Ria Pathak

The Pixel Project indefinitely suspended BTS leader RM from its list of male role models helping to end violence against women after he and J-Hope attended a Chris Brown concert in Toronto and appeared in a backstage photograph with him. The decision followed criticism from parts of BTS's ARMY fandom, especially because of Brown's 2009 conviction for assaulting Rihanna and other allegations involving violence and sexual misconduct. Some fans viewed the photograph as harmful and wanted RM to acknowledge the controversy, while others argued that concert attendance does not prove endorsement of Brown's behaviour. RM, J-Hope, BTS and HYBE had not publicly responded as of 21 August, with the dispute highlighting broader tensions over celebrity accountability and influence.

Semen retention has gained popularity on TikTok, Reddit, YouTube and Instagram, with followers claiming that avoiding ejaculation improves testosterone, energy, focus, confidence, physical performance and fertility. Medical evidence does not support lasting hormonal or extraordinary physical benefits. Longer abstinence may increase semen volume but can reduce sperm motility and increase DNA fragmentation, while the body naturally reabsorbs unused sperm. Although abstinence is generally not physically dangerous, it can cause temporary discomfort and may contribute to anxiety or obsessive streak-focused behavior. Specialists recommend regular ejaculation when trying to conceive and advise consulting urologists or reproductive-health professionals about fertility and sexual-health concerns.

Former Cambridge professor Jason Arday was found dead at an address in Battersea on 14 August, with police treating the death as unexpected but not suspicious and no official cause yet confirmed. Close friend Lord Woolley said Arday appeared to have lost a substantial amount of weight and was in extreme distress four days earlier, amid intense media scrutiny over allegations including plagiarism, which Arday denied. Cambridge had opened an independent investigation, while Liverpool John Moores University said it found no plagiarism in his PhD work. Friends, family and more than 30,000 signatories backed calls for a public inquiry into press coverage, alleging sustained harassment, misinformation and possible racial bias.

Defence lawyer Kevin Reddington challenged a courtroom remark that he believed sounded like “shut her up” while Lindsay Clancy was distressed during graphic autopsy testimony. Prosecutors and the Plymouth District Attorney’s Office said the words were “shut it off,” referring to autopsy images, and attributed the comment to an unidentified court employee rather than the prosecutors. Judge William Sullivan warned that inappropriate remarks would result in removal from the courtroom. The trial concerns Clancy’s alleged killing of her three children in Duxbury in 2023; the defence accepts that she caused the deaths but argues that postpartum psychosis and severe medication-related problems left her unable to understand or control her actions.

Veteran Brockton defense attorney Kevin Reddington is representing Lindsay Clancy in the Massachusetts trial over the deaths of her three children in Duxbury in January 2023. Reddington has handled more than 100 murder cases, frequently involving mental illness or insanity defenses, including the notable Therese Rogers case. His past clients have also included former Boston Red Sox player Mo Vaughn and Catherine Greig, the companion of mobster James 'Whitey' Bulger. In Clancy's case, the defense largely accepts that she caused the deaths but argues that severe postpartum psychosis, allegedly worsened by extensive medication, made her not criminally responsible. Prosecutors reject that interpretation and maintain that Clancy is legally responsible.

Nigel Farage won the Clacton by-election with 22,239 votes, taking 62.82% of the vote and a majority of 12,784. He declared victory before counting was complete and skipped the official count after saying Essex Police had warned him of a credible threat. Essex Police disputed that it advised any candidate to stay away, describing its security operation as proportionate and robust. Satirical candidate Count Binface finished second with 9,455 votes in a record field of 34 candidates. Farage's victory gives him a stronger mandate, but questions remain over a suspended investigation into a £5 million gift from cryptocurrency figure Christopher Harborne, while his absence from the count created a further dispute with police.

Prince Harry’s positive rating among Britons rose to 33% in July 2026 from about 30% earlier in the year, according to YouGov, although 58% still viewed him negatively. The improvement followed a private meeting with King Charles III and coincided with speculation that Harry’s quieter efforts to rebuild family ties could improve his public standing. Harry reportedly hopes Charles will attend the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham, potentially creating a major public reconciliation moment. Separate polling found that more Britons supported than opposed Harry staying at Buckingham Palace during UK visits, while a majority continued to support retaining the monarchy. His popularity nevertheless remains well below its pre-2020 levels, leaving it unclear whether the recent rise is durable.

