Rahul calls Modi vote chor, questions PMs silence on election fraud charge during Bihar visit
PATNA: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modis silence over alleged vote theft in Maharashtra, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka, saying the Prime Minister had failed to answer his questions on the issue. Responding to Modis remarks on the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls during his visit to Gaya in Bihar, Rahul alleged that the Prime Minister was deliberately silent on the contentious matter. The SIR is an attempt by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP and the EC to steal your votes. They are trying their best to snatch your voting rights. The 'vote chor' came to Gayaji, but he did not say even a word on his government's attempt to steal votes with the help of the EC, Gandhi said during his Vote Adhikar Yatra in Bhagalpur. The truth is that the Prime Minister, along with the Election Commission of India and the Bharatiya Janata Party, are bent on destroying democracy and the Constitution, and snatching away the votes of the people, he said. Rahul accused Modi of seeking to dismantle the constitutional principle of one person, one vote. He cited the example of a Congress supporter whose name was deleted from the electoral rolls during the first phase of the revision exercise. With SIR, the Modi government, in collusion with the Election Commission of India, was disenfranchising people who are supporters of Congress or RJD, the Lok Sabha LoP said. Vote Chori is an attack on the Constitution of India. The INDIA bloc will not allow the BJP to steal voting rights of the people of Bihar, he added. Speaking at a rally in Bihar, Modi in an indirect reference to SIR said, There is one more threat -- that of infiltrators (ghuspaithiye) that our nation faces, which I also spoke about in my Independence Day speech. They cannot be allowed to partake of the resources of our country. I have, therefore, called for a demography mission. But the Congress and the RJD want to protect these infiltrators for the sake of their vote bank politics. The allusion was to one of the stated objectives of SIR being the removal of names of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, Nepal and Myanmar from the electoral rolls. The EC, which has ordered the exercise in Bihar ahead of assembly polls, has made it clear that SIR will be undertaken across the country in due course. However, the INDIA bloc has been alleging that the exercise in Bihar was aimed at helping the BJP-led NDA in assembly polls through wrongful deletion of names of voters. During a stopover near Nathnagar in Bhagalpur, Rahul introduced a former Agniveer, Amarnath Jaiswal, who had suffered a serious hand injury and lost a finger in the line of duty. Jaiswal was discharged from the Army within two years, without any of the benefits that a regular soldier would have received in such circumstances. Rahul said the Modi government had closed avenues for the youth, calling the Agniveer scheme ill-advised and pointing to Jaiswals plight as an example of how recruits were left without support after service, even in cases of disability. He also said the government had crippled small and medium businesses through demonetisation, compounding unemployment. On the sixth day of his Yatra, the march passed through Bhagalpur, where large crowds gathered, chanting 'Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhor' in reference to alleged electoral fraud in Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra and Karnataka during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Ranchi Medical Student On Ventilator After Sipping Tea From Canteen
A first-year postgraduate student of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Jharkhand's apex health institute RIMS in Ranchi is on a ventilator after allegedly drinking tea from the hospital's canteen.
Amartya Sen raises concerns over SIR that risks 'disenfranchising' poor people
Nobel laureate Amartya Sen voiced concerns regarding the special intensive revision of electoral rolls, cautioning that it could disenfranchise poor and marginalized individuals if not handled carefully. He questioned the fairness of demanding strict documentation from citizens lacking access to it, emphasizing that procedural improvements shouldn't compromise fundamental rights.
The Division 2: Survivors will bring 'survival extraction' to the series
On Friday, Ubisoft announced something. The company describes The Division 2: Survivors as an updated take on the survival extraction experience. Is it DLC? Is it a new game mode? We have no idea. But Ubisoft said it will strive for transparency during its development. Unfortunately, that didn't apply to its announcement. Ubisoft said Survivors is in its early stages, which may explain the lack of detail. Other media outlets have reported that it will come in 2026. But the company's franchise roadmap places its release date under TBA. The Division 2: Survivors is as much your baby as it is ours, and we strive for transparency during its development, Executive Producer Julian Gerighty wrote in the announcement blog post. Clear communication and community involvement are a focus as we build the new experience, and we will be closely involving you as we move forward on the development journey. Ubisoft Ubisoft also confirmed that its free-to-play mobile game is still in the pipeline. The Division Resurgence is expected this year. The company announced a delay last summer. A Redditor who played a beta version in 2023 described it in less than appealing terms. Overall, Resurgence is a console clone of The Division , where you can team up and play with clunky, small mobile controls. To be fair, much could have changed in its development since then. Regardless, you can sign up for the closed beta on Ubisoft's website . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/the-division-2-survivors-will-bring-survival-extraction-to-the-series-171948909.html?src=rss
Tamannaah Bhatia to join erotic horror thriller franchise from Ekta Kapoor - Report
Tamannaah Bhatia is reportedly set to lead Ekta Kapoors upcoming erotic horror thriller, Ragini MMS 3. The film is expected to begin production toward the end of 2025 and will continue the franchises blend of horror and sensuality. Sources say the actress was impressed by the projects horror elements, and the team is also planning a potential chartbuster song.
'This math isnt mathing': RCBs role in Rajat Patidars MP captaincy questioned
Aakash Chopra has ignited controversy by questioning RCB's influence on Rajat Patidar's captaincy in domestic cricket. Mo Bobat revealed he encouraged Patidar to seek leadership roles at the state level, leading to his appointment as Madhya Pradesh captain. Chopra found it questionable for IPL franchises to 'nudge' players into domestic captaincy roles, sparking debate about the ethics of such influence.
Jharkhand braces for heavy rainfall over next three days
RANCHI: In yet another weather alert issued by the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, heavy to very heavy rainfall has been predicted in several parts of Jharkhand over the next three days, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds. According to the Head of the Meteorological Centre in Ranchi, Abhishek Anand, It will continue to rain in Jharkhand till 23, 24 and 25 August; some districts will receive heavy to very heavy rain, while some districts will receive heavy rain. During this time, an alert has also been issued for thunderstorms and lightning along with rain. According to the forecast, north-western parts of the state are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall on 23 August. Isolated heavy showers are also expected over south-western, north-eastern and adjoining central regions, along with thunderstorms and gusty winds. On 24 August, heavy rainfall may occur at isolated places over southern, central and north-eastern parts of the state. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are likely in several areas. Similarly, on 25 August, western and adjoining central parts of Jharkhand may experience heavy rainfall at isolated places, while thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are expected across the state. According to the Meteorological Department, the monsoon trough is currently passing through Jaisalmer, Kota, Datia, Sidhi, Ranchi, Bankura, Digha and extending southeastwards into the east-central Bay of Bengal, up to 1.5 km above mean sea level. An upper air cyclonic circulation persists over northwest Madhya Pradesh and adjoining regions, extending up to 7.6 km above mean sea level, it said. Another circulation lies over north Odisha and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal at around 5.8 km above mean sea level. The Met office has advised citizens to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy downpours and take precautions against lightning strikes and gusty winds. There is a possibility of heavy rainfall at some places in Palamu, Garhwa, Chatra, Latehar, Ranchi, Bokaro, Gumla, Hazaribagh, Khunti, Ramgarh, Lohardaga, Koderma, Dhanbad, Giridih and Simdega districts on 24 August. IMD has issued a yellow alert for these districts. Meanwhile, in a tragic incident on Thursday, three innocent girls were killed in a lightning strike while returning from school near Ranchi. According to locals, Pari Oraon of Class 1 in Primary School Hondpidi and Anjalika Kujur of Class 3, along with Basmati Oraon of Class 6, were going home during which a lightning strike took place killing all the three on the spot. Jharkhand has so far received 25% excess rain than normal.
Spinneys to open in Kuwait with 10 new outlets
Dubai: Premium United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based fresh food retailer Spinneys announced on Friday, August 22, its expansion into Kuwait through a strategic joint venture with Alshaya Group, one of the worlds leading brand franchise operators. The partnership marks Spinneys entry into a fourth GCC market and reflects its ambition to strengthen its regional presence. As Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Tamannaah to lead Ektaa Kapoor's 'Ragini MMS 3': Report
Tamannaah Bhatia, who has been riding high on the success of her recent digital projects, is reportedly set to lead the third installment of the Ragini MMS franchise.
MS Dhoni spotted in army-themed Hummer! Video goes viral - Watch
Mahendra Singh Dhoni's Hummer, sporting a unique army-inspired design and the number plate JH01AB 7781, was recently spotted cruising through what appears to be Ranchi. A fan-captured video of the SUV has gone viral, amassing over 3 lakh views on Instagram. Dhoni's well-known passion for automobiles extends to luxury cars, vintage models, and customized vehicles.
Demand for Bharat Ratna for Shibu Soren gains momentum in Jharkhand Assembly
RANCHI: The Monsoon Session of the Jharkhand Assembly resumed on Friday with the demand for conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dishom Guru Shibu Soren gaining momentum, as legislators across party lines pressed for the same. The House also paid homage to Jharkhands iconic tribal leader Shibu Soren, popularly known as Dishom Guru, and former minister Ramdas Soren. Legislative Party leader Pradeep Yadav was the first to strongly urge the House to pass a resolution recommending the honour to the Central Government. According to Yadav, no one could be more deserving of the countrys highest civilian award than Shibu Soren, who dedicated his entire life to the rights of Jharkhand, tribal identity and social justice. He emphasised that Sorens contributions warrant national recognition at the highest level. JDU legislator Saryu Rai also supported the demand raised by Pradeep Yadav, saying Shibu Soren should be honoured at the national level, whether through the Bharat Ratna or through other means. Meanwhile, Independent MLA Arup Chatterjee urged the Chief Minister to install a statue of Shibu Soren in the Assembly premises, confer the Bharat Ratna on him and develop his ancestral village, Nemra, into a tourist destination. JMM urges Jharkhand Assembly to pass resolution recommending Bharat Ratna for Shibu Soren JKLM legislator Jayram Mahato proposed installing statues of Shibu Soren and Vinod Bihari Mahato on the highest peak of Parasnath Hills. AJSU legislator Nirmal Mahato also pressed for a resolution to recommend the Bharat Ratna for Soren, adding that implementing prohibition in Jharkhand would be a true tribute to him. Referring to the demand raised by legislators for Bharat Ratna to Shibu Soren in the House, Chief Minister Hemant Soren said that it is the sentiment of the legislative members, which will be considered by the House. It is the emotion of the House the members have presented the public sentiment in the House. The House will consider it..., said Soren. Earlier, Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore presented the first supplementary budget for 2025-26, amounting to 4,296.62 crore. Later, Speaker Rabindranath Mahato adjourned the proceedings for the day, announcing that discussion on the supplementary budget would be taken up on 25 August. The four-day session will conclude on 28 August. Notably, the Monsoon Session was originally convened on 26 July but was adjourned indefinitely on 4 August following Sorens death. It has now been resumed as a supplementary session.
