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Kneecap Rapper Mo Chara Granted Bail in London Terror Charge Case

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Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known by his stage name Mo Chara from the Irish-language hip-hop group Kneecap, was released on unconditional bail after appearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on a terror-related charge. He is accused of displaying a flag in support of the banned organisation Hezbollah during a recent performance in the city. The 27-year-old arrived at court accompanied by fellow band members Móglaí Bap (Naoise Ó Cairealláin) and DJ Próvaí (JJ Ó Dochartaigh), where a packed courtroom and supporters gathered to witness the proceedings.

Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ordered Mr Ó hAnnaidh to return for a hearing on 20 August, and acknowledged difficulties in finding an Irish language interpreter. Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove clarified that the charge was not about Mr Ó hAnnaidh’s political views or support for Palestine, but specifically about alleged support for a proscribed group. Defence lawyer Brenda Campbell KC countered that the court lacked jurisdiction over the matter. The courtroom was filled with journalists, Irish language advocates, and MPs including John Finucane and Paul Maskey.

Outside the courthouse, supporters held Palestinian and Kneecap flags, while others wore “Free Mo Chara” T-shirts and displayed placards defending free speech. The crowd applauded the group’s arrival and cheered slogans challenging historical discrimination. Kneecap, known for its provocative political stances and Irish-language advocacy, has faced past controversies, including a UK government grant dispute and a Gaza-related performance at Coachella. Their growing influence recently culminated in a BAFTA-winning film depicting their rise to fame.

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Pegasus Calls Out Misuse of Miss South India & Mrs South India Titles: “This Is More Than Just a Name”

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Pegasus, the force behind the celebrated Miss South India and Mrs South India pageants, has raised serious concerns over growing instances of impersonation. Founded and trademarked by Dr. Ajit Ravi, these platforms are considered flagships in the beauty pageant space, offering women a stage to showcase talent and strength.

However, recent activity by unassociated groups attempting to conduct events under the same names has sparked concern. Pegasus has confirmed that these actions are not only illegal but a blatant disrespect to the hard-earned reputation of the original titles. The organization emphasized that these titles are exclusive trademarks and cannot be used by any third party.

“The journey we’ve walked cannot be replicated by shortcuts,” remarked Dr. Ajit Ravi. “Every crown we place carries with it a legacy, not just a name. Those who try to imitate without understanding the purpose only harm the young talents who trust in what we do. Our message is simple: respect originality and stand for authenticity.”

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Sánchez Apologises Amid Corruption Scandal That Brings Down Top Ally

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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has publicly apologised after a major corruption scandal forced the resignation of his close Socialist Party ally, Santos Cerdán. Cerdán, the party’s secretary, stepped down ahead of his testimony before the Supreme Court, where he is accused of participating in a kickback scheme involving the improper awarding of public contracts. Though Sánchez insists he had no knowledge of the affair, he admitted he was wrong to trust Cerdán and vowed to restructure his party leadership, rejecting calls for early elections.

Opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo of the Popular Party has seized on the controversy, demanding Sánchez’s resignation and accusing his government of being defined by corruption. A recent rally in Madrid drew tens of thousands under the slogan “Mafia or Democracy,” further pressuring Sánchez’s fragile minority coalition. Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz, from coalition partner Sumar, has also requested further explanation from the prime minister.

While Sánchez remains personally unimplicated, the scandal has shaken his administration. Investigations revealed that Cerdán allegedly worked with former transport minister José Luis Ábalos and adviser Koldo García to arrange €620,000 in illicit payments. The Civil Guard’s report, supported by audio recordings, has led to all three being called to testify. Sánchez, facing increasing scrutiny, pledged on social media to continue fighting for “clean politics and democratic renewal.”

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Alarm Bells Ring Over Ticketing “Connivance” as Judges Expose Industry Practices

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Revelations from recent fraud convictions of prolific ticket touts Peter Hunter and Maria Chenery-Woods have unearthed disturbing insights into the UK’s secondary ticketing market. Judges in both cases raised serious concerns about potential “connivance and collusion” or “complicity” between ticketing companies and touts, who profited massively by reselling tickets at inflated prices. Hunter, trading between 2010 and 2017, and Chenery-Woods, active from 2012 to 2017, both utilized major resale platforms, including the Ticketmaster-owned GetMeIn! and Seatwave, as well as StubHub and Viagogo. Despite Ticketmaster’s public claims of combating touting, former staff, promoters, venue managers, and court documents suggest a different story behind the scenes before the company shut its resale sites in 2018.

Investigations reveal that large-scale touts received significant inside help from ticketing platforms. Former employees of Ticketmaster’s resale sites admitted to working closely with touts, with some even buying tickets on their behalf. Court evidence highlighted allegations of financial “incentives” offered to prolific sellers by resale sites and even a proposed meeting between a top Ticketmaster lawyer and a tout to “brainstorm” ways to assist them. Furthermore, former Ticketmaster employees stated they were asked to develop software specifically to aid touts in bulk ticket sales on resale platforms. While Ticketmaster maintains these allegations refer to “long-defunct businesses” and are “outdated claims,” the evidence presented in court paints a picture of a system where primary and secondary ticketing operations were, at times, intertwined in ways that facilitated illicit gains.

