New Delhi: President Draupadi Murmu She expressed her displeasure on Saturday after the TMC-ruled West Bengal government changed the venue of an event she was supposed to attend.The president said authorities told her the original location had been changed due to crowding.Speaking at the International Santal Council, President Murmu said: “There are people who don’t want Santals to unite, progress, get education… There are people who don’t want Santals to become strong. However, I know that Santals sacrificed their lives for the country.”Later, the president went to the original venue of the meeting and highlighted the contradictions in the authorities’ account, saying: “When I came here, I found that the venue was large enough to accommodate 500,000 people.”The president said she was deeply saddened by the last-minute change of venue, noting how the chief minister Mamata Banerjee Choosing not to meet her was a violation of established norms.Murmu on Saturday said the contribution of Santals to the country’s freedom struggle has not been given due recognition and claimed that the names of several legendary figures belonging to the community “have not been deliberately included in history”.After inaugurating the 9th International Santal Conference at Bidhan Nagar in Siliguri in Darjeeling district of West Bengal, she highlighted the need for education of Santal children.“I know how much the Santals contributed to the country’s freedom struggle. But the names of legendary Santals are not deliberately enshrined in history,” she said.Responding to the president’s dissatisfaction with the incident, Amit Malviya, head of the information technology unit of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, pointed the finger at the Mamata Banerjee government, saying: “When a state government starts ignoring the dignity of the presidency of India, it reflects not only an administrative failure but also a breakdown in constitutional decorum and governance.”
Nancy Guthrie Investigates: Did Sheriff Respond to 911 Call of Woman Screaming on Day of Disappearance? Chilling details
Inquiries about the disappearance of an 84-year-old man Nancy Guthrie The situation continues more than a month after she was last seen, and authorities in Arizona are now responding to rumors about a disturbing 911 call they received the night she disappeared.
pima county Sheriff Chris Nanos said investigators examined a phone call that described a woman screaming in a car but concluded it was not relevant to the case.
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“This is a domestic violence incident”
Nanos told KVOA in Tucson, “We were aware of it. We looked into it that night. We located these individuals and interviewed them. It was a domestic violence incident and had nothing to do with this case.”
Nancy was last seen at her residence on January 31 and was reported missing the next day. Authorities suspect ‘Today’ co-anchor’s 84-year-old mother Savannah Guthrie Kidnapped, abducted or otherwise taken against her will.
The Sheriff confirmed that the FBI and crime lab are assisting investigators in examining data and evidence related to the case. The search team also recovered more than a dozen pairs of gloves, raising questions among the public about whether the items were related to Nancy’s disappear.
glove discovery
Nanos said the most recent glove was found about 2.5 miles from Guthrie’s residence, but investigators have not yet linked it to the case. “Whether there’s DNA or not, we can’t connect it to the scene without analysis,” the sheriff said.
Investigators found some of the gloves about six to seven miles from her residence. They are currently undergoing tests. After DNA analysis, authorities have ruled out the possibility of at least one glove. Another glove that attracted attention was linked to a restaurant employee, but the sheriff did not elaborate on how investigators obtained that person’s DNA.
“It led us through the streets where the gloves were found,” Nanos said. “That doesn’t surprise us. We think a lot of the gloves come from that industry.”
Savannah, her sister and brother-in-law visited Nancy Guthrie’s residence on Monday. She later thanked her 2 million followers on Instagram.
The Guthrie family is offering a $1 million reward for information that might lead to her mother’s recovery, but reliable information about the case has been hard to come by.
‘The collar tag is yours’: Steyn takes bold shot at New Zealand ahead of final against India
former South Africa national cricket team Pace legend Dale Stein The bold statement comes ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final that the New Zealand national cricket team could inherit the long-standing ‘Choke’ tag if they fail to beat hosts India in Sunday’s title clash in Ahmedabad.Team New Zealand beats rivals to advance to finals SteinThe first semi-final was played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata by Cricket South Africa, the former club of the South African national cricket team. The victory helped the Black Caps reach the T20 World Cup final for the second time in their history.