Suraj Kumar Yadav, once a Swiggy delivery boy in Ranchi, overcame financial hardships and secured the 110th rank in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) 2023 examination.
CBSE to establish six new regional, sub-regional offices to enhance governance
NEW DELHI: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced the establishment of six new Regional Offices, Centres of Excellence (CoEs), and Sub-Regional Offices to streamline its operations and improve governance of affiliated schools across the country. According to a notification issued by CBSE Secretary Himanshu Gupta, the decision was taken following the approval of the Finance Committee in December 2024, which was later ratified by the Governing Body and cleared by the Ministry of Education. The new offices are being set up in Gurugram, Lucknow, Raipur, Ranchi, Agartala, Itanagar and Gangtok. These will become fully functional between August and September 2025. Gurugram (Haryana) will cover 12 southern districts of Haryana, including Faridabad, Gurugram, Palwal and Sonipat, and is expected to function from 1 September 2025. Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) will oversee 30 districts, including Ayodhya, Etawah, Kanpur, Rae Bareli and Unnao, and will also become functional from 1 September 2025. Raipur (Chhattisgarh) will have jurisdiction across Chhattisgarh and became functional on 22 August 2025. Ranchi (Jharkhand) will cover Jharkhand and also became functional on 22 August 2025. Among the Sub-Regional Offices, Agartala (Tripura) will begin functioning from 15 September 2025. Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh) became functional on 22 August 2025, along with Gangtok (Sikkim), which also started operations on the same date. The notification stated that all schools affiliated with CBSE will now fall under the jurisdictions of these newly established offices. This move will help strengthen administrative reach, ensure better coordination with schools, and enhance educational support services across these regions, the CBSE said.
SA20 Season 4: Playoff Matches Venues Announced, Newlands To Host Final
The Newlands Cricket Ground: The Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town has been announced as the destination for the SA20 Season 4 Final, with Kingsmead, Centurion, and the Wanderers hosting key Playoff matches of the T20 League of South Africa starting on December 26. Durban will stage a Playoff match for the first time in SA20 history, giving the east coast fans one more opportunity to experience incredible cricket and entertainment when the two best teams of the competition battle it out during Qualifier 1 on January 21. The Highveld will play host to two crunch Playoff matches, with Centurion setting the stage for the Eliminator on January 22 and the Wanderers organising the decider of the second finalist with Qualifier 2 on January 23. All SA20 Champions have been crowned in front of capacity crowds, with the three successive finals selling out in record time. SA20 League Commissioner, Graeme Smith, expects similar fanfare for the box office tickets. SA20 Season 4 is shaping up to be an incredibly exciting summer of cricket, kicking off on Boxing Day and running through the holiday period, League Commissioner, Graeme Smith, said. Last year, Newlands sold out all five matches at the venue, and with the Final taking place on a Sunday, it sets up an incredible afternoon with great weather, entertainment, and a lively atmosphere to crown our Season 4 Champions. Durban will host a Playoff for the first time, and were hoping this will excite the fans, especially because the two best teams of the competition will be playing in Qualifier 1. Were also excited to go back to Centurion and Wanderers on Thursday and Friday nights. Its always key to have the venues close together because the matches are a day apart. It's always an interesting challenge for us to get the scheduling of the Playoff matches done and done well. Especially after an exciting Group Match stage that finishes two days before the first Playoff match. I am looking forward to seeing who will be competing, he said. The announcement of the venues for the Final and Playoff matches marks the final piece of the Season 4 scheduling puzzle, giving fans around the country ample time to finalise their festive season plans to attend SA20 matches. It's always an interesting challenge for us to get the scheduling of the Playoff matches done and done well. Especially after an exciting Group Match stage that finishes two days before the first Playoff match. I am looking forward to seeing who will be competing, he said. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score The next major milestone will be the Season 4 Player Auction on 9 September, where the six franchises will finalise their 19-player squads. The blockbuster event promises high-stakes bidding and entertainment, with star Proteas and international players going under the hammer with a maximum of USD 7.4 million to be spent. Article Source: IANS
The Supreme Court in its interim order on August 14, 2025, directed the ECI to make public a searchable list of over 65 lakh voter names deleted from the draft electoral roll
Brain stroke reported as Jaswinder Bhalla's cause of death
The Punjabi entertainment industry mourns the loss of Jaswinder Bhalla, the beloved actor-comedian known for his iconic role as Advocate Dhillon in the 'Carry On Jatta' franchise. He passed away at the age of 65 in Mohali's Fortis Hospital due to complications from a brain stroke.
How women migrant electors are disenfranchised in the Bihar SIR process | Explained
The Election Commission which has highlighted the frequent migration of population from one place to another as a justification for the intensive verification drive fails to mention marriage, which is the most common ground for female migration in India
Burger King employee was fired, who went viral for running a Burger King alone for 12 hours. She was later fired by the franchise owner for being late because of her kids. Fans supported her with a GoFundMe campaign. Burger King said no worker should be left alone and proper staffing rules must be followed.
Prime Video, Maddock Films sign multi-year licensing deal
Prime Video and Maddock Films have entered a multi-year licensing agreement, granting Prime Video exclusive worldwide streaming rights to eight upcoming Maddock titles after their theatrical releases. The deal includes new horror-comedy franchise films, sequels like Shiddat 2 and Badlapur 2, and Sriram Raghavans Ikkis.
McDonalds cuts prices on 8 best-selling meals heres how much you will save
McDonald's is set to reduce prices on its popular combo meals next month. This decision comes after customer complaints about rising costs. The price cut will average around 15%, saving customers about $1.50 on Big Mac combos. The goal is to attract budget-conscious customers back to McDonald's. The company will also support franchisees during this price reduction.
Pro Kabaddi League Season: Tamil Thalaivas captain and star raider Pawan Sehrawat is raring to step onto the mat in Pro Kabaddi League Season 12, determined to fulfill the unfinished mission from his first stint with the franchise back in 2022. Speaking exclusively to IANS, Pawan expressed that he sees this season as an opportunity for redemption after injury had robbed him of the chance to represent Thalaivas earlier. We are training really hard. I'm excited to execute our preparations on the mat and especially for Tamil Thalaivas because I couldn't play when they bought me last time (in 2022), so it will be the first time for the side. At that time, Tamil Thalaivas bought me for the highest price (Rs 2.26 crore), but I could not play (due to injury). Now, I have the chance again, and we will do the job for the team, Pawan said on his pre-season training and representing Tamil Thalaivas again in the PKL. The 29-year-old also highlighted the strong rapport he shares with coach Sanjeev Baliyan, crediting him for guiding the squad effectively. I have a very good bond with coach Sanjeev Baliyan. I have played under him when he was the Indian Railways coach. We're training well under him; he shares his experience with us. We're enjoying the camp and we've a very good bonding within the team and players, he added. While staying guarded about tactical details, Pawan hinted at a shift in his responsibilities this season. We're focusing on raiding style and defence. This time, the role will be different, which I can't tell now. I've improved myself, increased my stamina, as raiding for 40 minutes and standing for 40 minutes are different things. I've a new role now, so I'm excited for that, he revealed. For the Thalaivas skipper, confidence also stems from the squads defensive depth. When you get such a strong team, then you automatically get mentally strong. When you have defenders like Arjun, Narender Kandola, and Nitesh Kumar, then you don't need to do anything additional to be mentally strong, Pawan noted. Pawan, who was the top raider for three consecutive years from season 6 to 8, doesn't feel that any defender or team is tough and believes that all teams are equally competitive, and it depends on the day how the players are performing. Recalling the support from ardent home fans during his short stint with Thalaivas in season 9, Pawan is excited to receive their love again this season to guide the side to their maiden title. Pawan, who was the top raider for three consecutive years from season 6 to 8, doesn't feel that any defender or team is tough and believes that all teams are equally competitive, and it depends on the day how the players are performing. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score I urge them to support us as we've a strong team this time. Definitely, this time, the result will be better than past seasons. We will play with unity and win matches, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Pick up the HORI Piranha Plant camera for Switch 2 while it's on sale for $40
The HORI Piranha Plant camera for the Nintendo Switch 2 is on sale for just $40 , which is a discount of $20 and a record-low price. This is a great deal for those who own a Switch 2 and want to take advantage of the camera functionality in games like Mario Kart World and that recently-released campfire sim . This was designed specifically for Nintendo's new console, so it's a plug-and-play affair. It's actually cheaper than the official Switch 2 camera with this sale and it looks a whole lot cooler. It's a Piranha Plant from the Mario franchise. We called it a work of art upon encountering the device and that holds true today. This thing is not only stylish, resembling an Amiibo more than a camera, but it's downright useful. The pot the Piranha Plant sits in functions as both a stand and USB extension for the device. The plant itself detaches from the pot, so the camera can be used in portable mode by popping it into the USB port at the top of the console. There's also a built-in privacy shutter. Just close the plant's mouth to obscure the lens. The actual camera specs here aren't going to win any awards, with a frame rate of 30FPS and a resolution of 640 x 480p. However, that's more than enough to capture footage of your floating head to accompany your kart as it races through the Mushroom Kingdom. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/pick-up-the-hori-piranha-plant-camera-for-switch-2-while-its-on-sale-for-40-145031803.html?src=rss
TAFE's MASSEY DYNASTAR Contest Recognizes Grassroots Agri-Innovation
In 2005, TAFE acquired the Tractors, Engines and Transmissions business of the legendary Eicher brand with German roots, through a wholly owned subsidiary - TAFE Motors and Tractors Limited (TMTL). In addition to tractors, TAFE and its subsidiaries have diverse business interests in various sectors including farm machinery, diesel engines and generators, engineering plastics, gears and transmission components, hydraulic pumps and cylinders, vehicle franchises and plantations. TAFE acquired the iconic Serbian tractor and agricultural equipment brand IMT - Industrija Maina i Traktora in 2018. Furthermore, TAFE acquired FAURECIAs Indian interior business of Group FORVIA - the French global automotive supplier, in 2022. TAFE has earned the trust of customers through its range of products that are widely acclaimed for superior quality and low cost of operation. TAFEs social focus has been significant since inception and it contributes towards meaningful causes of agriculture, education, healthcare, community development, disaster relief, conservation and tribal welfare besides supporting traditional art forms.
