Giorgia Meloni sends birthday greetings to PM Modi

 In a display of diplomatic warmth and personal charm, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni sent heartfelt birthday wishes to her Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with a message that was as much about friendship as it was about future possibilities.

Giorgia Meloni sends birthday greetings to PM Modi

Taking to the social platform X, Meloni penned, "Happy birthday to the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi." But it wasn't just a simple greeting. With her signature optimism, she added a note of hope, underscoring the growing bond between Italy and India: "I am sure that together, we will continue to deepen our friendship and cooperation, and face the global challenges ahead."

Credit: X

Meloni’s message came as Modi, born on September 17, 1950, in the small town of Mehsana, Gujarat, celebrated his remarkable journey from modest beginnings to becoming one of the most influential leaders on the global stage. The subtext of Meloni’s note? A belief that, with their nations working hand in hand, the future holds limitless possibilities. It’s a message of camaraderie wrapped in ambition, pointing to a dynamic partnership that promises to shine even brighter in the coming years.

DURING IND's Net Session in Chennai, Virat Kohli was dismissed twice by Jasprit Bumrah - a viral moment

 

DURING IND's Net Session in Chennai, Virat Kohli was dismissed twice by Jasprit Bumrah - a viral moment

India vs Bangladesh: A Clash Between Two Giants – Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah

Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah are widely regarded as two of the best in the world at what they do – Kohli, one of the finest batters, and Bumrah, an exceptional fast bowler. Watching these two world-class athletes compete against each other is always a thrilling spectacle. Recently, during a practice session on Monday ahead of India's first Test match against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Bumrah bowled to Kohli in the nets. According to reports circulating on social media, Bumrah managed to dismiss Kohli twice during the session. If true, this is no small achievement, given Kohli’s stature as one of cricket's all-time greats. To bowl out a player of his caliber twice in one session is impressive and raises anticipation about how pace bowlers might perform at Chepauk, a ground traditionally known to favor spinners.

Kohli's form will be pivotal for India as they prepare for five home Tests before embarking on their tour of Australia for the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His performance could set the tone for the upcoming matches, especially as India gears up to secure a spot in the World Test Championship Final.

What’s Next for Team India?

Team India is all set to begin their red-ball campaign as they work toward making their case for the World Test Championship Final. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already announced the squad for the first Test against Bangladesh, which will take place at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The match is scheduled to start on September 19, 2024, at 9:30 AM IST. Following the two-Test series against Bangladesh, India will host New Zealand for a three-match Test series, before traveling to Australia later in the year for the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

India’s squad for the first Test includes Rohit Sharma (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Dhruv Jurel (Wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, and Yash Dayal.

Putin's Message To "Good Friend Mr. Modi" Following Important Meeting With NSA Doval

 On Thursday, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Russian President Vladimir Putin in the grand setting of Konstantinovsky Palace in St. Petersburg to deliver a personal message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The topic? Modi’s recent, historic visit to Ukraine. Doval conveyed the Prime Minister's intent to keep Putin closely informed about his discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. “PM Modi was keen to personally brief you on his talks with President Zelenskyy, and he asked me to come directly to you with the details,” Doval stated.

Putin's Message To "Good Friend Mr. Modi" Following Important Meeting With NSA Doval

President Putin, in response, extended an invitation for a bilateral meeting with PM Modi on October 22, during the upcoming BRICS Summit in Kazan. Putin proposed this meeting to reflect on their collaborative efforts, review the outcomes from Modi’s last visit to Moscow, and set the stage for future action. “We eagerly await the arrival of our close friend, Mr. Modi, and I send my best regards to him,” Putin added, underlining the warmth of their partnership.

Doval’s trip to Russia comes just weeks after PM Modi’s groundbreaking visit to Kyiv. During that visit, President Zelenskyy emphasized the influential role India could play in ending the war between Russia and Ukraine. Zelenskyy told Times Now, "If India and its people alter their stance towards Russia, this war will stop. Putin will have no choice but to end it."

Expanding on his vision, Zelenskyy urged India to take a definitive stand in helping to end the war, moving beyond a balancing act between the two warring nations. He highlighted India’s powerful role in the global energy sector, explaining, "If India halts its purchase of Russian oil, it will create serious challenges for Russia to sustain the war."

Prime Minister Modi made history as the first Indian leader to visit Ukraine, where he was greeted with a heartfelt embrace by Zelenskyy in Kyiv. The two leaders convened at the Martyrologist Exposition, engaging in deep discussions both privately and at a broader delegation level. Their talks centered around how to diplomatically resolve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, underscoring Modi’s ongoing efforts to broker peace.

