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The United States and Iran held their second round of indirect negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, as diplomatic efforts continue amid heightened regional tensions. While both sides indicated forward movement in discussions, parallel military developments have added complexity to the fragile engagement.
Reports suggest the US has significantly reinforced its military presence in the Middle East. Over 50 advanced fighter aircraft, including F-35, F-22 and F-16 jets, were reportedly repositioned to the region within a 24-hour window. The deployment follows Washington&rsquo;s decision to send a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to Middle Eastern waters, underscoring its strategic posture.
Despite the show of force, the Geneva discussions were described as substantive and focused. Iranian officials signalled that preliminary understandings were reached on broad guiding principles that could shape a future agreement. However, they cautioned that drafting and finalising any deal would take time.
On the American side, officials maintained that the talks unfolded largely as anticipated. Washington&rsquo;s core objective remains preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a position repeatedly emphasised by senior US leadership.
Meanwhile, regional tensions persisted. Iran temporarily restricted navigation in parts of the Strait of Hormuz during a naval drill, highlighting the waterway&rsquo;s vulnerability. Additionally, US leaders suggested that differences remain over key conditions laid out by President Donald Trump.
As diplomacy continues, both nations appear to be balancing dialogue with deterrence, leaving the broader geopolitical landscape uncertain.

Second Geneva round shows progress as military moves raise stakes

US-Iran Talks Advance Amid Rising Tensions

Representatives from Ukraine and Russia are scheduled to meet in Geneva on Tuesday and Wednesday for a new round of US-brokered peace negotiations, just days before the fourth anniversary of Moscow&rsquo;s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24.
The discussions mark the third round of talks mediated by the United States, after earlier meetings were held in Abu Dhabi. Washington has reportedly set a June deadline to push for a settlement, though expectations for a breakthrough remain limited as both sides continue to stand by their core demands.
Ukraine&rsquo;s delegation is being led by Rustem Umerov, secretary of the National Security and Defence Council. Other members include senior presidential aide Serhiy Kyslytsya and Kyrylo Budanov, a key official in President Volodymyr Zelenskyy&rsquo;s administration.
Russia&rsquo;s team is headed by Vladimir Medinsky, an aide to President Vladimir Putin. The delegation also includes senior intelligence and foreign ministry officials, along with Kirill Dmitriev, who is involved in a parallel economic working group.
Territory remains the main obstacle. Moscow is pressing Kyiv to cede the remaining portion of the eastern Donetsk region that Russian forces have not yet captured, a demand Ukraine has firmly rejected. Other contentious issues include control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and the potential deployment of Western troops in a postwar scenario.
On the battlefield, fighting continues along a roughly 1,250-kilometre front line. Russia has intensified aerial strikes on Ukraine&rsquo;s energy infrastructure, causing widespread winter power outages. Kyiv, meanwhile, has expanded its drone capabilities to target sites deep inside Russian territory.
Despite sustained diplomatic efforts over the past year, Europe&rsquo;s largest conflict since 1945 continues to claim lives and displace millions.

US-brokered peace talks resume ahead of invasion anniversary

Geneva Hosts Fresh Russia-Ukraine Talks

Athletic Bilbao defender Yeray Alvarez has been handed a 10-month suspension after failing a doping test during the Europa League, UEFA confirmed on Monday. 
The 30-year-old tested positive for Canrenone, a banned substance both in and out of competition, following Bilbao&rsquo;s 3-0 defeat to Manchester United in the semi-finals of the tournament in May. Alvarez had already accepted a provisional suspension on June 2. 
In July, he explained the failed test, saying the substance entered his system unintentionally through medication prescribed for hair loss. 
The Spaniard, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2016, added that the treatment was part of his ongoing care for alopecia. 
"At its meeting on 19 August 2025, the relevant UEFA disciplinary body decided to suspend the player for ten (10) months, starting from the date of the provisional suspension (i.e. 2 June 2025) and ending on 2 April 2026, for committing a non-intentional anti-doping rule violation," UEFA said. 
"In accordance with Article 10.14.2 of the UEFA Anti-Doping Regulations, the player may return to train with a team or use the facilities of a club in the last two months of his period of ineligibility, i.e. as of 2 February 2026." 
The ban will end on April 2 next year and applies to all competitions. The 30-year-old centre back previously stepped away from football in 2017 to undergo treatment for testicular cancer. 
After returning to the game, he began taking medication for alopecia. He explained that his positive doping test was the result of having &ldquo;involuntarily took a medicine to prevent hair loss that contained a banned substance.&rdquo; 
Athletic Bilbao, meanwhile, will compete in the Champions League this season after securing a fourth-place finish in La Liga.&nbsp;
&mdash;IANS