Bio-fencing to check man-animal conflict in PTR
RANCHI: In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Jharkhand, villages located in Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR) will be protected with biological fence (bio-fencing) to prevent man-elephant conflict. PTR officials have devised an innovative approach to prevent man-animal conflict by introducing bio-fencing around the villages, under which, different layers of plant species will be planted to keep away elephants from populated areas. Bio-fencing involves planting a three-tiered arrangement of thorny and citrus species, such as sisal, lemon grass and lemon. First layer of sisal plant works as a natural repellant by providing a tough, thorny barrier that discourages intrusion without harming animals, while the second layer of lemon grass emits volatile oils that repel elephants by irritating their olfactory sensors. Similarly, in the third layer, the thorny branches and pungent citrus smell of lemon plant create a strong psychological and physical deterrent, said PTR Deputy Director, Prajesh Kant Jena. Further, bio-fencing is low-maintenance, self-regenerating, and environmentally safe, he added. Jena further added that the idea behind growing such plants is that these plants can act as a natural barrier to stop elephants from entering human settlements. The plants also offer long-term income potential through fiber, essential oils, and fruit markets, aligning conservation with rural development, he said. Besides, these plants require low maintenance and are also economically beneficial for the villagers. The PTR Deputy Director informed that this pilot project in Betla Range is potentially the first of its kind in the state, and may serve as a replicable blueprint for other conflict-prone landscapes in Jharkhand and beyond. The bio-fencing is expected to significantly reduce elephant intrusions into farmlands, mitigating crop loss and human-wildlife conflict in fringe villages of the Betla Range, said Jena, adding that the project was conceptualised not only as an eco-friendly solution to human-elephant conflict but also as a model for community-based economic empowerment. The selection of plant species was based on their dual utility. The Eco Development Committee is responsible for planting and managing these lemon plants, which may be also be used for commercial purposes, boosting local economy. In addition to the bio-fencing, the PTR is also introducing solar-powered lighting in elephant corridors to improve safety for both the animals and nearby communities.
Video Games Weekly: Silksong and Gamescom
Welcome to Video Games Weekly on Engadget. Expect a new story every Monday or Tuesday (or Wednesday, whatever), broken into two parts. The first is a space for short essays and ramblings about video game trends and related topics from me, Jess Conditt, a reporter who's covered the industry for more than 13 years. The second contains the video game stories from the past week that you need to know about, including some headlines from outside of Engadget. Please enjoy and I'll see you next week. On a planet shrouded in myth, in a land surrounded by lore, on a mountain draped in mystery, in a cave suffocated by secrets, the legend sleeps. For six years, the legend has slumbered while wild stories spiral around it, twisting and expanding and entwining. New words have been born and old words infused with evolved meanings: Believer. Doubter. Silkpost. The lies have grown so thick theyve become corporeal, spreading trickery with a name and a dead smile. For six years, the legend has slept while the masses roiled, all of them waiting for the signal to awaken and know truth. All of them waiting for a bell that will ring, finally and clearly, on Thursday, August 21, 2025. Skong . Skong . Skong . Its a special time in the Silksong subreddit . After years of silence around its sequel, Hollow Knight: Silksong , Team Cherry has scheduled a livestream with a special announcement about the game for August 21 at 10:30AM ET. Not only is this exciting for Metroidvania fans everywhere, but its also possible that this announcement marks the final moments of the Silksong subreddit as we know it. A strange cocktail of game delays, inconsistent updates and hyper-focused cult fandom has cultivated a fascinating little universe in r/Silksong, complete with its own rules, villains and heroes. Its a place where clown wigs are commonplace and contributors have turned trolling into a role-playing artform. A LARPform, if you will. Its a place thats consistently made me laugh every time its appeared in my feed over the past year or so. Ahead of Thursdays special announcement, this sub is experiencing the last gasps of desperate myth-making and hopeless anticipation before it transforms into something else entirely, armed with actual information about the sequel, gameplay videos and maybe even a firm release date. Or, dare I say it, a surprise launch. For just a moment longer in r/Silksong, anything is possible. And then itll be over. No matter what happens during Thursdays livestream, the day will come when Silksong comes out and the drip-feed of silkposts dries up completely. But for now, our face paint is ready. Sometimes its just nice to recognize the madness and the beauty of the moment, before it slips away for good. The news News from ONL 2025 Gamescom 2025 kicked off on Tuesday with Opening Night Live, a showcase hosted by Geoff Keighley and the folks behind The Game Awards, and there were plenty of delightful morsels on display. Engadget UK Bureau Chief Mat Smith is on the ground at Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, to play upcoming titles and talk to developers, but for now, here are our headlines straight out of ONL 2025: Denshattack! is a blend of Tony Hawk, trains and shonen anime Battlestar Galactica might finally get the video game adaption it deserves Absolum is awesome and I can't wait to play it on October 9 Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 arrives on November 14 FromSoft's Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is becoming an anime Fallout season two has a teaser trailer and a December 17 release date Black Myth: Zhong Kui is the next title from Game Science Studio Cult of the Lamb's next DLC is Woolhaven, out in early 2026 Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is coming to the Switch 2 And our headlines from Gamescom 2025 so far: Onimusha: Way of the Sword might be a more forgiving kind of samurai epic Resident Evil Requiem feels very familiar, but it's so well made that I respect the hell out of it Engadget's Gamescom Opening Night Live 2025 liveblog How to watch Gamescom 2025 and what to expect Gamescom 2025 runs through August 24. ROG Xbox Ally lands in October Microsoft is slowly establishing its handheld era with news that the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will be available on October 16. Theres still no official word on how much theyll cost, but there are hints: As spotted by Wario64 , Best Buy recently listed the Xbox Ally at $550 and the Xbox Ally X at $900, and these fall in line with our predictions, which were based on the prices of existing ROG Ally handhelds. Alongside the release date, Microsoft announced the Handheld Compatibility Program , an initiative aimed at optimizing games for portable devices and informing players about how well they perform. Its essentially Steam Deck Verified, but for Xbox handhelds, and its yet another sign that Microsofts portable gaming ambitions stretch beyond just one hardware manufacturer. The PS5 will cost more tomorrow than it does today First Nintendo and Microsoft raised the prices of their latest consoles, and now its Sonys turn. Sony on Wednesday announced the following price increases for the PS5 family: Standard PS5 with a disc drive: $550, up from $500 PS5 digital edition: $500, up from $450 PS5 Pro: $750, up from $700 Sony blames the increases on a challenging economic environment, echoing sentiments from its contemporaries. The price hikes come at a time in the hardware generation when were used to seeing consoles get cheaper, which just makes this whole thing more frustrating. Rod Fergusson is in charge of BioShock again and already making big changes There have been signs of turmoil at BioShock 4 studio Cloud Chamber for a while now, including news earlier this month that the game failed a review with 2K executives and was due for a complete narrative revamp. Now, were seeing even more fallout. Former Gears of War and Diablo head Rod Fergusson has left Blizzard to lead development of BioShock 4 at Cloud Chamber, and his appointment comes alongside news that 80 people at the studio are being laid off. This is actually the second time Fergusson has joined the development of a BioShock game at the last second he similarly swooped in and cut aspects of BioShock: Infinite at Irrational Games in 2012. The race through development hell between Judas and BioShock 4 continues. Blizzards cinematic and narrative team is unionizing Microsoft is the home of another video game union. Workers with Blizzard Entertainments Story and Franchise Development team, which handles in-game cinematics and lore for titles including Overwatch and World of Warcraft , voted this week to unionize under the Communications Workers of America. This covers about 169 developers and it marks the fourth unionization effort from Microsofts gaming teams, joining QA workers at Activision , ZeniMax and Raven Software . Steam censorship is breaking PayPal PayPal isnt a valid way to buy games on Steam in certain countries any longer. Steam in July removed hundreds of games with adult and NSFW themes from its storefront, and updated its policies to ban content that may violate the rules and standards of its payment processors. This was incredibly vague and raised immediate concerns around financial censorship, especially when combined with a related culling of thousands of games from Itch.io . Now, its confirmed that PayPal has terminated its partnership with Steam in multiple countries, affecting any denomination other than EUR, CAD, GBP, JPY, AUD and USD. Valve says its being pressured by payment processors including Visa, MasterCard and PayPal to remove certain games and implement puritanical censorship policies, and this has already resulted in at least one game being unjustly removed from the platform. That game, VILE: Exhumed , is now available as shareware . Roblox is changing its rules after so, so many child-safety lawsuits Roblox is locking down its system for sharing and viewing user-generated games following a wave of lawsuits accusing developers of failing to protect their young userbase. All unrated experiences, or user-created games, will be restricted to the developer and anyone actively working on them, rather than being available to anyone over the age of 13, as is currently the case. This change and others, including a new system that automatically detects and tracks violative scenes on individual servers, will roll out over the coming months. Analogue delayed its N64 remake again Its now due out in Q4 2025. :( Additional reading Kris Holts indie game roundup More action than RPG, Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 struggles to convince after a few hours' play by Robert Purchese at Eurogamer This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/video-games-weekly-silksong-and-gamescom-221635822.html?src=rss
Ranchi school students accuse teacher of sexual harassment
Ranchi Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri orders probe into the incident; teacher is absconding after reports of the complaint went viral on social media
The Rogue Prince of Persia is officially out for PC and consoles
Ubisoft and Evil Empire's long-awaited The Rogue Prince of Persia is finally out and available for purchase . It's been in early access on Steam for over a year and the developers have made plenty of changes during that time to get the game ready for a general launch. It's available for PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store, Xbox Series X/S and PS5. It's also playable in the cloud by using the Xbox Cloud service, Ubisoft+ and Amazon Luna. Nintendo fans will have to wait a bit longer. The game's coming to the Switch and Switch 2, but not until later this year. For the uninitiated, The Rogue Prince of Persia is a sidescrolling roguelike with plenty of fast-paced action and a graceful move set inspired by other games in the franchise. Co-developer Evil Empire is the company behind the iconic Dead Cells , which is also a sidescrolling roguelike. Since launching in early access, developers have added more biomes and a new story, in addition to refining the gameplay and character designs. If you've been hankering for a new roguelike with some light Metroidvania elements (just like Dead Cells ), this could be the game you've been waiting for. It costs $30. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/the-rogue-prince-of-persia-is-officially-out-for-pc-and-consoles-184621675.html?src=rss
Online Gaming Bill: Proposed Ban On Real Money Gaming May Hit Cricket Industry Revenue
As a chain reaction, it could also affect the sports sponsorship market, including individual players' sponsorship and franchise-based domestic leagues of disciplines like kabaddi and football.
Shafali's omission from the squad is quite unexpected, especially considering her recent form. Despite her strong performances in both domestic and franchise cricket, the selectors have chosen to leave the dynamic opener out.
Get ready for The Conjuring: Last Rites with a spooky OTT binge! From The Exorcism of Emily Rose and Annabelle to The Nun, Insidious, and more, here's a list of five horror movies that will send chills down your spine before the next terrifying chapter of The Conjuring franchise arrives.
