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Trinamool names 4 Lok Sabha candidates, BJP hits back at ‘un-Bengali’ charges

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Trinamool names 4 Lok Sabha candidates, BJP hits back at ‘un-Bengali’ charges

New Delhi: All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Thursday announced four candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, triggering a sharp political attack on the choices by the West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party.The TMC said in a statement that Babul Supriyo, former West Bengal police chief Rajeev Kumar, senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy and actor Koel Mallick have been nominated. The party said the nominees reflected the Trinamool’s commitment to “resilience” and upholding the rights and dignity of citizens.“May they continue to uphold the lasting legacy of the Trinamool and its unwavering commitment to the people of India,” the party said in its official statement.

‘Targeting people like terrorists’: Mamata Banerjee attacks EC over SIR, citing Bangladesh polls

However, the nominations immediately drew a harsh response from the West Bengal BJP. this bjp Half of Trinamool’s Rajya Sabha nominees allegedly non-Bengali, questions Chief Minister Mamata BanerjeeFrequently expressed support for Bangladesh.“Can’t Mamata Banerjee find enough Bengalis to field nominations? Or is she rewarding those who have her dirty secrets and are willing to be accomplices in her criminal and corrupt syndicate?” the West Bengal unit of the BJP said in a statement, accusing the TMC of using Bengali identity only as an electoral tool.The BJP further alleged that Banerjee “despised Bengalis” while claiming to support their cause and said the nominations exposed the hollowness of the so-called Trinamool regional pride narrative.

Donald Trump on Iran: ‘Don’t want to, but sometimes you have to’: Donald Trump again warns Iran of possible military action

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Donald Trump on Iran: ‘Don’t want to, but sometimes you have to’: Donald Trump again warns Iran of possible military action

“不想，但有时你不得不”：唐纳德·特朗普再次警告伊朗可能采取军事行动

File photo: US President Donald Trump (Photo source: Associated Press)

US President Donald Trump said he was “not happy” with Iran but still wanted a deal, even as Washington continued its massive military buildup in the country. middle East.Trump told reporters he expected more talks with Iran on Friday. “Not happy with Iran, but expect more talks on Friday,” he said, according to Reuters.He made clear that his core demand remained unchanged: “Iran cannot have nuclear weapons.”

‘Preparing for a long war with the US’: Iraqi fighters issue statement supporting Iran and Khamenei

“Don’t want to, but sometimes you have to”

When asked directly whether he would use force against Iran, Trump expressed reluctance but did not rule out the possibility.“Don’t want to, but sometimes you have to,” he said.Tensions are rising after Washington and Tehran held their latest round of nuclear talks in Geneva. While Oman-brokered talks have reportedly made some progress, no deal has yet been announced.Trump has repeatedly threatened military action if Iran refuses to agree to a far-reaching deal to curb its nuclear program. Iran insists it has the right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes and denies seeking nuclear weapons.

Diplomacy continues amid military buildup

Despite the tough rhetoric, diplomatic channels remain open.Secretary of State of the United States Marco Rubio The State Department said he will travel to Israel on Monday and Tuesday to discuss “a range of regional priorities, including Iran, Lebanon, and ongoing efforts to implement President Trump’s 20-point peace plan for Gaza.”The visit comes as the United States builds up important military assets in the region. One aircraft carrier is already deployed in the Middle East and another is on its way there, along with more aircraft and warships.Iran has warned it would retaliate against U.S. forces in the region, including those stationed at U.S. bases with Arab allies, if attacked.

Embassy departure and travel warnings

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem has authorized the voluntary departure of non-essential personnel and their families. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee urged staff members who wished to leave to do so immediately, citing an email sent to The Associated Press.“Those who wish to receive AD should do so today,” Huckabee wrote, referring to “authorization to leave.”The email warned that while outbound flights may continue for a few days, “probably not”.Other countries have taken similar precautions. The UK has temporarily withdrawn its embassy staff from Iran, and the embassy continues to work remotely. Australia has directed the families of its officials in Israel to leave, while China and several European countries have advised citizens to avoid traveling to Iran.

