5 घंटा पहलेAssembly of Experts appoints Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new Supreme Leader after Ali Khamenei’s death
Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei has been selected as Iran’s new Supreme Leader. The decision was taken by the Assembly of Experts, the influential clerical body responsible for appointing and supervising the country’s Supreme Leader.
Mojtaba Khamenei has assumed the position previously held by his father, taking on the highest political and religious authority in Iran. This marks the third time in Iran’s history that a leader has been appointed to the position of Supreme Leader.
According to reports, the decision was taken within days of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death. The 88-member Assembly of Experts selected Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader through a decisive vote.
Selection by the Assembly of Experts
Within Iran’s political system, the Assembly of Experts holds the authority to appoint and supervise the Supreme Leader. The body consists of 88 members who are religious scholars and senior Islamic experts.
After deliberations, the members of the Assembly voted to appoint Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s third Supreme Leader. The announcement formally transferred the country’s highest religious and political authority to him.
Oath of loyalty by the military and IRGC
Following the announcement of Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment, Iran’s military and political institutions responded immediately. Iran’s regular armed forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) pledged loyalty to the new Supreme Leader.
In a statement, the IRGC said it was prepared to follow the orders of the new Supreme Leader and make every possible sacrifice to defend the country. Military leadership also stated that they remain committed to maintaining national security and stability under Mojtaba Khamenei’s leadership.
Support from political leadership
Alongside military institutions, Iran’s political leadership expressed support for the new Supreme Leader. Several senior leaders, including the Speaker of Parliament, described Mojtaba Khamenei’s selection as a religious and national duty.
Officials stated that the country requires strong leadership under the current global and regional circumstances. Several leaders also said Iran needs national unity at this time and called on all institutions to work together in the country’s interest.
Influence within the power structure
Mojtaba Khamenei has long been regarded as a figure close to the center of Iran’s power structure. Although he appeared infrequently in public, he was widely considered influential in political circles.
He remained associated with his father’s office for several years and was often linked to discussions surrounding important decisions. Analysts frequently described him as a “power broker” and “gatekeeper” because of his perceived influence over access to the leadership and decision-making processes.
His close relations with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps have also been widely discussed and are considered to have strengthened his political standing.
Service during the Iran–Iraq War
Mojtaba Khamenei’s background includes both religious and military experience. During his youth, he participated in the Iran–Iraq War.
In the later years of the conflict between 1980 and 1988, he served in the Habib ibn Mazahir Battalion of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. At the time, he was reported to be approximately 17 to 18 years old.
Several commanders who served during the war later rose to senior positions within Iran’s military establishment. The experience is regarded as having contributed to Mojtaba Khamenei’s familiarity with military affairs and strengthened his connections with the country’s security institutions.
Religious education and clerical rank
After the war ended, Mojtaba Khamenei focused on religious education. He moved to the Iranian religious center of Qom, where he pursued studies in Shia Islamic scholarship.
He studied under several conservative religious scholars and continued religious education for an extended period. His current clerical rank is reported as Hojjat-ol-Islam, considered a mid-level clerical status within Iran’s religious hierarchy.
2 दिन पहलेPunjab and Haryana High Court Acquits Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in 2002 Journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati Murder Case
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has acquitted Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh in the 24-year-old murder case of journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati, stating that the evidence presented was insufficient to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt. The court, however, upheld the life sentences of three other convicts in the case.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court delivered its judgment on appeals filed by the accused against the earlier decision of a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) special court. In its ruling, the High Court partially modified the earlier judgment and acquitted Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh.
The court stated that the evidence placed on record by the prosecution was not strong enough to establish his role in a criminal conspiracy beyond reasonable doubt. It noted that in criminal cases, charges must be supported by concrete and reliable evidence.
During the hearing, the court examined all documents on record, witness testimonies, and circumstantial evidence in detail. After reviewing the material, the court concluded that the evidence presented against Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh was insufficient and granted him the benefit of doubt, leading to his acquittal.
The High Court upheld the life imprisonment sentences of three other convicts in the case—Kuldeep, Nirmal, and Krishan Lal.
The court stated that the evidence and testimonies presented against these three accused clearly established their involvement in the crime. On that basis, the court affirmed their convictions and ordered that their life sentences remain unchanged.
The case relates to the killing of journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati in 2002. Chhatrapati was the editor of a local newspaper and had published reports containing allegations related to the Dera Sacha Sauda.