Meanwhile, India beat the England cricket team by seven runs in a thrilling high-scoring semi-final in Mumbai on Thursday to advance to the pinnacle showdown.Speak in a YouTube discussion with former teammates AB de VilliersSteyn said New Zealand had reached the ICC finals several times in recent years and should be closely watched if they failed to advance again.“To be honest, everyone likes to call South Africa the chokers, but I’m going to say this. New Zealand haven’t won many World Cups per se, but they’ve been to more finals than we have. So, New Zealand, no offense, but please keep winning this tournament,” Stein said during a chat with AB de Villiers on his YouTube channel.“Otherwise, I officially hand this card to you; it’s yours. I love New Zealand, but they’re not going to beat India.”Steyn also highlighted the Blackcaps’ multiple appearances in global finals in recent years. New Zealand entered the championship matches of the 2019 Cricket World Cup, 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and 2025 ICC Champions Trophy but finished as runners-up each time.The former fast bowler, who took over 400 wickets in Test cricket, believes India have the upper hand heading into the final. Steyn believes the hosts will need to endure a dramatic collapse for New Zealand to emerge victorious.“It’s going to take a huge pushback from India. I call it; it’s possible. I really want them (New Zealand) to win, but do I think they’re going to beat India? No,” Steyn said.Overall, New Zealand have reached eight ICC Championship finals since winning the ICC Knockout Trophy in 2000, but have only lifted one trophy during this period – the 2021 ICC World Test Championship final, where they defeated India.
‘Inflation whip to hit public’: Opposition slams Center for LPG cylinder price hike
NEW DELHI: The opposition on Saturday lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing them of “waving the whip of inflation on the public” after raising prices of LPG cylinders across the country. The price of 14.2 kg household cylinder has been increased by Rs 60 while the price of 19 kg commercial cylinder has been increased by Rs 115 with the revised rates effective from Saturday, March 7.Congress calls PM ‘inflation man’The Congress launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him an “inflation man” and accusing the government of pushing up the cost of living.The party posted on X that the price increase will directly affect ordinary families. Congress wrote on“Meanwhile, for commercial LPG cylinders, you now have to pay Rs 115 more. In the last 3 months, the price of commercial LPG cylinders has increased by Rs 307. Narendra Modi keeps waving the inflation whip at the public,” it added.
polling
Is the government’s message on fuel affordability convincing?
Pawan Keira Target Hardeep Singh PuriCongress leader Pawan Khera also criticized Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri for the rate hike, questioning his recent assurances on fuel affordability.Khera wrote in a post on Never believe what Hardeep Singh Puri says. “Kaira’s remarks came a day after the minister said India was not short of energy despite ongoing conflicts in West Asia.Earlier, Puri had assured consumers that there was nothing to worry about, while responding to concerns over fuel supply.“Our priority is to ensure that our citizens have access to affordable, sustainable fuel and we are doing so with ease. There is no energy shortage in India and our energy consumers have nothing to worry about,” the Union minister posted on X on Friday.Mamata attack centerWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also criticized the price hike, raising concerns about the burden on ordinary households.She said: “LPG prices have increased again. Now you have to book gas 21 days in advance, so if you run out of LPG at home, what will you do in these 21 days? What will you eat? Will you order food delivered to your door? Even the kerosene quota has been reduced. You are increasing the prices of things every day. Is that why you want to remove votes? To break Bengal? Others may be afraid of you, but we will not. We will expose you.”Liquefied petroleum gas price adjustments in major citiesAfter the latest adjustment, the price of 14.2kg domestic liquefied petroleum gas cylinders has increased in many cities:
- Delhi: Rs 853 → Rs 913
- Mumbai: Rs 852.50 → Rs 912.50
- Kolkata: Rs 879 → Rs 939
- Chennai: Rs 868.50 → Rs 928.50
Prices of 19kg commercial LPG cylinders have also increased:
- Delhi: Rs 1,768.50 → Rs 1,883
- Mumbai: Rs 1,720.50 → Rs 1,835
- Kolkata: Rs 1,875.50 → Rs 1,990
- Chennai: Rs 1,929 → Rs 2,043.50
The last domestic LPG price revision was in April 2025, when the unsubsidized price in Delhi was Rs 853.The comments came against the backdrop of tensions in West Asia, which have stoked global concerns about possible disruptions to the flow of crude oil through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Earlier, ANI quoted government sources as saying that India’s oil, petroleum products and LPG supply situation was “very comfortable”.
