Lovely Professional University in Punjab, India, has stopped classes and postponed exams for 10 days after violent protests about an alleged rape on campus. University officials deny the rape claim, and police are investigating the incident amid conflicting reports and social media posts.
Key Facts
Lovely Professional University suspended classes and postponed midterm exams for 10 days due to protests.
The protests became violent, with demonstrations clashing with police, damaging property, and blocking a highway.
A female student was allegedly raped on campus, but the university denies the claim and says it is false information.
Police have not confirmed the victim’s identity and are still investigating.
Videos showed some students supporting the denial, but later claimed they were directed on what to say.
Sexual violence is a widespread issue in India, with over 80 rapes reported daily according to official records.
Many rape cases go unreported due to fear and social pressure.
The Indian Supreme Court recently highlighted failures in law enforcement related to rape cases and called for more accountability.
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Hurricane Polo, a strong category three storm, is expected to hit Mexico’s Baja California Sur, a popular tourist area, by Monday night or early Tuesday. Authorities warn of heavy rain, flooding, mudslides, and dangerous waves, and have taken safety measures including closing schools and opening shelters.
Key Facts
Hurricane Polo has maximum sustained winds near 115 mph (185 km/h).
The storm is forecast to strike Baja California Sur, home to the tourist destination Los Cabos.
The National Hurricane Center warns of heavy rainfall that may cause life-threatening floods and mudslides.
Red flags were raised on beaches to warn people of hazardous sea conditions.
Authorities in Cabo San Lucas closed beaches and some restaurants as a precaution.
Schools are closed in Baja California Sur on Monday to keep students safe.
Temporary shelters have been opened for possible evacuations.
The Mexican navy and army have deployed thousands of personnel and special equipment to prepare for the storm.
Warm ocean waters linked to the El Niño climate event are helping to fuel the hurricane.
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Scientists are warning that a large ocean wave called a kelvin wave is moving toward California and could raise sea levels by up to one foot. This is caused by a strong El Niño event, which also increases the chance of storms and flooding along the coast in the coming months.
Key Facts
A kelvin wave is a large, slow-moving movement of warm ocean water spanning thousands of miles along the equator.
Kelvin waves form when trade winds weaken or reverse during El Niño years, causing warm water to shift eastward toward the Americas.
One kelvin wave has already reached northern South America and is now heading toward California's coast.
When it reaches California, the kelvin wave may raise sea levels by up to one foot for several months.
This increase will add to sea level rise that has already reached about 8 inches over the past century.
El Niño this year is expected to be the strongest in at least 1,000 years, bringing higher temperatures and more severe storms.
High tides during holidays, combined with storm surges, may cause significant coastal flooding and erosion.
California’s governor declared a state of emergency and is preparing resources for possible winter storms and flooding.
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A group called We Are Avon organized an eight-day walk along the Bristol Avon river to promote a new river rights charter. This charter, supported by nine local councils and environmental groups, aims to protect the river’s health, allow it to thrive naturally, and involve communities in its care. The initiative is part of a larger movement in the UK to give natural places legal rights and stronger protections.
Key Facts
The Avon pilgrimage involved walking about 100 miles from the river’s source to the sea while doing conservation activities like planting trees.
The Avon Bioregional Charter of River Rights (ABCRR) was publicly signed on World Rivers Day by councils, environmental groups, and the public.
The charter recognizes the river’s rights to exist, flow freely, avoid pollution, preserve biodiversity, and be restored naturally.
Nine councils, including Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol City, and North Somerset, have endorsed the charter.
River charters are part of a wider national and international movement for giving nature legal and moral rights.
These charters do not create new laws but aim to guide decision-makers and encourage community stewardship.
We Are Avon is working to improve cooperation between councils, water authorities, and other organizations managing the river.
Bath and North East Somerset has appointed a river advocate, and the charter’s principles will influence future climate and nature strategies.
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President Donald Trump's team is focusing on increasing testosterone levels among men as part of their strategy for upcoming midterm elections. Health and defense officials have changed rules to make testosterone treatments easier to get, and the military is starting testosterone screenings for some service members.
Key Facts
The FDA removed a rule that questioned the safety and effectiveness of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
In 2025, nearly 12 million testosterone treatment prescriptions were given, up from less than 1 million in 2000.
The military will screen members over 30 for testosterone levels and offer treatment for those with low levels.