Yeray Alvarez in Athletic Bilbao jersey, disappointed

Bilbao defender Yeray Alvarez gets 10-month UEFA ban after failing doping test

UEFA Bans Bilbao’s Yeray Alvarez for Doping

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said that the spread of mpox (monkeypox) in Africa no longer represents a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).&nbsp;
WHO's Emergency Committee has met every three months to evaluate the outbreak of mpox, Xinhua news agency reported.
"Yesterday, they met again and advised me that in their view, the situation no longer represents an international health emergency. I have accepted that advice." said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in the media briefing on Friday.
"This decision is based on sustained declines in cases and deaths in Congo, and in other affected countries, including Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Uganda," Tedros said.
"We also have a better understanding of the drivers of transmission, the risk factors for severity, and the most affected countries have developed a sustained response capacity," he added.
However, the WHO also said that lifting the emergency declaration does not mean the threat is over, "nor that our response will stop, and we note the Africa CDC's decision yesterday that mpox remains a continental emergency."
The possibility of continued flare-ups and new outbreaks remains, requiring adequate surveillance and response capacity.
Ongoing efforts are needed to protect the most vulnerable groups, particularly young children and people living with HIV.
Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease.
Initial symptoms of human infection include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, and swollen lymph nodes, which can later develop into widespread rashes on the face and body.
Most infected individuals recover within a few weeks, but some may experience severe illness or even death.
Since May 2022, more than 100 countries and regions worldwide have reported cases of mpox.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said on Thursday that mpox still constitutes a continental public health emergency, after a consultative group found new surges in many countries in Africa.
In a statement, the Africa CDC said the consultative group&rsquo;s review of the mpox situation indicated there were surges in Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Zambia and Tanzania, even when weekly confirmed cases declined by 52%.
The WHO officially declared in August last year that the mpox outbreak outside the traditional endemic areas in Africa had already turned into a PHEIC, the highest level of alert that the global health authority could issue.
&mdash;IANS

WHO ends mpox global emergency, Africa remains vigilant

WHO lifts mpox emergency tag, but warns of continued risks in Africa

WHO Declares Mpox No Longer Global Emergency

A UN official confirmed that the United States has informed the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) that it would not participate in the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the country, scheduled to take place on November 6 in Geneva.&nbsp;
OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani told Xinhua that the Office is aware of and regrets the US decision to withdraw from an important peer review process of the intergovernmental UN Human Rights Council, in which all UN member states regularly participate.
She noted that the Office will continue to engage with the US government, as well as with civil society, academia, businesses, and other stakeholders, on human rights issues, Xinhua news agency reported.
The UPR is regarded as a key platform within the UN framework for countries to exchange views on human rights issues.
The UPR expects all 193 UN member states to submit reports on their human rights records every 4.5 to 5 years. 
The reports are reviewed by other member states, which provide non-binding recommendations.
Since the first cycle of the UPR began in 2008, all 193 UN member states have undergone three reviews.
According to an analysis of the council's public records, the US is now on course to be the first country to not deliver a report to the UPR, unless it submits a report within the timeframe of the current review period, which ends in July 2027.
The fourth cycle, which commenced in 2022, is currently underway. The United States previously underwent reviews in 2010, 2015, and 2020.
&mdash;IANS