Gardner Sees Playing In The Hundred As Key To Pick Cues For ODI WC Prep
ODI World Cup: Australias off-spin bowling all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner believes playing in this years The Hundred is offering a key opportunity to pick up cues on players from other teams ahead of the Womens ODI World Cup, set to happen from September 30 to November 2 in India and Sri Lanka. From an opposition point of view, it's probably trying to pick up things off your team-mates or people that you're playing against, little cues that you can take back to your homeland and plan accordingly. There's no denying that and there's probably other countries around the world, if you're playing with another international, try and get some things from them or talk to them about, not necessarily their game plan, but just having those off-the-cuff conversations and trying to wrap your head around that because that's so important. We play a lot of cricket with these people and against them, so it's, how can I try and get the upper hand where I can? Sometimes that's going to be harder to do, but just looking at the game holistically, said Ashleigh on ESPNcricinfo's Powerplay podcast. Australia will play a three-match ODI series in India immediately before the World Cup happens, and Ashleigh stated Australia will prepare for the rude shock of returning to 50-over cricket after playing in The Hundred. We're going to be spending double the time on our feet, so I know for us Aussie players, we play a game of cricket, but then the next day or that day we need to then run again, we need to gym. Australia will play a three-match ODI series in India immediately before the World Cup happens, and Ashleigh stated Australia will prepare for the rude shock of returning to 50-over cricket after playing in The Hundred. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score It's making sure that training days are really big and you're getting a lot out of that and then you're doing your cricket skills, of course. Then game days, you're trying to tick those off as well, so they do become quite big days. I love playing franchise cricket, but playing for Australia is always going to be that No. 1 option for me, so making sure that I've got my focus on that as well, she added. Article Source: IANS
McDonald's to offer discounted combo meals: Report
McDonald's and its franchisees have reached an agreement to discount eight popular combo meals by 15%, alongside introducing $5 and $8 specials. This decision follows weeks of negotiations between the fast-food giant and its restaurant operators. McDonald's offered financial backing to franchisees to encourage price reductions, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
Amitabh Bachchan may narrate Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana along with voicing Jatayu. Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Sunny Deol as Hanuman, the epic promises cutting-edge visuals and global appeal, positioning itself as India's answer to Hollywood franchises.
'Terminator' then and now: The journey of a sci-fi legend
The Terminator franchise has been an integral part of US cinema since its inception. With its groundbreaking special effects and compelling storytelling, it has managed to captivate audiences for decades.
No Entry 2: Boney Kapoor regrets not having Salman, Anil, Fardeen in sequel
Boney Kapoor admits it`s his loss to not have the OG trio Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Fardeen Khan in the No Entry sequel. He shared how he waited for 8-10 years for things to happen. The franchise of the film will star Varun Dhawan, Arjun kapoor and Diljit Dosanjh
Tribal groups to take out candlelight march in Ranchi over wanted man's 'encounter' death
Hansda was arrested from Nawadih village in Deoghar on August 10, and the alleged encounter took place when he was being taken to Rahadbadia Hills to recover hidden weapons
'Downton Abbey': Iconic props from the show get auctioned off
Before the British period franchise Downton Abbey comes to a close in September, fans can find comfort by acquiring iconic props and costumes from the beloved series.
Prabhas and Anushka Shetty to reunite after 8 years
Prabhas and Anushka Shetty, celebrated for their iconic roles in 'Baahubali,' are reportedly reuniting for a special interview after nearly eight years, commemorating the tenth anniversary of 'Baahubali: The Beginning.' The duo is expected to share insights about their journey and experiences within the franchise, though official confirmation and details of the interview are awaited by eager fans.
Kitchen Things, a well-known New Zealand appliance retailer, has entered receivership due to sustained losses from weak consumer demand and intense price competition. Twelve stores have been temporarily closed as receivers assess options, seeking potential buyers for the business and assets. The receivership impacts several related entities, but the Hamilton franchise remains unaffected.
Bridget Jones star Rene Zellweger explains meaning behind directorial title
Zellweger has starred in many popular roles over the past decades, including the lead role in the Bridget Jones franchise, Jerry Maguire (1996) and her Oscar-winning role as Judy Garland in the biographical film Judy (2019)
Cult of the Lamb's next DLC is Woolhaven, out in early 2026
Indie game hit Cult of the Lamb has been keeping players (fittingly) enthralled since its original launch in 2022 with several free content updates, such as Unholy Alliance and Sins of the Flesh . At the Opening Night Live of Gamescom 2025, the roguelike unveiled its next update, titled Woolhaven . The paid DLC will arrive early next year, but no price has been set yet. Woolhaven introduces a dangerous new mountain zone to the game, where you'll find two new dungeons to conquer and as well as a spreading corruption called Rot. And you'd expect from the main story, your choices about how to deal with the mountain's denizens have no right or easy answers. Things will also get frosty for your settlement with the addition of blizzards and freezing temperatures that create new reasons for followers to doubt your all-knowing guidance. But you can also keep them happy with the new ranching system for raising rare animals that can provide your cult with wool, food and a pretty sweet ride. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/cult-of-the-lambs-next-dlc-is-woolhaven-out-in-early-2026-225129643.html?src=rss
Former Gears of War and Diablo head Rod Fergusson is now in charge of BioShock
Rod Fergusson, the head of the Diablo franchise for the last five years, is joining 2K Games to lead up the BioShock franchise. This is happening just a couple of weeks after Fergusson announced he was leaving Blizzard . He was also the studio head at Coalition once upon a time, where he oversaw the Gears of War franchise. Fergusson wrote on X that he will be overseeing development of the next BioShock game and will even have a say in that upcoming film adaptation for Netflix . The franchise is in dire need of a new steward, as it was reported earlier this month that 2K executives were unhappy with the direction of the upcoming sequel. The newly-hired franchise head says that he is deeply grateful for the work done so far and that he's committed to building a BioShock game well be proud of. Would you kindly allow me to share some news? Some of you guessed it, Im returning to 2K to lead a series that means a lot to me as the new Head of the BioShock Franchise. Ill be heading up Cloud Chamber and overseeing development of the next BioShock game, along with Rod Fergusson (@RodFergusson) August 19, 2025 The fourth BioShock isn't the only game in the series that has faced some serious hurdles. Recent reporting has indicated that a remake of the original game was shelved by 2K earlier this year . This remaster was set to support modern frame rates and higher resolutions than the original title. In other words, there's a lot riding on this upcoming sequel. BioShock Infinite is over 12 years old at this point and the franchise has been mostly dormant in that time. Here's hoping that Fergusson can reinvigorate the series. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/former-gears-of-war-and-diablo-head-rod-fergusson-is-now-in-charge-of-bioshock-185630691.html?src=rss
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 arrives on November 14
Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will launch on November 14. Microsoft revealed the release date for the upcoming shooter sequel alongside a new trailer during Opening Night Live at Gamescom 2025 . Notably, while Black Ops 7 will be on PC, PlayStation and Xbox at launch, it'll skip the Switch 2, despite a binding legal agreement between Microsoft and Nintendo that requires that the company's consoles receive the same access to Call of Duty as Xbox. Similar to past games in the series, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is leaning into a trippy narrative and a futuristic setting. The sequel is set 40 years after the events of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 , and follows David Mason (as played by Milo Ventimiglia) and his squad of Black Ops operatives as they take on a manipulative enemy who weaponizes fear above all else, according to publisher Activision. Microsoft, who owns the Call of Duty franchise following the completion of its acquisition of Activision Blizzard King in 2023, originally signed on for a 10-year pact with Nintendo to bring Call of Duty games to the Switch. The company made the commitment and another, vaguer one with PlayStation in an attempt to smooth over any opposition to gobbling up another large publisher. The acquisition was ultimately allowed to move forward, and Microsoft has so far ended up bringing even more of what could have been exclusive games to other consoles. Black Ops 7 has name recognition and a devoted fan base on its side, but it'll face some healthy competition this fall. Battlefield 6 is set to be released on October 10 , and based on the response to the beta alone , it seems like time away has made EA' shooter franchise all the more popular. Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will be available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Steam and Battle.net. Xbox Game Pass subscribers will get the game at launch. The game will come to Switch later in 2025. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/call-of-duty-black-ops-7-arrives-on-november-14-180834596.html?src=rss
How to watch Gamescom 2025 and what to expect
It feels like Summer Game Fest is only just in our rear view mirror and yet there's another video game extravaganza on the horizon. Gamescom is the planet's largest gaming event and we're sure to find out about a bunch of interesting new games at the Opening Night Live showcase. Xbox is broadcasting from the show floor across two days, and there will be other presentations that are worth keeping an eye on, including a special announcement for Hollow Knight: Silksong . Gamescom is taking place between August 20 and 24 this year, and we're learning bits and pieces about what to expect from the various showcases. The affair will kick off with Opening Night Live, a showcase hosted by Geoff Keighley that bridges the gap between his two other major events, Summer Game Fest Live and The Game Awards. That will be followed by two days of Xbox broadcasts, the latest edition of the Future Games Show and three days of Bethesda streams. There will also be news from Ubisoft on what's next for The Division 2 . The company will host two panels related to the franchise during Gamescom. One will include more info about The Division Resurgence ( a delayed mobile game ), as well details about a ig Division 2 project. We'll update this preview with more Gamescom details as we get them, and embed video versions of each stream as they become available too. Here's our breakdown of how to watch Gamescom 2025 and what to expect from the event. Gamescom schedule Opening Night Live August 19, 1:30PM ET (pre-show), 2PM (main show) Xbox @ gamescom 2025 Broadcast August 20, 9AM ET Future Games Show August 20, 2PM ET Xbox @ gamescom 2025 Broadcast August 21, 9AM ET Hollow Knight: Silksong - Special Announcement August 21, 10:30AM ET Awesome Indies August 21, 12PM ET Bethesda August 22-25 How to watch Gamescom Opening Night Live - August 19, 2PM ET Watch on YouTube Opening Night Live perhaps won't feature as many heavy hitters as Summer Game Fest Live or The Game Awards typically have, but one thing's for certain: Call of Duty fans will definitely want to tune in. The two-hour showcase will feature the worldwide reveal of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. We'll almost certainly get a release date here too. Reports suggest we won't get a release date for Hollow Knight: Silksong at ONL, but we may not have to wait much longer... (more on that in a bit). You can also expect a trailer for multiplayer RPG Honor of Kings: World, along with new looks at Ghost of Yotei , The Outer Worlds 2 , Resident Evil Requiem, Silent Hill f, Ninja Gaiden 4, Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion and The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin. You'll get to see the opening cinematic for the World of Warcraft: Midnight expansion as well. It won't all be game reveals and announcements, though there'll be a performance of music from Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 featuring composer Lorien Testard and vocalist Alice Duport-Percier. Additionally, you'll get a peek at season two of Prime Video's Fallout