The fraud convictions of Hunter and Chenery-Woods stemmed from their use of deceptive practices, such as creating multiple false identities and using numerous credit cards, to bypass primary ticketing purchase limits. These “VIP” touts, who ran sophisticated operations from their homes, generated millions in revenue, with resale sites earning substantial commissions. Although primary ticketing companies like Ticketmaster were technically victims of this fraud, none directly supported the prosecutions. National Trading Standards, while acknowledging that touting continues, currently lacks the funding and resources to pursue further investigations into these illicit activities, leaving questions about the full extent of complicity within the industry and the ongoing battle against ticket touting.

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UK Proposes Major Expansion of Bottom Trawling Ban to Protect Marine Life

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The UK government has proposed a significant expansion of its ban on bottom trawling, a destructive fishing method that drags heavy nets across the seafloor, threatening marine habitats. The plan would extend protection from 18,000km² to 48,000km² in English offshore waters, covering 41 out of 181 designated Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Environment Secretary Steve Reed warned that without urgent action, marine ecosystems could face irreversible damage. A 12-week public consultation is open until September 1, targeting feedback from the marine and fishing industries.

The move comes as global attention focuses on ocean protection at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France. Sir David Attenborough voiced strong opposition to bottom trawling, calling it destructive and indiscriminate, with his latest documentary showcasing the damage it causes to seabeds and marine life. Environmental groups including Greenpeace UK and The Wildlife Trust welcomed the UK’s proposed ban as a long-overdue and vital step toward marine conservation and climate protection.

Meanwhile, international efforts are intensifying to ratify the High Seas Treaty, which aims to protect 30% of global oceans by 2030. French President Emmanuel Macron, co-hosting the summit with Costa Rica, announced that 15 more countries had ratified the treaty, bringing the total to 47—still short of the 60 needed for it to come into force. Macron also called for a moratorium on deep sea mining, condemning recent efforts by the U.S. to issue permits as “madness” that endangers biodiversity and violates international norms.

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Hackers Taunt M&S CEO After Devastating £300m Cyberattack

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Retail giant Marks & Spencer (M&S) has reportedly suffered a major cyberattack by ransomware group DragonForce, who sent a direct, abusive email to CEO Stuart Machin and several top executives. The message, sent from a compromised employee account on April 23, contained disturbing language and confirmed for the first time that the company’s servers had been encrypted, leaving M&S unable to process online orders for more than six weeks. The hackers claimed to have stolen customer data and shared a darknet link for ransom negotiations, suggesting they were aware of M&S’s cyber-insurance coverage.

The attack allegedly originated through the compromised account of an employee from Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), which provides IT services to M&S. Although the email appeared to come from the employee’s M&S address, TCS has denied any involvement, stating the message was not sent through their systems. Neither M&S nor TCS has publicly confirmed details about the breach, but cyber-security experts have verified the authenticity of the email seen by BBC News.

DragonForce, which has also claimed responsibility for a recent cyberattack on Co-op, is known for providing ransomware tools and extortion services to affiliates. Experts suspect links to the notorious Scattered Spider collective—a loosely organized group of mostly Western teens using platforms like Discord and Telegram. The UK’s National Crime Agency is investigating the group, while the hackers behind the retail attacks continue to threaten further disruption, stating, “We’re putting UK retailers on the Blacklist.”

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Rachel Reeves Unveils £15.6bn Transport Boost for English Regions

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Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a sweeping £15.6 billion investment in public transport infrastructure across England, targeting metro mayoral areas in the Midlands, North, and West Country. The five-year funding plan—set to run from 2027/28 to 2031/32—includes major allocations for tram, train, and bus networks, with £2.5bn earmarked for expanding Greater Manchester’s tram lines and £2.4bn to extend Birmingham’s network. Other key investments include £2.1bn for West Yorkshire’s Mass Transit programme, £1.8bn for extending the North East Metro, and £1.6bn for Liverpool’s transport links.

The move signals a break from the Treasury’s traditional Green Book investment rules, which Reeves criticised for their bias towards London and the South East. By revising these guidelines, the Chancellor aims to correct regional imbalances and respond to criticism of economic stagnation and service cuts. The Labour government had reviewed many of the same transport proposals after coming to power in July, claiming they were previously unfunded under the Conservatives’ Network North scheme, which followed the cancellation of HS2 north of Birmingham.

While regional mayors largely welcomed the funding, opposition voices expressed scepticism. Conservative and Liberal Democrat figures warned that past promises had often failed to materialise, urging the government to back words with delivery. Reeves hinted at further announcements in next week’s Spending Review, which will detail Whitehall departmental allocations and could include a new Manchester-Liverpool rail link.

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UK Government Threatens Legal Action Over Abramovich’s £2.5bn Chelsea Sale Proceeds

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The UK government has warned it may take legal action against former Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich to ensure the £2.5 billion proceeds from the club’s 2022 sale are directed toward Ukrainian humanitarian aid. The funds have remained frozen in a UK bank account since the sale, as Abramovich was sanctioned following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. While the government insists the money must support those suffering in Ukraine, Abramovich has argued it should benefit “all victims of the war,” including those in Russia.

