Kolkata streets still flooded after heavy rain, BJP slams state government for deaths

In this special report, former Indian diplomat and West Asia expert Talmiz Ahmed analyses the rapidly evolving situation in Iran amidst rising tensions with the United States. Ahmed observes that 'there is no evidence of a pullback so far' regarding American military posturing and aggressive rhetoric. He highlights the severity of internal Iranian protests, driven by extreme economic privation, including a 72% rise in food prices and 84% national inflation. Ahmed suggests a 'robust American and Israeli hand' is fomenting discord but doubts the protests alone can achieve regime change. He further critiques India's current 'low-key approach,' urging New Delhi to strongly reject the use of force against Tehran to protect regional interests. The discussion covers the complexities of potential military strikes, the lack of regional support for an American assault, and the historical failures of US interventions in the Middle East.

This news bulletin covers the escalating crisis in Iran amid a regime crackdown on nationwide protests, with unconfirmed reports citing thousands of casualties. In West Asia, tensions rise as Iran warns neighboring countries that hosting U.S. bases makes them legitimate targets for retaliation, a response to U.S. President Donald Trump's support for the protestors and warnings of intervention. The program also addresses a genocidal threat issued against India by Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist Abu Musa Kashmiri. In the UK, mass protests by the Sikh community in London are highlighted following reports of 'grooming gangs' targeting young girls. Finally, the bulletin reports on a milestone in India's maritime diplomacy as the INSV Kaundinya, a ship built using ancient stitched techniques, completes its maiden voyage from Gujarat to Muscat, Oman, retracing historic sea routes.

On this Special Report, Diplomatic Affairs Editor Geeta Mohan provides insights into the high-level contact between India and Iran as tensions escalate in Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi reached out to India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to discuss the 'rapidly evolving situation at the moment in Iran.' The conversation comes as the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued an urgent advisory for Indian nationals, including a significant student population, to leave Iran immediately. Geeta Mohan highlights that Araghchi’s planned visit to New Delhi has been rescheduled due to regional stress and the ongoing situation on the ground. The report notes that the Indian administration is preparing for contingencies, drawing parallels to the massive evacuation efforts seen during the previous 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran. The discussion underscores India's focus on the safety of its citizens while maintaining diplomatic communication with a key historical partner during this volatile period.

From sanitation to development, what do those residing in Dharavi, one of the world’s largest slums, expect from the upcoming BMC election?