series, which will arrive in December. We'll be keeping tabs on all the news from Opening Night Live right here on Engadget. Myself, senior editor Jess Conditt and editor-in-chief Aaron Souppouris will be live-blogging our way through ONL. Join us! It should be fun. How to watch Xbox @ gamescom 2025 Day 1 Broadcast August 20, 9AM ET Watch on YouTube , Twitch , TikTok or Facebook One major piece of news we're likely to get from Xbox during one of its streams (if it isn't revealed at ONL beforehand) is the release date and pricing for the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X handheld systems. Leaker billbil-kun has reported the devices will arrive on October 16, at least in Europe, costing 599 for the Xbox Ally and 899 for the higher-end Xbox Ally X. Microsoft had already confirmed these handhelds would be available in time for the holiday season, so that rumored release date makes sense. Either way, we should get confirmation during Gamescom of when to expect these devices, especially since the company says it will discuss the handhelds during its August 20 stream. This particular event will feature the likes of Grounded 2, Keeper and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 . The Order of Giants , an expansion for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, will be showcased alongside Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, Dying Light: The Beast, World of Warcraft: Midnight, Hotel Barcelona, Invincible Vs., Cronos: The New Dawn, Outbound, Powerwash Simulator 2 and Starsand Island. Along with the English-language broadcast, Xbox's streams will be available in other languages on regional Xbox channels on the likes of YouTube, Twitch, TikTok and Facebook. The streams will be available in Traditional Chinese, German, French, Japanese, Brazilian Portuguese and Mexican Spanish, as well as with ASL and English audio descriptions. How to watch Future Games Show August 20, 2PM ET Watch on Twitch or YouTube Actors David Hayter (Snake in the Metal Gear series) and Maggie Robertson (Lady Dimitrescu in Resident Evil Village ) will be hosting this edition of the Future Games Show. This installment will feature more than 50 games across world premieres, new trailers and sudden demo releases. Capcom, Bandai Namco Entertainment, EA and NACON are among those who'll be represented in this one, which will feature projects from AAA and indie publishers and studios. Several games have been confirmed to make an appearance here, including Skate (which is slated to hit early access this year ), Resident Evil Requiem, Cronos: The New Dawn, Hotel Barcelona, Deer & Boy, The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin and Katanaut . Not only that, there will be a post-show that will run for 40 minutes and feature more trailers, world premieres and demo announcements. How to watch Xbox @ gamescom 2025 Day 2 Broadcast August 21, 9AM ET Watch on YouTube , Twitch , TikTok or Facebook Xbox will be broadcasting live from the Gamescom show floor for a second straight day. This particular stream will include details on Ninja Gaiden 4, The Outer Worlds 2 and Overwatch 2 (perhaps with more info about Season 18, which is set to start on August 26). You can also expect looks at Onimusha: Way of the Sword, At Fate's End, Age of Empires IV, High on Life 2, Jurassic World Evolution 3 and Fragpunk . In addition, the lineup for this stream includes Silent Hill f, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, Lego Voyagers, Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles, Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, Mistfall Hunter and My Hero Academia: All's Justice. How to watch Hollow Knight: Silksong - Special Announcement August 21, 10:30AM ET Watch on YouTube This is not a drill. Team Cherry has scheduled a special announcement for maybe the most anticipated and hyped-up game this side of Grand Theft Auto VI . The developer and publisher hasn't revealed exactly what it plans to announce regarding Hollow Knight: Silksong, but it's gotta be a release date, right ? A deeper dive into the game would be most welcome too. It's been six long years since we had some hands-on time with Hollow Knight: Silksong . However, Gamescom attendees will be able to try it out at the Microsoft and Nintendo booths on the show floor. I hope the two companies have lots of space to accommodate what are sure to be long lines. How to watch Awesome Indies August 21, 12PM ET Watch on YouTube and Twitch The Indie Arena Booth will host more than 200 games for Gamescom attendees to check out, but you won't necessarily need to be there in person to see them. Many will be featured in an hour-long showcase called Awesome Indies. Here, we'll see exclusive trailers, first peeks at never-before-seen gameplay, amazing premieres and exciting newcomers, according to Gamescom. There are a lot of interesting games being featured at the booth, including Cairn and Strange Antiquities . I'm particularly hoping the showcase will include some more details about Ball x Pit , which is one of my most anticipated games right now, Militsioner and the creepy-looking Fractured Blooms . How to watch Bethesda broadcasts - August 22 Watch on Twitch There will be plenty from the Bethesda side of the Xbox division as well. The publisher will be broadcasting from the Xbox show floor at Gamescom for three days, starting on August 22. According to Microsoft , these streams will include developer interviews, game showcases, community segments, crafting highlights and live IRL tours. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/how-to-watch-gamescom-2025-and-what-to-expect-120024733.html?src=rss
Aditya Chopra Steps In to Reshape Alpha
With War 2, the latest offering from Yash Raj Films ambitious spy universe, failing to meet expectations, the studio is now pressing pause and revisiting its strategy for upcoming projects in the franchise
Labubus Are on Track to Be a Billion-Dollar Business This Year
Pop Mart, the Chinese company behind the Labubu franchise, has sold $670 million worth of related products this yearmore than iconic US toy lines Barbie and Hot Wheels.
Jharkhand's Khunti villagers stage unique protest over bridge collapse; cut cake on collapsed bridge
RANCHI: In a creative yet touching display of frustration, people of Pelol village under Murhu Block in Khunti marked the two-month anniversary of the bridge collapse on the Khunti-Torpa-Kolebira road by cutting a cake on the broken bridge. This unusual form of protest was chosen due to fears of potential repercussions from the state government if they were to take to the streets in a more traditional form of protest. Notably, this is the same Pelol bridge which had forced the local children into a perilous daily routine, scaling a 25-foot bamboo ladder to reach their school. Later, when the photo of children scaling the ladder went viral, the administration came in and stopped them from doing so, assuring them that an alternate arrangement would me made very soon. But even after two months, not even a diversion was built. According to villagers, by cutting a cake on the collapsed bridge, they aimed to highlight the government's failure to address the infrastructure issue and provide a safe and reliable transportation route. This form of protest underscores the community's desperation and frustration with the situation. Neither the bridge was constructed nor any diversion was made in the last two months and hence, we were forced to cut the cake in protest against the indifference of the state government towards the people living in the area, said a local, Jakarius Tiru. We are having a lot of problem as there is no alternate road. It has become difficult for the children to cross the river daily to reach their school, he added. Students, in particular, have been affected, with many of them resorting to crossing the river to reach their school on a daily basis, he added. Tiru informed that after the bridge collapse, many leaders, including the local MLA, visited the site and also laid the foundation stone for the construction of the diversion, but this assurance also proved to be hollow. The villagers are constantly troubled since the bridge collapsed on June 19. Therefore, they protested by cutting a cake on the collapsed bridge, said Gram Pradhan Shiv Shankar Tiru. They adopted this unique way of expressing their anger as they fear that a case may be registered against them if they take to the streets against the state government, he added. The Gram Pradhan further informed that the bridge broke into two pieces amid heavy rains on June 19. It has been two months, but neither the construction of the bridge was started, nor any diversion route was made. Locals said that due to the apathy of the administration, the situation is getting worse day by day. The Pelol bridge, a vital link on the Simdega-Kolebira Road, crumbled on June 19 due to incessant rains. Its collapse severed crucial connectivity, bringing normal life to a grinding halt for thousands, and most acutely affecting the young students of Catherine School.
The HORI Piranha Plant camera for Switch 2 is on sale for $40
Even though the Switch 2 basically just came out, we're already starting to see discounts on some of its accessories. One of the more charming peripherals, the HORI Piranha Plant camera, is on sale right now for only $40. That's $20 off and a record-low price. It's a good deal for anyone who wants to take advantage of the Switch 2's camera functionality in games like Mario Kart World and that recently-released campfire sim . This was designed specifically for Nintendo's new console, so it's a plug-and-play affair. It's actually cheaper than the official Switch 2 camera with this sale and it looks a whole lot cooler. It's a Piranha Plant from the Mario franchise. We called it a work of art upon encountering the device and that holds true today. This thing is not only stylish, resembling an Amiibo more than a camera, but it's downright useful. The pot the Piranha Plant sits in functions as both a stand and USB extension for the device. The plant itself detaches from the pot, so the camera can be used in portable mode by popping it into the USB port at the top of the console. There's also a built-in privacy shutter. Just close the plant's mouth to obscure the lens. The actual camera specs here aren't going to win any awards, with a frame rate of 30FPS and a resolution of 640 x 480p. However, that's more than enough to capture footage of your floating head to accompany your kart as it races through the Mushroom Kingdom. Follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice . This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/the-hori-piranha-plant-camera-for-switch-2-is-on-sale-for-40-145031408.html?src=rss
Esha Gupta to join Ajay Devgn in 'Dhamaal 4'
Bollywood actor Esha Gupta will be joining Ajay Devgn in the upcoming comedy entertainer, Dhamaal 4. The film, directed by Indra Kumar, is a part of the popular Dhamaal franchise.
How Sarah Connor redefined women in action movies
Sarah Connor has been one of the most iconic characters in the Terminator movie franchise. She personifies strength and resilience.
'Dhoom 4': Popular Telugu actor might star opposite Ranbir Kapoor
The much-anticipated fourth installment of the Dhoom franchise is reportedly in the works, with Ranbir Kapoor set to lead the cast.
'Will make Rahul PM': Tejashwi Yadav vows 2029 support; calls NDA govt in Bihar 'khatara'
Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav appealed to Bihar voters. He wants them to support Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for Prime Minister in 2029. Yadav aims to defeat the National Democratic Alliance in the upcoming state elections. He criticized Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's government. Yadav accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of voter disenfranchisement.
Rahul Will Become PM After Next LS Polls: RJD's Tejashwi
The SIR is dacoity of votes and we will not allow that to happen. It's a conspiracy of the ruling dispensation to disenfranchise voters in Bihar, he alleged
How 'The Avengers' assembled into Hollywood's biggest franchise
The journey of The Avengers in the US cinema has been nothing short of fascinating, filled with milestones and transformations.
Jharkhand liquor scam: ACB court grants default bail to suspended IAS officer Vinay Choubey
RANCHI: Suspended IAS officer Vinay Choubey, who has been in jail since May 20 in connection with the Jharkhand liquor scam, has been granted default bail by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) court in Ranchi under Section 187(2) of the BNSS. The court allowed bail on the condition that he must inform the court before leaving the state and not change his mobile number during the trial. He has also been directed to furnish two personal bonds of Rs 25,000 each. Choubey secured default bail as the ACB failed to file a chargesheet within the stipulated 90-day period. The investigating agency said the delay was due to the non-receipt of prosecution approval. The ACB had arrested Choubey on May 20 after questioning him in connection with the scam. He remains in judicial custody, and the state government has suspended him over the serious allegations. According to investigators, Choubey allegedly collaborated with the Chhattisgarh liquor syndicate to frame Jharkhands new liquor policy, implemented on March 31, 2022, which caused financial losses to the state. At least 10 accused in the case are currently in jail, and they too may become eligible for default bail due to the non-filing of the chargesheet.
