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## Air India Crash Pilot’s Father Vows to Defend Son’s Reputation The father of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal, one of the pilots who died in the Air India Flight 171 crash, has promised to continue defending his son's reputation as investigators prepare to release another update on the tragedy. Pushkar Raj Sabharwal said he remains determined to protect his son's name from speculation and unverified claims. "My son is no longer here, but I must defend his reputation," he said. ## Family Faces Painful Speculation Capt Sumeet Sabharwal served as the senior pilot on Air India Flight 171. The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed just seconds after taking off from Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. The disaster claimed at least 260 lives, including 241 passengers and crew members on board. It became one of India's deadliest aviation accidents in recent years. Since the crash, the Sabharwal family has faced intense public attention. Media reports and online discussions have added to their grief while the investigation remains unfinished. ## Investigation Continues Without Final Conclusion Authorities have not yet determined the exact cause of the crash. A preliminary investigation report revealed that the fuel control switches for both engines moved from the "run" position to the "cut-off" position shortly after take-off. As a result, both engines lost fuel supply during a critical stage of the flight. Cockpit recordings captured a conversation between the two pilots. One pilot questioned why the fuel had been cut off, while the other denied taking that action. Investigators did not identify which pilot made either statement. They also found no evidence that either pilot intentionally caused the incident. ## Reports Shifted Attention Toward Senior Pilot Several international media reports later suggested that investigators were paying closer attention to Capt Sabharwal's role in the cockpit. According to those reports, cockpit audio recordings appeared to support the theory that the captain may have cut fuel flow to the engines. However, officials have not confirmed those claims. Pilot associations across India strongly rejected the speculation. Industry groups argued that media outlets should avoid drawing conclusions before investigators complete their work. ## Authorities Urge Caution India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau criticized selective and unverified reporting surrounding the crash. The agency warned that premature conclusions could mislead the public and undermine the investigation process. Officials stressed that investigators had not assigned blame to either pilot. Capt Sabharwal's father later approached India's Supreme Court and requested an independent investigation into all possible causes of the accident. During proceedings, the court noted that the preliminary findings did not place responsibility on the senior pilot. The judges stated that no evidence in the initial report suggested fault on his part. ## Family Awaits Final Answers As investigators continue their work, the Sabharwal family hopes the final report will provide clear answers about what happened that day. For Pushkar Raj Sabharwal, the goal remains simple. He wants the public to remember his son as a respected professional pilot and wait for verified facts before making judgments. The upcoming investigation update may provide new insights into one of the most tragic aviation disasters in recent history.
BusinessNews

Air India Crash Pilot’s Father Vows to Defend Son’s Reputation

The father of Capt Sumeet Sabharwal, one of the pilots who died in the Air India Flight 171 crash, has promised to continue defending his son's reputation as investigators prepare…

Safeguarding Investigation Begins A safeguarding investigation was launched in 2023 after allegations were raised about the conduct of David Sullivan. The concerns triggered action from football authorities and local safeguarding officials. The case involved coordination between the club, the Football Association, and the local authority to assess the situation and implement protective measures. Restrictions on Women’s and Youth Teams Following the investigation, a safeguarding decision was made to restrict Sullivan’s access to sensitive areas of the club. He was banned from contacting West Ham United women’s team and youth teams. He was also stopped from attending their matches. These measures were introduced to protect players and staff while the investigation was reviewed. Ongoing Ban and Limited Access The restrictions have remained active since 2023. Sullivan has continued to be barred from involvement with the women’s and youth sides of the club. At the same time, he was still seen around the men’s team fixtures at the London Stadium during this period. West Ham and the Football Association have both stated that they maintain strong safeguarding systems. They also said they cannot comment on individual cases. Resignation and Allegations Sullivan later stepped down from his leadership roles at the club. He remains its largest shareholder. He has denied all allegations against him. He described them as false and linked to long standing claims about his private life. He also said the process has been unfair and that he intends to challenge the accusations. Multiple women have made claims involving abuse of power and misconduct. These claims are part of the wider investigation being reported by media outlets. Club and Authority Position Football authorities and the club have kept details limited due to confidentiality rules. However, they confirmed that safeguarding decisions were taken through official procedures. The aim of these measures is to protect players, staff, and club operations while investigations are ongoing.
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David Sullivan Safeguarding Ban From West Ham Women and Youth Teams Explained

A safeguarding investigation was launched in 2023 after allegations were raised about the conduct of David Sullivan. The concerns triggered action from football authorities and local safeguarding officials. The case…

