Karur stampede: Madras HC forms SIT, denies pre-arrest bail to TVK leaders

The court has rejected the anticipatory bail petitions of two senior Tamil Vikatan Katchi (TVK) leaders and criticised both the party and the police over the recent mishap. Additionally, a plea by a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident was dismissed. The bench directed her to approach the Madurai court instead, according to PTI reports.

Chief Minister MK Stalin and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) launched political attacks, blaming the BJP and TVK respectively. Stalin accused the BJP of attempting to exploit the tragedy for political gains. Meanwhile, the DMK slammed actor Vijay for his arrogance, hunger for money, publicity mania, and desire for power. The party stated that Vijay’s challenge to the state government to arrest him was merely an attempt to divert attention from the deaths of 41 people.

In response to the tragedy, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed under senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and Inspector General, North Zone, Asra Garg, PTI reported.

The High Court also held the TVK event organisers, party leadership, and police responsible for lapses that contributed to the stampede, which claimed the lives of several children.

The anticipatory bail pleas of TVK state General Secretary Bussy N Anand and Deputy General Secretary CTR Nirmal Kumar were dismissed. Both have been named in the first information report (FIR), along with a local party leader who has since been arrested. They face charges under sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 110 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 125 (endangering life of others), and 223 (disobedience to order) of the Indian Penal Code.

Furthermore, the court rejected the anticipatory bail petition of TVK Namakkal district secretary Sathish Kumar, who was linked to an attack on a private hospital during Vijay’s public meeting in Namakkal.

Chief Minister Stalin also alleged that the BJP and the Union government show no genuine concern over the stampede and are attempting to capitalise on the tragedy ahead of the 2026 Assembly Elections. He questioned, “Why was a delegation of NDA MPs sent to Karur urgently, while no teams were dispatched for the Manipur riots, Morbi bridge collapse, or Kumbh Mela stampede?”

The DMK continued its criticism of Vijay through its party organ, Murasoli, stating, “Vijay’s arrogance, responsible for the deaths of 41 persons, and his hunger for money, publicity mania, and desire for power, has not subsided yet.” The publication further claimed that his Rs 20 lakh solatium announcement for victims’ families was prompted by pressure. Adding, “By mounting a challenge to arrest him, he is trying to divert attention from the deaths of 41 persons.”

The government has already disbursed solatium to the victims’ families. Meanwhile, the DMK also criticised TVK leaders for arriving late to designated campaign spots, leaving supporters exhausted.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/sit-to-investigate-karur-stampede-says-hc-denies-anticipatory-bail-to-tvk-leaders-23597089

One of Tijuana’s most iconic taquerias to open second location in San Diego

**Tijuana’s Legendary Tacos El Franc to Open Downtown San Diego Location in Gaslamp Quarter**

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — San Diego taco lovers, get ready: one of Tijuana’s most legendary taquerias is heading to the heart of downtown.

Tacos El Franc, the Michelin-recognized eatery known for its sizzling adobada and mesquite-grilled meats, will open its second United States location in the Gaslamp Quarter on October 8, 2025. The restaurant’s owners announced the exciting news last month.

The new taqueria, located at 528 5th Ave., marks the next step in the Baja-born brand’s expansion into the U.S., following the success of its first location at Westfield Plaza Bonita in National City.

“We’ve been blown away by the response to Tacos El Franc here in the U.S., and this new location is an exciting next step as we look towards expanding throughout California and into neighboring states,” said Roberto Kelly, co-owner of Tacos El Franc USA. “We are still seeing lines out the door at Plaza Bonita, and we’re excited to now bring the same great taste and quality to downtown so we can serve even more people every day.”

Unlike the sit-down service offered at Plaza Bonita, the Gaslamp location will focus on quick, counter-style service designed to cater to on-the-go and late-night diners. Guests can still expect authentic preparation featuring charcoal grills, traditional mesquite cooking, and a brigade-style kitchen with taqueros manning the disco, steamer, and trompo.

The menu will showcase fan favorites such as tacos de adobada, carne asada, cabeza, suadero, and tripa. Additionally, guests can enjoy 32-ounce Caguamas and a San Diego-exclusive dish—beef tallow fries topped with a variety of proteins.