Opposition holds protest against SIR in Parliament complex
NEW DELHI: Opposition leaders on Tuesday stepped up their attack against the Election Commission over the voter roll revision in Bihar, with protesting MPs holding a huge banner carrying pictures of the election commissioners and raising slogans against the poll body. The banner, which carried the picture of CEC Gyanesh Kumar and other two election commissioners in the panel Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, also had vote chor and the words 'Silent Invisible Rigging' written on them. The protest in Parliament complex was led by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. He was accompanied by prominent opposition leaders and MPs, including Akhilesh Yadav and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Kharge later shared a video of their protest in Parliament in a post on X. The Election Commission cannot run away from its constitutional responsibility. INDIA (bloc) has raised serious questions on Free & Fair Elections with evidence, which the Election Commission should answer by investigating and not by intimidating the opposition! Kharge said in his post in Hindi. From the streets to the Parliament, the fight for voting rights continues, he also said. The opposition has been protesting in both Houses of Parliament against the SIR, alleging that the EC's exercise is aimed at disenfranchising voters in Bihar ahead of the assembly elections due later this year. They have been demanding a discussion on the issue in both Houses. Barring discussions on Operation Sindoor in the two Houses, Parliament has seen little business ever since the Monsoon session began on July 21 due to repeated adjournments, mostly over the SIR issue. The opposition MPs have raised the pitch against the CEC and EC after they held a press conference on Sunday. The Opposition says the EC has not answered any of their queries raised.
ST commission summons top Jharkhand officials over Surya Hansda encounter
RANCHI: Taking cognisance of a complaint lodged by Rajya Sabha MP Deepak Prakash, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has issued notices to the Jharkhand Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), Godda Deputy Commissioner, and Superintendent of Police (SP). The officials have been directed to appear before the Commission within three days to explain the actions taken following complaints received after the encounter of tribal leader Surya Hansda. In his complaint, Prakash demanded an impartial investigation into the suspicious encounter of Surya Hansda and appropriate action against those responsible. The Commission warned that failure to appear may result in the officials being summoned personally or through authorised representatives. The notice follows serious allegations raised by Deepak Prakash, a former Jharkhand BJP president. Notably, the BJP has described the encounter as a cold-blooded murder and demanded a probe either by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or under the supervision of a sitting High Court judge. State BJP President Babulal Marandi launched a scathing attack on the Hemant Soren-led government, alleging that criminal elements within the Jharkhand police were framing tribal leaders, facilitating land grabs, sheltering mafias, and using fake encounters to silence dissent. Marandi claimed Hansda was not killed in a legitimate police action but was murdered by cowards in uniform who feared his activism could rally tribals to demand their rights and resources. He further alleged that false cases, harassment, and systematic intimidation had become the government's standard response to protests. Ex-BJP leader killed in police encounter; Jharkhand BJP chief calls it cold-blooded murder by govt Hansdas wife and mother have consistently accused the police of a pre-planned murder and refused to accept his body. They too have demanded a CBI probe. Marandi added that if Chief Minister Hemant Soren fears a CBI investigation, then a sitting High Court judge should lead the inquiry. Hansda was shot dead by the police on 11 August, allegedly while trying to escape during a transit from Deoghar to Godda. According to the police, during interrogation, Hansda had revealed that weapons were hidden in the JirliDhamni hills of Godda. While being taken to the site, he allegedly snatched a weapon from a policeman and attempted to flee, leading to an encounter. However, his family members have vehemently denied this version, calling it a planned encounter. The police maintain that Hansda was involved in several criminal activities, including an incident in which he reportedly fractured the hand of a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) who had gone to arrest him. They claimed that all actions were in line with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) guidelines. Surya Hansda had contested the Borio assembly seat four times but never secured a win. He first contested in 2009 and 2014 on a Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (JVM) ticket, then in 2019 on a BJP ticket, finishing second. In the 2024 Assembly elections, he ran on a Jharkhand Kranti Lok Morcha (JKLM) ticket after being denied a BJP nomination.
Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning, the franchise's final installment, arrives on OTT platforms in August 2025, excluding India initially. While unavailable for streaming on Prime Video India, BookMyShow Stream offers rental and purchase options in multiple languages. This action-packed film features never-before-seen scenes, promising a thrilling conclusion to Ethan Hunt's journey against a rogue AI. Read on to know how to watch in India.
Afar region in Ethiopia reveals a fascinating discovery. Fossils of multiple human ancestor species are unearthed. These species coexisted about 2.6 to 2.8 million years ago. This challenges old views of human evolution. The discovery includes a new Australopithecus species. Early Homo genus members were also present. This suggests a complex, branching evolutionary history.
Jharkhand: House collapses, over a dozen others develop cracks in Dhanbad land subsidence
RANCHI: In a major land subsidence in Sabri Basti under Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) in Dhanbad, a house caved in completely, while over a dozen other houses developed cracks. According to the local people, the incident took place around 3 am, when the house of one Arun Rajak completely caved in. Over a dozen other houses developed cracks on their walls and floors, they said. Fortunately, no human casualties were reported, though panic spread across the locality. Sensing the danger, people fled their houses taking with them essential items and rations. Even then they lost some commodities in the landslide. Arun Rajak informed that his family was asleep when they were jolted awake by a loud noise, followed by the collapse of their asbestos-roofed house. In another incident, a cow belonging to Govind Bhuiyan was trapped in the subsidence but was rescued safely by local residents. Another resident Kalyani Devi said that there was loud noise in the morning, in which, her house collapsed. Somehow, they succeeded in saving their lives. We left the thatched roof and ran out, she said. Everything kept in the house, rice, pulses, clothes and other items sunk into the ground. Now, we don't even have anything to eat or wear, she added. Another local Indradev Bhuiyan alleged both BCCL management and local administration are responsible for this incident. Even after complaining with the administration, they did not take any action, said Bhuiyan. Project Officer of Modidih Colliery, Gopaljee, said the affected family has been shifted to Modidih Community Hall temporarily. He assured that all residents whose homes were damaged would be rehabilitated at Tetulmari. Local MLA from Baghmara, Shatrugha Mahto, visited the site in the morning and directed BCCL management to arrange rehabilitation and ensure immediate compensation for victims. Residents recalled that they were forced to move to Sabri Basti in 197677 after a fire destroyed their earlier settlement. However, the area has remained vulnerable, with a similar subsidence reported in 2006. At that time, local MLA and then-minister Jaleswar Mahto had ordered the filling of subsidence holes to prevent gas emissions. Despite repeated warnings, residents alleged that neither BCCL officials nor Jogta police responded promptly to this latest incident. Action was reportedly taken only after the local MLA, who is the elder brother of Dhanbad MP Dhulu Mahto, reached the spot and urged the officials to intervene. The affected families have expressed reluctance to move into vacant BCCL quarters in Tetulmari, as offered by the authorities. Instead, they have demanded rehabilitation in Angarpathra, which they consider a safer location.
Jharkhand school burnt to ashes; students, staff douse flames
RANCHI: A massive fire broke out in the hostel of Government Girl's Residential School located under Bariatu Block in Latehar on Monday morning. The fire was so fierce that all the beds and other articles of day-to-day life kept in Hall No. 5 of the hostel were completely burnt to ashes. All 240 girl students, studying in the school, are safe. Rather, without any help from the district administration, they doused the fire with the help of the school staff. It is due to their effort that the fire could not spread further, otherwise it would have engulfed the entire school, said a local Rajeev Kumar. They fetched water from the nearby handpump and doused the fire by pouring water on it, he added. After getting the information, District Education Officer Prince Kumar rushed to the spot to take stock of the situation. Prima facie, the fire reportedly broke out due to short circuit, but the matter is being investigated taking all aspects into consideration. All girls are safe as no one has been hurt in the incident, he added. Kumar further added that the teachers and other staff of the school are also completely safe. The beds kept in the hostel and other items kept in the room have been damaged, he said. Meanwhile, alternate arrangements are being made for the stay of the girl students. According to the students, the smoke was seen coming out of the hostel when all they were out to the ground to attend PT classes. Before people could understand anything, the smoke turned into flames within minutes and engulfed a room in Hall No. 5 of the hostel, where the beds of the girl students were kept. All the beds in the room were completely burnt. However, on getting information about the incident, some local people also reached there and tried to control the fire at their own level. But the fire was so fierce that everything was burnt to ashes, said a student requesting anonymity. Thank God that they had come out of the hostel for PT; had the incident taken place an hour before, there could have been a big loss of life too, she added. The school is currently running in a very old building and the new building of the school is under construction for the last 5 years; there is a huge shortage of space in the hostel. Also, the electric wires have become very old.
My intent in video was to talk about Brevis batting, not about his IPL signing amount: Ashwin
CHENNAI, Aug 17: Senior spinner R Ashwin has clarified his statement about the signing of Dewald Brevis by Chennai Super Kings, asserting that his focal point was the South Africans batting performance and not the price at which he was acquired midway through IPL 2025. A controversy erupted when Ashwin, currently in the CSK roster, hinted in his YouTube channel that the five-time IPL champions were willing to pay extra to avail Brevis services. His comments forced the IPL franchise [] The post My intent in video was to talk about Brevis batting, not about his IPL signing amount: Ashwin appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The Conjuring franchise will end with The Conjuring: Last Rites, releasing on September 5. Director Michael Chaves said the team felt it was the right time to conclude the series. The final film returns to a classic haunted house feel. Here's where you can watch all eight movies on OTT from the popular horror franchise.
MS Dhoni to become Team India's head coach? Ex-India star makes BIG claim
Gautam Gambhir serves as the head coach of the Indian team, whereas MS Dhoni continues to participate in the IPL. The seasoned player last took the field for Chennai Super Kings during the 2025 season and is anticipated to stay involved with the franchise post-retirement.
R Ashwin had to issue a clarification on his remarks on CSK's Dewald Brevis deal in IPL 2025. Check here to know what he said.
Five time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has refuted offie R Ashwin's claim that the franchisee has signed South African Dewald Brevis as replacement by paying more than Rs 2.2 crore in IPL 2025.
PN Gadgil Jewellers Targets Rs 9,500 Crore Revenue, 4% PAT Margin In FY26
Franchisee business is projected to account for 12% of the companys total revenue in FY26.
INDIA bloc meet next week to pick joint Vice President nominee
NEW DELHI: The INDIA bloc leaders will meet early next week to discuss the Vice Presidential candidate. According to leaders aware of the matter, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge is likely to call a meeting of floor leaders of Opposition parties early next week probably August 18 or 19 to discuss the name of a joint candidate for the bloc. Sources said that Kharge has been holding backchannel talks with leaders of parties for a consensus candidate. As per the Election Commission notification, candidates can file their nominations by 21st of August while the scrutiny of the nominations will take place on the 22nd August, The last date of the withdrawal of candidature will be 25th of this month. The counting of the votes will be held on 9th September. At the INDIA bloc meeting last week hosted by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, the parties have decided to contest the vice presidential poll after a collective decision on a common candidate. They have also decided to wait for the NDA to announce their candidate first.The leaders felt that the numbers are not overwhelmingly stacked against the opposition despite the BJP-led NDA having a majority. They said that there is a feeling that the opposition parties should not shy away from a contest to send a strong political message irrespective of the outcome. In a sudden move, Jagdeep Dhankhar quit as vice president on Monday evening citing medical reasons, though there have been consistent murmurs about other reasons behind his resignation. The effective strength of both the Houses together is 782 and the winning candidate will require to win 392 votes in the election for the vice president, considering all eligible voters exercise their franchise. All members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, including the nominated ones, vote in the vice presidential poll. In Lok Sabha, while the BJP-led NDA enjoys the support of 293 members in the 542-member House, the INDIA bloc has 234 members. The ruling alliance has the support of about 130 members in Rajya Sabha that has an effective strength of 240, assuming that the nominated members vote in support of the NDA nominee.