Ecuadorian anti-narcotics police seized 469 kilograms of cocaine hidden in a truck near the Colombian border and arrested an alleged driver. Several packages carried images of Erling Haaland, while others reportedly featured Lionel Messi. The branding appears to have been used by trafficking groups to identify shipments, batches, destinations or customers, with no evidence that either footballer was involved or authorised the images. The seizure highlights Ecuador’s role as a major cocaine transit hub and the continuing cooperation between local, Colombian and Mexican criminal networks.

Kevin Reddington, a Massachusetts criminal-defense attorney, is representing Lindsay Clancy in the trial over the deaths of her three children in Duxbury. With more than 100 murder cases handled during a legal career spanning five decades, Reddington is arguing that Clancy was not criminally responsible because of severe postpartum psychosis and allegedly harmful overmedication. The prosecution disputes that account, and the trial has focused on Clancy's psychiatric treatment, medication history and efforts to obtain medical help. Reddington's previous cases include a temporary-insanity defense for Therese Rogers and representation of Catherine Greig and Mo Vaughn.

The UK government is considering mandatory eyesight tests when drivers renew their licences from age 70, potentially replacing the current system of self-declaration every three years. The proposal concerns vision checks rather than compulsory practical driving tests, which fact-checkers say are not currently planned. Supporters argue that testing could identify age-related conditions such as glaucoma and macular degeneration and reduce serious collisions, while policymakers must weigh safety against older people's independence. Research from MoneySuperMarket found that nearly 11 million UK drivers may be overdue an eye test, with millions also reporting that they had driven without required glasses or contact lenses. The consultation has closed, and any final decision or legislation remains pending.

An Air India Airbus A320 flying from Phuket to New Delhi suddenly lost about 300 feet during severe turbulence, injuring 17 people, including four cabin crew members. Both pilots were removed from flying duties after the captain’s initial psychoactive-substance screening returned a “non-negative” result, while the first officer’s screening raised no concerns. The result is not a confirmed positive drug test and must undergo laboratory confirmation, which could be affected by prescription or over-the-counter medicines. Air India is cooperating with India’s aviation regulators as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau investigate both the screening and the turbulence-related serious incident.

A deep partial solar eclipse will cross the UK on 12 August 2026, with about 90% of the Sun covered in London and up to 95% in Cornwall. The eclipse is expected between roughly 6pm and 8pm BST, but visibility will depend heavily on weather: southern England and the south-west currently appear more favourable, while northern England and Scotland face greater cloud and shower risks. Viewers should seek an unobstructed western horizon and use certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses or appropriate solar filters, never ordinary sunglasses or the naked eye. The Royal Observatory Greenwich plans to offer a free livestream for people affected by cloud.

Violent disorder broke out in Thetford between 4 and 6 August after months of protests against plans to accommodate up to 1,250 asylum seekers at the former RAF Barnham site. Crowds allegedly damaged homes believed to house asylum seekers, attempted to force entry and attacked police officers, two of whom required hospital treatment. Several people were arrested or cautioned, including one man suspected of inciting racial hatred, while Brian Thompson was charged with possessing an offensive weapon. Norfolk Police introduced enhanced powers to prevent further unrest. The Home Office and local MP Terry Jermy condemned the violence, although opposition to the asylum accommodation plans remains high and investigations continue.

Stephen Bear received a further 16-month prison sentence at Chelmsford Crown Court after admitting to repeatedly harassing ex-partner Georgia Harrison online between March and July 2025, in breach of a restraining order. The judge said Bear deliberately targeted Harrison during her pregnancy and sought to maximize harm, while Harrison described feeling petrified and highly anxious. The order has been extended to protect her mother and a close friend. Bear's original case involved secretly recording sex with Harrison and sharing the footage without her consent; he was convicted of voyeurism and disclosure offences in 2022 and sentenced to 21 months in prison in 2023. He also recently pleaded guilty to five sex-offender register notification offences. Once known for appearances on reality television, Bear's career has been overshadowed by his convictions and continuing legal problems.

An inquest is examining the death of 73-year-old Norfolk grandmother Caroline Savage, who collapsed and died in October 2024 after being discharged from hospital with severe abdominal pain. She had been taking Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for obesity and lipoedema-related symptoms. Although doctors considered gastrointestinal side effects from the drug, a post-mortem found that she died from faecal peritonitis caused by a bowel perforation. Experts have found no established evidence that Mounjaro directly causes bowel perforation or faecal peritonitis, but the inquest is considering whether its effects could have worsened an underlying condition. Savage’s family argued that a CT scan might have detected the perforation, while the NHS trust defended the clinicians’ assessment and acknowledged weaknesses in the medical records. The coroner has not yet issued a final conclusion on whether Mounjaro contributed to her death.