Modi’s journey to Kyiv was nothing short of significant, arriving after a ten-hour trip aboard the 'Rail Force One' train from Poland, marking the final leg of his two-nation tour. His stop in Ukraine followed closely on the heels of his high-profile visit to Russia just six weeks earlier. During that visit, Modi held extensive talks with President Putin, prioritizing diplomatic avenues to end the conflict.

At their prior meeting during the G7 summit in Apulia, Italy, PM Modi had assured President Zelenskyy that India remains committed to supporting a peaceful resolution to the war. He reiterated that "dialogue and diplomacy" are the only pathways to peace and emphasized India's "human-centric" approach to conflict resolution. Zelenskyy, in turn, extended a personal invitation for Modi to visit Kyiv—a gesture that Modi has now honored, continuing his mission to navigate a path toward peace in a war-torn region.

"Crude bombs were hurled from Mohabbat Ki Dukan": Siddaramaiah comes under fire for throwing stones at the Mandya Ganesh parade.

 Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is under fire after violence erupted during a Ganesh procession in Nagamangala, Mandya. Stones were thrown at the procession, leading to chaos. While the chief minister condemned the incident, calling it a threat to peace, BJP leaders have accused him of protecting those responsible for the attack.

"Crude bombs were hurled from Mohabbat Ki Dukan": Siddaramaiah comes under fire for throwing stones at the Mandya Ganesh parade.

In a tweet, Siddaramaiah explained that the violence was caused by a few troublemakers aiming to disturb societal harmony. He emphasized that his government is taking the matter seriously, with more than 50 arrests made so far. He assured the public that maintaining peace is the government's top priority.

The clashes occurred during the Ganesh idol procession, prompting the authorities to impose restrictions in the area, including a ban on gatherings of more than four people until September 14.

BJP leaders, however, criticized the state's response. PC Mohan, a BJP MP from Bangalore Central, claimed that stones and even crude bombs were thrown during the procession and that Hindu-owned shops and vehicles were set on fire. He accused the state's Home Minister of downplaying the incident and protecting the culprits, calling it "appeasement politics."

Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje echoed these concerns, saying that radical groups attacked the procession, desecrated the Ganesh idol, and set over 15 Hindu shops ablaze. She blamed Siddaramaiah’s government for shielding the attackers and accused him of enabling repeated attacks on Hindus whenever he is in power.

Despite the accusations, Mandya Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baldandi reassured the public that the situation is now under control, with shops reopening and additional police forces, including undercover officers, deployed to maintain order.

A case has been filed against those involved in the violence, with charges including unlawful assembly, attempted murder, and destruction of property. Police reported that the conflict started when an argument broke out between two groups as the Ganesh idol procession passed by a place of worship. Miscreants then threw stones, leading to the escalation of violence, which saw shops vandalized and vehicles set on fire.

The BJP attacks Rahul Gandhi for meeting with "anti-India voice" Ilhan Omar in the US, saying "Even Pakistani leaders would."

 BJP leaders have strongly criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi after his recent meeting with US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar during his visit to the United States. Omar, a Democrat from Minnesota, has often been a polarizing figure, especially in India, due to her controversial views on Indian issues.

The BJP attacks Rahul Gandhi for meeting with "anti-India voice" Ilhan Omar in the US, saying "Even Pakistani leaders would."

Amit Malviya, head of the BJP’s IT cell, took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice his concerns, accusing Gandhi of working against India’s interests by meeting with Omar. Malviya called her a “Pakistan-sponsored anti-India voice” and a supporter of radical Islam and Kashmir’s independence. He further remarked that even Pakistani leaders would think twice before associating with someone like Omar, accusing Congress of openly siding against India.

Omar has a history of stirring debates in India. Recently, she waded into the India-Canada row, urging the US to back Canada's investigation into India's alleged involvement in the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

During his three-day visit to the US, Gandhi met with the Indian diaspora, students, and several US lawmakers. His meetings, held at the Rayburn House Office Building, included notable Congress members like Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Ilhan Omar. Omar’s presence sparked outrage from BJP leaders. Shehzad Poonawalla, another BJP spokesperson, slammed Gandhi for engaging with her, pointing out her vocal opposition to India’s policies, including the abrogation of Article 370, and her controversial visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on a Pakistan-sponsored trip. Poonawalla questioned why Gandhi frequently connects with what he called “anti-India elements” during his foreign trips, asking, "In opposing the BJP, is opposing India okay?"