Nuclear issues and access stagnation

Meanwhile, a confidential report from the U.N. nuclear watchdog seen by The Associated Press said Iran has not allowed inspectors access to sensitive nuclear facilities since they were heavily bombed during a 12-day conflict launched by Israel last June.As a result, the agency said it could not verify Iran’s claims that it had halted uranium enrichment following the U.S. and Israeli attacks.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Thursday that “our side has made it clear what needs to happen,” without elaborating. Tehran has long demanded sanctions be lifted in exchange for curbs — but not a complete halt — to its nuclear activities.Technical discussions are scheduled to take place in Vienna next week. U.S. Vice President Vance is also expected to meet Omani Foreign Minister Badr Busaidi in Washington, and Muscat will continue to mediate between the two sides.

New Epstein Clicker game arrives after Five Nights at Epstein; ‘It’s terrifying’

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New Epstein Clicker game arrives after Five Nights at Epstein; ‘It’s terrifying’

A new video game called “Epstein Clicker” is circulating on social media just days after a game called “Five Nights at Epstein” first appeared. Several parents posted this week expressing concerns about the games that emerged in the wake of the release of the notorious Epstein documents.

A new video game called Epstein Clicker has surfaced (X/@MarioNawfal)
A new video game called Epstein Clicker has surfaced (X/@MarioNawfal)

What do we know about the “Epstein clicker”?

Epstein Clicker is apparently a satirical indie click/place game based on Jeffrey Epstein (similar to Cookie Clicker). According to multiple TikTok videos, it was reportedly created by developers including Gh0stKn1ght, jknnkla, and FL0W. They feature dark humor, such as “resurrecting” Epstein or Epstein-themed upgrades, and features such as “Mossad Mode.”

A TikTok account (@epsteinclicker) promotes the web version of epsteinclicker.com, which contains videos showing gameplay and updates. Currently, the website says “Bandwidth Quota Exceeded.”

“This site has exceeded its monthly bandwidth quota. It must be upgraded via the Firebase console before it can start serving traffic again,” the message reads.

On Reddit, sparse; r/CookieClicker noted that Epstein files similar screenshots of Cookie Clicker (unrelated), as well as off-topic posts about Epstein-themed games in r/videogames.

“My little sister told me that her classmates are playing Epstein Clicker. BTW, they are sixth graders,” one user wrote on the X (formerly Twitter) platform.

A description of the platform on itch.io, an open digital marketplace where independent creators can host, sell and download indie games, reads: “From the smoke rises…the worst resurrection imaginable: Epstinoid Beta Mk.2, a rubbery, glitchy clone built by the underworld’s budget science arm. He looks like someone tried to 3D print a scandal.”

“Five Nights with Epstein” surfaced a few days ago. It appears to be named after the video game series Five Nights at Freddy’s.

“Today, after picking up my kids from school, I noticed a group of boys in one of the classes playing a game called Five Nights on Epstein’s Island on their Chromebooks. They were laughing and joking about it. Apparently you can make a baby or little girl cry in an attempt to lure Epstein and other predators. This is disturbing for countless reasons and the school has been notified. Please talk to your kids!!!,” one concerned parent wrote on social media.