Some Republican politicians use testosterone levels as a political talking point to criticize opponents.
Testosterone is a hormone important for many body functions, but only a small amount is usually needed.
Republicans are trying to ban testosterone treatment for transgender youth while promoting it for other groups.
New home testing kits allow men to measure their testosterone and compare their levels to others.
Experts say beliefs about testosterone being a source of masculinity and aggression are based on outdated science.
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President Donald Trump has said the U.S. has the greatest economy in history, but many voters disagree. Inflation is higher, economic growth is slower, and most Americans feel the economy is doing poorly compared to when President Joe Biden left office.
Key Facts
Inflation has risen from 3.0% to 3.4% since President Trump took office again.
Gas prices have increased by roughly 50% due to the conflict with Iran.
73% of Americans say the economy is in fair or poor condition; 48% say it’s poor.
The Federal Reserve has raised interest rates to fight inflation.
Prices for fuel oil, ground beef, fish, coffee, sugar, and electricity have all risen in the past year.
Unemployment is about 4.1%, similar to Biden’s last year in office, but job growth is slower under Trump.
The U.S. lost 35,000 factory jobs since Trump’s return, despite his tariffs aimed at boosting manufacturing.
Consumer confidence is near historic lows, heavily affected by inflation, slower growth, high rates, and economic uncertainty.
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The book *Gouged* by Lindsay Owens explains how American shoppers face higher prices not just because of inflation but also due to companies using new technologies and data to raise prices and reduce competition. Owens suggests government rules should stop companies from coordinating prices and require AI tools to help consumers find better deals.
Key Facts
Inflation and rising living costs since 2021 revealed that companies planned to increase prices more than necessary.
Businesses use advanced technology, including AI, and data from companies like EverSight and Kronos to set prices based on individual consumers’ details.
These data brokers collect personal information about about 95% of adults, including income, health, and political views.
Firms run experiments to personalize prices to what each shopper is likely to pay, increasing costs for many.
The traditional balance of competition lowering prices is breaking down due to fewer competitors and advanced pricing techniques.
Owens proposes a “shoppers’ bill of rights,” including banning software that helps companies set coordinated prices and requiring AI assistants to prioritize consumer interests.
The current rules have not kept up with technology, allowing companies to exploit shoppers and weaken trust in the economy.
Owens argues that the cost of living crisis offers a chance to build a stronger consumer movement for better protections.
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Ethiopia’s army commander accused Sudan and Egypt of supporting armed groups fighting in northern Ethiopia, where clashes restarted between the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and the federal government. Sudan denied the claims and said rebel forces in Sudan were receiving support from Ethiopia. Fighting has raised fears of a return to the civil war that ended in 2022.
Key Facts
Ethiopia’s army leader, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, said Sudan and Egypt back TPLF rebels fighting Ethiopian troops.
Sudan’s military called these accusations baseless and said rebel forces in its country were helped from inside Ethiopia.
Fighting resumed between the TPLF and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s federal government on Wednesday.
A drone struck the headquarters of Tigrai TV in the Tigray capital, and phone and internet services in Tigray have faced major disruptions.
The United Nations expressed concern over drone use and harm to civilians.
TPLF has taken control of areas near Tigray and launched attacks into neighboring regions Afar and Amhara.
The TPLF formed an alliance with six other armed groups to try to overthrow the government and is advancing toward key towns and supply routes.
The conflict threatens to cut off Ethiopia’s supply lines from Djibouti, which provides most of its imports.
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Microsoft has been building data centers in many communities and says it wants to be a “good neighbor” by supporting local services. However, some local groups say Microsoft’s financial contributions are small compared to the large tax breaks it receives, and they feel the company could do more to help with local needs.
Key Facts
Microsoft promised to support local hospitals, schools, parks, and libraries when opening new data centers.
The company donated $229 million to 29,000 nonprofits in 2024 but has been vague about larger local investments.
Data center developers like Microsoft get big tax breaks in 38 states that can last more than ten years.
In Georgia, a one-year sales tax break for data centers was $474 million, but the state only regained $41 million in revenue.
Indiana offers a 7% sales tax exemption on data center equipment, potentially worth $13.2 billion, which could mean $900 million less for state programs.
Local groups near Microsoft’s Granger data center in Indiana report worsening local services and unmet community needs.