Shortly after the publication of those reports, he was shot. He later died after sustaining serious injuries. The incident drew widespread attention in the region and triggered protests and extensive public discussion.
Following the killing of the journalist, the case received national attention and demands were raised for an impartial investigation.
Considering the seriousness of the case, the investigation was later handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation.
After conducting a prolonged investigation, the CBI filed charges against several accused. The case was then tried in a CBI special court, where hearings and witness examinations continued for several years.
The special court eventually convicted Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh along with other accused and sentenced them to life imprisonment.
All the convicted individuals subsequently filed appeals in the Punjab and Haryana High Court challenging the special court’s verdict. The High Court delivered its judgment after hearing those appeals.
During the hearings in the High Court, both the defence and the CBI presented detailed arguments.
The defence argued that there was no direct and concrete evidence against Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh. The CBI, on the other hand, cited witness statements and circumstantial evidence in support of the prosecution’s case.
After hearing the arguments of both sides and examining the entire case record, the court concluded that the evidence presented against Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh was not sufficient to prove his role in the criminal conspiracy beyond reasonable doubt.
2 दिन पहले4.1 Magnitude Earthquake Recorded Near Bandar Abbas in Iran USGS Says
A 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Bandar Abbas in southern Iran on Saturday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), amid ongoing military tensions in the Middle East.
The tremor was recorded at approximately 8:48 a.m. Indian Standard Time. The earthquake measured 4.1 on the Richter scale.
USGS data indicated that the epicenter was located about 74 kilometres west of the city of Bandar Abbas. Scientists reported that the earthquake originated at a depth of approximately 10 kilometres below the Earth's surface.
Because of the relatively shallow depth, tremors were felt across several nearby areas. Local reports indicated that residents exited homes and buildings shortly after the tremor was felt. A brief period of confusion was reported in some locations.
No major damage or casualties have been officially reported so far. Authorities said they are monitoring the situation and advised residents to remain cautious.
The earthquake occurred at a time when Iran is experiencing elevated military tensions involving the United States and Israel. Security concerns have already been present in several cities amid ongoing confrontations and retaliatory actions.
In this environment, the tremor increased anxiety among residents already living under heightened tension. Several individuals shared information about the earthquake on social media, stating that the event added to existing fears.
Experts stated that natural disasters occurring during conflict situations can increase psychological stress among populations.
Seismic activity has been recorded in Iran in recent days. Earlier this week, on Tuesday, another earthquake was reported in the southern part of the country.
That tremor measured 4.3 magnitude on the Richter scale and occurred near the Gerash area in the southern region of Iran's Fars province.
During that event, tremors were also recorded at a depth of approximately 10 kilometres below the ground surface. No major damage was reported in that incident.
Scientific data released regarding the March 3, 2026 earthquake indicated that its epicenter was located about 52 kilometres northwest of the city of Gerash.
The location of that earthquake was recorded near latitude 28.036°N and longitude 53.789°E. The depth of the earthquake was reported at approximately 10 kilometres, resulting in tremors being felt across nearby areas.
Local authorities had at that time also advised residents to remain cautious while monitoring the situation.
2 दिन पहलेIndia Raises LPG Cylinder Prices; 14.2 kg Domestic Cylinder Up ₹60, Commercial Cylinder Up ₹115 from 7 March
New LPG Prices Take Effect from 7 March
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinder prices in India have been increased, with the cost of a 14.2 kg domestic cylinder rising by ₹60 and the price of a 19 kg commercial cylinder increasing by ₹115. The revised prices came into effect on 7 March.
Domestic LPG Cylinder Prices Increased
The price of the 14.2 kg LPG cylinder used for household cooking has been raised by ₹60 across the country. In Delhi, the price has increased from ₹853 to ₹913. In Mumbai, the price has risen from ₹852.50 to ₹912.50.
In Kolkata, the domestic LPG cylinder price has increased from ₹879 to ₹930. In Chennai, the price has risen from ₹868.50 to ₹928.50.
Following the increase, domestic LPG cylinder prices in several parts of the country have again approached the ₹900 range.
First Increase Since April 2025
This increase in domestic LPG cylinder prices has been implemented for the first time since April 2025. Prices had remained stable for nearly a year.
During this period, the government and oil companies had attempted to maintain price balance. However, rising pressure in international markets and fluctuations in crude oil prices have led gas companies to increase LPG prices.
