🔥 BC wildfires force 20k+ to flee across western Canada 🔥

Fast-moving wildfires in British Columbia have forced over 20,000 people to evacuate due to the destruction of homes. The Bald Range fire is burning approximately 9,500 hectares, leading to evacuation orders in Summerland and Peachland as of early Saturday. Premier David Eby declared a state of emergency because nearly half of the fires were out of control amid drought. Emergency powers allow the government to restrict travel and secure accommodation for those displaced. Residents are urged to follow updates immediately if asked to evacuate as conditions are changing quickly.

😟 FIFA President denies affair and favouritism claims

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has strongly denied allegations from a British newspaper regarding an alleged affair. The Telegraph claimed he paid off a former UEFA employee, who allegedly received a six-figure sum plus £45,000 for tuition. UEFA confirmed a departure payment was made but insisted it followed regulations at the time. FIFA further stated that Infantino categorically denies these untrue allegations. He is facing scrutiny amid controversy over his shelved private investment plan for the World Cup. 😟

🧐 Punjab shifts on Hawara's parole after initial 'no'

The Punjab government initially opposed Jagtar Singh Hawara's parole application, citing 25 criminal cases and adverse police recommendations. This was detailed in a letter dated February 19, 2026, sent to Tihar Jail authorities. However, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann later sought a 10-day parole for Hawara on humanitarian grounds. This shift has sparked questions regarding the change in the state's stance over the four months. Hawara is currently serving time for the assassination of former Punjab CM Beant Singh. 🧐

💧 AI's hidden thirst: Water cost of digital growth 💧

Research shows a typical ChatGPT conversation can use half a litre of water, highlighting AI's environmental cost. India is rapidly expanding data centers from 375MW in 2020 to a projected 13.56 GW by 2031-32. The UN report estimates data centers could consume 9.3 trillion litres by 2030, threatening local water supplies. Despite this, states are offering huge incentives for new data center projects like in Andhra Pradesh and UP. Concerns are rising over groundwater depletion and the impact of brine discharge from seawater cooling.

🗣️ HDK tells JD(S) to challenge state govt issues

Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy asked JD(S) legislators to raise key issues during the next Legislature session. The meeting was held in Mysuru on Saturday, where he directed them to critique the Congress government's drought management. He specifically demanded opposition to the Bidadi Township project and the BMIC project, which is facing land acquisition and compensation issues. Kumaraswamy also urged MLAs to highlight irregularities in KPSC and garbage disposal in Bengaluru. These concerns were discussed in front of various party leaders and MLAs.

😠 Delivery Guy Attacked in Bengaluru Over Hindi Comment

A delivery person was assaulted in Bengaluru after he stated, 'I don't understand HINDI!'. The incident involved the delivery agent and some individuals in the city. The confrontation reportedly happened on [Date not provided] involving a dispute over language understanding. This incident highlights tensions related to linguistic differences in urban settings. Authorities are expected to investigate the matter further following the assault. 😠

⚓ US pushes for safe shipping through Strait of Hormuz

US Vice President JD Vance announced efforts to create a safe shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz while maintaining pressure on Iran. This plan hinges on Iran agreeing not to fire on commercial ships, despite Washington's distrust of Tehran's assurances. The IRGC stated reopening depends on US acceptance of their conditions, not current Oman talks. Vance confirmed the US will keep pressuring Iran until necessary long-term changes are made for a better relationship. Diplomatically, Iran's Foreign Minister noted current talks are only for a temporary route, not a full reopening. 🚢

🏛️ TN MPs push back on delimitation plan

Tamil Nadu MPs have voiced strong opposition to the Central government's proposed delimitation plan. The members of Parliament from the state are raising concerns regarding the proposed changes across the region. They are specifically demanding a 25-year extension to the freeze on Parliament seats. This move comes amid ongoing political discussions about electoral boundaries and representation. The MPs are pushing for this extension to be implemented in the near future. 🏛️

🏛️ TN MPs reject centre's delimitation plan

Tamil Nadu's ruling alliance has united to oppose the Centre’s proposed delimitation exercise on Saturday. Nineteen MPs attended the meeting chaired by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to protect the state's current parliamentary representation. They agreed that Lok Sabha must maintain 543 seats, with Tamil Nadu keeping its 39 seats. The MPs demanded that the existing delimitation freeze be extended by another 25 years. The government argues that population changes could negatively impact the state's political influence. 🏛️

⚽ Barcelona eyeing €20M for La Masia talent

Barcelona is preparing for squad adjustments following the expected arrival of Rodri at the club. Sporting director Deco is actively looking to generate transfer income by moving young players. Tommy Marques, a La Masia graduate, has been told to find a new club, featuring a €20 million release clause. Interest in Marques includes Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, and SC Braga. Meanwhile, Marc Casadó is also a candidate to leave, potentially heading to Saudi Arabia for around €40 million. 💰

🤝 Serbia and Ukraine push for trade deal

Serbia and Ukraine agreed to deepen economic ties and aim to finalize a long-stalled free trade deal by year-end. This commitment was made in Belgrade when Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The two nations discussed joint projects, with Serbia pledging aid to rebuild Ukrainian cities damaged by the invasion. The free trade agreement, stalled for over two decades, is important for Serbia's WTO and EU ambitions. Both leaders also signed a memorandum on animal health and food safety. 🤝