Microsoft agreed to provide up to $1 million in one-time donations to local nonprofits, which some see as too low compared to the benefits Microsoft gains.
Other companies like Amazon also offer limited one-time grants but no major ongoing local investment.
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More Americans now oppose the building of data centers than express fear about artificial intelligence (AI). Despite good reasons to support data centers, such as their relatively low water use compared to golf courses, public concern about their impact is growing.
Key Facts
Public opposition to data centers has increased and is now higher than fear of AI.
Tech companies argue that data centers use less water than golf courses.
There is little proof that data centers cause major problems like water shortages or environmental damage so far.
Data centers are facilities that store and manage large amounts of digital information.
The backlash suggests many Americans care about how land and resources are used.
Tech development faces challenges balancing industry needs and community concerns.
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A new coalition called the American Infrastructure Alliance has formed, bringing together AI companies, private equity firms, and unions to support responsible growth of data centers in seven U.S. states. The group aims to work with state and local officials to create rules for data center development starting in 2027 to avoid construction bans.
Key Facts
The coalition focuses on Texas, Georgia, Ohio, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and South Carolina.
Members include Blackstone, OpenAI, QTS, SoftBank Group, and unions like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
The group wants clear standards and limits for data centers to support the economy and good jobs.
Some states, like Texas and Pennsylvania, have recently placed restrictions on new data center approvals.
Key progressive lawmakers have proposed stopping all new data centers until AI safety rules exist.
Polling shows many people in Ohio dislike data centers, but support increases if data centers keep energy costs low and create jobs.
The coalition emphasizes cooperating with local leaders to ensure data centers benefit workers and communities.
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A Delta Air Lines flight from Barcelona to Boston made an emergency landing in Porto, Portugal, after smoke was found in the cabin. Four passengers were taken to the hospital with mild smoke inhalation, and the cause of the smoke is still unknown.
Key Facts
The flight was an Airbus A330 with 296 passengers on board.
The plane landed safely at Porto airport in northern Portugal.
Four passengers were hospitalized due to smoke inhalation but were only lightly affected.
Eight passengers received medical help on the airport tarmac.
The cause of the smoke incident has not yet been determined.
Delta recently had four emergency landings in one week, including two from cabin fumes and two from pressurization problems.
The civil protection service in Portugal managed the emergency response.
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Pope Leo XIV visited Metz, France, and spoke about the importance of peace and unity in Europe. He reminded people of Europe’s Christian roots and urged respect and honesty between countries and individuals.
Key Facts
The pope gave his speech on the last day of his visit to France.
He criticized increasing uncivil behavior and dishonesty in relationships between people and countries.
He encouraged Europe to use its tradition of respect to improve relations.
The speech was delivered in Metz, a city in northeastern France.
The pope’s message focused on peace and unity in Europe.
He referred to Europe’s Christian history as a foundation for these values.
The visit was part of a larger effort by the pope to promote harmony on the continent.
The pope Leo XIV is continuing themes from previous popes, blending traditional and modern ideas.
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A new Senate bill introduced by Senator Tim Scott aims to stop pregnant foreign visitors from coming to the U.S. mainly to give birth and obtain citizenship for their children. The bill would allow visa officers to assume such visitors are coming for "birth tourism" unless they prove otherwise and would let officers refuse entry to those suspected of this practice.
Key Facts
The Birth Tourism Elimination Act targets foreign nationals traveling to the U.S. on B visitor visas primarily to give birth and secure citizenship for their child.
It creates a legal presumption that pregnant applicants for visitor visas intend to obtain U.S. citizenship for their newborn.
Applicants can prove a legitimate reason for giving birth in the U.S. to overcome this presumption.
The bill also sets rules for visitors coming for medical treatment, requiring proof of treatment plans, costs, and ability to pay.
Immigration officers could deny entry if they reasonably believe the traveler’s main goal is birth tourism.
The bill does not end birthright citizenship itself but focuses on controlling visa approval and entry processes to stop birth tourism.
The proposal complements wider Republican efforts to restrict birthright citizenship after Supreme Court rulings and other government actions.
Senator Tim Scott stated that citizenship is not for sale and travel programs should not be misused to obtain citizenship.
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Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic resigned on September 28, 2026, to run for prime minister in an upcoming early parliamentary election. This election will be a test of his control over the country, which has seen protests for almost two years.
Key Facts
Aleksandar Vucic is the current president of Serbia.
