced by the Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces, is intended to reduce the possibility of uncontrolled acquisition and use of sensitive information by modern automotive systems.
According to the Polish military, the move follows a detailed risk assessmen
Poland has formally prohibited Chinese-made cars and other technologically advanced vehicles from entering the country’s military facilities, citing concerns over potential data security risks. The decision, announced by the Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces, is intended to reduce the possibility of uncontrolled acquisition and use of sensitive information by modern automotive systems.
According to the Polish military, the move follows a detailed risk assessmen
In one of the wealthiest cities in the world, thousands of residents are living inside spaces barely larger than a mattress. Hong Kong, famous for its glittering skyline and ultra-luxury real estate, is also home to nearly 2 lakh people who survive in cramped 16-square-foot “coffin homes” hidden inside ageing buildings.
For 14 consecutive years, Hong Kong has ranked as the world’s mo
In one of the wealthiest cities in the world, thousands of residents are living inside spaces barely larger than a mattress. Hong Kong, famous for its glittering skyline and ultra-luxury real estate, is also home to nearly 2 lakh people who survive in cramped 16-square-foot “coffin homes” hidden inside ageing buildings.
For 14 consecutive years, Hong Kong has ranked as the world’s mo
Iran has indicated it is prepared to allow verification of its nuclear activities following the conclusion of a second round of US-Iran negotiations mediated by Oman. Speaking on Tuesday, February 17, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that Tehran has no intention of developing atomic weapons and expressed openness to international scrutiny aimed at confirming that position.
In remarks reported after the Geneva talks, Pezeshkian stated that Iran’s stance on nuclear weapons rema
Iran has indicated it is prepared to allow verification of its nuclear activities following the conclusion of a second round of US-Iran negotiations mediated by Oman. Speaking on Tuesday, February 17, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that Tehran has no intention of developing atomic weapons and expressed openness to international scrutiny aimed at confirming that position.
In remarks reported after the Geneva talks, Pezeshkian stated that Iran’s stance on nuclear weapons rema
Tensions between the United States and Iran intensified this week as both sides exchanged sharp rhetoric ahead of renewed diplomatic efforts over Tehran’s nuclear program. Former US President Donald Trump highlighted America’s military strength while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a pointed warning, underscoring the fragile atmosphere surrounding the latest round of nuclear deal talks.
The war of words escalated even before the second round of negotiations, which were mediat
Tensions between the United States and Iran intensified this week as both sides exchanged sharp rhetoric ahead of renewed diplomatic efforts over Tehran’s nuclear program. Former US President Donald Trump highlighted America’s military strength while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a pointed warning, underscoring the fragile atmosphere surrounding the latest round of nuclear deal talks.
The war of words escalated even before the second round of negotiations, which were mediat
India is set to further restrict water flow to Pakistan ahead of the summer season with the completion of the Shahpur Kandi barrage on the Ravi River by March 31, 2026. The move comes at a time when tensions between the two neighbours remain high and follows India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty after last year’s Pahalgam terror attack. With the new infrastructure in place, surplus water that previously flowed unused into Pakistan is now expected to be diverted for irrigatio
India is set to further restrict water flow to Pakistan ahead of the summer season with the completion of the Shahpur Kandi barrage on the Ravi River by March 31, 2026. The move comes at a time when tensions between the two neighbours remain high and follows India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty after last year’s Pahalgam terror attack. With the new infrastructure in place, surplus water that previously flowed unused into Pakistan is now expected to be diverted for irrigatio
Fresh satellite imagery indicates that Iran is strengthening an underground complex near its main nuclear installation at Natanz, a development that analysts say could complicate diplomatic efforts and heighten regional security concerns. The activity has been observed at a mountainous site known as Pickaxe Mountain, located roughly 1.6 kilometres south of the uranium enrichment facility in central Iran, and appears to involve new concrete structures and expanded tunnel protections.
The construction comes at a time of renewed friction between Tehran and Washington. Former US president Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of possible military action if Iran does not reach an agreement over its nuclear programme, while Iranian officials have vowed to respond to any strike. The exchange of threats has added to fears of escalation across West Asia, where US forces have increased their presence and longstanding rivalries continue to shape the strategic landscape.
Images reviewed by analysts from the Institute for Science and International Security, a Washington-based think tank that tracks nuclear proliferation risks, show what appears to be fresh concrete poured over at least one tunnel entrance. Equipment consistent with a boom pump used for concrete delivery is visible at the site, suggesting active reinforcement work. Nearby, rock and soil appear to have been cleared and levelled, and additional concrete-reinforced structures have been erected close to the entrances.
