ACC President Mohsin Naqvi has strongly denied allegations that he apologized to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the Asia Cup trophy incident. Naqvi criticized the Indian media, accusing it of disseminating “fabricated propaganda.” He reaffirmed his willingness to provide the trophy, challenging India to come to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) office to claim it if they desire. “If they truly want it, they are welcome to come to the ACC office and collect it from me,” he stated, adding that politicizing cricket is not acceptable.
In related news, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party has halted actor-turned-politician Vijay’s campaign rallies across Tamil Nadu. This decision was made in response to a tragic stampede at a recent event in Karur, which resulted in the deaths of 41 individuals. Following the incident, the party leadership has instructed district secretaries to refrain from seeking police permission for future public gatherings, citing public safety concerns. Vijay is anticipated to resume his campaign activities at the end of October.
Moreover, Congress leader Raashid Alvi has publicly criticized party member P Chidambaram, who stated that India’s choice not to retaliate against Pakistan after the 26/11 Mumbai attacks was influenced by U.S. pressure. Alvi questioned the appropriateness of Chidambaram’s timing in making such comments, suggesting he should have resigned in protest if he felt strongly about the decision at the time.
In another development, two aides of Bareilly cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan have been arrested by Uttar Pradesh Police following an encounter in Fatehganj Paschimi. The individuals, identified as Mohd Idris and Iqbal, allegedly snatched a constable’s anti-riot firearm and opened fire during a altercation on September 26. Police recovered the stolen weapon, along with two homemade pistols, cartridges, a motorcycle, and mobile phones. Authorities have committed to continued actions against those inciting unrest in the region.
Lastly, the United States government has entered its first shutdown since 2019 due to Congress’s failure to pass a temporary funding bill before the deadline. The shutdown stems from escalating tensions between President Donald Trump and Democratic lawmakers over healthcare funding, with both sides refusing to compromise, ultimately leading to the stalemate.