Franco-Bulgarian actress Natalia Dontcheva has died at 56 after reportedly battling a long illness. Best known for playing Julie Derville in the French adaptation of Doc Martin, she appeared in 26 episodes from 2011 to 2015 and built a career spanning more than three decades across French television, film and theatre. Her credits included Joséphine, ange gardien, Julie Lescaut, Alice Nevers and several other dramas, as well as films such as Lady J and Sashinka. Her agent Laurent Savry, stepson Hugo Sélignac and former colleagues paid tribute to her talent, warmth and professionalism.

Liberty Mitchell’s prison sentence for a fatal December 2022 crash in Gloucestershire was increased from six years and eight months to nine years and three months after the Court of Appeal found the original sentence unduly lenient. Mitchell was driving a Mini Cooper at about 96 mph in a 60 mph zone while attempting a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre, killing taxi driver Octavian Codreanu and passenger Moyra Whelan and injuring six others. Prosecutors also relied on Snapchat videos showing Mitchell speeding, driving on the wrong side of the road and filming herself behind the wheel, which they said demonstrated a pattern of reckless conduct.

Naga Munchetty is leaving BBC Breakfast after 17 years to join BBC Radio 5 Live. The article reviews reported workplace allegations, including claims of bullying and complaints about minor backstage issues, noting that the BBC closed its investigation without announcing formal findings or disciplinary action. It also recounts broadcast controversies involving comments about Donald Trump, an interview with David Attenborough, interactions with Geri Halliwell-Horner and Carol Kirkwood, and alleged tensions with colleagues. Several claims came from unnamed sources or viewer criticism and remain unverified, while Munchetty has also faced online abuse involving AI-generated deepfake images.

Reform UK is demanding that Green Party leadership candidate Zack Polanski apologise to Nigel Farage over a deleted Instagram repost showing a guillotine graphic and the slogan “We’re only making plans for Nigel.” Reform describes the post as potentially inciting murder and has referred it to the Greater London Authority for investigation. Polanski says he accepted an Instagram collaboration request without noticing the slogan, deleted the image after being alerted and condemns political violence, but refuses to apologise for deliberate incitement. He also says Farage amplified the dispute with a misleading cropped screenshot and reports receiving a death threat. The Metropolitan Police has provided no update on a complaint, while Pat McFadden stressed politicians’ responsibility to exercise care online.

Matthew McGregor, appointed by Andy Burnham as head of political strategy, faces scrutiny over his contribution to a 2021 Hope Not Hate report examining conspiracy theories and grooming-gang allegations. Critics say the report downplayed organized child abuse, while Hope Not Hate maintains that it challenged the exploitation of genuine cases by extremist groups rather than denying the abuse. The controversy has intensified because fellow contributor Liron Velleman was later convicted of sexual-offence-related conduct, although there is no suggestion McGregor knew of or was involved in Velleman's crimes. McGregor's deletion of his social-media accounts and past political posts have further fueled criticism, and neither he nor Burnham's office had publicly responded at the time of publication.

A 19-year-old student, Sahil Lochab, may permanently lose vision in his right eye after suffering injuries during a 20 July NEET-linked protest march in New Delhi. His family and several protesters allege that metal pellets were fired during clashes near Jantar Mantar, while hospital accounts and some medical records reportedly describe pellet injuries. Delhi Police and the Press Information Bureau deny that pellet guns were used, and the CRPF has not responded publicly. The Delhi High Court has ordered authorities to preserve protest footage as scrutiny grows over crowd-control tactics and police accountability.

A leopard entered a liquor store in Rajasthan’s Todaraisingh town and attacked shopkeeper Sanjay Gurjar, who escaped by pulling the shutter down and trapping the animal inside. The leopard injured two others before forest officials, supported by a tranquilising team from Jaipur Zoo, captured it after a five‑hour operation. Authorities noted that the animal likely strayed from nearby forested hills, highlighting increasing human‑wildlife conflict driven by habitat loss and urban expansion.

Megyn Kelly’s criticism of BTS’s FIFA World Cup halftime performance triggered a widespread online backlash, with fans defending the group’s energy and talent and accusing Kelly of bias. BTS supporters highlighted the group’s global status and argued that K-pop artists face harsher scrutiny from Western commentators. Additional criticism of the halftime show came from Wayne Rooney, while the performance featuring several major artists continued to generate debate and viral reactions.

