Germany elections: Friedrich Merz claims victory for his conservatives

German elections see opposition leader Friedrich Merz claiming victory, with the far-right Alternative for Germany achieving its strongest showing since World War II. The results indicate complications in forming a coalition, with potential partners required for Merz to secure governance.

KKR to buy 51% in oncology hospital HealthCare Global

American private equity fund KKR will acquire a 51% stake in HealthCare Global Enterprises for Rs 3,203 crore, making an open offer for an additional 26% stake. Founder B S Ajaikumar will become non-executive chairman. The transaction is set to complete by the third quarter of this year.

Engineering student from Mizoram stabbed to death in Kerala

A fourth-year engineering student from Mizoram was stabbed to death by a junior student at Nedumparambu junction near Nagaroor due to previous enmity. The accused, a third-year student, was taken into custody, and a murder case has been registered. The incident is under investigation, with CCTV footage and witnesses being examined.

Hand over temples to shrine bodies, scrap government control, says Kanchi seer

Jagadguru Shri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi, the 70th Acharya of Shri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, advocates for the return of temples and their property to their respective authorities, urging the government to relinquish control. He emphasizes the importance of using temple incomes to propagate Sanatan Dharma, educate pupils in Vedas, and support traditional initiatives, while involving youth and preparing for the next Maha Kumbh.

Sebi may expand angel fund investor pool, scrap 200 cap

India, UK trade talks: Focus on scotch, visas

Negotiations for the UK-India free trade agreement restart under the new UK government, focusing on duty cuts for Scotch and cars, and easier visas for Indian professionals. Concessions are being discussed, with India seeking better business visa terms and a fair treatment of its spirits in the UK market.

Trump administration fires 2,000 USAID workers, puts thousands on leave

The Trump administration has cut 2,000 positions at USAID and placed remaining staff on administrative leave after a federal court allowed the move. This decision is part of a larger effort to scale back USAID operations, which has already led to the closure of its headquarters and numerous global aid programs.

SUV ‘forced off road’ runs over toddler, kills him

An SUV driver allegedly blinded by the headlights of an oncoming vehicle veered off a Wadala road, running over a woman and her 18-month-old son sleeping on a footpath. The toddler died, and the mother sustained injuries. The driver turned himself in and was later released on bail. The police are investigating the incident.

Telangana tunnel collapse: Team Silkyara joins rescue operation

Rescue efforts are underway to save eight workers, including two engineers, trapped in a collapsed section of the Srisailam Left Bank Canal tunnel in Telangana. Silt and water are hindering progress, and additional equipment and expertise have been brought in to accelerate the operation, amidst fears of debris complicating the rescue.

70 rescued from cybercrime hub in Myanmar, await return to India

Around 70 Indians, including five women, were rescued from a cybercrime hub in Myanmar and moved to Thailand by Myanmar’s armed forces. The victims, hailing from various Indian states, had been coerced into cybercriminal activities, and authorities are now coordinating their return to India.

Those with ‘slave mentality’ attacking India’s traditions with foreign help: PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticized opposition leaders for mocking Hindu religious practices and cultural traditions, accusing them of divisive agendas supported by foreign powers. He emphasized unity and announced significant healthcare initiatives, including a new cancer hospital in Madhya Pradesh and district-wide cancer centers nationwide within three years.

Accused of sexual harassment, TISS asst prof quits; probe starts

A TISS assistant professor resigned after a student filed a sexual harassment complaint, accusing him of toxic behavior, intimidation, and inappropriate remarks. TISS has barred him from campus while the internal complaints committee conducts an independent inquiry into the allegations, despite his resignation.

Language logjam keeps K’taka, Maha govt buses stalled; thousands affected

Inter-state government bus services between Karnataka and Maharashtra remain suspended indefinitely due to linguistic tensions. The suspension follows assaults on transport personnel from both states, involving language disputes. Thousands of commuters are affected, with alternative travel arrangements being sought amid heightened security concerns.

Make up your mind on what kind of ties you want, EAM tells Dhaka

External affairs minister S Jaishankar urged Bangladesh to decide on the nature of their relationship with India, highlighting issues of blame and minority attacks. He emphasized the importance of clear intentions for the future while acknowledging the historical ties between the two nations.

Deported by US to Panama, 12 illegal migrants reach India

A group of 12 undocumented Indian immigrants deported from the US to Panama reached Delhi, facilitated by the International Organisation for Migration. This comes after the deportation of 332 others to Amritsar earlier this month. Cases have been registered against travel agents responsible for illegal facilitation.