UN building in Geneva with US flag absent

US declines to join UN rights review, first nation to skip in UPR history

US Skips UN Human Rights Review Process

Hopes for a landmark global treaty to end plastic pollution are fading as negotiators at the resumed fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) in Geneva struggle to make headway. With just days left before the session closes, delegates from 184 nations are urging urgent action to finalise the first-ever legally binding pact targeting plastic pollution across its entire lifecycle.
Calls for a high-ambition treaty have been led by Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), both warning that their ecosystems, economies, and public health face an existential threat from the deluge of plastic waste. According to UN data, global plastic production hit 436 million metric tons in 2023, with 75% of all plastic ever made now classified as waste, much of it polluting oceans and food chains.
The negotiations come amid a stark warning from The Lancet, which described plastics as a &ldquo;grave, growing and under-recognised danger to human and planetary health.&rdquo; Despite the urgency, talks are dragging. Many delegations, including Colombia, the EU, China, and Fiji, have demanded streamlined text, extended informal sessions, and direct mediation by the INC Chair to prevent collapse.
Tensions are heightened by the presence of at least 234 fossil fuel and chemical industry lobbyists, a record high raising alarm over corporate influence. Indigenous Peoples&rsquo; groups, attending in record numbers, say their voices are being sidelined despite their communities being among the most affected.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has maintained an eruption alert level at 3, urging residents to remain vigilant for volcanic hazards within a three-kilometre radius.
&ldquo;We are not just negotiating text, we are deciding the planet&rsquo;s future,&rdquo; said Luis Vayas Valdivieso, Chair of the INC. &ldquo;This is a test of our collective responsibility to protect the environment, safeguard health, and stand with those most affected.&rdquo;
With the clock ticking, environmental groups warn that failure in Geneva could delay meaningful action against plastic pollution for years, leaving vulnerable nations to bear the brunt.

Plastic Treaty Talks in Geneva Face Stalemate

Plastic treaty talks slow amid rising corporate influence and looming global deadline

The Chief Advisor of <a title="Bangladesh" href="https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/china-pak-bangladesh-axis-fuels-fresh-challenge/14747" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bangladesh's</a> interim government, Muhammad Yunus, has sought support from the United States for the country's democratic transition and reaffirmed that elections will be held &ldquo;in the early part of next year&rdquo;, during his conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
In a telephone conversation on Monday, Rubio and Yunus discussed the ongoing reform process, the transition to democracy, the forthcoming general election, and aid for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.
Yunus assured Rubio that the continuing dialogue between his government and political parties would lead to much-needed reforms of the nation's political system.
ALSO READ: &nbsp;https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/woman-gang-raped-in-bangladesh-5-arrested/15318
&ldquo;The 15-minute discussion was warm, cordial, and constructive, reflecting the strong bilateral engagement between the two nations. Secretary Rubio expressed support for Bangladesh&rsquo;s reform agenda and its move to hold elections early next year,&rdquo; the Chief Advisor posted on X.
&ldquo;The Election Commission is working hard to reorganise the electoral system, which was destroyed by the previous government. Our young people will vote for the first time in their lives,&rdquo; said Yunus.
Commending Washington for its continued generous support to Rohingya refugees, Yunus added: &ldquo;The prospect for a viable solution and the repatriation of Rohingyas back to Myanmar is now better than ever before, and Bangladesh is working on that.&rdquo;
Yunus noted that the two leaders also touched upon geopolitical matters, including the need for a stable and peaceful Indo-Pacific region, and Bangladesh&rsquo;s relations with its neighbours.
ALSO READ: https://www.benefitnews24.com/international/chittagong-jail-overcrowding-sparks-outcry/15235
The Chief Advisor invited Secretary Rubio to visit Bangladesh ahead of the general election to witness the country&rsquo;s transition to democracy firsthand, stating: &ldquo;It will inspire our young people.&rdquo;
Tammy Bruce, spokesperson for the US Department of State, speaking on Rubio&rsquo;s conversation with Yunus, said: &ldquo;The Secretary and Chief Advisor affirmed their shared commitment to deepening economic ties between the United States and Bangladesh and to enhancing security and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region.&rdquo;
Several international organisations have repeatedly called for the restoration of democratic order in Bangladesh, along with inclusive and fair elections.
Last week, Michael Miller, the European Union&rsquo;s Ambassador to Bangladesh, expressed hope that the country would soon witness the restoration of democratic order through a free, fair, and credible national election.
Recently, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker T&uuml;rk expressed grave concern over legislative amendments made under the Yunus-led interim government that allow for the banning of political parties, organisations, and their activities.
Addressing the 59th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the UN human rights chief urged the interim government to make meaningful progress on reforms to create an environment conducive to free and inclusive elections.
Earlier, UN Secretary-General Ant&oacute;nio Guterres also called for inclusive elections in Bangladesh, urging the interim government under Yunus &ldquo;to continue to make every effort&rdquo; to be inclusive, taking into account the voices of women and youth, as well as those of minority and indigenous communities.
&nbsp;
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]
<hr data-start="3523" data-end="3526">

Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of Bangladesh's interim government

Bangladesh’s interim leader assures US of reforms, polls and Rohingya repatriation efforts

Yunus Seeks US Backing for Bangladesh Elections

The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) urged de-escalation of the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran, saying that displacement has already been observed in both countries due to the intensifying conflict.&nbsp;
In a statement, UNHCR said on Saturday that movements have been reported from Tehran and other parts of Iran, with some individuals crossing into neighbouring countries.
Meanwhile, shelling in Israel has forced people to seek shelter in other parts of the country or, in some cases, abroad, Xinhua news agency reported.
"This region has already endured more than its share of war, loss, and displacement - we cannot allow another refugee crisis to take root," said Filippo Grandi, the UN high commissioner for refugees. 
"The time to de-escalate is right now. Once people are forced to flee, there's no quick way back - and all too often, the consequences last for generations," he added.
According to the agency's Global Trends 2024 Report released last week, Iran hosts some 3.5 million refugees, mainly from Afghanistan - making it the largest refugee-hosting country in the world. 
Prolonged conflict, the agency warned, would compound existing vulnerabilities among refugee populations.
Meanwhile, &nbsp;Israeli attacks on Iran over the past nine days have killed over 400 Iranians and left 3,056 others wounded, Hossein Kermanpour, head of the Iranian Health Ministry's public relations, said on Saturday.&nbsp;
"Among the injured, 2,220 have been treated and discharged from Ministry of Health hospitals, while 232 received outpatient care at the scene of the attacks," Kermanpour said in a post on social media platform X.
According to the health official, the majority of the casualties have been civilians, with 54 women and children among those killed in the Israeli strikes.
&mdash;IANS
(Apart from the headline, this article has not been edited by Benefit News editorial team and is published from an IANS news feed.)

UNHCR urges peace amid Iran-Israel conflict

UNHCR warns of rising displacement, urges urgent de-escalation in Iran-Israel conflict

UNHCR Urges Calm As Iran-Israel Tensions Rise

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India has made a significant leap in social security coverage, with over 94 crore people now receiving at least one social protection benefit. This 45 percentage point rise&mdash;from 19% in 2015 to 64.3% in 2025&mdash;has earned India the second spot globally in the International Labour Organisation (ILO)&rsquo;s social protection dashboard.
The ILO officially acknowledged this achievement, crediting the sharp rise to India&rsquo;s targeted welfare schemes and strong policy implementation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s leadership. Director General Gilbert F. Houngbo praised the country&rsquo;s commitment to social welfare, particularly for the poor and working class.
The ILO&rsquo;s evaluation includes strict criteria: schemes must be legislatively backed, involve active cash benefits, and be supported by verified data from the last three years. India met all these requirements and became the first country to upload updated 2025 data to the ILOSTAT database&mdash;underscoring its leadership in digital governance and welfare transparency.
India&rsquo;s Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who is currently leading the Indian delegation to the 113th International Labour Conference in Geneva, highlighted the national data pooling exercise carried out in collaboration with the ILO. Phase I focused on central government schemes and women-centric programs across eight states. As Phases II and III progress, coverage is expected to cross the 100-crore mark, pending ILO verification.
Mandaviya stated that this achievement reflects the government&rsquo;s vision of &ldquo;Antyodaya&rdquo;&mdash;empowering the last mile and ensuring no citizen is left behind. He described it as the fastest global expansion of social protection coverage, affirming India&rsquo;s rising influence in labour welfare.
India&rsquo;s improved position is also expected to support international agreements. Enhanced transparency and credibility will aid in finalising Social Security Agreements (SSAs) with developed nations, enabling Indian professionals abroad to benefit from portable social protection rights and boosting India&rsquo;s standing in global labour and trade negotiations. Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.
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India ranks 2nd in global social security coverage

Over 94 crore Indians now covered; ILO lauds 45-point rise in social protection in a decade