Viral videos showing Delhi Police officers assaulting female student protesters during demonstrations over the NEET-UG exam leak have intensified criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government. The footage depicts officers using batons and physically handling protesters, prompting accusations of excessive force and unlawful detentions. Opposition leaders and student groups demand accountability, naming several officers allegedly involved. Delhi Police deny systemic brutality, asserting they acted to maintain order. The incident adds to growing pressure on the government amid ongoing controversy surrounding the exam leak and calls for an independent inquiry.

A rescued common marmoset found abandoned on a London bus has raised concerns that stricter primate licensing rules in England may lead to more pet owners abandoning exotic animals. The RSPCA believes the incident was deliberate and warns that abandonment could increase as owners struggle to meet new legal requirements for licensing, microchipping, and specialist care. The charity is investigating the case while urging owners unable to meet care standards to seek help rather than abandon primates. Oyster, the rescued marmoset, is now recovering at a specialist sanctuary and may soon be paired with a companion. The incident highlights the welfare challenges of keeping primates as pets and the strain potential abandonment could place on rescue centres.

Viral videos showing police beating student protesters in New Delhi intensified pressure on the government amid nationwide anger over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the NEET‑UG medical entrance exam. Demonstrators attempted to march toward Parliament despite heavy security, internet restrictions, and metro closures, leading to violent clashes and injuries verified by independent media. The Cockroach Janta Party, a student‑led reform movement, demanded accountability, including the removal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Opposition leaders condemned the crackdown, while the government held limited talks without offering commitments. With court proceedings ongoing and officials remaining silent on demands, student groups signaled plans for further protests.

Andy Burnham announced his first cabinet after succeeding Keir Starmer, replacing Rachel Reeves with John Healey as chancellor and reshuffling several senior ministers. Some Starmer-era figures stayed in government while others shifted roles, including Ed Miliband moving to foreign secretary and Yvette Cooper to health. Burnham elevated close allies and aligned the cabinet with his priorities on decentralisation, public services and economic reform. The shake-up signals an effort to establish his leadership and shape Labour’s policy direction as he prepares his first budget amid economic pressures.

John Healey has been appointed UK Chancellor by Prime Minister Andy Burnham weeks after resigning as defence secretary over disagreements on military funding. A long-serving Labour MP with extensive ministerial experience, Healey is expected to focus on cost‑of‑living pressures, economic growth and fiscal responsibility. His selection signals Burnham’s reliance on experienced figures as the new government prepares its first budget and outlines its economic priorities.

BTS’s performance of Dynamite at the FIFA World Cup 2026 halftime show drew mixed reactions, with some social media users criticising their vocals while supporters defended the group and highlighted perceived racist or xenophobic undertones in the backlash. Fans shared past live performances to refute claims about weak vocals and emphasised the group’s global achievements. The debate revived broader concerns about the treatment of Asian artists in Western-dominated entertainment spaces. Neither BTS nor HYBE commented on the incident, while the halftime show was noted as a milestone for the group’s international career.

Police investigating the murder of Ann Widdecombe are examining whether political ideology played a role after finding Reform UK and Nigel Farage-related material in the home of suspect Joshua Kerry. Counter-terrorism officers joined the inquiry, though authorities stress no political motive has been confirmed. Widdecombe was killed on 8 July before a planned TV appearance, and Kerry was later arrested and re-arrested on terrorism-related suspicion. Neighbours described Kerry as withdrawn following his father's death. The investigation remains ongoing as police consider multiple possible motives.

Security forces blocked roads and closed key Metro stations in central Delhi to stop a planned Parliament march protesting alleged exam paper leaks affecting NEET-UG and other national tests. Students and activists demanded accountability and reforms following multiple examination scandals, including incidents linked to suicides among affected students. Police enforced prohibitory orders, used barricades and lathis, and suspended mobile internet in parts of the city. The Cockroach Janata Party, a student-led reform group, organised the march, with support from opposition leaders and activists such as Sonam Wangchuk. Government representatives initiated dialogue as investigations by the CBI and court petitions continue, while protesters insist on restoring trust in India’s examination system.

A pickup truck driven by an 11-year-old boy crashed into a procession of Buddhist monks in Mukdahan, Thailand, killing nine and injuring at least eleven others. The boy reportedly took his parents’ vehicle without permission and had no prior driving experience. Authorities are investigating how he accessed the truck, contributing factors such as speed and road conditions, and possible adult negligence. CCTV footage of the incident has spread widely online, prompting national mourning and discussions about child access to vehicles in rural Thailand.