Tacos El Franc began as a humble street cart in Tijuana in 1974, founded by Javier Valadez. The brand opened its first brick-and-mortar location in 1996 and quickly became a cultural icon. It has since earned back-to-back Michelin Guide recognitions in 2024 and 2025 and was recently featured on Netflix’s “Taco Chronicles.”

The Gaslamp location officially opens to the public at 4 p.m. on October 8, 2025.

For more information and updates, visit [www.tacoselfranc.com](http://www.tacoselfranc.com).
https://fox5sandiego.com/san-diego-guide/food-drink/tacos-el-franc-gaslamp-opening/

“We agreed to disagree”: Cowboys HC Brian Schottenheimer makes stance clear after Trevon Diggs speaks out on Week 4 benching

Last week, the Dallas Cowboys made the surprising decision to bench Trevon Diggs for their clash against the Green Bay Packers.

The game proved to be an intense battle, ultimately ending in a 40-40 overtime tie. Both teams had multiple opportunities to secure the win, making it a closely contested matchup that could have easily gone in either direction.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-https-x-com-jonmachota-status-19741552172108350

Sean Combs ‘Has Genuine Psychological Challenges’ and ‘Suffers PTSD’ Due to Father’s Murder, Disgraced Rapper’s Lawyer Claimed Before Judge Sent Him to Prison

**Sean “Diddy” Combs Sentenced to Four Years in Prison: Lawyer Highlights Mental Health Struggles During Hearing**

*Published: Oct. 3, 2025, 5:05 p.m. ET*

Sean “Diddy” Combs was sentenced to four years in prison following a dramatic sentencing hearing, RadarOnline.com can reveal. Prior to the judge’s ruling, Combs’ attorneys and supporters made impassioned pleas on his behalf, highlighting the rapper and entrepreneur’s troubled past and mental health challenges.

### Combs’ Lawyer Details Psychological Struggles

Combs’ attorney, Marc Agnifilo, urged the court to consider the impact of Combs’ past on his current situation. Speaking before the sentencing, Agnifilo revealed that Combs has long suffered from mental health issues.

“We are asking for a lot, a 14-month sentence, and I want to give the court some reasons,” Agnifilo said. He pointed to traumatic events in Combs’ childhood, specifically the murder of his father, as a significant factor.

“Sean Combs has genuine psychological challenges,” Agnifilo explained. “In 2014, 2017, and 2020, he reported to three different doctors, and he was diagnosed with PTSD.”

### Plans for Post-Release Engagements

Earlier in the day, another attorney representing Combs, Xavier Donaldson, spoke about his client’s plans following release. According to Donaldson, Combs already had community-focused speaking engagements scheduled.

“Contrary to what the government said, we do need something for him to do if he gets out today,” Donaldson shared. He described these commitments as “teaching” opportunities aimed at helping formerly convicted individuals prepare for life after prison.

“These are teaching engagements that we contacted them about if the court lets him out,” Donaldson added.

### Support From a Pastor

A Miami pastor also appeared in court to advocate for Combs’ release. Rev. Gary Johnson emphasized that incarceration would unlikely change Combs’ behavior or character.

“The government equates Sean Combs with a pimp. I want to be clear, Mr. Combs is not a pimp,” the pastor told the court. “A pimp is in the business of subjugating women; therefore, he should not and cannot be considered a pimp.”

Rev. Johnson continued, “As Michael Jordan said, these sneakers are just sneakers – but when Sean does things, he turns them into opportunities. Sean needs an opportunity. I am asking you to give him to us, and we won’t let you down.”

### Combs’ Emotional Statement

In a heartfelt statement prior to sentencing, Combs addressed the court directly, expressing remorse for his actions.

“One of the hardest things I’ve had to handle was having to be quiet and not being able to express how sorry I am for my actions,” he said.

Combs apologized specifically to Cassie Ventura, acknowledging any emotional or physical harm he caused her.

“I want to personally apologize to Cassie Ventura for any harm I have caused her emotionally or physically. I don’t take that lightly. I would like to apologize to her family. I am so sorry. I would like to apologize to Jane. I’m sorry. I brought you into my mess,” he added.

He described his behavior as “disgusting, shameful, and sick,” admitting struggles with substance abuse.

