Tue Sep 23 12:57:47 UTC 2025: **The Hindu Daily News Update: September 23, 2025**

**Kolkata Grapples with Floodwaters Following Torrential Rainfall:** Kolkata is facing severe disruptions today after unprecedented rainfall overnight resulted in widespread waterlogging. At least five fatalities are feared as a result of the downpour, which the India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes to a low-pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal. Similar conditions are predicted for parts of Odisha.

**Shah Rukh Khan Receives First National Film Award:** Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan was awarded his first National Film Award for Best Actor at a ceremony in Delhi yesterday. President Droupadi Murmu presented the award, recognizing Khan’s contributions to Indian cinema over the past three decades.

**India to Conduct Major Joint Military Exercise:** The Indian military will conduct a large-scale joint exercise, “Cold Start,” in early October, focusing on drone and counter-drone systems. Officials are calling it the biggest drill since Operation Sindoor, aimed at refining air defense capabilities.

**Building Collapse in Indore Claims Two Lives:** A three-story house collapsed in Indore following heavy rains, resulting in two deaths and twelve injuries. Rescue operations were hampered by the continuing rainfall.

**Cricket World Mourns the Loss of Umpire Dickie Bird:** Former Test umpire Harold “Dickie” Bird passed away peacefully at the age of 92. Bird, known for his charisma and impeccable officiating, stood in 66 Tests and 69 ODIs, including three World Cup finals.

**Politics:**

* The BJP claims the latest GST reforms have benefited citizens by reducing commodity prices, while criticizing the Congress party.
* Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleges “vote theft” is fueling unemployment and corruption, vowing that youth will no longer tolerate it.
* AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has arrived in Bihar ahead of Assembly elections, with his party set to contest over 20 constituencies, focusing on the Seemanchal region.

**Financial/Legal:**

* The Income Tax department is contesting a case filed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president C. Joseph Vijay regarding a penalty for undisclosed income.
* India has extended the closure of its airspace for Pakistani civilian and military planes until October 24, mirroring Pakistan’s own airspace closure.
* An inquiry has confirmed allegations of judicial misconduct against a Kancheepuram Principal District and Sessions Judge.
* The Karnataka High Court has temporarily suspended the new rule capping cinema ticket prices at ₹200.

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