A 17-year-old named Louis died after a violent group assault in Narbonne, leading his family to call for nationwide action against rising youth violence and urging reforms to France’s juvenile justice system. Five suspects aged 16 to 19 remain in custody on murder charges, while the family argues authorities failed to protect the teen despite earlier warnings. Thousands are expected to join a protest in Narbonne demanding stronger legal measures. The mother of one suspect publicly condemned her son’s alleged role, adding to a broader national debate on child protection services and juvenile crime. The family has asked political figures not to exploit the case, emphasizing their focus on justice and preventing similar tragedies.

The Society of Saint Pius X consecrated four bishops without papal approval in Écône, Switzerland, defying Pope Leo XIV’s warning that the act could harm Church unity and incur automatic excommunication under canon law. The event, echoing Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre’s 1988 unauthorized consecrations, deepens longstanding tensions between the Vatican and the traditionalist group, which continues to reject key reforms of the Second Vatican Council. The Vatican has not yet issued additional disciplinary measures, leaving uncertainty about future actions as observers await the Holy See’s response, which will shape relations during Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate.

Three Afghan men convicted of raping a 17‑year‑old girl in Bristol sparked national outrage after a video surfaced showing them laughing while fleeing the UK in a lorry. They were detained in France and returned to face trial, where all three were found guilty of rape and related offences, with one also convicted of human trafficking. A fourth defendant, aged 17, was also convicted of rape. The case intensified debate about grooming gangs, border security and safeguarding failures, as prosecutors detailed the victim’s grooming and assault in a Bristol property. The sentencing is scheduled for 6 October, and police and prosecutors praised the victim’s bravery while the video’s circulation fuelled public anger over the men’s lack of remorse and ease of escape.

An inquest has been opened into the death of Paul Flack, brother of TV presenter Caroline Flack, after he was found unresponsive at his home in Norwich. His death prompted renewed attention to family photographs shared over the years, reflecting close sibling relationships and long-term grief following Caroline’s 2020 suicide. Friends highlighted Paul’s creativity and kindness, and his final Instagram post underscored his emotional struggle. The images now circulating depict family unity and affection as the investigation continues.

Natalie Cassidy revealed that her daughter Joanie broke the same arm for the third time, weeks after surgery to remove metal plates, leading to emergency treatment and leaving the actress emotionally overwhelmed. Doctors informed the family that repeated injuries stemmed from bad luck rather than medical issues. Cassidy also reflected on her long career, family life, and public roles outside acting, highlighting ongoing challenges of balancing parenting with public visibility.

Paul Flack, brother of TV presenter Caroline Flack, died at age 55 after being found unresponsive at his Norwich home, with a provisional post-mortem indicating cardiac arrest due to hanging. His death comes more than six years after his sister’s suicide and has renewed attention on the family’s grief and mental health advocacy. His final Instagram post from 2020 reflected unresolved pain over Caroline’s death. An inquest into his death has opened and will continue in October 2026. Tributes emphasised his warmth and devotion, while mental health advocates highlighted the long‑term effects of bereavement and the importance of seeking support.

Newly released police bodycam footage shows Vickrum Singh Digwa falsely claiming he was racially attacked after fatally stabbing student Henry Nowak in Southampton. Prosecutors argued these claims were untrue, and a jury later convicted Digwa of murder, leading to a life sentence. The footage has sparked renewed scrutiny of the police’s initial response, during which Nowak was mistakenly treated as a suspect before officers realised he was the victim. The Independent Office for Police Conduct continues to investigate the handling of the incident ahead of an inquest scheduled for 2027.

Thai authorities arrested Australian national Simon Peter Carman after the body of 17-year-old Tunchanok Donhomla was found in a suitcase near a railway track in Pattaya. Investigators allege Carman killed the teenager after an argument and attempted to dispose of her body before trying to flee to Australia. He denies intentional murder, claiming self-defence. The victim’s family has called for the death penalty, while Carman remains in custody as police gather forensic evidence. Australian officials are providing routine consular support, but the case will proceed under Thai law, where a conviction could result in life imprisonment or execution.

Thai authorities arrested Australian national Simon Peter Carman after the body of 17‑year‑old Tunchanok Donhomla was found in a suitcase in Pattaya. The victim’s family is urging prosecutors to seek the death penalty if he is convicted. Police cite CCTV footage and forensic evidence linking Carman to the crime, while he claims self‑defence during a dispute. Carman faces charges including murder and concealing a body, and his case may qualify for capital punishment under Thai law as investigations continue.