Ramadan 2026: Qatar announces Ramadan Itikaf rules: New age limits and mosque guidelines worshipers should know | World News
Qatari authorities have issued new guidelines for Muslims planning to attend the traditional Ramadan mosque retreat (Itikaf). The rules are intended to ensure that worshipers can devote themselves to prayer during these spiritually important final days of the holy month, while maintaining order, hygiene and respect inside the mosques. The guidelines were issued by Qatar’s Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, which oversees religious affairs and mosque management in the country.
Qatar’s new Ramadan rules
The ministry has clarified the eligibility criteria for those wishing to attend mosque retreats during Ramadan. Admirers generally must be 18 years or older to participate independently. However, young people between the ages of 8 and 18 can participate if accompanied by a guardian.In accordance with the organizational regulations of mosques during the holy month, participation in I’tikaf events in Qatar mosques is restricted to men. Authorities said the rules were intended to manage the space and maintain smooth operations inside the mosques as large numbers of worshipers gathered for late-night prayers and spiritual reflection.Itikaf is a centuries-old Islamic practice in which believers usually spend several days in the mosque during the last ten days of Ramadan, focusing entirely on praying, reciting the Quran and remembering God.
Mosque etiquette during Itikaf
The ministry’s guidelines also outline how participants should conduct themselves inside mosques when observing retreats. Worshipers must use designated areas for sleeping and eating, ensuring that public prayer spaces remain organized and accessible to all.Participants are also urged to maintain personal hygiene and cleanliness within mosque premises and respect mosque property and facilities. Authorities warned against actions that could disrupt the spiritual environment, such as unnecessary conversations or disturbing the activities of other worshipers.To protect the appearance and sanctity of the mosque, worshipers are also told not to hang their clothes on walls, pillars or furniture and to adhere to all instructions issued by the mosque management team.
Ramadan prayers in Qatar
Mosques across Qatar are preparing to receive large crowds of worshipers on the last night of Ramadan, considered the most important spiritual period of the month.Authorities are expanding religious programs across the country, including Quran reading circles, lectures and community events aimed at deepening religious awareness. The mosque is also equipped with facilities to accommodate devotees who attend Taraweeh and Qiyam prayers during the holy month.Ramadan retreats remain one of the most cherished spiritual practices for Muslims around the world, offering believers an opportunity to step away from daily life and devote themselves to prayer, reflection and devotion during the final days of fasting.
T20 World Cup 2026 Closing Ceremony: Date, Time, Performers and Details
2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to reach climax on Sunday indian national cricket team The final was played against the New Zealand national cricket team in Ahmedabad. After nearly a month of gripping matches and dramatic comebacks, the tournament will conclude with the much-anticipated title clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium.india leader Suryakumar YadavA 7-run win over England Cricket in a tense semi-final in Mumbai sealed a place in the final. Meanwhile, New Zealand sealed their summit berth with a superb performance in the last four matches, beating South Africa by nine wickets in Kolkata.