In a joint statement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed frustration over the ongoing deadlock, stating they are “fully prepared to pursue this through the courts if required.” They reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the money reaches humanitarian causes in Ukraine as quickly as possible, criticizing the lack of progress in reaching an agreement with Abramovich. Despite the oligarch receiving a special license to sell the club under strict conditions, including that he would not profit, negotiations have stalled over differing interpretations of how the funds should be allocated.

The legal ownership of the money remains with Abramovich under UK law, but sanctions prevent him from accessing it. The impasse has drawn criticism, including from a House of Lords committee that labeled the delay “incomprehensible” and said it reflected poorly on both Abramovich and the UK government. The committee also noted that a more binding commitment should have been secured at the time of the sale.

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Transforming Ideas into Impact: Manappuram Unique Times Conclave 2025 Charts the Path to Business Value Creation

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At the confluence of innovation, leadership, and forward-thinking, the Manappuram Unique Times Conclave 2025 emerged as a seminal event in India’s business landscape. Hosted at the refined Le Meridien Kochi, the conclave brought together thought leaders under the visionary theme, “How to Create Value in Your Business.” Spearheaded by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd under the stewardship of Dr Ajit Ravi, this year’s conclave reinforced its position as a transformative platform for idea exchange and enterprise evolution.

With CA Vivek Krishna Govind of Varma & Varma, Chartered Accountants, steering the panel discussion, the conclave welcomed a powerhouse of leaders: V P Nandakumar (MD & CEO, Manappuram Finance Ltd), Dr Sumitha Nandakumar (Executive Director, Manappuram Finance Ltd), Dr. Jolly Antony (Chairman, Vibe Munnar and Managing Director, Fog Resort & Spa), CA Sreejith Kuniyil (Founder, CAPITAIRE & PravasiTax), Dr. Fathima Nilufer Sheriff (CEO, Therefore I’m), Navas Meeran (Chairman, Group Meeran & CEO, Eastern Condiments), Sir Sohan Roy SK (Founder, Chairman & CEO, Aries Group), and Muhammed Madani K (Founder & MD, ABC Group).

Each shared invaluable wisdom on value creation amidst today’s business complexities. From financial empowerment to digital innovation, ethical leadership to sustainability, the panel explored the vital elements shaping resilient enterprises. Attendees walked away empowered, enriched, and equipped to redefine value within their organizations.

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Alcazar Watches and DQUE Mrs Kerala Global 2025 title bagged by Dhanya Sanjeev

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The Mrs Kerala Global 2025 title has been rightfully claimed by Dhanya Sanjeev, in a grand spectacle held at Le Meridien, Kochi on May 26th. The esteemed event, powered by Alcazar Watches and DQUE, was orchestrated by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, a pioneer in creating empowering platforms for women. Harsha Sunny and Devika Vijaykumar were named first and second runners-up, respectively. The title winner was crowned by Revathy Mohan (Mrs Kerala Global 2024), while Dr Ajit Ravi, Chairman of Pegasus, and Jebitha Ajit, Managing Director of Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, crowned the first and second runners-up, respectively.

12 talented women competed in the finale, reflecting excellence and elegance. Their performances turned the event into an inspiring celebration of personality, intellect, and charisma.

Subtitle Winners

Mrs Kerala Solidarity – Tintu Bissy

Mrs Kerala Fashionista – Devika Vijaykumar

Mrs Kerala Inspiring – Harsha Sunny

Mrs Kerala Vivacious – Devika Vijaykumar

Mrs Kerala Ramp Walk – Athira Sreedharan

Mrs Kerala Congeniality – Ramya P

Mrs Kerala Talent – Dhanya Sanjeev

Mrs Kerala Humaneness – Dhanya Sanjeev

A special panel, including Revathy Mohan (Mrs Kerala Global 2024), Lakshmi Atul (Director, Operations, Aries Group), Regi Bhaskar (Fashion Photographer), and Nisha Mathew (entrepreneur, actor, and producer) judged winners. The iconic gold crowns were presented by Preeti Prakash from Parakkat Jewels, reinforcing the sense of accomplishment for the winners.

The pageant saw robust backing from influential partners. While Alcazar Watches and DQUE led as main partners, additional support came from Manappuram Finance Ltd, Unique Times, Parakkat Resorts, SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts, and Green Media. Co-partners who enhanced the event’s reach and visibility included Kalpana International Salon & Spa, Aiswaria Advertisements, Europe Times, Times New, UT World, DQUE Soap, DQUE T-shirts, DQUE Watches, Unique Times, Akshay Inco, and JD Institute of Fashion Technology.

Finalists who took the stage were Anjela Francis, Athira Sreedharan, Devika Vijaykumar, Dhanya Sanjeev, Harsha Sunny, Prineesha Thomas, Ramya P, Rikhina Akhil, Saritha S N, Sheeja Naveen, Surya Suresh, and Tintu Bissy. More than just a pageant, the event stood as a tribute to the entrepreneurial, social, and personal aspirations of women across Kerala.

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography