Vivek Mishra works as an Assistant Editor with Eastern Eye and has over 13 years of experience in journalism. His areas of interest include politics, international affairs, current events, and sports. With a background in newsroom operations and editorial planning, he has reported and edited stories on major national and global developments.
Sunil Chhetri's final match for India ended in a 0-0 draw against Kuwait in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday, as thousands of fans gathered to bid farewell to the football legend.
Nearly 59,000 spectators filled the stadium in Kolkata to witness the captain's swan song, a significant turnout in a country where cricket dominates sports popularity.
Fans began arriving at the stadium hours before the gates opened, eager to chant, sound bullhorns, and dance in the heat.
The crowd's energy surged during Chhetri's touches on the ball, although the overall atmosphere remained calm.
At 39, Chhetri concluded his international career with 94 goals, placing him among the world's top all-time scorers, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Iran's retired Ali Daei, and Lionel Messi.
His 151st and final appearance for India was marked by an emotional farewell. Chhetri's best chance in the 55th minute was thwarted when a pass from Brandon Fernandes was intercepted by the Kuwait keeper.
As he left the field, Chhetri waved to the crowds and pressed his palms together in thanks. He wiped away tears while walking through an honour guard formed by his teammates.
One banner in the stands read, "Referee don't blow the whistle, otherwise Sunil Chhetri will leave us." Another banner depicted Chhetri carrying a giant football in India's national colours.
Chhetri made his debut against Pakistan in 2005, scoring India's only goal. Over the years, he became known for his exceptional skills and dedication to the sport.
In 2011, he scored a hat-trick against Tajikistan to help India qualify for the Asian Cup for the first time in 27 years. His contributions to Indian football have been widely recognised and celebrated.
"He became a legend while still playing, and that's something only a few can do," India's coach Igor Stimac said last month. "He's an inspiration to everyone, absolutely committed to the Indian jersey." Chhetri's impact on Indian football is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Although he had brief stints in Portugal with Sporting CP and in the United States with the Kansas City Wizards, Chhetri spent most of his career in India.
He currently plays for Bengaluru FC, where he has been a key player and leader.
In 2009, he was offered a contract by London club Queens Park Rangers, but he could not get a work permit, which prevented him from playing in England.
India is currently second in Group A of the World Cup qualifiers, behind Qatar and a point ahead of Afghanistan and Kuwait.
The top two teams from the group will advance to the next stage. India's next match is against Qatar in Doha on Tuesday, while Kuwait will host Afghanistan in the final round of group games.
The team's performance in these matches will determine their chances of advancing further in the tournament.
Gregg Wallace has been dropped from MasterChef following a misconduct probe.
BBC was approached by over 50 individuals with new allegations, including sexual misconduct.
Wallace says an independent investigation cleared him of “serious” claims but found him guilty of inappropriate language.
He has hit back at the BBC, accusing them of betrayal and failing to support his autism diagnosis.
Gregg Wallace has been officially removed from MasterChef after more than 50 new individuals came forward with misconduct allegations spanning his two-decade television career. The move follows an ongoing investigation led by law firm Lewis Silkin, commissioned by the show’s production company, Banijay UK, into Wallace’s behaviour.
While Wallace claims he has been cleared of the “most serious and sensational” accusations, he was reportedly found responsible for inappropriate language and comments dating back as far as 2005. The BBC, which aired MasterChef, is now facing renewed scrutiny over how long-standing concerns about Wallace’s behaviour were handled internally.
BBC under fire after 50 women share new allegations against Gregg WallaceGetty Images
Allegations span 20 years and multiple shows
BBC News reports that the broadcaster received over 50 new testimonies after its initial exposé in 2023, which documented complaints from 13 individuals. Among the most disturbing claims were accounts from women alleging Wallace groped them, touched them inappropriately, or undressed in their presence without consent.
One woman who worked on MasterChef between 2011 and 2013 said Wallace pulled down his trousers in front of her in a dressing room. A 19-year-old employee claimed she was subjected to comments about her body and discouraged from filing a formal complaint. Others described incidents on BBC shows such as Saturday Kitchen and Eat Well for Less, as well as incidents that occurred at industry events and even during a book tour.
Despite some complaints reportedly dating back to 2017, Wallace continued to appear on-screen until stepping away from MasterChef in late 2024 when the first round of allegations emerged.
Wallace hits back, says autism diagnosis was ignored
In a five-slide Instagram statement, Wallace defended himself, claiming he had been “hung out to dry” by the BBC and MasterChef producers despite years of service. He also revealed a recent diagnosis of autism, alleging that his neurodiversity was known by colleagues but never acknowledged or accommodated.