Novak Djokovic celebrated his 38th birthday with hard-fought revenge at the Geneva Open. The second seed held firm for a 6-4, 6-4 victory over Matteo Arnaldi to reach the semi-finals at the clay ATP 250 event for the second consecutive year.
Djokovic, who fell to Arnaldi at the ATP Masters 1000 in Madrid last month, reeled off five straight games from 1-4 in the second set to seal a one-hour, 40-minute victory.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s great to be in the semi-finals again. Hopefully this year I can go at least a step further, that&rsquo;s the goal. I think I&rsquo;m playing really good tennis. A straight-sets win, but it was much closer than the score indicates. I was 4-1 down in the second, but somehow I didn&rsquo;t lose a game.
&ldquo;I found the optimal state and balance, mentally and emotionally, to be able to play my best tennis when it was most needed. Hopefully I can carry that into tomorrow," said Djokovic.
Djokovic is now within two victories of claiming his 100th tour-level trophy, with which he would join Jimmy Connors (109) and Roger Federer (103) as the only men to hit the triple-digit mark in the Open Era.
The Serb will next play qualifier Cameron Norrie. The Briton defeated fifth seed Alexei Popyrin 7&ndash;6(6), 6&ndash;4 to reach his ninth tour-level semi-final on clay and first since Rio de Janeiro last year.
In the other half of the draw, Hubert Hurkacz continued his strong run of form by dismissing top seed Taylor Fritz 6&ndash;3, 7&ndash;6(5) in a high-quality serving battle.
Hurkacz, who reached the quarter-finals at the ATP Masters 1000 in Rome last week, triumphed at the last clay-court ATP 250 he played in Estoril last year. He trailed 1/3 in the second-set tie-break against Fritz, but responded with an ace down the middle at 5/5 before converting his only match point.
Hurkacz will next face qualifier Sebastian Ofner, who rallied past fourth seed Karen Khachanov 4&ndash;6, 6&ndash;4, 6&ndash;4. Ofner will aim to advance to his second final after reaching the championship match at the grass-court ATP 250 in Mallorca last year.
&mdash;IANS
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Novak Djokovic celebrated his 38th birthday with a 6-4, 6-4 win over Arnaldi to reach Geneva semis

Djokovic Advances to Geneva SF Despite Knee Worry

Gujarat High Court Launches Study Circle for Advocates: In a major initiative to strengthen the professional skills and legal knowledge of young advocates, the High Court of Gujarat, in collaboration with the Gujarat State Judicial Academy (GSJA), has announced the launch of a Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop) for Advocates Practicing before the High Court of Gujarat with up to 10 years of practice. The programme will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad.
Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal Announces Study Circle The initiative was announced by Gujarat High Court Chief Justice and Patron-in-Chief of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, Justice Sunita Agarwal, after the Flag Hoisting Ceremony held at the High Court Lawns on August 15. The announcement was made in the presence of Justice Bhargav D. Karia, Judge of the Gujarat High Court and President of GSJA, members of the Board of Governors of GSJA, other High Court judges, Senior Advocates and members of the Bar.
Focus on Legal Education and Professional Skills The new Study Circle is being introduced as a continuous legal learning and professional development programme for young members of the Bar. The initiative aims to enhance advocates&rsquo; understanding of legal principles, legal research, drafting and advocacy skills through direct interaction with Senior Advocates and subject experts. The programme is also expected to strengthen academic engagement between the Bench and the Bar and provide advocates with an opportunity to discuss important and evolving legal issues.
Justice Sunita Agarwal Highlights Importance of Continuous Learning Addressing the gathering, Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal highlighted the indispensable role of advocates in the administration of justice. She emphasized that continuous legal education has become increasingly important in an era of rapidly evolving jurisprudence. The Chief Justice also stressed that effective advocacy and strong legal research are essential components of a robust justice delivery system. She appreciated the efforts of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy in conceptualizing and developing the Study Circle programme.
Three Key Legal Modules in First Phase The first phase of the Study Circle will feature three major academic modules covering important areas of High Court practice. Module I will focus on the expanding contours of maintainability in writ jurisdiction under Article 226, an important area of constitutional and administrative law practice. Module II will cover the basic principles of Administrative Law and Second Appeals under Section 100 of the CPC, with particular emphasis on the Doctrine of Substantial Question of Law. Module III will focus on Criminal Law Jurisdiction, particularly the inherent powers of High Courts under Section 482 of the CrPC and Section 528 of the BNSS, including their scope, limitations and principles of judicial discipline.
Study Circle to Be Held Fortnightly The Study Circle is proposed to be conducted on a fortnightly basis, providing advocates with regular opportunities for legal learning and professional interaction. Future sessions will cover a wide range of subjects, including Constitutional Law, Writ Jurisdiction, Arbitration and Conciliation Law, Commercial Law, Public Interest Litigation, Service Law, Taxation Law, Admiralty Jurisdiction, Legal Ethics and Drafting Skills. The programme will also address contemporary legal issues that are particularly relevant to advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court.
Registration to Begin Soon Registration for the Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop Series) for Advocates Practicing in the High Court of Gujarat &ndash; Series of Academic Modules 2026 will begin shortly through the official website of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy. The programme is specifically intended for advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court who have up to 10 years of professional practice.
Registration Fee The registration fee for the Study Circle has been fixed at ₹100 per programme, which will be paid by each participating advocate. The workshops will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad. Advocates attending the workshops will also receive Certificates of Participation.
Major Step Towards Strengthening Justice Delivery The Gujarat High Court and Gujarat State Judicial Academy's new Study Circle is being viewed as a significant step towards professional excellence and development of the legal fraternity. By bringing young advocates, Senior Advocates and legal experts together for regular academic discussions, the initiative aims to improve legal knowledge, research and advocacy skills while strengthening the Bench-Bar relationship. The broader objective is to contribute towards a more effective and efficient justice delivery system in Gujarat.

