In Brief

Rains: Shimla film fest postponed

Shimla: The 11th International Film Festival of Shimla (IFFS), earlier scheduled for September 5-7, has been postponed indefinitely after the Himachal Pradesh Government declared the state disaster-affected. Festival Director Pushp Raj Thakur said the decision was taken in view of public safety and weather warnings. The Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall in the coming week, prompting organisers to delay the event. Thakur emphasised that while the festival holds cultural significance for Shimla, the safety of people is paramount. Fresh dates for the festival will be announced once conditions stabilise. TNS

Man held for raping niece

Dharamsala: The Dharamsala Women Police Station has arrested a man for allegedly raping his minor niece. The olice said the incident came to light after the child confided her ordeal to classmates, who informed teachers and elders. A complaint was then lodged, leading to the accused's arrest. The man, a native of Meerut living in Dharamsala, allegedly committed the crime at his relatives' house where the girl stayed after losing her parents. A case under the IPC and POCSO Act has been registered. TNS