News At A Glance: 25 June 2007

1) Shekhawat files Nomination: Vice-president BS Shekhawat filed his nomination papers for the post of President. He has the backing of NDA although Shiv Sena has not made up its mind. Even UNPA leaders have not opened their cards yet. According to sources, the TDP, INLD and the SP might abstain from voting.

2) Rain in Mumbai: Heavy rains brought the life in Mumbai to a standstill. It hit the flight, train and bus services badly. The death toll in the rain-hit Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Mahrashtra crossed 130.

3) Ireland Tour: India beat Ireland by 9 wickets in the Belfast ODI on 23 June 2007. Gautam Gambhir was adjudged man of the match for his unbeaten knock of 80. South Africa beat Ireland by 42 runs in another match on 24 June.

4) Champions Challenge Hockey: After losing the first match against New Zealand by a margin of 0-2, India beat Englad 3-2 to revive its hope in the Champions Challenge Hockey tournament in Boom (Belgium).

5) Abducted boy Found: Pranshu, who was kidnapped from Surat a week ago, was found in Orissa. He is being brought back to Surat. The main accused is absconding while the police have arrested a few people in this case.

6) Haren Pandya Murder Case: The designated POTA court of Ahmedabad has sentenced nine accused to life imprisonment for the murder of former Gujarat Minister of State for home, Haren Pandya. Two others were handed over 7 years imprisonment. It can be recalled that Haren Pandya's murder in 2003 created a sensation all over the country.