Study Circle Launched for Advocates With Up to 10 Years of Practice

Gujarat High Court Big Move

A chilling video of the accused in the Indore MBA student murder case has sparked outrage after he was seen smiling and appearing unconcerned when questioned about the crime.
The accused, Piyush Dhanotia, was arrested for allegedly raping and murdering his 25-year-old classmate in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Police said he strangled the woman on February 10 inside his rented accommodation and later locked the room before fleeing. Her partially decomposed body was discovered days later after residents complained of a foul smell.
However, what has intensified public anger is the accused&rsquo;s demeanour. In a video that surfaced online, Dhanotia is seen smiling when reporters ask him why he committed the crime. When pressed for answers, he responded dismissively, saying that what had happened had already happened and that he would speak at the right time. Throughout the interaction, he showed no visible sign of regret.
Police officials said he admitted during interrogation that he forced the woman into sexual acts and killed her when she resisted, though he has reportedly changed his version multiple times. Investigators are also examining allegations that he circulated objectionable videos of the victim in their college WhatsApp group.
The victim&rsquo;s father has accused the accused of blackmailing his daughter with obscene images and attempting to extort money.
As the investigation continues, the accused&rsquo;s apparent lack of remorse captured on camera has become a focal point of the case, drawing sharp reactions both online and offline.
&nbsp;

Video shows MBA student murder accused laughing amid probe

Indore Murder Accused Smiles on Camera

Galgotias University has landed in controversy after showcasing a robotic dog at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 that was widely believed to be developed by its students. The robot, however, was later identified as a commercially available product made by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics.
The backlash began after a video from the summit went viral, in which a university professor introduced the robot dog, named &ldquo;Orion,&rdquo; and referred to it as being developed at the institution&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence. Social media users were quick to point out that the machine closely resembled Unitree&rsquo;s quadruped robots, which are already available globally for research and industrial use.
Unitree is known for manufacturing advanced four-legged robots designed for tasks such as inspection, obstacle navigation and research applications. Its products are often compared to models developed by global robotics players.
Following the uproar, the Greater Noida-based university issued a clarification stating that it never claimed to have built the robot. It maintained that the robodog was purchased as part of its AI investment initiatives and is being used as a research and learning tool for students. Another faculty member present at the summit reiterated that the display had been misinterpreted and that there was no attempt to conceal the original manufacturer&rsquo;s branding.
Despite the clarification, sources familiar with the developments said the university was asked to vacate its pavilion at the summit amid mounting criticism. The institution, however, denied receiving any formal directive from the organisers or the ministry.
Notably, the robotic dog was removed from display shortly after the controversy escalated online.