Commercial LPG Cylinder Prices Also Raised
Prices of the 19 kg commercial LPG cylinders used by hotels, roadside eateries, restaurants and catering businesses have also been increased.
After the latest revision, the price in Delhi has risen from ₹1768.50 to ₹1883. In Mumbai, the price has increased from ₹1720.50 to ₹1835.
In Kolkata, the price of the 19 kg cylinder has increased from ₹1875.50 to ₹1990. In Chennai, the price has risen from ₹1929 to ₹2043.50.
Commercial Cylinder Prices Increased Twice in One Week
Commercial LPG cylinder prices have increased rapidly in recent days. On 1 March, gas companies had already raised prices by ₹28 to ₹31.
With the latest revision, commercial LPG cylinder prices have increased by approximately ₹143 to ₹146 within a week.
Impact on Food Businesses
Commercial LPG cylinders are widely used in hotels, roadside eateries, restaurants and catering businesses where large volumes of gas are consumed daily.
The increase in gas prices raises cooking costs for these businesses. As a result, some businesses may raise menu prices, while others may face reduced profit margins.
06 मार्च 2026Indian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30MKI crashes in Assam’s Karbi Anglong during training mission, two pilots killed
An Indian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet crashed in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam on Thursday night during a training mission, resulting in the deaths of both pilots on board.
According to the Indian Air Force, the two-seater fighter jet was on a routine training flight and had taken off from the Jorhat airbase in Assam in the evening. The aircraft lost contact with the control room shortly after take-off.
The aircraft was last in contact with the control room at approximately 7:42 pm. When the jet did not return at the scheduled time, the Air Force immediately launched a search and rescue operation.
After several hours of search, the wreckage of the aircraft was located late at night in a hilly area of Karbi Anglong district, about 60 kilometres from Jorhat.
In an official statement, the Indian Air Force said that Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Durgakar sustained severe injuries in the crash and died as a result.
The Air Force expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of the two officers in a post on social media, stating that all members of the force stand with the families of the deceased pilots and convey their condolences.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is one of the most advanced multirole fighter aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force. The aircraft is designed by the Russian aircraft manufacturer Sukhoi and is produced in India under licence.
The two-seater, twin-engine fighter jet is designed for long-range missions, aerial combat operations and precision strike capabilities. The aircraft forms a key component of the Indian Air Force fleet and plays a central role in the country’s air defence.
05 मार्च 2026Nitish Kumar to File Rajya Sabha Nomination on Final Day of Filing as Amit Shah Expected to Be Present
On the final day for filing nominations for the Rajya Sabha elections, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is scheduled to file his nomination as a candidate. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is also expected to be present during the filing.
The deadline for filing nominations for 37 Rajya Sabha seats across 10 states falls today. Amid this process, a development has emerged in Bihar’s political sphere as Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to submit his nomination for the Rajya Sabha election. Union Home Minister Amit Shah may also remain present during the nomination process.
According to available information, Nitish Kumar is expected to reach the Bihar Legislative Assembly around 11:30 a.m. on Thursday to file his nomination as a Rajya Sabha candidate. The development has led to discussion within political circles about possible changes in the state’s political leadership structure.
Nitish Kumar has held a central role in Bihar’s politics for nearly two decades. He has served multiple terms as Chief Minister and has played a key role in coalition politics in the state. Discussion about his potential move to the Rajya Sabha has led to speculation regarding changes in the state’s political leadership.
Sources indicate that a meeting of the Janata Dal (United) discussed the possibility of Nitish Kumar taking a more active role in national politics in New Delhi, which is cited as a reason for his proposed Rajya Sabha nomination. If the development proceeds as discussed, it could result in a new leadership arrangement in Bihar after approximately 21 years.
No official statement has yet been issued by the party regarding the matter. However, discussion regarding the development continues within political circles.
Presence of Amit Shah during nomination
Information indicates that Union Home Minister Amit Shah may be present when Nitish Kumar files his nomination for the Rajya Sabha election. The development is being discussed within political circles in connection with the National Democratic Alliance.
Political observers have indicated that Amit Shah’s presence could signal coordination within the alliance at both the central and state levels. For this reason, the developments of the day are being closely watched within the context of Bihar’s political developments.