Government suspends rollout of fortified rice in welfare scheme due to shelf life issues

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Government suspends rollout of fortified rice in welfare scheme due to shelf life issues

政府因保质期问题暂停在福利计划中推出强化大米The decision was taken following a study conducted by IIT Kharagpur to evaluate the shelf life of fortified rice (FRK) and fortified rice (FR) in different agro-climatic zones of the country under practical storage conditions. Key factors such as moisture content, temperature, relative humidity, storage conditions and packaging materials “severely” affect the stability of fortified rice, the study found.According to the official release, the study concluded that FRK and FR “are susceptible to micronutrient reduction and reduced shelf life during long-term storage and daily handling. This reduction results in a shorter than expected effective shelf life, which in turn limits expected nutritional results.”The Ministry of Food noted that rice procured for distribution is usually stored for 2 to 3 years due to high buffer stocks. With an annual allocation of 372 million tonnes under PMGKAY and other welfare schemes, the total supply from the central pool is expected to be 674 million tonnes, including the expected revenue for the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2025-26. Extended storage times have become a key challenge in maintaining micronutrient stability.“In light of these findings, it was decided to temporarily halt rice fortification until a more robust and efficient nutrient delivery mechanism is developed and operational,” the ministry said.It also said the government’s move would not result in a reduction in the beneficiaries’ food entitlements.Prime Minister delivered a speech at the Red Fort on August 15, 2021 Narendra Modi Announced mandatory fortification of rice distributed through government schemes including PDS and PM POSHAN by 2024 to combat malnutrition. The program aims to provide rice rich in iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 to disadvantaged groups across the country.

What Pak must do now to qualify for semi-finals – run rate equation explained

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What Pak must do now to qualify for semi-finals – run rate equation explained

England beat New Zealand by 4 wickets: What Pakistan need now to qualify for T20 World Cup semi-finals - Run rate equation explained
Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi shakes hands with England captain Harry Brook after he was dismissed during the T20 World Cup cricket match between England and Pakistan at Pallekh, Sri Lanka, Tuesday, February 24, 2026. (Associated Press)

England, who are already in the semi-finals, defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the final match of the T20 World Cup Super Eights on Friday to complete the stage unbeaten and keep Pakistan in contention for a semi-final spot.England currently have three wins from three games in the Super Eights. New Zealand ranks second with 3 points and Pakistan ranks third with 1 point. Pakistan must register a resounding win against already eliminated Sri Lanka on Saturday to advance to the semi-finals ahead of New Zealand.Earlier, New Zealand opted to bat and scored 159 for 7 in 20 overs. Their batsmen got the first start but failed to convert the score into a bigger one. Glenn Phillips scored 39 points, Tim Seifert 35 points, Finn Allen 29 points, Mark Chapman 15 points.For England, will jacks Returned 2/23, Adil Rashid Taking 2/28, Rehan Ahmed also took 2/28. Liam Dawson took 1/32.In response, England were reduced to 2/2 before they recovered with contributions from Tom Banton (33), Will Jacks (32 not out), captain Tom Banton Harry Brooke (26), Sam Curran (24) and Rehan Ahmed (19 not out). England were 161 for 6 in 19.3 overs.For New Zealand, Rachin Ravindra was the most successful bowler with figures of 3/19.

Pakistan semi-final qualifying scene

England’s victory keeps Pakistan alive in the 2026 T20 World Cup. New Zealand and Pakistan are still fighting for the remaining semi-final spots in the group.To confirm the math at Palleke tomorrow: Pakistan need to beat Sri Lanka by 64 runs or catch Sri Lanka by 13.1 runs, otherwise New Zealand will advance.Brief score:New Zealand: 159 runs in 20 overs 7 (Glenn Phillips 39, Tim Seifert 35; Will Jacks 2/23)England: 161 for 6 in 19.3 overs (Will Jacks 32 not out; Rachin Ravindra 3/19).

Last-minute backing down: Indian F-1 students claim companies refused to sponsor H-1Bs despite previous promises

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Last-minute backing down: Indian F-1 students claim companies refused to sponsor H-1Bs despite previous promises

Last-minute backing down: Indian F-1 students claim companies refused to sponsor H-1Bs despite previous promises

Students working on OPT or OPT extension in the United States on F-1 visas claim that the companies they worked for are now no longer sponsoring H-1B visas at the last minute. They learned of the change just days before H-1B cap registration began on March 4, leaving them with no other option to remain in the United States. F-1 visa students complained that because the students were already in the United States, their applications would not require the $100,000 fee if they were selected for H-1B visas, but the company still did not proceed with processing the previously promised H-1Bs. “I am currently racing in F1 (OPT) and my company has verbally confirmed that they will sponsor my H1B this year. I planned everything around that – staying with them, not exploring other offers, and trusting their commitment. Now, at the last minute, they have said they will no longer sponsor. This is an Indian consulting firm and I heard that some other Indian consulting firms have also dropped their sponsorship of OPT candidates,” said a Reddit user. “I feel bad and I honestly felt cheated. If they had told me earlier, I could have tried elsewhere. Changing the decision so late would have put my status and career at risk,” the Reddit user added.

Donald Trump policies reshape U.S. hiring, H-1B visa tweaks fuel anti-India movement

This is a new challenge as thousands of Indians are stuck in India without getting any visa stamp date, some have been laid off and many have had their H-1B visas canceled on charges of working for US companies from India. F-1 students already in the United States will not receive a job call requiring an H-1B visa.

Indian students on F-1 visas say companies backed away from H-1B sponsorship at the last minute.

“I wanted to ask if anyone has observed any pattern in the job market lately. I see these companies are no longer hiring any H1B visa holders. They are not even willing to accept visa transfers. They claim this is their internal policy and has nothing to do with the legal process and other stuff. Are companies being targeted by the government for hiring H1B candidates??? Is now a bad time to be on an H1B visa? Because I get a lot of calls for OPT EAD contract positions but no one is ready for H1B visa holders,” another Redditor the user wrote.

Reddit users say companies are not even willing to accept visa transfers

Only 70 companies paid $100,000 in H-1B visa fees

Only about 70 employers have paid $100,000 in Trump fees to H-1B workers outside the U.S. since the White House announcement made them mandatory in September, a government lawyer said Thursday during a hearing on a lawsuit over the visa fees.

‘Uttarakhand is an emotion, not just a state’: Dr Kumar Vishwas on Uttarakhand Transformation Dialogue

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‘Uttarakhand is an emotion, not just a state’: Dr Kumar Vishwas on Uttarakhand Transformation Dialogue

New Delhi: At the Dialogue on Transformation of Uttarakhand in Dehradun, poet and author Dr Kumar Vish discussed the spiritual nature, cultural identity and development of the state. He urged people to consider Uttarakhand not just as a destination but as a sacred space that needs to be respected.Emphasizing that people have a deeper connect with the region, he said, “Uttarakhand is not a state but an emotion. One should enter the state like a temple.” People visiting Devbhoomi should embody its spirit.Vishwas made a strong appeal to protect the sanctity of the major pilgrim town. He urged authorities and tourists not to turn Haridwar and Rishikesh into commercial tourism hubs, suggesting that destinations like Mussoorie and Landur were better suited for such activities.Preserving the sacred character of the Holy City will ensure that people continue to respect their cultural and spiritual heritage. He said tourists must come to Uttarakhand with “tameez and tehzeeb” and respect the traditions of the land.Sharing his views on the idea of ​​religious tourism, Vishwas said, “I have been visiting Uttarakhand for years. These two words should never be put together. Places like Haridwar and Kedarnath are not religious, they are spiritual. Anyone can create a religion to fool the gullible masses. Spirituality is about keeping your humanity alive.”Talking about the Covid-19 pandemic, he highlighted India’s scientific achievements and humanitarian prospects. “India’s scientific ethos helps in the fight against COVID-19. We were one of the first countries to develop a vaccine and then sent it to countries that could not afford a vaccine. This is India’s thought process. We want everyone to stay happy and prosperous,” he said.He also advised tourists to embrace the local culture. “When you travel to Uttarakhand, you have to follow its culture and eat its food, otherwise you might as well go to Switzerland,” he said.When asked about the growing impact of artificial intelligence on all aspects of life, including the creative arts, he said, “The more artificial intelligence appears, the more real intelligence will be valued.” Weaving spirituality, cultural pride and modern realities together, Vishwas captivated the audience with his anecdotes and wide-ranging knowledge.