Germany steps away from Franco German FCAS fighter jet project as defence tensions rise
DefenceNews

Germany steps away from Franco German FCAS fighter jet project as defence tensions rise

Germany pulls back from FCAS Germany has stepped away from a major joint fighter jet programme with France, marking a setback for European defence cooperation. The move has raised concerns…

# Major Earthquake in Southern Philippines Kills 32, Triggers Tsunami Alerts A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Mindanao in the southern Philippines on Monday morning, leaving at least 32 people dead and more than 100 injured. The strong tremor caused widespread destruction, triggered tsunami warnings across several countries, and forced thousands of residents to evacuate. Authorities continue to assess the full impact of the disaster as rescue teams search for missing people and clear damaged areas. ## Tsunami Warnings Issued Across the Region The earthquake occurred at 7:37 AM local time near Mindanao, the Philippines' second largest island. Shortly after the quake, officials issued tsunami alerts for the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, and Australia. Emergency agencies closely monitored coastal areas. Although authorities later cancelled some warnings, many residents moved to safer locations as a precaution. ## Death Toll Rises as Rescue Efforts Continue Local officials reported that at least 32 people lost their lives due to the earthquake and its aftermath. Many deaths occurred when landslides struck communities in the province of Sarangani, located close to the quake's epicentre. Rescue workers continue searching for nearly two dozen missing individuals. More than 100 people suffered injuries, while emergency teams remain on high alert. ## Sarangani and General Santos Among Worst-Hit Areas Sarangani province recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 17 confirmed deaths. Landslides caused much of the destruction in the area. The earthquake also temporarily disrupted power and communication services, though crews restored most connections later in the day. General Santos City, the closest major city to the epicentre, reported 10 deaths. Authorities also confirmed that several residents remain unaccounted for. The city is widely known for its fishing industry and as the hometown of former world boxing champion and politician Manny Pacquiao. ## Buildings Collapse and Infrastructure Suffers Damage The powerful quake damaged homes, roads, and commercial buildings across several provinces. Videos shared online showed significant structural damage, including the collapse of a Jollibee fast-food restaurant. Authorities also reported damage in South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat. Engineers are inspecting buildings to determine whether they remain safe for public use. ## Thousands Evacuated for Safety Officials evacuated approximately 10,000 residents from vulnerable areas after the earthquake. Emergency shelters opened to accommodate affected families. Schools in several regions suspended classes following the disaster. The earthquake struck on the first day of the new school year, disrupting activities for thousands of students. In Davao Occidental, footage from a local school showed students gathering in open spaces while the ground shook. Despite the frightening scenes, school officials confirmed that no students suffered injuries. ## Government Mobilizes Disaster Response Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr directed government agencies to coordinate relief and rescue operations. Authorities continue delivering assistance to affected communities and monitoring conditions in high-risk areas. Emergency teams are expected to provide updated casualty figures and damage assessments as rescue operations progress. ## Ongoing Assessment Mindanao is home to approximately 26 million people, making it one of the country's most populated regions. Officials warn that casualty numbers may change as verification efforts continue. Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious, follow safety instructions, and stay informed through official channels while recovery efforts move forward.
News

Hundreds of Aftershocks Shake Philippines as Rescue Teams Race Against Time

A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Monday, leaving widespread destruction across Mindanao Island. Authorities have confirmed at least 37 deaths and 487 injuries, but officials fear…

Bear Sightings Surge in Japan as Authorities Capture One Near Tokyo Bear captured in Utsunomiya after multiple sightings Japanese authorities have sedated and captured a black bear after several days of repeated sightings in Utsunomiya, a city near Tokyo. A veterinarian attempted to use a tranquiliser gun, but the first shot missed. Two more darts were fired within the next 15 minutes before the animal was finally sedated. Police confirmed the capture took about one hour and 40 minutes after tracking the bear roughly 2.5 km south of the city’s main railway station. Officials estimate the bear weighed around 100 kg. Residents reported seeing the animal more than 20 times since Saturday. It was spotted near homes, schools, parks, and even swimming in a river. It also climbed fences and moved through residential backyards. Schools closed after safety concerns The situation caused major disruption in the city. Authorities closed all 94 public primary and middle schools as a precaution. Officials also warned residents to keep doors and windows locked due to the possibility of more than one bear in the area. Another bear still on the run in Fukushima In a separate case, another bear injured four people in a residential area of Fukushima city. Despite multiple attempts, officials have not been able to capture it. The bear broke into an electronics factory and reportedly escaped by opening a window, surprising police who had surrounded the building. The city’s mayor said the animal was seen drinking water from a tap and may have turned it on itself, describing it as highly intelligent. Authorities are now using drones to search for it. Rising bear encounters across Japan Japan has seen a sharp rise in bear encounters in recent years. The environment ministry reported 238 bear attack victims in 2025, including 13 deaths, marking record levels. Experts link this increase to several factors. Poor harvests of natural food sources such as acorns and beechnuts have pushed bears closer to residential areas. At the same time, rural depopulation has reduced human presence in mountain regions, making it easier for bears to move into towns. Changes in climate may also be affecting hibernation patterns, keeping bears active for longer periods each year. Government response and new measures The Japanese government has created a special task force to address the rising number of incidents. Local authorities are also adopting new technology and response systems to reduce risk and prevent further casualties.
News