Ramnath Thakur to file nomination from JD(U)
Another candidate from the Janata Dal (United) for the Rajya Sabha election is Ramnath Thakur, who is also scheduled to file his nomination as a party candidate. Ramnath Thakur has held a long political career and is regarded as a senior leader within the party. The party has therefore decided to field him in the Rajya Sabha election.
Discussion regarding leadership change
Alongside discussion regarding Nitish Kumar’s potential move to the Rajya Sabha, political circles have also begun discussing the possibility of changes in the chief ministerial position if he resigns from the post.
Until now, the Bharatiya Janata Party has been part of the ruling alliance in Bihar while the Chief Minister’s position has remained with the Janata Dal (United). If the political balance changes, it could alter the current arrangement within the state government.
Discussion on formation of a new government
Following the nomination process, a meeting of National Democratic Alliance leaders is expected, and Amit Shah is also reported to be likely to participate. Discussion regarding the structure of a new government in Bihar may take place during the meeting.
Sources indicate that the Bharatiya Janata Party may seek a larger role within the alliance structure in the state. The party may also consider projecting a candidate for the chief minister’s position.
At present, the Bihar government has two Deputy Chief Ministers from the Bharatiya Janata Party: Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha. If a new government arrangement emerges, the deputy chief minister structure may also change, although it is not yet clear whether the government would have one or two deputy chief ministers.
Names discussed for the chief minister’s position
Following discussion regarding Nitish Kumar’s possible move to the Rajya Sabha, several names are being discussed for the position of Chief Minister.
Among them, Union Minister Nityanand Rai is being mentioned prominently. Nityanand Rai belongs to the Yadav community and currently serves as a Minister of State in the central government. He played a role in seat-sharing and organisational strategy during the Bihar Legislative Assembly elections.
Another name discussed is Samrat Choudhary, who is considered among the senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Bihar and belongs to the Kushwaha community. His organisational influence and political experience are cited in discussions regarding potential leadership.
02 मार्च 2026President Droupadi Murmu to Launch Four Delhi Government Welfare Schemes at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium
President Droupadi Murmu will formally launch four public welfare schemes of the Delhi government today at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi.
The programme is being organised to mark the completion of one year of the Delhi government and is being presented under the theme “Sashakt Nari, Samriddh Delhi.”
Under a new initiative, women residents of Delhi will be issued ‘Pink Smart Cards’ to avail free bus travel on public transport. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the card will provide free travel on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses. The card will also be integrated with the existing Automatic Fare Collection system of the Metro, Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), and other public transport services, enabling women to access multiple transport options through a single card.
The government will distribute the cards at approximately 50 designated centres, including District Magistrate (DM) and Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) offices, as well as selected DTC depots. The cards will be issued free of cost, and the entire expenditure will be borne by the Delhi government.
The existing assistance scheme for girls has been restructured and introduced as the ‘Delhi Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana.’ Under the previous arrangement, a lump sum amount was deposited at the birth of an eligible girl child, with additional financial assistance provided at various educational stages, including admission to Classes 1, 6, and 9, passing Class 10, and admission to Class 12.
Under the revised scheme, the government will deposit a total of Rs 56,000 in the name of the girl child in different phases. With accrued interest, the amount is expected to exceed Rs 1 lakh by the age of 21 years.
The government has also announced a scheme to provide two free LPG cylinders annually to ration card holder families, one on Holi and one on Diwali. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the benefit will be provided through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. An amount equivalent to the prevailing market price of the cylinder will be directly credited to the Aadhaar-linked bank account of the head of the family.
According to government estimates, approximately 17.5 lakh ration card holder families are expected to benefit from the scheme.
The ‘Meri Poonji Mera Adhikar’ programme is being launched to distribute maturity amounts to eligible beneficiaries under the Delhi Ladli scheme, which was initiated in 2008 to promote the birth and education of the girl child. A total of Rs 100.25 crore will be digitally transferred to the Aadhaar-linked bank accounts of 40,642 eligible beneficiaries.
28 फरवरी 2026At Least 15 Killed After Bolivian Air Force C-130 Skids Off Runway and Crashes Onto Road in El Alto
At least 15 people were killed and more than 30 injured on Friday evening after a Bolivian Air Force Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft skidded off the runway at El Alto International Airport near La Paz and crashed onto a busy road in El Alto.