“I was sick, sick from the drugs. I was out of control, I needed help, and I didn’t get the help, and I cannot make no excuse because my mother taught me,” Combs continued. “I got lost in my dream of life. I am not this larger-than-life person. I am just a human being. I was trying my best, I got lost in my excess.”

### Guilty Verdict

Before his sentencing, Combs was found guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, charges that have added to the gravity of his legal battle.

This case highlights the complex intersections of celebrity, mental health, and the legal system, bringing Sean “Diddy” Combs’ personal struggles into the public eye as he begins his prison sentence.
https://radaronline.com/p/sean-coms-psychological-challenges-ptsd-lawyer-claims/

Maharashtra Introduces Digital ‘E-Bond’ System To Modernise Import-Export Trade

**Maharashtra Introduces Historic ‘E-Bond’ System to Modernise Trade**

The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step towards modernising trade by replacing traditional paper bonds with a fully digital ‘E-Bond’ system for import-export transactions. With this reform, Maharashtra becomes the sixteenth state in India to introduce this facility, aimed at easing business operations and enhancing transparency in financial dealings.

### Boost for Trade and Industry

Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule highlighted the initiative as a major relief for the state’s business and industrial sectors. Currently, Maharashtra issues nearly 3,000 to 4,000 bonds monthly, amounting to over 40,000 bonds annually for import-export activities.

“Introducing e-bonds will transform these large-scale financial transactions. While this may appear as a small procedural change, it represents an important turning point for Maharashtra’s economy,” said Bawankule.

### Simplifying Transactions and Strengthening Transparency

The new system was launched at Mantralaya, where Inspector General of Registration and Stamps, Ravindra Binwade, explained the e-bond mechanism. Officials noted that this move will simplify bond issuance at customs offices, increase efficiency in international trade, and eliminate the need for paper stamp bonds previously issued in denominations such as Rs 500.

The shift to digital bonds is expected to:

– Reduce paper usage and contribute to environmental protection
– Strengthen transparency and reduce revenue leakage
– Ensure more funds flow into the state treasury

### Maharashtra’s Push for Ease of Doing Business

The government expressed confidence that adopting a digital-first approach in revenue administration will improve Maharashtra’s Ease of Doing Business rankings.

“This initiative will accelerate trade processes and push Maharashtra’s economy forward. It is not just about convenience but also about transparency and modernisation,” added Bawankule.

With the introduction of the e-bond system, Maharashtra is poised to lead in digital trade facilitation, setting a benchmark for other states to follow.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-introduces-digital-e-bond-system-to-modernise-import-export-trade

FLOKI Token Becomes First BNB Chain Project with ETP Listing in Europe

**FLOKI ETP Now Available in Europe, Offering Regulated Exposure to the Meme Coin**

In a significant milestone for the cryptocurrency sector, FLOKI, the popular meme token, has launched its first-ever exchange-traded product (ETP) in Europe. The product was listed on Sweden’s Spotlight Stock Market in late September 2025, making FLOKI the first BNB Chain token—other than BNB itself—to secure an ETP listing on a European regulated exchange.

The introduction of the FLOKI ETP marks a turning point for meme coins by providing both institutional and retail investors a regulated way to gain exposure to the token. Designed to track the price performance of FLOKI, the ETP enables investors to participate without the need to directly hold or manage the cryptocurrency. This development is considered a key step toward mainstreaming digital assets within traditional finance systems.

### Growing Institutional Appeal for FLOKI

The launch of the FLOKI ETP is part of a broader initiative to bring meme coins into the institutional spotlight. Amid increasing regulatory scrutiny over digital assets, FLOKI’s transition from a purely speculative asset into a regulated financial product highlights growing institutional interest in the meme coin market.

Valour, the digital asset arm of DeFi Technologies, played an instrumental role in launching the product. This ETP joins Valour’s expanding suite of digital asset offerings in Europe, which already includes major cryptocurrencies like IOTA, Optimism, and The Graph. FLOKI’s listing aligns with Valour’s mission to provide investors access to digital assets through familiar financial instruments.

### Timing and Significance of FLOKI’s ETP Launch

FLOKI’s entry into regulated markets coincides with heightened institutional interest not only in meme coins but in the cryptocurrency space as a whole. The meme coin sector has experienced substantial growth throughout 2024, with tokens like Dogecoin increasingly drawing attention from both retail and institutional investors.