Bear Sightings Surge in Japan as Authorities Capture One Near Tokyo

Bear captured in Utsunomiya after multiple sightings Japanese authorities have sedated and captured a black bear after several days of repeated sightings in Utsunomiya, a city near Tokyo. A veterinarian…

Attacks inquiry revealed miscarriage of justice, victim's mother says
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Nottingham Attacks Inquiry Sparks Calls for Urgent Action and Justice Review

Public inquiry highlights major system failures A major public inquiry into the Nottingham attacks has found serious failings in care, policing, and coordination before and after the incident. The attacks…

Sikh group demands public inquiry A Sikh organisation has asked the government to launch a public inquiry into what it calls serious failures linked to the death of 18 year old student Henry Nowak. The group says the case has raised public confusion and harmed community relations. Incident details in Southampton Henry Nowak was killed in Southampton in December 2025. The attacker, 23 year old Vickrum Digwa, used a knife during the incident. Digwa later said he carried one of the blades as part of his Sikh religious practice. Concerns raised by Sikh Federation Dabinderjit Singh, who leads political engagement at the Sikh Federation, has written to senior officials including the Home Secretary, Justice Secretary, and Attorney General. He argues that incorrect claims about the weapon have caused serious harm to how Sikhs are viewed in public debate. He also attended a march in London where the issue was highlighted. Bodycam footage and inquest plans Police bodycam footage released with family permission shows Henry Nowak repeatedly saying he could not breathe while injured and in handcuffs after being stabbed. Authorities have confirmed that a jury inquest will examine the wider circumstances next year. Legal context around ceremonial blades Current law allows practising Sikhs to carry a small ceremonial blade called a kirpan when it is kept close to the body for religious reasons. However, using any blade in violence makes it illegal. The Criminal Justice Act 1988 also recognises religious and cultural items such as ceremonial blades worn in national dress. This includes traditional Scottish dress items. If such an item is used in an attack, it becomes an offensive weapon under the law. Dispute over the weapon used Reports confirm Digwa carried two blades. One was described as a small kirpan. The second blade was used in the fatal attack. The Sikh Federation and the Network of Sikh Organisations argue that the second blade was not a kirpan. They describe it as a Persian style blade linked to a warrior tradition within the Nihang community. The Crown Prosecution Service maintains that Digwa chose to carry both blades and used one of them in the attack. The trial judge agreed with this view during the case.
Crime and JusticeNews

Inquiry call grows over Henry Nowak death in Southampton case

Sikh group demands public inquiry A Sikh organisation has asked the government to launch a public inquiry into what it calls serious failures linked to the death of 18 year…

Malawians repatriated from South Africa
News

Malawians Repatriated from South Africa Amid Rising Xenophobia Concerns

150 Malawians Return Home from South Africa Around 150 Malawian nationals have returned home by road from South Africa. Authorities confirmed their arrival is expected on Monday. The group left…

We Don’t Look at the Sky Anymore: Families Living with the Ahmedabad Air Crash Tragedy Introduction Ahmedabad is still living with the memory of a devastating air crash that killed 260 people. Most were passengers on the plane, but 19 people on the ground also lost their lives when the aircraft struck the BJ Medical College hostel area near the airport. One year later, grief has not faded for families who live nearby. Lives Changed in an Instant Prahlod Thakur lost his wife, Sarlaben, and his granddaughter, Aadhya. They were inside the hostel complex when the crash happened. Their photos still hang on the walls of his home. He sees them every morning. The loss remains heavy, and he often feels overwhelmed when he looks at their pictures. A Site That Never Healed The hostel building still shows clear damage. Upper floors remain open to the sky. Concrete is broken and scattered. Stairs are dark with burn marks. Personal items are still buried in dust and debris. The building has not returned to normal use. Plans exist to demolish it and rebuild, but no full cleanup has taken place yet. Daily Life Around the Ruins Students continue their studies nearby. They walk past the damaged building every day. Air traffic still passes overhead frequently. Before the crash, the sound of planes felt normal. Now it brings back painful memories for many residents and students. Grief That Does Not Fade For families like Thakur’s, healing feels out of reach. The sound of a passing aircraft brings back the same shock they felt during the disaster. Many say they avoid looking at the sky. The tragedy has changed how they experience everyday life. Future Plans and Uncertain Closure Authorities have approved demolition of the damaged hostel complex. A new building is planned for the site. However, the delay in removal of the wreckage has kept the emotional wound open for many families and students.
News

