FairPoint: When the State calls your parents

Deepika Bhan | February 22, 2026 4:07 PM

New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) It was an unexpected exchange between two otherwise composed senior women professionals in their mid-fifties that briefly cut through the din of the bustling newsroom. And the argument seemed to rival the drama of the flash shirtless protest by the Youth Congress workers during the AI Summit.

Congress slams India-US trade pact as 'imbalanced', flags risks to farmers

IANS | February 22, 2026 2:51 PM

New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) The Congress on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the Centre over the reported India–US trade understanding, with senior leaders alleging that the proposed arrangement is "one-sided", detrimental to farmers, and amounts to yielding under pressure rather than securing a balanced deal.

'Revered leaders cannot be above law': Maulana Rashidi demands strict action in Avimukteshwaranand case

IANS | February 22, 2026 2:41 PM

New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) All India Imam Organisation chief, Maulana Sajid Rashidi, on Sunday slammed Swami Avimukteshwaranand, saying the recent special court order for registering an FIR against him under the POCSO Act for alleged sexual abuse of minors exposes the shocking reality that revered religious leaders, often worshipped like gods, may hide a dark and criminal side.

PM Modi urges students to stay confident during exams in ‘Mann Ki Baat’

IANS | February 22, 2026 1:26 PM

New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed students appearing for examinations during his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat' on Sunday, urging them to remain confident, not let stress overshadow their preparation, and to trust their abilities while focusing on their efforts rather than marks.

ECI’s roundtable conference on Tuesday to deliberate on strengthening electoral processes

IANS | February 22, 2026 1:23 PM

New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) In a one-of-its-kind initiative, the Election Commission of India (ECI) will hold a national roundtable conference on Tuesday to deliberate and discuss measures on strengthening the electoral processes while stepping up “synergy” between various wings of the poll body, including the State Election Commissioners (SECs).