“I will not go quietly,” Wallace wrote. “I was tried by media and hung out to dry well before the facts were established… That failure is now being quietly buried.”
Wallace accused BBC News of planning to “platform legally unsafe accusations” and condemned the broadcaster’s coverage as “sensationalised gossip masquerading as journalism.” He stated that the only misconduct confirmed in the Silkin report related to language used between 2005 and 2018, for which he offered an unreserved apology.
Gregg Wallace seen filming prior to being removed from the showYoutube Screengrab
BBC and Banijay face scrutiny over safeguarding failures
The scandal is not just about Wallace. The revelations have raised significant questions about workplace culture within the BBC and its production partners. Many of the women who spoke to the BBC said they felt unable to report Wallace’s conduct at the time for fear of career backlash.
A production worker told BBC News that when she complained about Wallace dropping his trousers in a dressing room, she was dismissed with the response: “You’re over 16. You’re not being Jimmy Saviled.”
Another producer said her warnings to the BBC were ignored even after submitting a formal letter supported by an industry union in 2022. A 2023 report into BBC workplace culture already revealed that “a small number of stars and managers behave unacceptably,” with action often delayed or avoided entirely.
The BBC logo is seen at BBC Broadcasting House Getty Images
Banijay boss responds to scandal, promises safer industry practices
Just two hours after the latest BBC report on Wallace dropped, Banijay UK CEO Patrick Holland addressed the controversy during a press dinner in London’s Covent Garden. Speaking to a room filled with journalists, producers, and talent, Holland confirmed that an executive summary of the Lewis Silkin investigation will be released publicly “soon,” though the full report will remain confidential.
While he declined to comment on whether Wallace had been formally sacked, Holland acknowledged the broader implications of the case. “We need to do all we can to ensure that everyone in production, especially in the most junior roles, feels confident to call out bad behaviour,” he said.
He also noted that television culture had changed dramatically over the last two decades and pointed to “hotlines, welfare officers, and anonymous reporting systems” now available to workers as an apparent response to the many who said they feared career damage if they spoke up.
Gregg Wallace attends the Channel 5 2020 Upfront photocallGetty Images
Public reckoning and industry fallout
As the summary of the Silkin report is expected in the coming days, pressure is mounting on the BBC and Banijay to address the broader systemic issues that enabled Wallace to remain on air for so long. Calls are growing for resignations among senior figures who had oversight of Wallace’s productions.
Baroness Helena Kennedy, who leads a creative industry watchdog, warned that “freelancers often feel unable to speak out” and that there have been “multiple missed opportunities” to prevent harm.
Philippa Childs, head of the Bectu union, added: “Misogyny, intimidation, ageism, and sexual harassment should have no place in modern workplaces. Yet time and again we have seen issues running rampant, propped up by inadequate reporting mechanisms and a culture of untouchable talent.”
Bectu Union Story Instagram Screengrab/ bectuunion
She welcomed the UK government’s latest move to ban NDAs that silence victims of workplace abuse, a step many say is long overdue in cleaning up the British entertainment industry.
Wallace, meanwhile, continues to deny engaging in any sexually harassing behaviour. A spokesperson said he is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
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Chai & Chat: A Conversation Space for British South Asians
A warm cup of chai and an open conversation – that’s the essence of Chai & Chat, a welcoming dialogue forum hosted by the British South Asian Dialogue Forum. Taking place on Friday, 11 July 2025, from 1:00 to 2:30pm at Aston Students' Union in Birmingham, this inclusive event invites adults aged 18 and over to share, connect, and reflect on the British South Asian experience.
Whether you're a student exploring your identity, a professional navigating cultural expectations, or someone simply seeking community, this 90-minute gathering promises meaningful exchange and open-hearted dialogue. It’s an opportunity to talk about the shared stories, challenges, joys, and hopes that shape South Asian lives in Britain today – all over a comforting cup of chai.
The event is informal, free-flowing, and grounded in community spirit. Expect honest discussions, respectful listening, and maybe even a few new friendships. From first-generation immigrants to those born and raised in the UK, everyone with a South Asian background – or an interest in learning more – is encouraged to attend.
Hosted at the centrally located Aston Students’ Union (8 Coleshill Street, Birmingham B4 7BX), the venue is easily accessible and provides a relaxed setting for a gathering of voices, perspectives, and shared experiences.
No speeches, no panels – just real talk over real tea. Come for the chai, stay for the chat.