Omar’s 2022 trip to Pakistan, where she met leaders like Shehbaz Sharif and Imran Khan and visited PoK, added to her controversial image. She also boycotted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech during his address to the US Congress.

This US visit marks Gandhi’s first since becoming the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, coming just before the US Presidential Elections. Upon his arrival, he expressed his eagerness to strengthen India-US relations, sharing his excitement after a successful event with the Indian community in Dallas.

Ilhan Omar, a Somali refugee and one of the first Muslim women elected to the US Congress, has also faced backlash for past comments, some of which were condemned as antisemitic. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari added to the criticism, claiming that Gandhi’s meeting with Omar shows his support for “Pakistan apologists” and accused Congress of compromising India’s national security.

Gandhi’s meetings and interactions in the US have ignited a firestorm back home, with BJP leaders questioning his motives and criticizing the company he keeps abroad.

With a five-wicket haul in the county, India's forgotten hero sends a strong message to Agarkar and the BCCI: "He does this every time."

 While most of Team India’s top cricketers are gearing up for the Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19, a few players who have been sidelined are working hard to make a comeback. Ajinkya Rahane and Yuzvendra Chahal are among those making headlines with standout performances, reminding everyone that they still have plenty to offer.

With a five-wicket haul in the county, India's forgotten hero sends a strong message to Agarkar and the BCCI: "He does this every time."

Rahane, once a key player in India’s Test team, recently scored his 40th First-Class century, hitting 102 off 192 balls for Leicestershire against Glamorgan. But it’s Yuzvendra Chahal who has been making waves with his bowling in the County Championship. Chahal, representing Northamptonshire, took an impressive five-wicket haul against Glamorgan, putting his team in a commanding position. This is the second time in just a month that Chahal has taken five wickets in a match, having previously destroyed Kent with 5/14 in August. On Tuesday, he was at it again, dismissing key batsmen like Wayne Madsen, Aneurin Donald, Zak Chappell, and others. This latest performance marked his third First-Class five-wicket haul.

Chahal’s brilliant form is a clear message to the BCCI selectors, who seem to have moved on from the leg-spinner. Once a crucial part of India’s white-ball spin attack alongside Kuldeep Yadav, Chahal has faded from the spotlight over the last few years. Despite being part of India’s winning T20 World Cup squad in 2023, he didn’t get a single game, a repeat of what happened in the 2022 T20 World Cup, where he remained on the bench.

So, how did Chahal slip out of favor? His last appearance for India was in August 2023 during a T20I against the West Indies, and his most recent ODI was way back in January of the same year. Over the past year, he hasn’t featured much for India and wasn’t even considered for the 2023 ODI World Cup. In Test cricket, he’s never been in the running, with players like Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav ahead of him.

But Chahal, once a star for both India and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, is proving that he still has what it takes. His stellar performances in county cricket could reignite interest from the selectors. This could be the start of his comeback to the national team, a chance for him to reclaim his spot and show the world he’s far from done.

Vinesh Phogat criticizes the BJP and claims, "They should be charged with sedition," claiming that "they have disrespected the nation."

 Former wrestler-turned-politician Vinesh Phogat has expressed strong views, stating that those who were pleased with her loss at the Paris Olympics should face charges of "sedition" for disrespecting the nation. In her opinion, her performance wasn't just a personal matter but represented the entire country.

Vinesh Phogat criticizes the BJP and claims, "They should be charged with sedition," claiming that "they have disrespected the nation."

Phogat, who joined the Congress party on August 6, has been selected as their candidate for the Julana constituency in the upcoming Haryana Assembly elections. After addressing her first political rally in Julana, she spoke to India Today TV about the critical remarks made by former BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and ex-Haryana minister Anil Vij against her.

She highlighted that for the past year and a half, she had been hearing such statements from BJP leaders. According to her, their comments, particularly celebrating her failure, revealed their mindset. Phogat argued that their joy over her loss should be treated as a disrespect to the country, emphasizing that the medal she was competing for belonged to the nation, not just her.

These remarks come in response to statements made by Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, the former head of the Wrestling Federation of India, who is also facing sexual harassment allegations. Singh controversially suggested that Phogat's failure at the Olympics was divine punishment for her alleged wrongdoings. Phogat, India's first female wrestler to reach an Olympic final, was disqualified in Paris for being 100 grams over the weight limit for her category.

Responding to Anil Vij's comments, where he referred to her as the "daughter of Congress," Phogat firmly stated that she considers herself the daughter of the nation and will always remain so.

Phogat further criticized the BJP for their lack of support during her difficult times. She recalled that after returning from Paris, there was a grand roadshow in her honor, yet no BJP leader, including the Chief Minister or Deputy Chief Minister, attended to show their solidarity. Instead, she claimed that they merely posted on social media, boasting about monetary rewards, which she believes were done for political gain rather than genuine support.

In contrast, Phogat expressed her gratitude towards Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Deepender Hooda, thanking them for standing by her when she needed it the most.

When asked about fellow wrestler Sakshee Malik’s comments on her entry into politics, Phogat agreed that it was indeed a personal decision. However, she stressed that their battle isn't just about individual choices but represents the broader struggle of women and female athletes against exploitation. She also accused the BJP of using money and power to interfere with the ongoing investigation.

While Sakshee Malik acknowledged that Vinesh and fellow wrestler Bajrang Punia's decision to join politics was personal, she emphasized that the protest against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh should not be diverted for political reasons. Phogat echoed this sentiment, affirming their unity in fighting the larger battle together.

As a political candidate, Phogat's key promises for the Julana constituency include constructing a sports stadium, improving infrastructure, and prioritizing women's safety.

Mother of a doctor in Kolkata attacks Mamata Banerjee, saying, "She's lying, we were offered money."

 The mother of the Kolkata trainee doctor, who was tragically raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College last month, has harshly criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. She accused Banerjee of lying and trying to silence their fight for justice by offering compensation.

Mother of a doctor in Kolkata attacks Mamata Banerjee, saying, "She's lying, we were offered money."

Her anger followed Banerjee’s statement earlier in the day, where the Chief Minister dismissed claims that the Kolkata Police had tried to bribe the grieving family. Banerjee called the accusations “slander” against her government. However, the mother fired back, saying, "The Chief Minister is not telling the truth. She said we’d receive compensation and could use it to build something in my daughter’s memory. I told her that I would only take the compensation after my daughter gets justice."

She also alleged that Banerjee was trying to suppress the protests that had erupted after her daughter’s death, comparing it to how her daughter was strangled. Her daughter's body was found on August 9, and the news sparked outrage and protests not just in Kolkata but across the country.

Adding to her pain, the victim’s mother found Banerjee's recent plea to stop protesting and focus on the upcoming Durga Puja festival “inhuman.” She expressed her heartbreak, saying, “I’ve lost my child. How can I tell people to celebrate when my own home is in darkness? Durga Puja was a part of our lives, and my daughter used to celebrate it. But now, it feels impossible.”

She also questioned whether Banerjee would have reacted the same way if something this horrific had happened in her own family.

Earlier that day, Banerjee asked people to return to the festivities, mentioning that prolonged protests were causing noise pollution and disturbing the elderly. She urged the public to let the CBI complete their investigation quickly.

However, the victim's mother remained defiant, stating that their protests would not end until justice was served. She claimed Banerjee was trying to “choke” the movement for justice, just as her daughter had been strangled. "We will not leave the streets until we get justice," she vowed.

The family had earlier accused the Kolkata Police of attempting to cover up the case and offering them money to stay silent. The CBI is now handling the investigation, and a police volunteer, Sanjay Roy, has been arrested in connection with the crime. While he remains in custody, the family and protesters continue their fight for accountability and justice for the young doctor.

Court questions how a single floor became five stories at the contested Sanjauli mosque in Shimla, which is owned by the Waqf.

 Just days after Himachal Pradesh's Rural Development Minister, Anirudh Singh, voiced concerns about illegal constructions in the state, a new twist emerged in a long-standing dispute over a mosque in Sanjauli. On Saturday, the Himachal Pradesh Waqf Board informed a Shimla court that it owns the mosque. However, the main controversy is over the addition of extra floors to the building.

Court questions how a single floor became five stories at the contested Sanjauli mosque in Shimla, which is owned by the Waqf.

For years, locals in Sanjauli have been protesting against what they believe is an illegally constructed mosque. They've been demanding that the structure be demolished. This matter, which has been tied up in court for 14 years, recently reignited tensions when a businessman was allegedly attacked by Muslim youths in a nearby area.