This will mark India’s fourth T20 World Cup final as the team chases a record third title. For New Zealand, this will be their second final appearance as they continue their pursuit of their first T20 World Cup trophy.India will enter this contest with several factors working in their favour. They sit at home and have the confidence of defending their title, having also had success against New Zealand in the recent bilateral series. However, the historical record adds an interesting twist as New Zealand have never been beaten by India in the tournament.Both teams had their ups and downs during the game. At different stages, both sides faced the risk of being eliminated early, and then recovered strongly to enter the finals of global events.Before the much-anticipated final begins, organizers plan to hold a special closing ceremony to celebrate the end of the competition.The closing ceremony of the 2026 T20 World Cup will be held on Sunday, March 8 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The event is expected to begin at 5:30 p.m.Awards ceremony will feature performances by international pop stars Ricky Martinpopular Bollywood and Punjabi singer Sukhbir, and renowned Gujarati folk artist Falguni Pathak, add a vibrant musical vibe before the final showdown begins.
U.S. hotels seek World Cup boost after tourism slumps under Trump
At the U.S. hotels managed by Meade Atkeson, a slump in tourism has taken a toll on business, but hoteliers like him hope World Cup enthusiasm will soon outweigh wariness about President Donald Trump’s policies.

The U.S. hotel industry in the world’s largest economy has been hurt by a slump in tourism, with the U.S. becoming the only major destination to see a decline in foreign tourists last year.
“Economically speaking, it’s difficult when international travel decreases,” Atkeson told AFP, noting that these tourists tend to stay longer and spend more money.
Foreign visitors account for nearly a quarter of the business at the three Sonesta hotels he manages, two in Washington and one-third in Miami Beach.
However, in the first 11 months of 2025, official US data showed that inbound tourism fell by 5.4%.
Canadians have been noticeably absent, with travel volumes down 21.7% since 2024, equivalent to about 4 million fewer people. French tourists fell by almost 7%.
Industry professionals believe this is a result of Trump’s policies, even if they may not say so publicly.
Visitors are angry at the Republican president who has imposed sweeping tariffs on foreign goods, lashed out at other countries, tightened immigration rules and painted some Democratic-led cities as crime-ridden.
Canadians “are being asked to be the 51st state, right?” Atkeson said.
“If you talk to Canadians, you’ll find that many of them choose not to travel as a matter of conscience” or as a matter of principle, he added.
In the meantime, Brazilian tourists “can go wherever they want,” he said. “So they may have gone to Europe, they may have gone to the islands.”
‘Fear’
Thousands of kilometers away, Las Vegas, Nevada’s main resort city with 150,000 hotel rooms, is also having a bad year.
Elsa Rodan, a waitress at the Bellagio Resort and Casino, said her hotel is “lucky” compared to other hotels.
But even so, it will have to lower prices to attract customers, added Rodin, a representative for the United Here union, speaking at a news conference in Washington.
Standing Together president Gwen Mills urged renewed efforts to lobby for the Trump administration’s policies and rhetoric, which she said are endangering an industry that employs more than 2 million people.
According to her, hoteliers are not pushing the government hard enough.
Employers expressed “fear, fear rearing its head,” she said.
Hope for “better”
According to the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), fewer visitors and overnight stays, along with declining revenue, will leave Nevada hotels with a $6.7 billion shortfall by 2025.
But the organization hopes 2026 will be a turning point, and it is counting on the World Cup from June 11 to July 19 to attract tourists.
Eleven U.S. cities will host the competition.
“That’s the equivalent of nearly 80 Super Bowls in just over a month,” AHLA spokesman Ralph Posner told AFP.
“The economic boost won’t be limited to the host city,” he added. “Destinations across the country are looking to benefit as international visitors extend their travels and travel between markets.”
For example, Las Vegas hopes to attract fans who might be stopping by before or after a game in Los Angeles or Kansas City.
Organizers say the World Cup will attract 20-30 million visitors in addition to the 7 million spectators in stadiums.
They believe the entire event could generate $30 billion for the U.S. economy.
“I hope things get better,” Atkeson said.
His hotel in Miami is undergoing renovations and will not be able to host many World Cup-related events.
But his organization in Washington emphasized their proximity to Philadelphia, where several games will be played.
Another complicating factor is the war in the Middle East that broke out after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, which could affect travel.
“It’s too early to say how we’re going to handle it, but we’ll see,” he said.
