Times of India

Tragedy struck Lucknow as a devastating fire ripped through a commercial complex in Aliganj, claiming at least 15 young lives. The blaze, originating in a coaching centre and gaming zone, spread rapidly, forcing desperate escapes, with some students seen leaping from the building. Authorities are investigating the cause and potential safety lapses, while the Chief Minister and Prime Minister have expressed deep sorrow and ordered swift relief efforts.

Ahead of his world title defence against Javokhir Sindarov, D Gukesh has been advised by Grandmaster Krishnan Sasikiran to improve his speed, technique and handling of time pressure. Sasikiran warned that Sindarov is highly prepared and fast-paced, but said Gukesh's previous world championship experience could prove crucial in what promises to be a tough contest.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is entering a thrilling group stage finale with 42 nations vying for 29 spots in the Round of 32. Only USA, Mexico, and Germany have secured early qualification, while Haiti, Turkiye, and Tunisia are out. Powerhouses like Argentina, France, England, and Portugal are still fighting for advancement. The week promises intense competition and simultaneous matches as the knockout picture takes shape.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu's 'Maa Inti Bangaram' delivered a rare feat over its opening weekend, three consecutive days of growth rather than the usual weekend plateau. After a Rs. 5.35 crore Day 1, the film jumped 43% on Day 2 to Rs. 7.65 crore and a further 32% on Day 3 to Rs. 10.10 crore, taking its three-day domestic net to Rs. 23.10 crore and worldwide gross to Rs 41.79 crore. As the film enters its first Monday, live tracking shows Rs. 0.82 crore collected so far across 1,236 shows, split Rs 0.77 crore in Telugu and Rs. 0.05 crore in Tamil, pushing the cumulative domestic net to Rs. 23.92 crore. With momentum building with each day, B.V. Nandini Reddy's female-led action-family drama looks well positioned for a strong first week.

Taylor Swift, a pop music icon, redefined 'fearless' in her 2008 album 'Fearless'. She believes true bravery isn't the absence of fear, but acting despite it. This philosophy, evident in her lyrics about love, high school, and perseverance, highlights her enduring impact. Swift, now a billionaire, continues to inspire with her candid approach to life's challenges.

West Bengal's new BJP government has unveiled its inaugural budget, prioritizing welfare and employment. Key announcements include a significant Dearness Allowance hike for state employees, the creation of one lakh government jobs, and a substantial Rs 36,000 crore direct cash transfer scheme for women. The budget also proposes infrastructure development and support for various worker categories, aiming to restore fiscal discipline and public trust.

Keir Starmer has resigned as Labour leader, citing a need for change after significant election setbacks and internal party dissent. Concerns over his ability to win the next general election, coupled with senior figures openly challenging his leadership and a perceived failure to deliver on 2024 promises, have led to his departure. Scandals also contributed to the pressure for new leadership.

The Supreme Court has fined the Chhattisgarh government Rs 2 lakh for illegally occupying private land for nearly four decades without compensation. The court upheld the high court's order, awarding landowners enhanced compensation and interest from the date they first filed their eviction suit in 2006. Justices deemed the state's appeal frivolous, aimed at harassing the landowners.

"We have two matches and this is the time to stay positive. Shree Charani and Shafali (Verma) bowled well but the fielders didn't support them. We have to take opportunities at this level. We were not lucky enough with that."

Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi bounced back from a lean patch to smash a record-breaking 94 off 29 balls in the Tri-Series final against Sri Lanka A. A pep talk from coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar encouraged him to play his natural game, leading to the fastest List A half-century ever. His explosive innings secured the title for India A, showcasing his immense talent despite earlier scrutiny.

Without a will, property inheritance in India involves intricate legalities that vary by religion. The Hindu Succession Act, Muslim Personal Law, and Indian Succession Act determine the distribution of assets among heirs. Grasping these laws, along with understanding the classifications of heirs and their shares, is vital for the efficient transfer of property. Essential documents, such as legal heir certificates and relinquishment deeds, play a pivotal role in this process.

The Department of Homeland Security is urging an appeals court to reinstate a $100,000 H-1B visa fee, arguing a judge's block harms immigration enforcement. The fee, intended to curb foreign worker replacement of Americans, was struck down by a judge citing separation of powers. DHS contends the President has authority for such measures, warning that delays allow more foreign workers entry, potentially causing irreparable damage.

The registration window for SSC CGL 2026 will close at 11 PM on June 22, giving aspirants their final opportunity to apply for one of the country’s largest government recruitment drives. The examination aims to fill around 12,256 vacancies across central government departments. Candidates can pay the application fee until June 23, while the correction facility will remain available from June 29 to July 1.

In a tragic incident in Kasganj district, a four-year-old girl was kidnapped, raped, and murdered, allegedly as an act of revenge linked to a past panchayat election conflict. She was reported missing on June 6, with her body found three days later. Authorities have made one arrest and are pursuing the primary suspect, who allegedly confessed to the brutal crime.

Parents are increasingly experiencing 'quiet cracking,' a silent burnout where they maintain outward functionality while feeling overwhelmed internally. This phenomenon stems from immense pressure from work, home, and emotional labor, exacerbated by societal expectations and a lack of support. The article highlights the need for reduced expectations, genuine connection, and practical backup to help parents cope and prevent this widespread exhaustion.

Delhi's new slum policy, approved by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, aims for large-scale redevelopment of informal settlements through public-private partnerships. The "Jahan Jhuggi Wahi Makan" initiative will provide permanent housing and essential civic infrastructure to an estimated four lakh families, with an extended eligibility cut-off of January 1, 2025. This ambitious urban renewal project seeks to unlock land value for financing and create integrated neighbourhoods.

Parents of the RG Kar rape-murder victim have accused Dr. Abesh Banerjee, nephew of former CM Mamata Banerjee, of involvement in concealing evidence. They claim his phone was at the hospital on the night of the crime and allege he washed bloodstains in a subsequently demolished bathroom.