We Don’t Look at the Sky Anymore: Families Living with the Ahmedabad Air Crash Tragedy

Introduction Ahmedabad is still living with the memory of a devastating air crash that killed 260 people. Most were passengers on the plane, but 19 people on the ground also…

Multiple women have made serious allegations against businessman David Sullivan, the co owner of West Ham United. The claims were reported through an investigation carried out by BBC Panorama and The Times. The women say the alleged behaviour took place over several decades, starting in the 1980s and continuing into the 1990s. Seven women have come forward in total. Claims From Former Models All of the women say they were young models at the time, mostly in their late teens or early twenties. They were trying to find work in the glamour modelling industry. They allege that Sullivan used his position as a powerful media and business figure to pressure them. According to their accounts, he suggested career opportunities in exchange for sexual acts. Some women claim they were pressured during meetings about work. Others say they felt they had no real choice because of his influence in the industry. Specific Accounts One woman, referred to as Florence to protect her identity, says she was pressured into sex even though she did not want it. She described being unable to leave the situation. Another former model said she tried to leave a meeting after unwanted advances. She claims the door was locked and she was only allowed to leave after raising her voice. Two women said they agreed to sexual contact because they believed refusing could damage their careers. Response From David Sullivan David Sullivan, now 77, strongly denies all allegations. He says the claims are false and strongly disputes the accounts given by the women. He also described the investigation as unfair and said he will focus on clearing his name. Sullivan stepped down from his role as joint chair of West Ham shortly after the reports became public. He said he wanted to respond to what he called decades old allegations about his private life. Additional Historical Context Sullivan has also acknowledged paying for sex in the 1990s with a girl he believed was 16 or 17 at the time. He said he thought it was legal then, as the law changed later in 2003. The reports also describe his position in the 1980s and 1990s as a powerful figure in publishing and modelling industries, where he had influence over career opportunities for young women. Evidence and Reporting The investigation says details from the women were supported by diaries, records, and interviews with people they had previously confided in. Many of the women chose to remain anonymous due to fear of repercussions and concern about privacy.
News

Multiple Women Accuse West Ham Co Owner David Sullivan in BBC Panorama Investigation

Multiple women have made serious allegations against businessman David Sullivan, the co owner of West Ham United. The claims were reported through an investigation carried out by Panorama and The…