Rahul's 'Vote Adhikar Yatra' in Bihar starts today
Rahul Gandhi is set to launch the 'Vote Adhikar Yatra' from Sasaram, Bihar, to protest the alleged disenfranchisement of voters through the state's special intensive revision of electoral rolls. The 16-day yatra, joined by INDIA bloc members like Tejashwi Yadav, aims to raise awareness and combat what they call vote theft.
How document deficits may risk disenfranchising the poor, eroding trust in the Election Commission
Economic location is a major factor in terms of document possession; gap extends to entire families only about one in every 10 poor households said every adult member had a birth certificate
A few months after the IPL season ended, former India international and CSK star R Ashwin claimed that the franchise had allegedly paid an additional amount to secure Brewis' services during the season.
Parties failed to flag errors in time: EC rejects allegations of fudging in voter rolls
NEW DELHI: The Election Commission on Saturday pushed back against allegations of large-scale manipulation of voter lists, stressing that political parties had ample opportunity to scrutinise the rolls during the official claims and objections period but failed to raise concerns in time. In a statement, the poll panel said that some parties and their booth-level agents did not examine the electoral rolls at the appropriate time and did not point out errors, if any. It underlined that this window is designed precisely to allow parties and electors to check the draft lists and seek corrections before they are finalised. The EC noted that physical and digital copies of draft rolls are routinely shared with recognised parties, besides being uploaded on its website for public access. Once published, the final list is again circulated to all political parties, and a system of appeals is in place for anyone dissatisfied with the decisions of the Electoral Registration Officers (EROs). The commission maintained that it continues to welcome scrutiny of the rolls, saying, Such oversight helps the EROs identify and rectify mistakes, ensuring the purity of the electoral roll, which has always been our objective. Election Commission of India says, Recently, some Political Parties and individuals are raising issues about errors in the Electoral Rolls, including those prepared in the past. The appropriate time to raise any issue with the Electoral Rolls would have been during the Claims pic.twitter.com/0Q2e9brBES ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2025 The statement comes at a time when the poll body is facing mounting criticism from the Opposition. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has alleged that fake voters were inserted in key constituencies to favour the BJP, claiming that irregularities may have influenced the outcome in dozens of seats where margins were narrow. The EC has dismissed the charge and, according to officials, asked Gandhi to provide documentary proof or withdraw his accusations. Separately, in Bihar, the Commission is conducting a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls ahead of the assembly polls. Opposition parties there have alleged that the exercise could disenfranchise large numbers of genuine voters. The EC has countered that all parties were given detailed lists of proposed deletions, covering deaths, migrations, duplicate entries and other grounds, along with clear instructions on how to file objections. The Commission is scheduled to hold a press conference on Sunday, where it is expected to address both the recent controversies and explain the safeguards built into the voter roll revision process. (WIth inputs from PTI)
Lakhs gather at Nemra for Shibu Sorens Sanskar Bhoj; leaders across India pay tribute to Dishom Guru
RANCHI: Tributes poured in for Dishom Guru Shibu Soren on his Sanskar Bhoj at his native place in Nemra on Saturday. From senior political figures and government officials to social representatives and local villagers, a vast gathering assembled to honour the memory of the revered leader, popularly known as Dishom Guru. Dignitaries from all over the country participated in the Sanskar Bhoj. Apart from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Telangana CM Revanth Reddy, Baba Ramdev, Pappu Yadav and several others visited Nemra. Governor Santosh Gangwar also offered floral tributes at Sorens portrait and joined the Sanskar Bhoj. He later met Chief Minister Hemant Soren and family members to express his condolences. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recalled that Shibu Sorens simplicity and personality had always impressed him. I had several meetings with Dishom Guru, Shibu Soren. His spontaneity, simplicity and personality always impressed me. Guruji was known not only as the guardian of tribals but also of other communities. I offer my humble tribute to him, said Rajnath Singh after paying homage. Given the massive turnout, extensive arrangements were made for more than one lakh people visiting Nemra. Huge cutouts of late Shibu Soren were installed on both sides of the road. Around 4,000 street lights and over 200 generators were arranged to deal with any power failure. Five big pandals were raised at different places for the Sanskar Bhoj, each carrying Sorens picture where people paid their respects. More than 300 e-rickshaws operated between designated parking zones and the event venue. Resting areas and dedicated footpaths were set up for visitors convenience. To commemorate Sorens legacy, a short film on his life and struggles was screened at the venue, allowing people to reflect on his decades-long contribution to Jharkhand and Indias tribal movement. For the convenience of VIPs, four helipads were built within a one-kilometre radius of Sorens native house. Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed gratitude to the people who attended the Sanskar Bhoj of his father. He said he could never forget the support his family received from the people of the state during the difficult circumstances when Baba (Shibu Soren) was struggling for life in a hospital in New Delhi. People prayed for Baba's life, but God probably had something else in mind. Today Dishom Guru is not among us, but the participation of lakhs of people from his funeral rites to Sanskar Bhoj, standing with us during the entire Shraddha Karma, gave us and our family a lot of self-confidence in this hour of grief, said Hemant Soren. The way people of the state were present with the family every moment is enough to tell how deep their attachment was with Baba, he added. Baba may have left us forever, but he will always be remembered as the guide and pathfinder of this state, said the Chief Minister.
BIHAR: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will embark on a 'Voter Adhikar Yatra' across Bihar from here on Sunday, with his party asserting it will fight for the one person, one vote principle and not accept the Election Commission becoming a compartment of the BJP's so-called double engine. The leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, along with RJD's Tejashwi Yadav and other Mahagathbandhan leaders, will undertake the 16-day and 1,300 km-long yatra from Sasaram, which will conclude with a rally in Patna on September 1. In a post in Hindi on X, Gandhi said, 16 days, 20+ districts, 1,300+ km. We are coming among the people with the Voter Adhikar Yatra. This is a fight to protect the most basic democratic right - 'one person, one vote'. 16 20+ 1,300+ .. - , pic.twitter.com/4zturHDnOl Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 16, 2025 Join us in Bihar to save the Constitution, he added. Addressing a press conference at the Indira Bhawan in New Delhi, Congress's media and publicity department head, Pawan Khera, said, Whenever Rahul Gandhi ji has set out for a yatra, the democracy of this country has turned a page. 'Voter Adhikar Yatra' will be a historic march. It will prove to be a milestone in the history of our democracy. We will not accept that the Election Commission becomes a compartment of this so-called 'double engine'. We are fighting against this and will continue to do so in the future, he added. The party has been protesting against the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging the EC's exercise is aimed at disenfranchising voters in Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections due later this year. The Congress urged the people of Bihar to join the 'yatra' for their rights and entitlements so that democracy can get a direction from Bihar. The yatra, starting in Bihar from August 17, is a journey to make people aware because the conspirators will not be deterred and they will try to steal votes, Khera said. The yatra will conclude with a huge rally in Patna on September 1, and the people of the INDIA bloc will participate in it, he added. He added that the 'yatra' has been planned to fight for the right of 'one person-one vote'. It is possible to breathe freely in independent India because we have the power to vote. Rahul Gandhi has started a struggle so that every citizen of the country can breathe freely, Khera said. The way the game of adding and deducting fake votes was going on, the BJP people have been caught red-handed, he claimed, adding that ow, even ordinary citizens are giving evidence of vote theft. When our INDIA bloc colleagues and social workers appealed together, the Supreme Court also had to intervene. Public has woken up: Rahul Gandhi shares new video highlighting 'vote theft' This conspiracy was not just to snatch votes. It was a conspiracy to snatch your and our identity. Today, the right to vote is being snatched from the Dalits, the deprived, the oppressed, the exploited, the minorities; tomorrow their participation will be snatched, Khera alleged. He claimed that a conspiracy was being hatched to attack the poor, against which the people of the country have raised their voice. The 'yatra' will pass through Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada, Nalanda, Sheikhpura, Lakhisarai, Munger, Bhagalpur, Katihar, Purnea, Araria, Supaul, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Sitamarhi, East Champaran, West Champaran, Gopalganj, Siwan, Chapra and Ara. At a press briefing in Patna, Congress MP Akhilesh Prasad Singh said that when the Election Commission announced the SIR of electoral rolls in Bihar, the leaders of the INDIA bloc went to meet poll panel officials, who had stated that 20 per cent of the voters in Bihar would lose their franchise. We demanded a discussion on this issue in the House, but the BJP government did not consider it necessary. When the new draft list came out after SIR in Bihar, many irregularities were revealed. When we are asking for answers on this, the BLO (block-level officer) has no answer, he claimed. In such a situation, we have decided that the Congress will start a 'Voter Awareness Campaign'. In this, we will go to all districts of Bihar and make people aware, so that they are not deprived of their rights, Singh said. He also said that Rahul Gandhi is fighting to save the Constitution. Rahul Gandhi is the voice of the poor, deprived, women, farmers, and labourers of the country. We request the people of Bihar to take part in this journey and help us in foiling the plans of the Election Commission-BJP, Singh added. Gandhi on Thursday said, We are waging a direct fight against 'vote chori' from Bihar with the 'Voter Adhikar Yatra. He asserted that his party will ensure a clean voters' list across the country. 'Vote chori' is not just an election issue but a decisive battle to protect democracy, the Constitution and the principle of 'one man, one vote', he had said. The Congress on Tuesday claimed that vote chori was a do-or-die issue for it, and announced a roadmap to take its allegations to the people through various activities. 'Got a chance to have tea with dead voters': Rahul Gandhi takes shot at EC over Bihar SIR
Rahul Gandhi to embark on 16-day 'Voter Adhikar Yatra' in Bihar from Sunday
Rahul Gandhi is set to launch a 16-day 'Voter Adhikar Yatra' from Sasaram, Bihar, covering 1,300 km to Patna, aiming to protect voting rights. The Congress underlined what it said was a BJP conspiracy to disenfranchise marginalised communities through electoral roll revisions.