Researchers who have monitored the area for several years say the scale of excavation and the amount of construction material suggest the site could support more than routine maintenance. The depth of the tunnels, estimated to be between 79 and 100 metres underground, may offer significant protection from aerial attacks and surveillance, potentially making the facility more resilient than other known installations. Such characteristics have drawn scrutiny from non-proliferation experts, who view hardened underground sites as capable of hosting sensitive operations such as centrifuge assembly or uranium enrichment.
Iran has previously said that Pickaxe Mountain could be used for manufacturing and assembling centrifuges, devices required for nuclear fuel production. Tehran maintains that its nuclear activities are intended solely for peaceful purposes, including energy generation and medical research, and has repeatedly denied pursuing a nuclear weapon. However, the limited access granted to international inspectors has raised questions among watchdog groups and foreign governments about transparency and compliance.
The site was not among those reportedly targeted during earlier US strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, which officials described at the time as severely damaging key facilities. Analysts now suggest that any reconstruction of centrifuge capacity in protected locations like Pickaxe Mountain could allow Iran to restore or expand operations more quickly if other sites are disrupted.
International observers emphasize that the situation underscores the importance of oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Experts argue that greater disclosure and inspections are essential to clarify the purpose of the new construction and to reduce the risk of miscalculation. Without verifiable information, they warn, suspicion could deepen and diplomatic efforts may face additional obstacles.
As tensions persist, the developments at Pickaxe Mountain have become another focal point in the broader debate over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, regional stability, and the fragile balance between deterrence and diplomacy.
Fresh satellite imagery indicates that Iran is strengthening an underground complex near its main nuclear installation at Natanz, a development that analysts say could complicate diplomatic efforts and heighten regional security concerns. The activity has been observed at a mountainous site known as Pickaxe Mountain, located roughly 1.6 kilometres south of the uranium enrichment facility in central Iran, and appears to involve new concrete structures and expanded tunnel protections.
The construction comes at a time of renewed friction between Tehran and Washington. Former US president Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of possible military action if Iran does not reach an agreement over its nuclear programme, while Iranian officials have vowed to respond to any strike. The exchange of threats has added to fears of escalation across West Asia, where US forces have increased their presence and longstanding rivalries continue to shape the strategic landscape.
Images reviewed by analysts from the Institute for Science and International Security, a Washington-based think tank that tracks nuclear proliferation risks, show what appears to be fresh concrete poured over at least one tunnel entrance. Equipment consistent with a boom pump used for concrete delivery is visible at the site, suggesting active reinforcement work. Nearby, rock and soil appear to have been cleared and levelled, and additional concrete-reinforced structures have been erected close to the entrances.
Researchers who have monitored the area for several years say the scale of excavation and the amount of construction material suggest the site could support more than routine maintenance. The depth of the tunnels, estimated to be between 79 and 100 metres underground, may offer significant protection from aerial attacks and surveillance, potentially making the facility more resilient than other known installations. Such characteristics have drawn scrutiny from non-proliferation experts, who view hardened underground sites as capable of hosting sensitive operations such as centrifuge assembly or uranium enrichment.
Iran has previously said that Pickaxe Mountain could be used for manufacturing and assembling centrifuges, devices required for nuclear fuel production. Tehran maintains that its nuclear activities are intended solely for peaceful purposes, including energy generation and medical research, and has repeatedly denied pursuing a nuclear weapon. However, the limited access granted to international inspectors has raised questions among watchdog groups and foreign governments about transparency and compliance.
The site was not among those reportedly targeted during earlier US strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, which officials described at the time as severely damaging key facilities. Analysts now suggest that any reconstruction of centrifuge capacity in protected locations like Pickaxe Mountain could allow Iran to restore or expand operations more quickly if other sites are disrupted.
International observers emphasize that the situation underscores the importance of oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Experts argue that greater disclosure and inspections are essential to clarify the purpose of the new construction and to reduce the risk of miscalculation. Without verifiable information, they warn, suspicion could deepen and diplomatic efforts may face additional obstacles.
As tensions persist, the developments at Pickaxe Mountain have become another focal point in the broader debate over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, regional stability, and the fragile balance between deterrence and diplomacy.
Many taxpayers are facing a frustrating wait for their tax refunds as nearly 24 lakh income tax returns (ITRs) for the Assessment Year 2025–26 have been pending for more than 90 days. According to the Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, as of February 4, 2026, out of 8.79 crore ITRs filed, approximately 24.64 lakh were yet to be processed, leaving millions of individuals waiting for their refunds.