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Kelp Farmer Suzie Flores Pushes Seaweed Farming in the US After Leaving Manhattan Career
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Candy Stores Are Growing in NYC Despite Economic Pressure Why small sweet shops are expanding during tough times New candy shops are appearing across New York City even though many retailers are struggling due to weak consumer confidence and ongoing inflation. While people are cutting back on larger purchases, demand for small treats like candy remains steady. Industry owners say sweets continue to sell because they are affordable and offer quick comfort. Even during financial stress, customers still want small indulgences they can easily justify. A business model that survived the Great Depression One of the strongest examples is Economy Candy on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. It first opened in 1937 during the tail end of the Great Depression and is now known as the city’s oldest candy store. The shop did not start as a candy store. It began as a hat and shoe repair business, with candy sold outside on a small cart to earn extra income. Over time, repairs became less affordable for customers, so the family shifted fully to sweets. That decision helped the business survive, and it is still running today under third generation ownership. Why candy still sells in uncertain times Owner Mitchell Cohen says people still buy candy even when money feels tight. He explains that inflation and uncertainty reduce spending power, but candy remains an easy and low cost purchase. Recent retail data shows overall US sales are still rising, yet consumer sentiment has dropped to record lows. This gap reflects a split between what people feel and what they still spend on. Experts say candy fits into a pattern often called the “lipstick effect.” When budgets shrink, people avoid expensive items but still buy small luxuries that give emotional comfort. New shops are betting on small treats This trend is also attracting new entrepreneurs. Kate Bolger, a former movie producer, is preparing to open The Village Confectionery in Sleepy Hollow, a town near New York City known for its literary history. Bolger believes customers may delay big purchases but will still spend on small treats like candy. She sees it as a simple way for people to enjoy something small without financial strain. A small luxury that stays resilient Even as the wider retail sector faces pressure, candy stores continue to grow in select areas. Their success is linked to low prices, emotional appeal, and steady demand during uncertain economic conditions.
Candy Stores Are Growing in NYC Despite Economic Pressure
Business News
Deputy Mayor Defends Blocking £25m Palantir Met Police Contract Amid Job Cut Fears Contract decision sparks debate over policing costs and reforms in London London’s deputy mayor for policing and crime, Kaya Comer Schwartz, has defended her decision to stop a £25.3 million contract between the Metropolitan Police and US tech company Palantir. The deal was planned for 2026 to 2027 and included an optional extra year. It was intended to improve criminal investigations and support internal reforms within the force. She told the London Assembly’s Police and Crime Committee that her priority was ensuring public money is spent properly. She said the decision was based on concerns about value for money and accountability. “I make no apologies for making sure we have the right oversight over significant spending,” she said. “We must ensure contracts deliver value for Londoners.” Concerns over procurement and supplier choice The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime raised concerns about how the Met Police handled the procurement process. It said the force engaged seriously with only one supplier during the process. It also noted concerns about the company’s values and ethics, although those issues could not legally determine the final decision. Palantir rejected the criticism. The company said its proposal offered strong value for money and supported ongoing policing needs. It also confirmed it was considering legal action to challenge the decision. Impact on policing and possible job losses Met Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley warned that the blocked deal could affect staffing plans. He said the force must make budget savings this year and next year, which may lead to difficult decisions affecting public services. He said up to 750 job cuts could be required if funding pressures continue. Those decisions are expected to be finalised in the coming weeks. Conservative Assembly member Susan Hall criticised the decision. She warned it could lead to further cuts in frontline policing and questioned whether the deputy mayor would accept responsibility for the impact. Oversight and unanswered questions During the committee session, Liberal Democrat member Gareth Roberts asked how much detail the deputy mayor had seen about potential cutbacks. Comer Schwartz said she had not yet reviewed a full contingency plan. She added that discussions with the Met were still ongoing. Officials continue to assess how the funding gap will be managed while balancing technology investment, staffing levels, and service delivery across London policing.
Deputy Mayor Defends Blocking £25m Palantir Met Police Contract Amid Job Cut Fears
Business News
Inflation Holds at 2.8% as Food Price Rises Slow in UK Inflation stays unchanged despite earlier forecasts UK inflation stayed at 2.8% in May, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Analysts had expected a rise to around 3%, but prices remained steady instead. Food price growth slowed during the month, helping balance increases in other areas such as transport and fuel. Experts had warned that global tensions, especially the Middle East conflict, could push prices higher. However, the latest peace deal between the US and Iran may reduce some of that pressure in the coming months. Transport costs drive inflation higher Transport prices continued to rise and remained the strongest contributor to inflation. Motor fuel prices were 24.6% higher than a year earlier. Overall transport inflation reached 6.8%, the highest level seen since December 2022. ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner said higher costs came mainly from airfares, vehicle taxes, and fuel prices. Food inflation slows to a 17-month low Food prices rose at a slower pace compared to previous months. Food inflation dropped from 3% in April to 2.2% in May, its lowest level since December 2024. Prices for meat, dairy, and vegetables increased, but at a reduced rate. Beef and veal prices still rose by 9.4% over the year. However, this was lower than the 13.2% rise in April and 18.8% in March, showing a clear slowdown. Retailers and food industry outlook The British Retail Consortium said lower food inflation reflects strong competition among supermarkets. Still, it warned that prices could rise again later in the year. The Food and Drink Federation said retail prices often lag behind production costs. It added that recent global disruptions, including issues around the Strait of Hormuz, have not yet fully affected shop prices. Chief executive Karen Betts explained that farmers, processors, and manufacturers face higher costs first, and these usually reach consumers after several months. Long term contracts for energy and ingredients also delay price changes. Inflation trend context Inflation has moved sharply over recent years. It fell close to zero in late 2020, then surged to 11.1% in October 2022. It later dropped to 1.7% in September 2024 before rising again to 2.8% in May 2026.
Inflation Holds at 2.8% as Food Price Rises Slow in UK
Economics
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