The season finale, which is also apparently the concluding chapter of the franchise, does the characters no favours, plumbing the depths of bad taste that no Manolo can help us un-see
Home Alone Reboot Would Be A 'Mistake', Says Director Chris Columbus
Home Alone director Chris Columbus thinks it would be a mistake to reboot the franchise, and that it should be left alone.
Jharkhand Guv, Speaker, LoP, MLAs pay tributes to Education Minister Ramdas Soren
RANCHI, Aug 16: Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Speaker Rabindra Nath Mahato, Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi, and ministers, MLAs and political leaders on Saturday paid tributes to Education Minister Ramdas Soren, who died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Delhi. The mortal remains of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader, who died on Friday night, were brought to Ranchi this morning and kept on the assembly premises for people to pay homage. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Radhakrishna Kishore, Congress [] The post Jharkhand Guv, Speaker, LoP, MLAs pay tributes to Education Minister Ramdas Soren appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, MLAs pay homage to Education Minister Ramdas Soren
The mortal remains of Ramdas Soren were brought to Ranchi and kept on the Assembly premises for people to pay homage. Governor Gangwar paid floral tributes to Soren's mortal remains on the Assembly premises
Not Chennai Super Kings, Sanju Samson may join THIS franchise after his exit from Rajasthan Royals
After a recent report claiming Sanju Samson has urged the Rajasthan Royals management to release him ahead of next year's IPL auction went viral, there have been speculations around him joining CSK as a replacement of MS Dhoni in the team as a wicketkeeper batter.
Jharkhand district to raise 1 lakh trained volunteers for emergency medical aid
RANCHI: In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, Ramgarh district of Jharkhand will soon have an army of one lakh volunteers named Aapda Mitra. They are trained to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid. The target was achieved within two months of Deputy Commissioner Faiz-Aq Ahmed Mumtaz taking charge in June this year. CPR is a life-saving technique in emergencies when someone is facing breathing problems or when the heartbeat has stopped due to a heart attack. Performed quickly by trained people, CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest. The administration launched a drive in schools, colleges, panchayats, government offices, and mining areas, which made it possible to reach this mark. Ramgarh is about to create history; we will have 1 lakh civilians in the district trained to perform CPR and first aid by next week, said the Deputy Commissioner. He added that people are learning CPR and first aid in villages, schools, mines, factories, shops, and offices to achieve the target by August 15. However, due to the sudden demise of Dishom Guru Shibu Soren, the date has been extended, and the district is now likely to achieve the one lakh mark by August 20. Ahmed said that initially, 3,329 certified master trainers were trained by experts and paramedics. The trainers were then deployed to train others in every panchayat as well as in schools, factories, and mines. Those who received the training praised the initiative, calling it very useful in emergencies. After receiving CPR training, I can confidently say I can save someones life if I come across such a person in an hour of need, said a Class 11 student of a government school in Ramgarh. Rajkumar, a mechanical engineer working at a local steel plant, also said the training will prove to be life-saving in emergencies. Khushboo Kumari of Patratu said, Everyone knows that something should be done in case of a heart attack. Now, I have been trained and can save a life in an emergency.
What to watch this weekend on Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Peacock, Starz and Tubi. Several new movies and shows will be available to watch across major streaming platforms. Fresh content, including films, series, and documentaries have been added. Highlights include Night Always Comes, Limitless: Live Better Now, The Legend of Ochi, and popular franchise titles.
Jharkhand education minister Ramdas Soren passes away during treatment in Delhi
RANCHI: Jharkhand Education Minister Ramdas Soren, 62, who had suffered a head injury after he fell in the bathroom at his residence early in the morning on August 2, finally succumbed to his injuries during treatment at Apollo Hospital in Delhi. Immediately after the incident, Soren was admitted to Tata Motors Hospital in Jamshedpur for treatment, but was referred to Apollo Hospital in Delhi for better treatment. Then he was airlifted from Jamshedpur Airport to Apollo Hospital in Delhi under special arrangements. Ramdas Soren had suffered a head injury after he fell in the bathroom. The information was confirmed by Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) state spokesperson and former MLA Kunal Sarangi. Family members, along with Sarangi, were present at the hospital at the time of his death. I am sharing this information with all of you with great sorrow that the state's School Education and Registration Minister and Ghatsila MLA @RamdassorenMLA is no more among us. It is a personal and irreparable loss for his millions of fans, well-wishers, hard-working workers, colleagues of the School Education and Registration Department and all of us, posted Sarangi on X. Entire @JmmJharkhand family expresses its heartfelt gratitude to all the doctors of Indraprastha Apollo Hospital and all the health workers of their teams that they worked very hard day and night from last August 2 till today to cure him, but we are all helpless before the will of God, he stated, further adding, May God grant a place to the departed soul in his feet.. Om Shanti. Ramdas Soren had suffered from kidney-related ailments before, and had been receiving treatment at Apollo Hospital in Delhi earlier also. Therefore, at the request of his family, it was decided to airlift him to Delhi. However, even after being admitted to Apollo Hospital in Delhi, his condition remained critical and was put on a life support system, with a team of multidisciplinary senior specialists closely monitoring his condition. Despite doctors efforts, his condition worsened, and he succumbed late Friday. Apollo Hospital authorities have also confirmed the death. His mortal remains are likely to be brought back to Jamshedpur on Saturday for the final rites. Ramdas Soren, who started his political career in 1980 with JMM, was counted among the prominent leaders in the party and was a sitting MLA from Ghatshila. After Champai Soren joined BJP, Ramdas Soren replaced him in Hemant Soren Cabinet. Hemant Soren made him a minister in his previous cabinet, projecting him as a prominant leader of Kolhan. After the 2024 Assembly polls, he retained his seat and was made a minister again.
Four persons suffocated to death while opening septic tank in Jharkhand
RANCHI: Four people died of suffocation while attempting to clean a septic tank at Nawada village in Garhwa district on Friday. The victims were identified as Ajay Chaudhary (50), Chandrashekhar Chaudhary (42), Raju Shekhar Chaudhary (55), and Maltu Ram. Ajay, Chandrashekhar, and Raju were brothers, all residents of Nawada village. According to Garhwa Sub-divisional Police Officer Neeraj Kumar, This incident took place while opening the shuttering of the tank as all four got stuck after getting down into it one by one. The three brothers were getting their house constructed, during which, a labourer entered into the septic tank to open the shuttering but did not come out. Then the three brothers went inside the tank one by one to find out what happened to the other one, but none of them came out. Later, they were taken out with the help of villagers, but all were found dead. Eyewitnesses said that after opening the tank's shuttering, Maltu Ram entered first but did not return. Raju Shekhar Chaudhary then went in to check on him but also failed to come out. Ajay Chaudhary and Chandrashekhar Chaudhary followed one after another, but all four became trapped inside and died. Nearby villagers raised an alarm when the men did not emerge, and after considerable effort, the bodies were retrieved and taken to Garhwa Sadar Hospital, where doctors declared them dead on arrival. A team has been formed to investigate into the matter to find out the reason of their death. Bodies were sent for post-mortem examination, said Deputy Superintendent at Garhwa Sadar Hospital, Mahroom Yamini.
Over 32 lakh Jharkhand students pay tribute to Dishom Guru Shibu Soren across 3,500 schools
RANCHI: Over 32 lakh students in all 3,500 schools across Jharkhand paid tribute to the tribal icon and founding patron of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, late Shibu Soren, on Thursday. As per the instructions of the School and Literacy Department, tribute meetings were held in all government schools in Jharkhand in the fond memory of Late Shibu Soren, also known as Dishom Guru. Former Chief Minister Shibu Soren was also the pioneer of the Jharkhand movement, a social reformer, and a Rajya Sabha MP. The programme aimed to inspire students with his life and contributions. More than 1 lakh teachers, over 32 lakh students, and around 2 lakh community members, including School Management Committee members and parents, joined the gatherings. Morning prayers included a moment of silence, followed by discussions highlighting Sorens work in social justice, tribal rights, land reform, and education, stated an official release issued by the chief ministers office. During the programme, the students pledged to uphold truth, justice, and social service, committing to become responsible citizens and contribute to nation-building. Departmental Secretary Umashankar Singh said that Sorens life was not only politically inspiring but also a lifelong struggle for Jharkhands identity, culture, and tribal welfare, inspiring people especially youth to walk the path of truth, service, struggle, and dedication.
Assam's anti-CAA committee opposes proposed SIR of electoral rolls in state
The Coordination Committee Against Citizenship Amendment Act, Assam, opposes the proposed special intensive revision of electoral rolls, fearing disenfranchisement of Muslims included in the NRC and enfranchisement of ineligible Hindu Bangladeshis. Assam Congress has launched a campaign and training program for booth-level agents to combat voter fraud, following concerns raised about voter list manipulation.
The Supreme Court addressed critical issues, directing the Election Commission to disclose details of deleted Bihar voters amid opposition concerns of disenfranchisement. The court also reserved its order on stray dog removal in Delhi-NCR, emphasizing authorities' inaction.
Hyderabad resident defrauded of 5.41 lakh in online franchise scam
SIR Row: Mumbai has Bangladeshis who lack Indian citizenship yet have voting rights, claims MP Deora
MUMBAI: Mumbai has several Bangladeshis who have not been granted citizenship but have voting rights, and urgent action should be taken on this, said Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora on Thursday. Speaking to PTI Videos , Deora, who was earlier with the Congress, welcomed the ongoing verification of electoral rolls in Bihar by the Election Commission of India (ECI). The Opposition, led by the Congress, has alleged that the ECI's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar for updating the voters' list, in which people are required to submit documents establishing citizenship, is aimed at disenfranchising voters ahead of the assembly elections. It has called the exercise vote chori. When we met the EC, we also pointed out that there are many Bangladeshis in Mumbai who have not been granted citizenship but have voting rights, and urgent action should be taken on this, said Deora. EC publishes draft voter rolls for poll-bound Bihar after month-long SIR As for the process they (Opposition) are talking about, that the Election Commission should check the voter rolls, that is exactly what the EC is doing, and we welcome it, he said. Deora slammed the opposition parties, saying they lack internal democracy, and questioned their claim to protect India's democratic framework. These are the people who do not have democracy within their own party, so how will they strengthen democracy in the country? First, they should bring democracy into their own party, he said. Deora also criticised the Opposition for what he described as a recurring pattern of scapegoating. Earlier, they blamed EVMs, sometimes they blamed the media, and today they are blaming the electoral rolls. Tomorrow, they will find someone else to blame. This is nothing but an excuse to divert public attention, because there is no democracy in their own parties, he added. SC asks ECI to disclose identity of 65 lakh deleted voters from electoral roll by Aug 19
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has accused the BJP of disenfranchising Bahujans by manipulating voter lists and erasing Adivasi forest rights, particularly in Chhattisgarh. Gandhi highlighted a news report indicating the disappearance of forest rights titles in Rajnandgaon district. He asserted that the Congress enacted the Forest Rights Act to safeguard tribal rights, while the BJP is allegedly weakening it.
