Afghan National Defence Forces retaliate against Pakistani airstrikes in eastern Afghanistan, targeting Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorists. Afghan troops engage in gunfire along the Durand Line, with mortar shells landing in Pakistani territory. Taliban condemns the airstrikes, vowing retaliation, alleging civilian casualties. Pakistan issues directives to provincial governments after the attacks coincide with Afghan repatriation and Ramadan. Over 500,000 illegal Afghan citizens deported as part of the ongoing repatriation effort.

Kim Kardashian ignites speculation by posting photos with caption "On my way to go find Kate," referencing Duchess Middleton. Fans divided over light-hearted joke or insensitive commentary. Blake Lively also trolls Middleton with heavily-edited photos. Middleton on break since January surgery, remains in spotlight despite absence. Royal drama draws attention even from celebrities. Kardashian and Lively's posts fuel online discourse amidst ongoing curiosity surrounding Middleton's status. Celebrities engage in royal gossip, adding to public interest in royal family affairs.          

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi issued a clarification following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's criticism over his 'Shakti' remark, stirring controversy ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi defended his statement, stating it aimed at challenging the might of the state, not individuals. Responding to Modi's counter, Gandhi asserted the 'Shakti' he referred to symbolized the centralized power under Modi's leadership, encompassing various institutions. PM Modi, in response, reiterated his reverence for women as embodiments of 'Shakti' and vowed to defend it. The exchange underscores the escalating political tension as India gears up for the impending elections.

In Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, a school teacher, Dharmendra Kumar, was shot dead by a drunken head constable, Chander Prakash, during a dispute over tobacco. Kumar, part of an education department team from Varanasi, was delivering UP Board high school exam answer sheets. The constable, intoxicated, demanded tobacco from Kumar, leading to an altercation in their vehicle. Despite refusing, Prakash fired at Kumar with his service weapon. The incident occurred while waiting at SD Inter College. Kumar succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Police have launched an investigation, with the constable facing charges.

In Bengaluru, a shopkeeper faced assault after playing the Hanuman Chalisa during Azaan. Three men, aged 20 to 25, were arrested for the attack. The altercation occurred when the shopkeeper refused to lower the volume of the bhajan. The incident, captured on CCTV, showed the assailants confronting and assaulting the victim. BJP leader Tejasvi Surya called for a bandh if all accused weren't arrested promptly. The FIR includes charges of criminal intimidation, intentional insult, and attempt to murder. Police are investigating the matter to ensure justice for the victim.

Five arrests made after attack on international students offering Namaz at Gujarat University hostel. Police form teams to apprehend remaining assailants. University relocates foreign students, deploys ex-servicemen for security. Immediate measures include transfer to separate hostel and formation of foreign student advisory committee. Vice Chancellor announces staff replacements. High Court refrains from intervention, stresses law enforcement's role. Civil society condemns attack, demands strict action. Businessman Zafar Sareshwala engages with state officials, seeks assurance against future incidents. PUCL calls for stern action. Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist) demands accountability for police presence during attack.

BJP slams Rahul Gandhi's 'Shakti' comment as misogynistic, alleging insult to India's voters, while the opposition defends him. Gandhi accused government misuse of central agencies for electoral gains, triggering a political row. BJP leaders criticize Gandhi's stance on EVM integrity, with Nalin Kohli calling it an insult to voters. Shehzad Poonawalla brands Gandhi anti-women power. RJD's Mrityunjay Tiwari supports Gandhi's remarks, promising public backlash. Congress's Sandeep Dikshit alleges BJP's misuse of agencies. AAP's Gopal Rai sees INDIA alliance fighting dictatorship. PM Modi counters Gandhi's 'Shakti' stance, asserting reverence for women. Political tensions escalate ahead of elections.            

Former Indian Ambassador to the US, Dr. Taranjit Singh Sandhu, hinted at the potential establishment of a US consulate in Amritsar after a meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Sandhu, a BJP candidate for the Amritsar seat, disclosed plans for the consulate, citing efforts by both nations since 2016. With enhanced visa services and expanded trade opportunities, the consulate could bolster economic growth in the border region. Sandhu also discussed initiatives for improved air connectivity and cargo services at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, foreseeing increased trade and income for locals.            

Renowned singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran continues to charm Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, as a new video surfaces of Sheeran serenading Khan with a private concert. Filmmaker-choreographer Farah Khan shared the intimate moment, where Sheeran, clad in a white T-shirt, strums his guitar and performs his hit track "Perfect" while Khan quietly appreciates beside him. The cosy setting is speculated to be at Torii Mumbai, owned by Khan's wife, Gauri Khan. Earlier in the week, Farah, Shah Rukh, and Gauri had welcomed Ed at the restaurant, capturing the occasion with memorable snapshots. Their camaraderie continues to captivate fans.

Kensington Palace shared a St. Patrick's Day post from The Prince and Princess of Wales, featuring the Irish Guards' parade rehearsal. Notably absent was Princess Kate Middleton, sparking speculation about her well-being. The British media anticipates a significant Royal Family announcement. Kate, recovering from abdominal surgery, missed the parade, adding to concerns. Sources suggest she may address her health publicly upon return to duties. Transparency is desired, but the Royal Family remains silent on Kate's whereabouts. Speculation continues, amplifying the mystery surrounding the princess's absence.