Hillary Clinton Epstein Testimony: Transcript Leaked, Latest Developments in Bill Clinton Inquiry

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Hillary Clinton Epstein Testimony: Transcript Leaked, Latest Developments in Bill Clinton Inquiry

former first couple bill and Hillary Clintontestifying in the investigation into the Jeffrey Epstein dossier. The former US secretary of state and first lady insisted she had no recollection of meeting the late sex offender and pedophile before a congressional committee on Thursday.

Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton walks out to speak to reporters after testifying in closed-door testimony (AFP Getty Images)
Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton walks out to speak to reporters after testifying in closed-door testimony (AFP Getty Images)

“I have no recollection of ever meeting Mr. Epstein. I have never flown on his plane or visited his island, home or offices,” Clinton said in a statement hours after closed-door testimony before the House Oversight Committee in Chappaqua, New York.

Read more: Hillary Clinton’s Epstein Testimony: Rep. Lauren Boebert’s Leaked Photos Halt Hearing; Lines Explained

Hillary Clinton’s testimony transcript

Several Democrats, including California Rep. Robert Garcia, have called for the release of the full, unredacted transcript of Clinton’s testimony. He was joined by Democratic Reps. Yasamin Ansari, Wesley Bell, Subrahmanyam and James Walkinshaw.

While the full transcript is unlikely to be released, we have compiled some portions of public statements and media reports.

What did Hillary Clinton say about Epstein?

Clinton told reporters she was asked the same question repeatedly during the seven-hour testimony. The 78-year-old was also asked about UFO and Pizzagate conspiracy theories.

“It’s disappointing that they’ve refused to hold a public hearing so that I don’t have to describe the situation for you here,” she said. “You can see for yourself. We’ve asked for that. We think it’s going to be better for the committee and their efforts to gather whatever information they’re seeking.”

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to say I didn’t know Jeffrey Epstein. I’d never been to his island, I’d never been to his home, I’d never been to his office,” she added.

Read more: When will the video and transcript of Hillary Clinton’s Epstein testimony be released? what we know

Meanwhile, Rep. Lauren Boebert told Newsmax on Thursday that Clinton dodged several questions about Epstein.

“Now, she can recall in detail other less relevant topics, but it’s hard to get clear answers from the former secretary of state on some of the more difficult questions,” Boebert said.

“For seven months, we have been working with the Clintons through oversight committees and getting them into public hearings. They kept refusing and denying. Ultimately, we did threaten to hold them in contempt of Congress. It was a bipartisan vote,” Boebert added. “Many Democrats voted to show up and others voted to hold the Clintons in contempt of Congress. Once they saw that, they agreed to this style of testimony. So we are in New York, deposing the Clintons,” the Republican congressman added.

During the hearing, Hillary Clinton accused House members of conducting a “fishing expedition” to obtain information about Epstein.

“If most people were serious, they wouldn’t waste their time fishing,” Clinton told the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. “What was blocked? Who was protected? Why the cover-up?”

Rep. James Comer, who is leading the investigation, countered that the panel wanted to know how Epstein raised money for the Clinton family foundation and why Ghislaine Maxwell attended Hillary’s daughter’s wedding.

“No one has accused the Clintons of wrongdoing at this time,” Cuomo told reporters before testifying. “But we have a lot of questions.”

Latest news from Bill Clinton

Bill Clinton on Friday became the first former president to testify before a House panel. The testimony took place behind closed doors in New York. The testimony is expected to center on the Democrat’s multiple trips on Epstein’s private jet before Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008 to Florida charges including procuring a minor for prostitution.