The FLOKI ETP signals a new phase for meme coins, promoting legitimacy and wider adoption. Because ongoing regulatory acceptance is critical for the long-term survival of meme tokens, this regulated product offers a fresh pathway for capital inflow into the meme coin ecosystem. This could stimulate further development in sectors such as gaming, education, and digital collectibles.

This move echoes earlier developments by popular tokens like Dogecoin, which have also ventured toward regulated financial products.

### The Rise of Crypto ETPs in Traditional Finance

The approval and launch of FLOKI’s ETP in Europe align with a broader trend embracing cryptocurrency-related financial products in traditional finance markets. For instance, in September 2025, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved Grayscale’s Digital Large Cap Fund (GLDC)—the first multi-asset cryptocurrency ETP in the United States.

The GLDC provides exposure to five of the largest cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Cardano, marking a significant development in the adoption of crypto financial products.

Such approvals reflect an evolving view of cryptocurrencies as legitimate asset classes. By enabling exposure to digital assets through familiar investment vehicles like ETPs, these products facilitate broader institutional participation and promote the integration of cryptocurrencies into mainstream finance.

### Looking Ahead

As meme tokens like FLOKI gain traction in regulated markets, the future of cryptocurrency-based financial products appears promising. The FLOKI ETP not only substantiates the growing legitimacy of meme coins but also opens the door to their expanded use and acceptance across global markets.

With increasing adoption, institutional interest, and regulatory approvals, crypto ETPs are set to play a more prominent role in the investment landscape, blending digital innovation with traditional financial structures.
https://coincentral.com/floki-token-becomes-first-bnb-chain-project-with-etp-listing-in-europe/

Universal to reopen Stardust Racers ride two weeks after man’s death

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Universal Orlando Resort plans to reopen its Stardust Racers ride at Epic Universe more than two weeks after a 32-year-old man died of blunt force injuries following a ride on the high-speed roller coaster.

Signs will be updated to reinforce existing warnings and eligibility requirements to help visitors decide if they should go on the dual-launch coaster, which reaches speeds of up to 62 mph (100 kph), Karen Irwin, president and chief operating officer at Universal Orlando Resort, said Friday in a memo to workers. The ride is scheduled to reopen on Saturday.

The family of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala had publicly urged Universal not to reopen the ride until all investigations were finished and they had a better understanding of how he died. The medical examiner for the Orlando area ruled the cause of death as multiple blunt impact injuries and said the manner of death was an accident. The full autopsy report has not been made public.

Zavala had a spinal disability from birth and used a wheelchair, but his family’s attorneys stated that his disability did not cause his death on September 17.

Irwin said the ride at Universal’s newest theme park had undergone an extensive operational and technical review that confirmed the ride systems had functioned properly and that Universal workers had followed proper procedures. The ride systems manufacturer and an independent roller coaster engineering expert also conducted on-site testing, supporting Universal’s findings.

Separately, a woman sued Universal Orlando Resort last week, claiming she was injured on the ride. She stated the ride shook her violently and slammed her head into her seat’s headrest.

Attorneys for Zavala’s family said this week that others have reached out to them with similar stories about the ride, which officially opened in May with the debut of the new theme park.
https://wtop.com/national/2025/10/universal-to-reopen-stardust-racers-ride-two-weeks-after-mans-death/

Cowboys are down at least 3 offensive linemen, and maybe 4, against Jets

FRISCO, Texas (AP) — The Dallas Cowboys will be without at least three starters on their offensive line, and possibly four, when they visit the New York Jets.

Left tackle Tyler Guyton is in the concussion protocol and was ruled out of Sunday’s game, sidelining him along with center Cooper Beebe (foot) and rookie right guard Tyler Booker (high ankle sprain). Standout left guard Tyler Smith is questionable with a knee injury, having not practiced all week. The only healthy starter remaining on the line is right tackle Terence Steele.

Nate Thomas will start in Guyton’s place. This will be the first career start for the second-year player, who missed his entire rookie season with a knee injury. Brock Hoffman will start in place of Beebe, who is on injured reserve and will miss the third of at least four games. Booker will be out for the second week in a row. T.J. Bass replaced Booker in last week’s 40-40 tie with Green Bay. If Smith can’t play, Bass may move to left guard, with either Trevor Keegan or Hakeem Adeniji likely filling the fifth starting spot on the line.