Robodog row sparks backlash at India AI Impact Summit 2026

Galgotias Asked to Exit AI Summit

Actor Sidharth Malhotra is mourning the loss of his father, Sunil Malhotra, who passed away recently. The actor shared the news with an emotional message on social media. His wife, Kiara Advani, has now also paid a heartfelt tribute to her father-in-law.
On Wednesday, Kiara took to Instagram to share pictures from her wedding reception, where she and Sidharth were seen smiling alongside his parents. In a deeply personal note, she remembered Sunil Malhotra as a warm, generous, and steady presence in the family. She reflected on how he welcomed her with open arms and unconditional love, describing his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Kiara wrote that his stories, laughter, and quiet strength would remain with her forever. She added that his legacy of integrity and gentleness lives on through his children and grandchildren. Concluding her message, she expressed that he would always be loved and remembered.
The couple is currently in Delhi with their family during this difficult period. Members of the film industry extended their condolences online. Jacqueline Fernandez offered prayers, while Karan Johar and Manish Malhotra shared messages of support.
On the professional front, Sidharth will next appear in Vvan: Force of The Forest, directed by Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Mishra and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures. The film also stars Tamannaah Bhatia and is slated for release later this year.
Kiara, meanwhile, awaits the release of Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film features Yash, Nayanthara, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, and Rukmini Vasanth in key roles. The film is expected to release on March 19, alongside Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar.

Actor pens heartfelt note after Sunil Malhotra’s passing

Kiara Mourns Sidharth’s Father

Days after 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra lost his life in a fatal SUV crash in Delhi&rsquo;s Dwarka, the father of the 17-year-old accused has expressed regret over the incident, stating that his family is &ldquo;deeply grief-stricken.&rdquo; He also confirmed that the Scorpio SUV involved in the accident is part of his commercial transport business.
The crash occurred around 11:50 am on February 3 near Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management in Sector 11, Dwarka. According to police, the SUV rammed into a Yamaha R15 motorcycle, killing Sahil on the spot. The vehicle then struck a parked Swift Dzire, injuring cab driver Ajit Singh.
Post-mortem findings revealed that Sahil sustained a fractured skull, multiple rib fractures, and an elbow injury due to the high-impact collision.
The minor driver was detained at the scene and booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rash driving, negligence causing death, and endangering life. He was later presented before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to an observation home. On February 10, he was granted interim bail to appear for his Class 10 board examinations.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police registered a separate case against the boy&rsquo;s father under Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which holds guardians or vehicle owners accountable when a minor commits a traffic offence.
Speaking to the media after being questioned, the father said he was not in the city at the time of the accident and was unaware that his son had taken the vehicle. He stated that the family has cooperated with investigators and provided all necessary documents.
Sahil&rsquo;s mother alleged that her son was killed by a &ldquo;reckless teen&rdquo; just minutes away from his workplace. The 23-year-old, who worked part-time at an insurance firm, had plans to pursue higher studies in the United Kingdom later this year.

Minor held in SUV crash; father booked under MV Act provisions

Dwarka Crash: Accused’s Father Apologises

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday set aside a March 2025 judgment of the Allahabad High Court that had ruled that grabbing a minor girl&rsquo;s breasts and dragging her under a culvert did not amount to an attempt to rape. The apex court termed the ruling a &ldquo;patently erroneous&rdquo; application of criminal law principles.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria, held that the high court had incorrectly reduced the charges from attempt to rape under Section 376 read with Section 511 of the IPC and Section 18 of the POCSO Act to lesser offences. The court restored the original summons issued by the Special POCSO Court in Kasganj, clarifying that its observations were prima facie and would not influence the trial&rsquo;s outcome.
Rejecting the high court&rsquo;s reasoning that the accused had merely &ldquo;prepared&rdquo; to commit rape, the Supreme Court reiterated the settled distinction between preparation and attempt, noting that an attempt begins when intent moves into execution. Based on the allegations, including forcibly taking the minor on a motorcycle, dragging her near a culvert, and fleeing only after she screamed, the Bench held that a prima facie case of attempt to rape was clearly made out.
The proceedings were initiated suo motu after senior advocate Shobha Gupta raised concerns over the high court&rsquo;s reasoning. The Supreme Court had earlier stayed the controversial observations and later the entire judgment.
Beyond correcting the legal error, the court addressed a broader concern about insensitivity in judicial handling of sexual offence cases. It requested the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal to constitute a five-member expert committee to frame guidelines aimed at fostering compassion and sensitivity in courts, especially in cases involving minors and vulnerable victims.
The committee, to be chaired by former Supreme Court judge Justice Aniruddha Bose, has been directed to submit a report within three months. The guidelines are to be drafted in simple, accessible language and tailored to Indian realities to ensure they are understandable to victims and laypersons alike.

