⚖️ SC orders CBI probe into Mamata Banerjee case

The Supreme Court decided to transfer the investigation into Mamata Banerjee's alleged obstruction of an ED raid to the CBI. This case involves the former West Bengal CM and officials regarding the January raid on I-PAC. The court was hearing an ED petition filed on August 18, 2024, seeking an FIR and investigation. The bench considered arguments on maintainability and the merits of the case. The hearing is scheduled to continue on September 2, 2024. ⚖️

😬 Cricket banter turns personal on air

Former Indian cricketers Sanjay Manjrekar and Murali Kartik had an awkward exchange during the Galle Test. The banter shifted from discussing the match to personal remarks between the two commentators. Kartik started by teasing Manjrekar about his facial expressions, leading to personal jabs from both players. The heated exchange highlighted how far their conversation drifted from the cricket itself. Manjrekar eventually acknowledged they were crossing lines, knowing social media would pick it up. 😬

📢 Lalu Prasad calls march against Bihar's 'dictatorial' govt 🔫

Lalu Prasad has called a Mahagathbandhan march to Lok Bhavan on August 19 against the state government's alleged dictatorial attitude. The opposition leader stated that the march will submit a memorandum to the governor regarding the AK-47 firing in Siwan. This incident occurred on July 25, when an AK-47 was allegedly fired at student protesters in Siwan district. Police initially claimed no injuries, but an inquiry started because firing was against instructions. Prasad insists everyone should unite in Patna on August 19 to protest this situation.

🌟 Tollywood stars ditch Hyderabad votes for hometowns

Several Tollywood celebrities in Hyderabad are choosing to retain their voting rights in their native places in Andhra Pradesh. These prominent figures, many residing in Jubilee Hills, opted to forego their local votes during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Officials confirmed this trend, noting many celebrities prioritized their hometowns. This decision is partly due to owning agricultural land and properties back in Andhra Pradesh. Ultimately, this move shows a strong connection to their roots despite living in Hyderabad. 🏡

🤕 Man Utd get injury boost, but big star still out

Manchester United received a double injury boost ahead of their match against Hull City. The boost involves two players, though the £60m star remains sidelined. This news comes just four days before the upcoming fixture against Hull. The absence of the major player continues to be a talking point for the team's strategy. Fans are awaiting further updates on the star's return to the squad.

🚢 Trump calls Hormuz 'US Territory' amid Iran standoff

Donald Trump posted an AI-generated image on Truth Social calling the Strait of Hormuz 'NEW U.S. Territory'. This came after he asserted the US had 'total control' over the vital oil transit route. On Tuesday, August 18, he shared the map, while Iran vowed to keep the waterway closed. Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated the Strait would remain closed until the US fulfills its June MoU conditions. The region sees heightened tensions following a recent vessel strike, as the June agreement collapsed. 🚢

🎉 TN boosts maternity leave for government workers

Tamil Nadu's Minister for Human Resources Management, D. Sarathkumar, announced a major change in the Assembly on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The maternity leave for the third child of women government employees is now increased from 12 weeks to a full 365 days. Currently, women employees receive 365 days for their first two children, while those with two or more children get up to 12 weeks. Additionally, an app named ‘Vetri Paathai’ will cost ₹20 lakh for competitive exam aspirants. Furthermore, a new building costing ₹12.5 crore is planned for the TNPSC headquarters. 👩‍💼

🎮 Mastering Sage in VALORANT by 2026

Red Bull is dropping guides on how to master the agent Sage in VALORANT. This content is aimed at players looking to level up their game strategy. The detailed guides are expected to be available starting sometime in 2026. Sage's abilities are crucial for team defense and site execution in competitive play. Players should keep an eye out for the release to improve their in-game performance.

🌟 Maternity leave boost for government women employees

Maternity leave for the third child of women government employees has been increased to 365 days by Minister for Human Resources Management D. Sarathkumar. This announcement was made in the Assembly on Tuesday, adding to the existing 365 days for the first two children. The minister also detailed several development projects, including an app costing ₹20 lakh for exam aspirants. Furthermore, a ₹12.5 crore building is planned for the TNPSC headquarters, and a new computer lab will be set up. Under the 'Simple Governance' initiative, 150 government services are slated for this financial year. 👩‍💼

⚽ Hansi Flick names interim Barca captains for Gamper Trophy

Hansi Flick addressed the captaincy situation before Barcelona's Gamper Trophy match against Al Ahly on Wednesday. He confirmed Raphinha will captain the game, alongside Eric Garcia and Pedri. Flick stated the final captaincy will be decided by a player vote once squad changes are complete. This decision is pending potential player arrivals or departures before the 2026-27 season. Barcelona is also reportedly close to signing Rodri and Joao Cancelo. 🧐

🩺 Silent Kidney Disease: Know Before It's Too Late 🧐

Kidney disease can progress without noticeable symptoms, as shown by a 52-year-old man whose kidneys were at only 25% function. Nephrologists advise anyone with diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity to consider regular kidney screening. Early detection allows for treatment like controlling blood pressure and diabetes to protect existing function. Simple tests including blood pressure, serum creatinine, and UACR are recommended for awareness. Protecting kidney health proactively is better than waiting for complications to arise.