Saudi Arabia is set to partially lift its alcohol ban in 2026, a significant shift as it prepares for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The move, part of Vision 2030, will allow alcohol sales in upscale venues like hotels and resorts. While spirits remain prohibited, beer, wine, and cider will be available under strict regulations.
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The Bombay High Court declared Hemang Shah's arrest illegal due to the police's failure to produce him before a magistrate within 24 hours. Justices Gauri Godse and Somasekhar Sundaresan ordered his immediate release from Arthur Road Jail, citing a violation of Article 22(2) of the Constitution.
BJP criticised Jairam Ramesh for calling NITI Aayog an "Ayogya" body, claiming such remarks would harm the Congress. Syed Shahnawaz Hussain emphasised NITI Aayog's role in national development, highlighting the participation of chief ministers and eminent individuals in policy-making. He also criticised Rahul Gandhi's delayed visit to Kashmir and his alleged political activities in Bihar.
A foot overbridge in Jahangirpuri, Delhi, meant to provide safe passage across a busy road, has become a dangerous hazard. Neglect and rampant theft have stripped the bridge of essential safety features like railings, lighting, and functioning lifts.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings elected to bat first after winning the toss against Gujarat Titans in their IPL match. Gujarat, aiming for a top-two finish, made one change, bringing in Gerald Coetzee for Kagiso Rabada. CSK, already out of contention, replaced Ashwin with Hooda, seeking to experiment with their lineup and provide opportunities to young players.
Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bengaluru clashes with Shreyas Iyer's Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 final, a defining moment in Kohli's quest for a title. Rain looms as a potential disruptor at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Punjab Kings hold an edge if weather cancels play, having topped the league stage.
India's active Covid-19 cases have surpassed 3,000, with Kerala reporting the highest infections. While new cases and deaths are recorded across states, health officials assure low severity and home care for most patients. ICMR confirms Omicron subvariants are driving the increase, urging vigilance but dismissing major concern.
The BCCI on Saturday announced a new-look Test squad for the upcoming five-match series against England, with 25-year-old Shubman Gill named as the new captain. The tour, which is part of the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle, will take place in England between June and August 2025, with matches scheduled at Headingley (Leeds), Edgbaston (Birmingham), Lord’s (London), Old Trafford (Manchester), and The Oval (London).
At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Pakistan's Gen. Sahir Shamshad Mirza designated Kashmir as the core issue fueling India-Pakistan tensions, advocating for international intervention. He urged conflict resolution aligned with UN Security Council resolutions, suggesting the US, UK, Saudi Arabia, China, Turkiye, and UAE as potential mediators.
Ukraine has launched a significant drone attack on Russian nuclear-capable bombers stationed in Siberia, targeting the Belaya air base, which is over 4,300km from the front lines. The operation aimed to destroy Tu-95 and Tu-22 strategic bombers used by Moscow to launch long-range missiles at Ukraine, resulting in a fire at the base.
Virat Kohli’s passion and intensity were on full display as he led RCB to the IPL 2025 final. Though no longer captain, he remains the emotional core of the team, driving them forward with relentless energy. With one match to go, fans wonder: will this be the year Kohli finally lifts the IPL trophy he’s longed for?