Accident Details
According to local and international media reports, the aircraft had departed from Santa Cruz and overshot the runway while landing at El Alto airport. Authorities said heavy rain and snow had made the runway extremely slippery, causing the aircraft to lose control. The plane left the runway and fell onto a road, colliding with vehicles and damaging around a dozen cars. Heavy traffic was reported on the road at the time of the crash, and several people died at the scene. The injured were admitted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Newly Printed Banknotes on Board
The aircraft was carrying newly printed banknotes for the country’s central bank. When the plane crashed onto the road, the banknotes in denominations of 20, 50 and 100 bolivianos were scattered at the scene. Videos and images circulating on social media showed people attempting to collect the notes. The president of Bolivia’s central bank stated that the notes had been sent for replacement purposes and could not be used as legal currency. He said they would not be accepted in any transaction and that security protocols had been activated.
Police Response and Official Statements
Local police and security forces used water cannons and tear gas to control the crowd. Authorities urged citizens to remain patient and avoid picking up any scattered notes.
Bolivia’s Defence Ministry and the Air Force confirmed the aircraft belonged to the military. El Alto airport was temporarily closed following the incident. The country’s national airline, Boliviana de Aviación, clarified that the aircraft was not part of its fleet. Preliminary investigations indicated that adverse weather conditions and the icy runway were the main causes of the crash. The dead included members of the aircraft’s crew and civilians on the ground. Injured persons were hospitalised after receiving initial treatment and were reported to be in stable condition.
27 फरवरी 2026Rouse Avenue Court Discharges Arvind Kejriwal Manish Sisodia and 23 Others in Delhi Excise CBI Case
In the Central Bureau of Investigation case related to the alleged Delhi excise policy, the Rouse Avenue Court has discharged former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, and all 23 accused persons in the matter.
The court of Special Judge Jitendra Singh delivered the order after detailed hearings. The court stated that, based on the documents and evidence presented by the investigating agency, there was insufficient material to establish any larger conspiracy or criminal intent.
While pronouncing the order, the court raised questions regarding the functioning of the investigating agency. The Special Judge observed that the court had repeatedly sought the alleged confessional statements and the list of key witnesses, but these were not produced in a timely manner. The court noted that essential documents were not made available along with the charge sheet, making it difficult to substantiate the allegations. The court further clarified that mere allegations are not sufficient and must be supported by concrete and credible evidence.
The judge also observed that the court expects complete transparency and honesty from the investigating agency to ensure that the judicial process is conducted fairly.
In the case, Arvind Kejriwal was named as accused number 18, while Manish Sisodia was serving as Deputy Chief Minister of the Delhi government and was in charge of the excise department at the relevant time. Following the court’s decision, both leaders received legal relief in the matter. After the order was pronounced, scenes of emotion were witnessed inside the courtroom, where both leaders expressed relief and satisfaction along with their lawyers and supporters.
The case had remained under national discussion for an extended period.
27 फरवरी 2026Rinku Singh’s Father Khanchand Singh Dies of Stage Four Liver Cancer During T20 World Cup
India cricketer Rinku Singh’s father, Khanchand Singh, has died after a prolonged illness. He was undergoing treatment for stage four liver cancer and passed away at Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida.
Khanchand Singh had been battling liver cancer for a long time and was admitted to Yatharth Hospital in Greater Noida after his condition deteriorated. He died during treatment under medical supervision.
The development comes during the T20 World Cup. Rinku Singh took a break from the Indian team to be with his father during his final days.
Rinku Singh Meets Father Before Zimbabwe Match
Ahead of the match against Zimbabwe, Rinku Singh travelled from Chennai to Greater Noida to meet his father. After spending time with him, he rejoined Team India. However, he was not part of the playing XI in the match against Zimbabwe. Prior to that fixture, he had been included in the main playing XI in all five matches played by the Indian team. Following his father’s death, Rinku shared a message on social media expressing his grief.
From Poverty to Professional Cricket
Rinku Singh grew up in financial hardship. His father, Khanchand Singh, worked as a cylinder delivery worker, and Rinku assisted him during his childhood. The family faced financial struggles until Rinku established himself in cricket. In 2024, a video went viral showing Khanchand Singh carrying a cylinder on his shoulder during deliveries. Rinku had then stated that his father never rested and worked throughout his life with dedication and honesty, which continued to inspire him.
Khanchand Singh was in the final stage of liver cancer and was receiving treatment under doctors’ supervision. The illness ultimately claimed his life. During the T20 World Cup, the news has drawn condolences for Rinku Singh and his family on social media, with several supporters sharing messages of sympathy.