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Alcaraz had experienced occasional inconsistency in the first week of the tournament
Carlos Alcaraz defeats Britain’s Cameron Norrie in straight sets
Defending champion extends winning streak to 23 matches
Faces American Taylor Fritz next in the semi-finals
Alcaraz powers through quarter-final test
LONDON, July 8 (Reuters) – Carlos Alcaraz had hinted that Cameron Norrie might pose a tricky challenge. And for a brief moment on Tuesday, it looked as though the defending Wimbledon champion could be in for an early scare.
The Spaniard found himself down 0-40 in his opening service game on Centre Court. But any suggestion of an upset quickly faded as Alcaraz surged to a dominant 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 victory — a performance that further cemented his status as the favourite to retain the title.
Commanding from the start
Despite rows of empty seats early on — with spectators still filtering back after Aryna Sabalenka’s lengthy quarter-final — Alcaraz wasted no time asserting his authority.
By the time the crowd returned to support the last British singles player standing, the second seed had already wrapped up the opening set in just 28 minutes, showcasing his signature mix of precision and power.
Norrie, unseeded and unconventional in his style, tried to push back. He even lifted his arms in mock celebration after holding serve late in the third set. But the result never looked in doubt.
Alcaraz, currently enjoying a 23-match winning streak, was a level above throughout.
Building momentum before facing Fritz
The Spaniard, now into his eighth Grand Slam semi-final, will face American Taylor Fritz next. The match will take place after a two-day break, in line with the All England Club’s scheduling.
With momentum on his side, Alcaraz suggested he would prefer to keep playing. When asked how he planned to spend his time off, one fan jokingly shouted a suggestion to return to Ibiza, where he had relaxed after his recent French Open win.
“We’ll try to switch off”
Smiling, Alcaraz responded with a more grounded plan.
“I might try to go to the city centre if I have time. I want to play some golf with my team which will be fun,” he said. “What I’ve been doing so far has worked, so we’ll try to switch off together.”
Tuesday’s match marked the second time Alcaraz has faced a British opponent during this year’s Championships, having earlier beaten qualifier Oliver Tarvet in the second round. Interestingly, Tarvet had pushed the world number two more than Norrie managed to.
Too strong on grass
Norrie’s hopes of becoming just the third British man to defeat a defending Wimbledon champion ended early. After missing four break point opportunities in the second game, a double fault gifted Alcaraz a break, and a hesitant volley later allowed the Spaniard to strike a powerful dipping forehand that clipped the baseline.
While Alcaraz had experienced occasional inconsistency in the first week of the tournament, his latest showing confirmed that he is hitting top form as the business end approaches. The win marks his 34th from 37 matches played on grass.
“To play another semi-final here at Wimbledon is really special,” Alcaraz said. “I want to go as far as I can and I’m really happy with the level I played today against a really difficult player like Cam.”
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Bumrah returns to bolster India's attack, Gill eyes more records, while Archer boosts England's hopes at Lord's. (Photo: Getty Images)
India levelled the series 1-1 with a 336-run win at Edgbaston
Shubman Gill has scored 585 runs in two Tests as captain
Jofra Archer set for first Test appearance since 2021; Bumrah returns for India
INDIA will look to continue their strong form when they face England in the third Test at Lord's starting Thursday. After losing the first Test at Headingley, India bounced back to level the five-match series 1-1 with a 336-run win at Edgbaston.
India are chasing just their fourth Test series win in England, and come into the Lord's Test with several key players in form.
Gill's record chase continues
Shubman Gill has made a strong start to his captaincy, scoring 585 runs in his first two Tests as skipper after taking over from Rohit Sharma. At Edgbaston, he made 269 and 161, becoming the first batter in Test history to score 250 and 150 in the same match.
Gill also made 147 in the series opener, and his form has sparked comparisons with Donald Bradman’s 974-run record in a single Test series. The record has stood for 95 years.
"You've got to give your opposition credit when it's due and for him to bang out as many runs as he has done in this game has been pretty special," England captain Ben Stokes said.
There is precedent for a drop in form later in the series. In 2003, South Africa’s Graeme Smith started with two double hundreds at Edgbaston and Lord's but scored just 93 more runs in the final three matches.
Archer return boosts England hopes
Jofra Archer is expected to return for England, marking his first Test since 2021. Archer made his Test debut at Lord's in 2019, where he famously hit Steve Smith with a bouncer. His return comes after a long injury lay-off.
"He's obviously been through his injuries and his time out of Test cricket, but we all know what he's capable of achieving and we hope that when the opportunity does arrive for him, he's able to recapture and improve on what he's been able to do already," England coach Brendon McCullum said.