The large backlog has triggered concerns, especially for senior citizen
Many taxpayers are facing a frustrating wait for their tax refunds as nearly 24 lakh income tax returns (ITRs) for the Assessment Year 2025–26 have been pending for more than 90 days. According to the Minister of State for Finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, as of February 4, 2026, out of 8.79 crore ITRs filed, approximately 24.64 lakh were yet to be processed, leaving millions of individuals waiting for their refunds.
The large backlog has triggered concerns, especially for senior citizen
Andhra Pradesh's Assembly saw an action-packed session today, marked by a brief yet intense protest from YS Jagan and his YCP MLAs. After a year of absence, the opposition leader YS Jagan Mohan Reddy made a quick entry into the Assembly, along with his party members. They began their appearance by singing the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, before immediately raising slogans during the Governor's speech.
The slogans, such as "Law and order must be saved," were aimed at dra
Andhra Pradesh's Assembly saw an action-packed session today, marked by a brief yet intense protest from YS Jagan and his YCP MLAs. After a year of absence, the opposition leader YS Jagan Mohan Reddy made a quick entry into the Assembly, along with his party members. They began their appearance by singing the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, before immediately raising slogans during the Governor's speech.
The slogans, such as "Law and order must be saved," were aimed at dra
An Iranian man has reportedly taken his own life after recording and sharing a video message in which he appealed directly to former US President Donald Trump to halt any diplomatic engagement with Iran’s current leadership. The man, identified by activists and Iranian media as Pouria Hamidi, was from the southern port city of Bushehr. His death has drawn renewed attention to ongoing political tensions inside Iran and the wider international debate surrounding Tehran’s relations with Wash
An Iranian man has reportedly taken his own life after recording and sharing a video message in which he appealed directly to former US President Donald Trump to halt any diplomatic engagement with Iran’s current leadership. The man, identified by activists and Iranian media as Pouria Hamidi, was from the southern port city of Bushehr. His death has drawn renewed attention to ongoing political tensions inside Iran and the wider international debate surrounding Tehran’s relations with Wash
A 37-year-old Indian-origin information technology professional was killed after unidentified assailants opened fire on the vehicle he was travelling in at a shopping centre parking lot in Toronto, according to Canadian police officials. The victim, identified as Chandan Kumar, hailed from Bengaluru Rural district in Karnataka and had been living in Canada for the past six years while working with a private technology company.
The incident occurred on Saturday, February 7, when poli
A 37-year-old Indian-origin information technology professional was killed after unidentified assailants opened fire on the vehicle he was travelling in at a shopping centre parking lot in Toronto, according to Canadian police officials. The victim, identified as Chandan Kumar, hailed from Bengaluru Rural district in Karnataka and had been living in Canada for the past six years while working with a private technology company.
The incident occurred on Saturday, February 7, when poli
Syria and Saudi Arabia have signed a series of major economic and infrastructure agreements aimed at accelerating Syria’s post-war reconstruction and strengthening bilateral ties, marking one of the most significant rounds of cooperation between the two countries in recent years. Officials said the deals span aviation, telecommunications, energy, and development projects, with billions of dollars expected to flow into key sectors of the Syrian economy.
The agreements include the l
Syria and Saudi Arabia have signed a series of major economic and infrastructure agreements aimed at accelerating Syria’s post-war reconstruction and strengthening bilateral ties, marking one of the most significant rounds of cooperation between the two countries in recent years. Officials said the deals span aviation, telecommunications, energy, and development projects, with billions of dollars expected to flow into key sectors of the Syrian economy.
The agreements include the l
A record number of employees across the United States are expected to miss work on the morning following the Super Bowl, according to a new survey that highlights growing concerns about workplace attendance and productivity after one of the country’s most-watched sporting events. The annual absenteeism survey conducted by workforce management company UKG estimates that approximately 26.2 million workers plan to be absent the day after the game, marking one of the highest projected totals since the study began tracking post-event workplace trends.
The findings suggest that many employees are planning their time away in advance rather than calling off unexpectedly. Most respondents indicated they intend to use paid time off or swap shifts with colleagues to accommodate late-night celebrations tied to the Super Bowl. These planned absences reflect a broader effort by workers to manage personal schedules responsibly while still participating in the festivities surrounding the NFL championship.