According to Kutubuddin Ahmed, an official from the Waqf Board, the Municipal Commissioner’s court had issued a notice to the board in 2023. The Waqf Board responded to the court, but residents, represented by advocate Jagat Pal, argue that the case has dragged on for too long. Pal emphasized that the real issue isn’t religious, but a matter of illegal construction. He claims the mosque should be torn down since its expansion violated building regulations.

The court has now requested both the Waqf Board and the mosque committee to explain how the original single-story structure transformed into a five-story building. The court also asked for a detailed report on the construction.

Residents have questioned the Waqf Board’s ownership of the land, pointing to government records showing the state owns it. However, Kutubuddin Ahmed maintained that the dispute is about the mosque’s expansion, not ownership, and argued that the Waqf Board became the rightful owner when Shimla was still part of Punjab. Despite the legal issues, he assured that prayers would continue in the mosque.

Tensions continue to rise. On Thursday, several Hindu groups organized a large protest near the state assembly, calling for the mosque's demolition. Kamal Gautam, head of the Hindu Jagran Manch’s Himachal unit, accused the mosque of harboring “outsiders.”

Earlier in the week, Minister Anirudh Singh himself weighed in, expressing concerns about illegal construction, which he believes may be linked to migrants, possibly from Bangladesh or the Rohingya community. Singh demanded a full investigation, claiming that the mosque’s construction began without proper approval. He noted that it started as a single floor and expanded illegally to five stories.

Singh also dismissed claims that the mosque had been there since 1960, stating that construction began in 2010, and he promised to present records to back up his statement in the state assembly. He further expressed surprise that by 2019, four additional floors had been added illegally.

The court has scheduled the next hearing for October 5, when more details will likely come to light.

Jadeja OUT, Pujara RETURNS, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant IN: India's Strongest XI For The Border-Gavaskar Trophy

 India will be looking to secure a remarkable third consecutive Test series victory when they tour Australia in November for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The team has already stunned Australia by winning their last two Test series on Australian soil, and now, they have the chance to complete a rare hat-trick of victories. With Australia not having defeated India in a Test series since 2014-15, India holds a slight psychological advantage heading into the contest. However, Australia, after their recent struggles, are expected to come back fiercely, especially on home turf, making the series a formidable challenge for the Rohit Sharma-led side.

Jadeja OUT, Pujara RETURNS, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant IN: India's Strongest XI For The Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Although the much-anticipated Australia series is still some time away, India will first face Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, followed by three Tests against New Zealand. It’s unlikely that India will make major changes to their squad unless someone dramatically loses form or sustains an injury. However, one key player that India might consider bringing back for the Australia series is Cheteshwar Pujara. Despite possibly being overlooked for the Bangladesh and New Zealand series, Pujara has been an instrumental figure in India’s previous triumphs in Australia, and his resilience could once again be vital. There’s a chance that India might include him in the squad for the Australia tour even if he doesn't play in the earlier series.

Certain players are almost guaranteed to make the Australia tour, including captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and star bowler Jasprit Bumrah. India's primary area of debate may center around their spinners. Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been long-standing leaders in the spin department, but Axar Patel might challenge Jadeja’s spot, while Kuldeep Yadav could offer a valuable left-arm variation and potentially edge out Ashwin for a place in the playing XI. Although Ashwin could still be selected for the squad, earning a spot in the final XI could prove challenging. In the pace department, Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are locks, and India will be hoping that Mohammed Shami regains full fitness before the series. There’s also a possibility of an outsider like Mayank Yadav or Harshit Rana being included as a wildcard option.

India’s strongest playing XI for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy might feature Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers, with Pujara batting at No. 3. While replacing Gill with Pujara may seem unconventional, Pujara’s ability to wear down the Australian pacers—especially in hostile conditions like Perth and Gabba—could prove invaluable. Gill’s recent lack of form also means that he will need to perform well in the Bangladesh and New Zealand series to solidify his case. Virat Kohli will likely bat at No. 4, followed by Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul. Rahul is expected to be preferred over younger options like Dhruv Jurel or Sarfaraz Khan in Australian conditions. Axar Patel is projected to be the spin all-rounder over Jadeja, with Kuldeep playing ahead of Ashwin due to his variety. The pace attack would be led by Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj.

India’s strongest potential XI to take on Australia:  

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (C), Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (WK), KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj.

India’s likely squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy includes:  

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (C), Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (WK), KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill, Dhruv Jurel, and potentially Mayank Yadav or Harshit Rana, with Hardik Pandya.