Top court restores rape attempt charge, seeks sensitivity guidelines

SC Sets Aside HC Order in POCSO Case

India&rsquo;s merchandise imports from Russia plunged by over 40% in January 2026, falling to about $2.86 billion from $4.81 billion a year earlier, official trade figures show, largely reflecting a steep reduction in crude oil purchases.
Crude oil typically accounts for roughly 80% of India&rsquo;s imports from Russia, and estimates suggest purchases of Russian crude last month were significantly lower than in previous years. Other goods imported from Russia include coal, fertilisers, iron, pulses, and precious stones, but these have not offset the slump in oil imports. The downturn in oil imports intensified after mid-2025, following punitive tariffs levied by the United States on Indian goods connected to purchases of Russian oil and ongoing diplomatic pressure. India&rsquo;s refiners, including some major private and state firms, have substantially reduced or halted buying Russian crude as they explore alternative sources.
In early February 2026, Washington eased the additional tariff on Indian products after New Delhi signalled a commitment to &ldquo;stop directly or indirectly importing&rdquo; Russian oil and to increase purchases of energy products from the United States, as well as broadening ties in global energy markets.
Analysts expect the shift in crude sourcing to continue, with Indian refiners eyeing other suppliers, including Middle Eastern and Venezuelan grades, as part of broader diversification strategies.

January sees 40% fall in Russia merchandise imports amid crude cutbacks

India’s Russia Imports Drop Sharply

A 27-year-old man has been arrested in Andhra Pradesh&rsquo;s Annamayya district for allegedly abducting and murdering a seven-year-old girl from his neighbourhood in Madanapalle town.
The child had been playing outside her home on Sunday evening when she went missing, sparking panic among her family and local residents. A missing complaint was filed the following morning, prompting an intensive search operation led by district police.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage from across the town, which reportedly showed the suspect, a neighbour living opposite the victim&rsquo;s house, taking the child into his residence. Acting on this lead, police searched the house on Tuesday morning.
During the inspection, officers discovered the girl&rsquo;s body concealed inside a water storage drum within the premises. The accused was present at the house at the time and was immediately taken into custody.
Preliminary findings suggest the child was killed inside the residence on Sunday night, and her body was hidden thereafter. Authorities are probing whether sexual assault occurred before the murder, with confirmation pending post-mortem and forensic examination results.
Following the discovery, tensions escalated in the area. Residents and family members staged a protest on the Madanapalle highway, briefly preventing police from shifting the body to the government hospital for autopsy and demanding strict punishment for the accused.
Police have stated that all possible angles, including prior allegations of inappropriate behaviour by the suspect, are being examined as the investigation continues.

Child’s body found in drum; protest erupts in Madanapalle town

7-Year-Old Killed, Neighbour Arrested

Delhi University has imposed a month-long ban on public meetings, demonstrations, rallies and protests across its campus, citing concerns over traffic disruption, safety risks and potential disturbance to public order.
The order, issued on February 17 by the university&rsquo;s proctor&rsquo;s office, prohibits gatherings of five or more persons, slogan-shouting, speeches and the carrying of materials such as torches or similar items that could pose safety hazards. The directive takes immediate effect and will remain in force for one month unless withdrawn earlier.
University authorities stated that the decision followed inputs suggesting that unrestricted gatherings could escalate and adversely impact law and order within the campus. The order also referenced prior directions issued by the assistant commissioner of police in the Civil Lines area restricting public meetings and activities that may affect public tranquillity or traffic flow.
The move comes after recent tensions on campus. Last week, the Delhi Police registered two FIRs following a clash between student groups during protests over the University Grants Commission&rsquo;s proposed anti-caste discrimination rules. The rules have currently been put on hold by the Supreme Court of India amid differing views among student groups.
In another incident on February 12, historian S. Irfan Habib had water thrown at him while addressing a programme on social justice.
Reacting to the order, Mithuraj Dhusiya, associate professor at Hansraj College and member of DU&rsquo;s executive council, described the decision as a sweeping restriction.

Order follows clashes and safety concerns at Delhi University

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