Epstein also donated $1,000 to Bill Clinton’s 1992 presidential campaign and $20,000 to Hillary Clinton’s 2000 U.S. Senate campaign. A charity controlled by Epstein donated $25,000 to the Clintons’ private foundation.

(Information provided by Reuters)

‘Hate India so much’: Laura Loomer attacks Tucker Carlson over comments on US-Israel relations

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‘Hate India so much’: Laura Loomer attacks Tucker Carlson over comments on US-Israel relations

'Hate India so much': Laura Loomer attacks Tucker Carlson over comments on US-Israel relations

Right-wing commentator Laura Loomer has accused Fox News host Tucker Carlson of being a “liar” and hating India, saying he attacks India by criticizing Israel.“So funny watching @TuckerCarlson attack India the same way he attacks Israel to curry favor with Muslims,” ​​Loomer wrote on X. She added: “How long until he interviews jihadist leaders in Pakistan? Tucker hates India so much he makes nicotine patches in India! Tucker is a liar!”Carlson’s comments came after he discussed Israel’s strategic alliance and the country’s relationship with India in a podcast. In the video, Carlson questioned the U.S.’s role as an ally to Israel, saying: “Public opinion in this country is so strong against us. The bipartisan consensus that we are its closest ally is disintegrating before our eyes. And let’s be honest, this is not going to last forever.” We need another country to ally with. “Carlson said Israel was considering India as a partner other than the United States, citing India’s size, population and nuclear capabilities. “Now, how many big countries are there to choose from? It has to be a country with a vast territory, a large population, and nuclear weapons. It can’t be too many. In fact, the biggest countries are China and India. But unfortunately, China is a Han country… That leaves only India.”He also addressed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent speech in parliament about the “ancient relationship between Israel and India” and suggested that Israel could benefit from weakening the United States in a potential conflict with Iran. “From an American perspective, it looks terrible, like the real shortcomings… From an Israeli perspective, are they really that bad? No, not really. In the long run, they may be the point.”

‘Necessary for the right’: J.D. Vance praises ‘anti-Israel’ Carlson after outrage over Huckabee interview

Ravi Shastri to have pillar named after him at Wankhede Stadium

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Ravi Shastri to have pillar named after him at Wankhede Stadium

Ravi Shastri to have pillar named after him at Wankhede Stadium

MUMBAI: The iconic Wankhede Stadium aims to commemorate cricketing legends, with the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Friday announcing that a stand will be named after the former India all-rounder Ravi ShastriNext to it are the gates commemorating Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar and Diana Edulji. While the stand will be named after former Mumbai captain Shastri, three different gates of the venue will be named after players from the city. “The Apex Council approved a proposal to name the Level 1 stand below the press box at the iconic Wankhede Stadium after former India captain and renowned commentator Ravi Shastri in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Mumbai and Indian cricket as a player and coach,” the MCA said. The decisions were taken at a MCA Supreme Council meeting held here. The No. 3 wicketkeeper will be named after Sardesai, who played 30 Test matches for India between 1960-61 and 1972-73, playing a total of 179 First-Class matches. The number 5 wicketkeeper will be named after Edulji, who played a total of 20 Tests and 34 ODIs between 1976 and 1993. Likewise, wicket number 6 will be named after Solkar, a former all-rounder and one of the best near fielders who played 27 Tests and 7 ODIs for India. “Mumbai cricket is built on the foundations laid by our stalwart supporters. It is our duty to pay tribute to those who have brought pride to the city and country,” MCA president Ajinkya said. “The proposal to name the first tier of stands below the press box after Ravi Shastri is a tribute to his immense contribution as a player, leader and coach. “Similarly, dedicating the gates of the Wankhede Stadium to Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar and Diana Edulji ensures that every fan who walks into the stadium is reminded of the legends who have shaped our glorious cricketing heritage. “These decisions reflect MCA’s commitment to celebrating its past while inspiring future generations,” he added.

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