'Very serious issue': SP leader on gig workers' nationwide protest

IANS | December 31, 2025 1:21 PM

New Delhi, Dec 31 (IANS) A nationwide strike by gig workers across India on Wednesday brought renewed attention to the growing discontent among delivery partners working with app-based platforms, with Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Anand Bhadauriya terming the issue very serious.

Gulbadin, Naveen return as Afghanistan name Rashid Khan-led T20 World Cup squad

IANS | December 31, 2025 12:59 PM

Kabul, Dec 31 (IANS) Afghanistan have announced a 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, to be held in India and Sri Lanka, from February 7 to March 8. Led by Rashid Khan, the squad has been strengthened by the return of experienced all-rounder Gulbadin Naib and right-arm fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq, who is making his comeback after recovering from a shoulder injury.

Unprecedented swapping of friends and foes in Maha politics as parties gear up for municipal elections

Sanjay Jog | December 31, 2025 12:54 PM

Mumbai, Dec 31 (IANS) In an unprecedented political development, the traditional battle lines of Maharashtra politics have dissolved into chaos ahead of the upcoming elections for 29 Municipal Corporations. The state’s major political fronts -- the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) -- have failed to maintain a uniform seat-sharing formula, leading to a confusing scenario where allies in one city are bitter rivals in another.