Times of India

Convocation ceremonies at ESI and Coimbatore Medical Colleges became a point of contention as film songs featuring actor Vijay and ruling TVK election campaign tunes blared. "Raavana Mavanda" and "Oru Pere Varalaru" from Vijay's upcoming film, alongside TVK campaign anthems, were played, drawing criticism for a perceived lack of discipline at government events. Netizens expressed dismay, calling the administration a "joke."

BJP chief Nitin Nabin launched a three-day Punjab visit, emphasizing a vision for the state mirroring Maharaja Ranjit Singh's era. His tour, including prayers at the Golden Temple and a Jalandhar roadshow, signals intensified preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections. Nabin met with the Punjab BJP core committee to strategize on organizational strengthening and booth-level expansion, aiming to form a 'double-engine government' under PM Modi's leadership.

Authorities have implemented extensive security measures for the NEET re-exam on June 21, including a ban on Telegram and Indian Air Force involvement in transporting question papers. Over 13,500 CCTV cameras, 51,000 jammers, and AI surveillance are in place. Massive police and paramilitary forces are deployed, with stringent biometric verification and mock drills conducted to ensure a fair and secure examination process nationwide.

Petrol and diesel prices may soon see a dip as India receives cheaper crude oil, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri indicated. He defended domestic fuel pricing, stating increases have been minimal globally despite market volatility. The government has absorbed significant costs through excise duty cuts, shielding consumers from the full impact of rising international rates. Puri also highlighted Sonbhadra's development progress.

England’s Joe Root became only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to surpass 14,000 Test runs, reaching the milestone during the second Test against New Zealand at The Oval. The 36-year-old achieved the feat in his 302nd innings and now ranks second on the all-time run-scoring list, further cementing his status among Test cricket’s greatest batters.

Shubman Gill admitted India have "a good kind of headache" over the opening combination after Yashasvi Jaiswal's second ODI hundred in three matches intensified the selection debate around Rohit Sharma ahead of the England tour. While backing Jaiswal's talent, Gill said the final XI would depend on the squad and players' fitness.

A Delhi man was injured after a road rage incident on Sohna Road. Two men in an SUV allegedly chased his car, smashed its windows at a traffic signal, and attempted to assault him following a dispute over overtaking. Police swiftly arrested two 22-year-old BBA graduates, Parth and Paras, who admitted to the attack after the victim refused to yield. Their Scorpio vehicle has been recovered.

Father's Day 2026 offers a vital opportunity to acknowledge the quiet strength and unwavering support fathers provide. It's a day to recognize their practical love, sacrifices, and the steady presence that shapes lives. Beyond traditional celebrations, the occasion encourages expressing gratitude for guidance, resilience, and love in all its forms, ensuring these often-unheard heroes feel truly appreciated.

Following alarming claims from a 30-year-old cancer survivor, Kurukshetra has suspended two Assistant Sub-Inspectors and a Home Guard. The man alleges assault and sexual violence at a police station after a minor conflict. An FIR is under investigation by a Special Investigation Team, focusing on serious charges of sodomy. The complainant’s health and collaboration with the inquiry are being closely monitored amidst this sensitive case.

Three Indian oil tankers, carrying over 8.6 lakh metric tonnes of cargo and 94 crew members, have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz and are heading home. This safe passage follows a US decision to lift its blockade on Iran, allowing resumed movement through the vital waterway. The government assures continued efforts to protect India's maritime and energy interests, with the vessels expected to reach Indian ports next week.

Bill Gates has warned Amazon, Google, Meta and Microsoft that the AI datacentre buildout cannot be sold to Americans on half the truth. Some of these megacomplexes will not pay off, the Microsoft co-founder said, and no community will absorb a higher power bill to underwrite a bad bet. With 48 projects worth $156 billion already blocked in 2025 and US support at just 26 percent, the warning is no longer hypothetical.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor defended his remarks praising PM Modi's handling of the civilian sailors' issue, stating he relied on widely published reports. This followed criticism from colleague Pawan Khera, who questioned Tharoor's claims, citing a lack of mention in official statements. The BJP also weighed in, highlighting perceived internal Congress divisions over the matter.

India launched their chase against Afghanistan with a record-shattering 23 runs in the opening over, fueled by Yashasvi Jaiswal's aggressive batting and several extras. This remarkable start, following a five-run penalty against Afghanistan, set the tone for the chase. Earlier, Afghanistan posted 218, with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi scoring a century, but were undone by Prasidh Krishna's stellar 5-wicket haul.