He resigned from his position on Sunday, September 28, 2026.
Vucic aims to become the prime minister in a new early election.
Serbia has experienced nearly two years of public protests before this decision.
The election will show how strong Vucic's influence is in the country.
The news was reported by France 24.
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French President Emmanuel Macron urged Europe to remember the bravery of its founders and to resist the rise of nationalism. He made these remarks while speaking with Pope Leo XIV during the pope’s visit to Metz, France.
Key Facts
President Macron spoke about the future of Europe during Pope Leo XIV’s visit.
Macron emphasized the need for Europe to show courage like its founders.
He warned against allowing nationalism to grow again in Europe.
The speech happened in Metz, France, on the pope’s last day in the country.
Pope Leo XIV is visiting France and plans to speak on European unity.
Macron’s message aligns with efforts to strengthen European cooperation and unity.
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Three people, including a 10-year-old child, died while trying to cross the English Channel from France to the UK on an overcrowded inflatable boat. The boat overturned near Wissant, France, and rescue efforts are ongoing, with many others injured. Crossing attempts have decreased compared to previous years, but deaths continue to occur.
Key Facts
The boat carried 105 people and overturned near Wissant, northern France.
Three passengers died: a 10-year-old child and two women.
Six rescue boats were searching for survivors after the incident.
At least 17 people have died this year trying to cross the Channel to the UK.
More than 18,600 people have crossed the Channel this year, fewer than last year and 2024 so far.
People use unstable rubber dinghies, often paying smugglers, to cross one of the world's busiest shipping routes.
The UK plans to reopen a refugee resettlement scheme focusing on Palestinians and women from Afghanistan.
The incident follows a recent high number of deaths in sea crossings to Spain’s Canary Islands.
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South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said that President Trump’s plan to offer asylum to up to 17,500 White South Africans is based on race and called claims of genocide against Afrikaners false. He said South Africa will not interfere with the U.S. program and will continue its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice despite U.S. pressure.
Key Facts
The U.S., under President Trump, plans to accept up to 17,500 White South African asylum seekers.
South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola called this policy "race-based."
Lamola described the idea of Afrikaner genocide as "fake news."
South Africa will not try to stop the U.S. from taking in these asylum seekers.
South Africa is pursuing a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice about the war in Gaza.
The Trump administration has pressured South Africa to drop this case, but South Africa refuses.
Lamola rejected claims by Nigeria blaming South Africa for anti-foreigner violence, saying these attacks come from vigilante groups, not the government.
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Millions of Americans will receive their October 2026 Social Security payments this month. Payment dates depend on birth date and type of benefit, with amounts based on lifetime earnings and age when benefits began.
Key Facts
Social Security payments arrive on different Wednesdays in October depending on the recipient’s birthday: 1st-10th get paid October 14, 11th-20th on October 21, and 21st-31st on October 28.
Some beneficiaries, including those who started benefits before May 1997 or receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), get paid earlier on October 2 or October 1 for SSI.
The maximum monthly benefit in 2026 is $2,969 at age 62, $4,152 at full retirement age 67, and $5,181 at age 70.
Most people get less than the maximum because benefits are calculated from their 35 highest-earning years.
The average retired worker’s benefit in 2026 is estimated at about $2,071 per month.
Social Security benefits increased 2.8% in 2026 to keep up with inflation through a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
Beneficiaries who miss a payment on the scheduled date should wait three mailing days before contacting the Social Security Administration.
Payments are mainly sent electronically by direct deposit or debit card programs.
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A nor'easter storm that hit the U.S. Northeast has weakened and is moving toward the Gulf of Maine. The storm caused heavy rain, strong winds, flooding, and at least one death in New York City due to a falling tree.
Key Facts
The storm struck the U.S. Northeast, including New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and New England.
A 56-year-old man named Leighton Brown died in Brooklyn after being hit by a falling tree.
The nor'easter was causing light rain and coastal flooding as it moved northeast.
Coastal flood alerts were in place from the Delmarva Peninsula up to Massachusetts.
Flood watches warned of up to 1.5 inches of rain in eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
High waves up to 12 feet were expected along parts of the coast from Massachusetts to Maine.
Wind advisories were canceled, but some areas could still see gusts of 20 to 30 mph.
The storm’s strongest impact has passed, and drier conditions were expected in New York City and Boston by Tuesday morning.
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