England's attack has struggled in this series. Chris Woakes has taken just three wickets at an average of nearly 97, despite sharing the new ball. Geoffrey Boycott recently said the 36-year-old was "past his sell-by date".
However, Woakes has a strong record at Lord's with 32 wickets in seven Tests at an average of 12.90. He also averages 42.50 with the bat at the ground.
Bumrah back for India
Jasprit Bumrah is expected to return after being rested at Edgbaston. Akash Deep, who took 10 wickets in Birmingham, is likely to retain his place. But Bumrah’s return strengthens the Indian attack.
"He (Bumrah) jogs in, you will be thinking 'this will be 70 miles an hour' and it hits you at 90," former England pacer Stuart Broad said on his For the Love of Cricket podcast.
Bumrah is yet to earn a place on the Lord's dressing room honours board. The 31-year-old will aim to change that in the third Test.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Reality star Humaira Asghar found dead alone in Karachi flat after a year of rent unpaid
Humaira Asghar, 32, was found dead in her Karachi apartment nearly three weeks after her death.
Police discovered her body after executing a court order to vacate the flat over unpaid rent.
Authorities ruled out foul play; an autopsy is awaited to determine the cause of death.
The Tamasha Ghar contestant lived alone and was known for her roles in TV and film.
Humaira Asghar, a Pakistani model and reality TV personality known for her appearance on Tamasha Ghar, was found dead in her Karachi apartment, almost three weeks after her reported death. The 32-year-old, who had lived alone for over seven years, was discovered by police following a court order to vacate her residence due to more than a year’s worth of unpaid rent.
Humaira Asghar appeared at several fashion events before her tragic passingInstagram/humairaaliofficial
Police found Humaira’s body after court-ordered flat eviction
On 8 July, authorities arrived at the residence to carry out a court order related to unpaid rent. When no one answered the door, officers broke the lock and entered the flat, only to find Humaira’s body in an advanced state of decomposition.
South Karachi Deputy Inspector General Syed Asad Raza confirmed to local media that the body appeared to be several days old, suggesting she had died at least two to three weeks prior. Dr Summaiya Syed from the forensic team corroborated that the state of the body indicated a “very advanced stage of decomposition.”
No signs of foul play, but cause of death still unknown
While an autopsy is still pending, police have already ruled out murder as the cause of death. Investigators found no signs of forced entry or struggle, indicating that no foul play was involved.
Officials are now waiting for medical reports to determine the exact cause of death. Until then, police have refrained from speculation, urging the public to avoid jumping to conclusions.
Known for her glamour, Humaira was popular on social media and reality TVInstagram/humairaaliofficial
Humaira Asghar’s rise through reality TV and modelling
Humaira gained national recognition after participating in Tamasha Ghar, Pakistan’s version of Big Brother. Introduced to audiences as a pageant winner, she was initially eliminated in week five but re-entered the show shortly after. She was later removed on day 40 for breaking rules alongside another contestant.
Apart from her reality TV fame, Humaira also appeared in the 2015 Pakistani film Jalaibee, in which she played a model, a role that reflected her real-life career. She had been steadily building a presence on social media and in entertainment circles, often praised for her glamorous persona.
Fans mourn the sudden loss of Humaira Asghar after her body was found in her flatInstagram/humairaaliofficial
Industry mourns, spotlight turns to mental health and isolation
News of Humaira’s death has prompted shock and sadness across the entertainment community, with tributes pouring in online. Many fans and fellow artists have also raised concerns about the lack of support systems for people living alone, particularly in high-pressure industries like entertainment.
The tragic discovery has also sparked a broader conversation in Pakistan about mental health, loneliness, and the need for community, especially for those in the public eye who may suffer in silence.
Humaira’s passing coincides with news of American actor Michael Madsen’s death at age 67, compounding the grief felt across the entertainment world. Like Humaira, Madsen was found dead in his home, though his death was believed to be from natural causes.
Pakistani star Humaira Asghar dies alone at 32 as industry mourns and questions followInstagram/humairaaliofficial
Investigations continue as family, fans await answers
Authorities have confirmed that investigations into Humaira Asghar’s death are ongoing, with a full autopsy expected to clarify the circumstances. Meanwhile, friends, family, and followers continue to express their grief, remembering her as a vibrant personality who left far too soon.
As questions around her final days linger, one thing remains clear: Humaira Asghar’s untimely death has left a void in Pakistan’s entertainment industry and a reminder of the unseen struggles behind public lives.