In addition to the offensive line injuries, the Cowboys will be without receiver and kick returner KaVontae Turpin, who has been ruled out with a foot injury. No. 1 receiver CeeDee Lamb will miss his second game due to a high ankle sprain.

Dallas will also be without a fifth starter on defense—safety Malik Hooker, who injured a toe against the Packers. It appears Hooker will miss multiple games.

Running back Miles Sanders is questionable with knee and ankle injuries, opening the door for rookie Jaydon Blue to be active for the first time.

___
AP NFL: Copyright.
https://wtop.com/nfl/2025/10/cowboys-are-down-at-least-3-offensive-linemen-and-maybe-4-against-jets/

Madras High Court Orders SIT Probe Into Vijay’s TVK Rally Stampede

**Madras High Court Orders SIT Probe Into Karur Stampede at Vijay’s TVK Rally**

Chennai: Days after a tragic stampede at actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur claimed 41 lives, the Madras High Court (principal seat in Chennai) on Friday ordered the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incident. The SIT will be headed by Inspector General of Police Asr Garg.

The court strongly condemned the TVK leaders for “abandoning” the innocent people who had gathered to watch Vijay but tragically lost their lives. In addition, the court directed the police to take action against the party’s office bearer, Aadhav Arjuna, for deleting a social media post that called for a Nepal-like Gen Z revolt.

In a related development, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court declined to order a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, noting that the police investigation was still at a nascent stage. However, the bench instructed the State government not to grant permission for political rallies on highways until a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is established.

Separately, the court dismissed anticipatory bail petitions filed by TVK party general secretary ‘Bussy’ Anand and another office bearer, CTR Nirmal Kumar, both named in the FIR related to the stampede.

Justice N Senthilkumar, presiding over the main case in Chennai, directed the Karur police to hand over all documents related to the FIR to the SIT. The judge expressed concern that the State appeared lenient towards the accused, highlighting that several party leaders fled the scene after many women and children died.

Regretting the lack of remorse from the party leadership, Justice Senthilkumar commented that this attitude reflected their “mental state.” He added, “The court, however, cannot close its eyes. The court cannot be a mute spectator. The court cannot shirk its responsibilities. The entire world has witnessed the sequences as well as consequences of the event.”

Describing the tragedy as a man-made disaster, the judge noted that even the President and Prime Minister had expressed condolences and extended support to the victims and their families.

The judge also took note of a petition mentioning that Vijay was named in the FIR. Citing video footage showing two-wheeler riders getting injured after falling near Vijay’s caravan, Justice Senthilkumar questioned why no hit-and-run case had been registered. He urged the police to suo motu file an FIR based on the available video evidence to ensure a thorough investigation.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/madras-high-court-orders-sit-probe-into-vijays-tvk-rally-stampede

2nd Unofficial ODI: Tilak Varma slams 94 versus Australia A

**2nd Unofficial ODI: Tilak Varma Slams 94 Against Australia A**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Oct 03, 2025, 06:23 PM*

Tilak Varma once again proved his class for India A in the 2nd unofficial ODI against Australia A at Green Park, Kanpur. Despite India A being bowled out for 246 in 45.5 overs, Varma was the standout performer with a brilliant knock of 94 runs off 122 balls.

Varma’s innings featured 5 fours and 4 sixes, showcasing a blend of elegance and power. This impressive knock was part of a crucial 101-run partnership with Riyan Parag that steadied the Indian innings after early setbacks.

Playing his 40th List A match, Varma has now accumulated 1,642 runs at an average of over 46. The 94-run effort marked his 10th fifty and added to his tally of 5 centuries in List A cricket, highlighting his consistent form and growing stature.

India A’s innings began shakily, losing early wickets to find themselves reeling at 17 for 3. Varma came in at 0/1 and took charge, anchoring the innings even as wickets fell at the other end. After Parag’s dismissal, Varma held firm, guiding the innings with maturity and resilience.

Ultimately, Varma was the last India A batsman to fall, dismissed for 94 by Jack Edwards. His knock, however, remains a significant highlight in India A’s performance against a competitive Australia A side.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/tilak-varma-slams-solid-94-runs-versus-australia-a/story

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