However, the survey also found that not all absences will be scheduled. Roughly five million people reported they may call in sick or simply not report to work without prior notice. Such last-minute absenteeism can present operational challenges for businesses, particularly in industries that rely on hourly employees or strict staffing levels, including retail, hospitality, healthcare, and manufacturing. Employers in these sectors often experience increased strain when shifts must be covered unexpectedly.
Human resources professionals note that the Super Bowl has increasingly become an unofficial national event, with celebrations often extending late into the night. As a result, attendance patterns the following Monday have become a predictable concern. Companies have responded in various ways, including offering flexible scheduling, remote work options, or encouraging employees to request PTO ahead of time to minimize disruptions. These strategies aim to maintain productivity while recognizing the cultural significance of the event.
The projected absenteeism figures also underscore broader workplace trends related to employee engagement and work-life balance. Experts say that when organizations provide clear policies and flexible options, employees are more likely to communicate their needs and plan time off responsibly, reducing the impact of unscheduled absences.
As millions tune in to watch the Super Bowl each year, businesses may need to continue adapting their staffing and attendance practices to accommodate the reality that the day after the game has become one of the most challenging for workplace attendance nationwide.
A record number of employees across the United States are expected to miss work on the morning following the Super Bowl, according to a new survey that highlights growing concerns about workplace attendance and productivity after one of the country’s most-watched sporting events. The annual absenteeism survey conducted by workforce management company UKG estimates that approximately 26.2 million workers plan to be absent the day after the game, marking one of the highest projected totals since the study began tracking post-event workplace trends.
The findings suggest that many employees are planning their time away in advance rather than calling off unexpectedly. Most respondents indicated they intend to use paid time off or swap shifts with colleagues to accommodate late-night celebrations tied to the Super Bowl. These planned absences reflect a broader effort by workers to manage personal schedules responsibly while still participating in the festivities surrounding the NFL championship.
However, the survey also found that not all absences will be scheduled. Roughly five million people reported they may call in sick or simply not report to work without prior notice. Such last-minute absenteeism can present operational challenges for businesses, particularly in industries that rely on hourly employees or strict staffing levels, including retail, hospitality, healthcare, and manufacturing. Employers in these sectors often experience increased strain when shifts must be covered unexpectedly.
Human resources professionals note that the Super Bowl has increasingly become an unofficial national event, with celebrations often extending late into the night. As a result, attendance patterns the following Monday have become a predictable concern. Companies have responded in various ways, including offering flexible scheduling, remote work options, or encouraging employees to request PTO ahead of time to minimize disruptions. These strategies aim to maintain productivity while recognizing the cultural significance of the event.
The projected absenteeism figures also underscore broader workplace trends related to employee engagement and work-life balance. Experts say that when organizations provide clear policies and flexible options, employees are more likely to communicate their needs and plan time off responsibly, reducing the impact of unscheduled absences.
As millions tune in to watch the Super Bowl each year, businesses may need to continue adapting their staffing and attendance practices to accommodate the reality that the day after the game has become one of the most challenging for workplace attendance nationwide.
An alleged key participant in the 2012 Benghazi attack has been taken into custody and is expected to face federal charges in the United States, the Justice Department confirmed on Friday. The arrest marks the latest development in a long-running terrorism case stemming from the deadly assault on American facilities in Libya that left four U.S. officials dead, including Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens.
Attorney General Pam Bondi, District of Columbia Attorney Jeannie Pirro, and FB
An alleged key participant in the 2012 Benghazi attack has been taken into custody and is expected to face federal charges in the United States, the Justice Department confirmed on Friday. The arrest marks the latest development in a long-running terrorism case stemming from the deadly assault on American facilities in Libya that left four U.S. officials dead, including Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens.
Attorney General Pam Bondi, District of Columbia Attorney Jeannie Pirro, and FB
Ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav addressed concerns over Pakistan's threat to boycott their scheduled group-stage clash. Yadav firmly stated that India's preparations for the match remain unchanged, regardless of Pakistan's stance on participation.
During a captain's meet ahead of the tournament, Suryakumar emphasized that India's focus remains on the game. "Our mindset is very clear. We haven’t said no to playing them; they are the ones who??
Ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav addressed concerns over Pakistan's threat to boycott their scheduled group-stage clash. Yadav firmly stated that India's preparations for the match remain unchanged, regardless of Pakistan's stance on participation.
During a captain's meet ahead of the tournament, Suryakumar emphasized that India's focus remains on the game. "Our mindset is very clear. We haven’t said no to playing them; they are the ones who??
